User’s Guide
ENTABLE OF CONTENTSTABLE OF CONTENTS﻿

INTRODUCTION | 4
PARTS CHECKLIST AND ACCESSORIES | 5
Parts Checklist | 5
Accessories | 5

GETTING STARTED | 5
DESCRIPTION | 6
Reset | 6
Switch Off | 6
Display | 6

PIPETTING JUST LIKE WITH PIPETMAN | 7
Switch On | 7
Adjust the Volume Setting | 7
Purge Volume | 7

PIPETTING MODES | 7
PIPET Mode | 7
REPETITIVE Mode | 8
MIX Mode | 9
REVERSE Mode | 11
CUSTOM Mode | 12

PIPETTING SPEED CONTROL | 13
PIPETMAN® DIAMOND TIPS | 13
GUIDELINES FOR GOOD PIPETTING | 15
Aspirate and Dispense | 15
Pre-Wet the Tips | 15
General Guidelines for Good Pipetting | 16

PERSONALIZE YOUR PIPETMAN® M | 16
Tip Ejector Extension for Use with P10M | 16
Personal Label – Name and/or Application Tag | 17

GOOD LABORATORY PRACTICE FEATURES | 17
General | 17
Cycle Counters | 17
Alarms | 18

POWER MANAGEMENT | 18
Battery Charging | 18
Working with Charger Connected to the Pipette | 19
Low Battery Warning | 19
Changing the Battery | 19

﻿TABLE OF CONTENTS | PIPETMAN® M

CONFIGURATION | 20
MAINTENANCE | 20

CLEANING AND DECONTAMINATION | 26
Cleaning | 26
Single channel Models | 26
Multichannel Models | 27
Decontamination | 27
Chemical decontamination – Single and Multichannel Models | 27

﻿TABLE OF CONTENTS

Service Information | 21
Adjustment | 22
Standard Readjustment | 22
Maintenance Operation | 22
Maintenance Warning | 23
Maintenance Operation for Single Channel Models | 23
Maintenance Operation for Multichannel Models | 25

LEAK TEST | 28
TROUBLESHOOTING | 29
SPECIFICATIONS | 29
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND LIMITATIONS OF USE | 31
REPLACEMENT PARTS | 32
Single Channel Models | 32
Multichannel Models | 32

PIPETMAN M SOFTWARE | 33
What is PIPETMAN M Software? | 33
Passwords and User Information | 33
Home Screen | 34
Installing PIPETMAN M Software | 35
Uninstalling PIPETMAN M Software | 36
Creating and Managing Custom Protocols | 36
Transferring Custom Protocols to the Pipette | 42
Updating Pipette Settings | 44
Updating Pipette Firmware | 45
Other Administration | 46

EC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY | 49
WARRANTY | 50
APPENDICES | 51
Appendix A – Example of a Performance Check | 51
Appendix B – Z Factor | 52
Appendix C – Evaporation Loss | 53

PIPETMAN® M | USER’S GUIDE

Chapter 1

Chapter 1

INTRODUCTIONINTRODUCTION
Congratulations on the purchase of your PIPETMAN® M, the electronic pipette withguaranteed performance in both standard and repetitive pipetting modes.
PIPETMAN M is a motorized member of the PIPETMAN® family of pipettes from Gilson,
requiring virtually no pipetting forces to aspirate and dispense samples. Combining
PIPETMAN’s renowned accuracy, precision, and robustness with user-friendly
functions, PIPETMAN M reduces pipetting fatigue, and increase pipetting efficiency.
PIPETMAN M is a unique pipette with only two buttons to operate the pipette andreach all menu options:●

Push button: set the volume by turning the button left or right and thenpipette with a simple push.

●Mode button: access additional features like repetitive mode, mix, ormaintenance functions.

