I'm setting up a lab to perform steroid EIAs, and could really use advice on the selection of a whole-plate microplate washer. I tried googling to find folks' recommendations and warnings, but only found vague cautionary statements such as "there are some great washers out there, and some that are just garbage - and price isn't a good indicator of quality." The lab will belong to a non-profit with only a modest budget for this purpose, so cost is at least somewhat of an issue; I think maybe I can persuade them to spend as much as $5,000 or so if it seems warranted, though less would of course be better. :^ /

I'd appreciate any advice folks here can offer, from recommendations for/warnings against specific makes and models to general considerations to keep in mind while shopping - but I need the advice soon! If there's a different message board/website where you think I'll get more of a response, I'd appreciate hearing about that, too.

Thanks in advance!

Dozens of views but no replies? I guess this message board is a better idea in theory than in reality. Oh well.

In case anyone is interested, I've now received a handful of verbal recommendations from colleagues, all for electronic whole-plate microplate washers made by a single manufacturer - Dynex (aka Dynatech). I haven't yet figured out whether we can afford one of said washers, though. Maybe if I can find a used one in good condition...

Dear gbin,
First of all Thermo has got a good plate washer: disadvantage only 24 wells are washed at the same time and there isnt any flow pressure control, It cost 4000 CAD$ for the demo.
Then a better one is Alpha diagnostic Int. and also BioRad. The last two I didnt check. I have heard that the Alpha is a very good one and you can get a new one for 4000 CAD$.

Second,
Your notice regarding the replay speed, usually I observed that the replies are much quicker, this board is Scientifically very good, if you are looking just for a quick reply but with no thought behind it is another thing. Your notice isnt serving any good to anybody.

Guy

... Your notice isnt serving any good to anybody.

Sorry you feel that way, Gsovak. I rather thought that even if no one knowledgeable bothered to respond to my inquiry, I might still do some good by sharing what I've heard from talking to colleagues about the subject. Thanks for your advice on microplate washers, in any event.

No problem,
I will be happy to hear from you about your choice.
Let me know how it is working for you
Guy