SkanIt™ Software for Microplate Readers, Research Edition - FAQs

View additional product information for SkanIt™ Software for Microplate Readers - FAQs (N17646, N18600, 5187139, 5187149)

9 product FAQs found

In the Varioskan LUX Multimode Microplate Reader, how is running a TRF spectrum by setting excitation at 335 nm and using emission range different from running a filter-based TRF assay? Why does SkanIT Software have the TRF spectrum option?

The TRF spectrum option is useful for spectral analysis, assay and label development, and optimization purpose. For example, when a new TRF chelate label is developed, TRF spectrum measurement can be used to analyze the spectra when a lot of label is loaded in the well.

When the TRF spectrum option is used, the sensitivity is not sufficient for actual TRF assays as the instrument sensitivity decreases by about 200-fold. Hence, the TRF spectrum option should not be used for normal TRF assay applications. For optimal results, the TRF spectrum option should be used for TRF spectral scanning but not for running actual TRF assays. Actual TRF assays must be performed using filter-based TRF optics in the LAT module.

If the Varioskan unit does not have TRF optics in the LAT module, TRF spectral scanning cannot be performed. In this case, TRF spectral scanning can only be performed using TRF-based filters.

Find additional tips, troubleshooting help, and resources within our Cell Analysis Support Center.

What is the compatibility of SkanIt Software for Microplate Readers v7.1 with Windows 10 and 11?

In order to use SkanIt Software for Microplate Readers v7.1, your computer should meet minimum requirements as shown below:



SkanIt Software v7.1 has been updated to use Microsoft .Net Framework 4.8.

Microsoft .Net Framework 4.8 is not supported on Windows 10 1507 or 1511 versions (https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/insider/forum/all/want-to-install-net-framework-48-in-window-10/4e60ed75-6fcc-4094-b14a-150c22139a49). If you're using Windows 10 version 1507 or 1511 and you want to install Microsoft .NET Framework 4.8, you first need to upgrade to a later Windows 10 version, i.e., version 1607 or later (https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/dotnet/framework/install/versions-and-dependencies).

Note: Windows 10 version May 2019 onwards should have Microsoft .NET Framework 4.8 installed by default.

Find additional tips, troubleshooting help, and resources within our Cell Analysis Support Center.

Is a PC included with purchase of the Multiskan Sky Microplate Spectrophotometer?

No, a PC is not included with purchase of the Multiskan Sky Microplate Spectrophotometer. Please contact your local Technical Support team for computer requirements.

Is software included with purchase of the Multiskan Sky Microplate Spectrophotometer?

Yes, SkanIt Software Research Edition version 6.0 is included with purchase of the Multiskan Sky Microplate Spectrophotometer. SkanIt Software is open-license software for unlimited installation on multiple computers.

How do I program the Fluoroskan Microplate Fluorometer or Fluoroskan FL Microplate Fluorometer and Luminometer for my Quant-iT assay?

The Online Protocol Library within SkanIt Software contains several pre-written sessions. These can be used as templates and modified for use with other assays.

How do I program the Luminoskan Microplate Luminometer, Fluoroskan Microplate Fluorometer, or Fluoroskan FL Microplate Fluorometer and Luminometer for my assay such as for cell viability, cell toxicity, cell proliferation, ATP, or other assay?

The Online Protocol Library within SkanIt Software contains several pre-written sessions. These can be used as templates and modified as needed for use with other assays.

Can my Luminoskan Microplate Luminometer, Fluoroskan Microplate Fluorometer, or Fluoroskan FL Microplate Fluorometer and Luminometer perform bottom-reads for adherent cell assays?

Yes, it can. Follow the instructions for changing the measurement direction in the user manual: https://assets.thermofisher.com/TFS-Assets/BID/manuals/luminoskan-fluoroskan-fl-user-manual.pdf

Can my Luminoskan Microplate Luminometer or Fluoroskan FL Microplate Fluorometer and Luminometer read different types of luminescence assays including kinetic, dual luminescence, flash, glow, BRET, BRET2, or NanoBRET assays?

Yes, Luminoskan Microplate Luminometer and Fluoroskan FL Microplate Fluorometer and Luminometer can read any type of luminescence assay. Some will require filters.

Is there a Windows 10 compatible software for my Fluoroskan Ascent Microplate Fluorometer, Fluoroskan Ascent FL Microplate Fluorometer and Luminometer, or Luminoskan Ascent Microplate Luminometer?

If your reader's serial number begins with 374-9 followed by more digits/letters, then you can order an upgrade kit that includes a USB converter kit and SkanIt Software (Cat. No. N17646). If the serial number is 374- followed immediately by any number other than 9, then you must retain an older Windows 7, 32-bit for PC and continue using Ascent 2.6 software, as your reader's firmware is not compatible with SkanIt Software.