Only two buttons are needed to perform routine pipetting tasks.
PIPETMAN M features the classic PIPETMAN® look with additional functionalities:●
Intuitive interface with five pipetting modes for a large number of applications:standard pipetting, repetitive, mix, reverse, and custom mode.
●
Minimal effort: aspirate and dispense with one click of
the push button and eject tips with ease to help reduceModebuttonthe risk of repetitive strain injuries (RSI).
●
Maximum comfort: the lightweight and balanced designof PIPETMAN M offers an ergonomic design that rests
comfortably in your hand as you pipette.
●
Minimized pipetting variability: the motorized piston
Push
allows for high reproducibility and accuracy while
buttonpipetting.
●
Increased performance for all day pipetting comfort.
PIPETMAN M is available in 20 models covering
a range from 0.5 µL to 10 mL in single channel and
0.5 µL to 1200 µL in multichannel:
PIPETMAN M SINGLE CHANNEL

4

Model

Part Number

Volume Range

P10M

F81022

0.5–10 µL

PIPETMAN M MULTICHANNEL
ModelPart Number

P8x10M

F81025P12x10M

F81026

P8x20M

F81027P12x20M

F81028

P20M

F81023

2–20 µL

P8x100M

F81018

P100M

F81013

5–100 µL

P12x100M

F81019

P200M

F81024

20–200 µL

P8x200M

F81029P12x200M

F81030P8x300M

F81031

P12x300M

F81032

P8x1200M

F81020

P12x1200M

F81021

P300M

F8101420–300 µL

P1200M

F81015100–1200 µL

P5000M

F81016

500–5000 µL

P10mLM

F81017

1–10 mLINTRODUCTION | PIPETMAN® M

Volume Range
0.5–10 µL

1–20 µL

10–100 µL

20–200 µL

10–300 µL

50–1200 µL

Chapter 2

PARTS CHECKLIST AND ACCESSORIESTake a moment to verify that the following items are in the box:●
Safety bag●
PIPETMAN M pipette●

Power Supply 5V with AC adapter and cable●

4 Battery side tags●

4 Ejector side tags●

Tip ejector extension (P10M model only)●

Quick Guide●

Certificate of conformity(including bar-code sticker)●

Lubricant (except for P10M,
and the multichannel models)Accessories
ACCESSORIESPART NUMBER

POWER CARROUSEL: 5–position charging carrousel for single andmultichannel models

FB1001

Battery side tags (set of 4)

F807013Ejector side tags (set of 4)

F807014

Parts checklist and accessories

Parts Checklist

Please contact your Gilson representative to order additionnal accessories.

Chapter 3

GETTING STARTEDNOTEPIPETMAN M is provided with a minimal battery charge. Before using yournew PIPETMAN M, we strongly recommend that you to fully charge thebattery. PIPETMAN M charges 80% of its full battery capacity in less than anhour, it takes three hours to fully charge the battery. Please refer to
Chapter 12 Power Management on page 18 for charging procedure.

Switch on your PIPETMAN M. Press the push button to activate
the pipette. The start-up screen appears:
The pipette will do a self calibration test and the firmware
will reset the piston.
During initialization, the volume range, version of thefirmware, and the number of readjustments is displayed on
the screen (refer to Standard Readjustment on page 22).

Volumerange
Version of
firmwareNumber ofreadjustments

Your PIPETMAN M is preset to PIPET mode
and is now ready to pipette (Refer to Chapter 5
Pipetting Just Like with PIPETMAN on page 7).
PIPETMAN M goes into sleep mode (display turns off) after three minutes of inactivity.
Press the push button to reactivate the pipette. Your last setting and pipetting mode
will appear on the screen.
PIPETMAN® M | USER’S GUIDE

5

Chapter 4

description

DESCRIPTION
Upper part
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8

Push button and volume
adjustment knob
Mode button: direct access to allmenu functions
Tip ejector button
Display
Elastomer plug to cover the battery
charging port
Identity-tag clip
Identity-tag window
Connecting nut — attaches handle
to lower part

Lower part

4

1
2
3
5
6
7

11

8

12

9

9

Tip ejector: removable to access tip
holder
10 Optimized tip holder to reduce tip
fitting and ejection forces, removablefor cleaning and servicing
11 Ejector clip

13
10

12 Ejector support
13 Cover14 Ejector spacer

14

Screen
15
16
17
18
19

Pipetting Mode
Aspirate and dispense indicator
Battery status
Purge indicator
Volume

15

17

16
18

19

Figure 1

PIPETMAN® M single and multichannel models

Reset
To reset your pipette, simultaneously press on the push button 1 and mode button 2and hold for at least five seconds.

