Patent ID: 8206974
Filing Date: 2012-06-26
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for analyzing a sample of biomolecular analyte using electrophoresis, the apparatus comprising: a test module comprising at least one microfluidic channel disposed within a member formed of a transparent material, wherein the at least one microfluidic channel is configured for electrical communication with an anode and a cathode, wherein the at least one microfluidic channel comprises a separation portion, a waste arm in fluid communication with a waste arm opening, and a sample arm in fluid communication with a sample arm opening, wherein the waste arm opening is in fluid communication with a single separation portion; a holder configured to support the test module; an electrophoresis device connected to the holder, comprising an anode and a cathode, which, when in use, applies one or more biasing configurations to the test module; a light source which, when in use, emits a light beam that is transmitted to the test module and excites fluorescence in the sample of biomolecular analyte; a light detector configured to detect the fluorescence; a plurality of optical devices configured to transmit the light beam emitted by the light source to the test module and the fluorescence from the test module to the light detector; and a base plate onto which the light source, the light detector, and the plurality of optical devices are secured, wherein the baseplate is supported by a frame including a dampening device adapted to reduce transmission of vibrations generated below the frame to the base plate.