Switch off
To switch off your PIPETMAN M, press the push button 1 and hold for at least fiveseconds.

Display6

The PIPETMAN M display is an Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED) screen. It shows
the current mode and operation step, pipetting volume, battery indicator and piston
status (aspirated and dispensed volume) in real time.Warning messages appear in theplace of volume.
description | PIPETMAN® M

Chapter 5

Chapter 5

PIPETTING JUST LIKE WITH PIPETMAN

Switch On
Press push button.

Adjust the Volume Setting
1.

Hold your PIPETMAN M in a nearly vertical position.

2.

Turn the push button half way. The screen will display:“Click to change volume.”

3.

Press the push button; the volume on the display will start blinking andyou can now adjust the volume:●
Turn the push button either clockwise to decrease volume or counterclockwise to increase volume, as indicated on the button.
●

Press the push button one time when finished. The volume is locked.

Purge Volume
The tip can be emptied at any time during a pipetting cycle.
1.

Turn the push button quickly: the message “Click to abort” will appear on thescreen.

2.

Click on the push button to validate: the liquid will be dispensed and an automatic
purge followed by piston reset to zero will occur.

pipetting just like with pipetMAN

Using PIPETMAN M is as easy as using a mechanical PIPETMAN.
Your PIPETMAN M is set by default to “PIPET Mode”, which means
forward pipetting. Select a volume and then start to pipette.

Chapter 6

Chapter 6

PIPETTING MODESPIPETMAN M offers more pipette modes for a large number of applications: youwill find all pipetting modes in the menu (for system settings refer to the Chapter 7
Pipetting Speed Control on page 13 and Chapter 13 Configuration on page 20). Accessthe menu by pushing the mode button. To choose one of the pipetting modes, turnthe push button and then click to confirm your selection.

PIPET Mode
This is the classic pipette mode (forward pipetting) for simple
aspirating and dispensing.
•

NOTE

You can use the PIPET Mode for all standard applications like DNA
extraction, plasmid isolation, cloning, dilution, PCR, qPCR and many others.
You can easily pipette aqueous liquids like buffer, chemical solutions(MgCl2, KCl …), and biological samples such as blood, DNA, and RNA.
PIPETMAN® M | USER’S GUIDE7

1.

Fit a tip suitable for the model of PIPETMAN M that you are using (preferably use
PIPETMAN DIAMOND Tips for assurance of accurate and precise results, refer to
Chapter 8 PIPETMAN DIAMOND Tips on page 13).

PIPETTING MODESNOTICE2.
3.

4.

Always fit a tip before using any pipette.

Press the push button to aspirate the selected volume.
To dispense: click (press and release) the push button.
Three things happen: sample dispense, automatic
purge, and piston reset to zero. Or, keep your thumbpressing the push button until the end of the dispense
cycle: the piston reset takes place after releasing thepush button again. This feature enables you to remove
the tip from the liquid, without aspirating anything.
Eject tip by pressing the ejection button.

V

0
Purge
START button
Optional STOP

Figure 2Your PIPETMAN M is ready for the next pipetting cycle while
PIPET Mode
maintaining the volume and the last settings.
Continue pipetting as you would with your mechanical PIPETMAN; it’s as simple asthat to use your new, electronic pipette!

REPETITIVE Mode
The REPETITIVE Mode allows you to distribute the same volume repeatedly in apredefined number (N) of equal aliquots. You supply the aliquot volume(AV) and the pipette automatically calculates the number of aliquots
possible from the nominal (maximum) volume (NV) of the pipette as
follows:
N = NV/AV (e.g., 120 μL x 10 for P1200M).
You also can decrease the number of repetitions (e.g., 120 μL x 10-(n ≥1) for P1200M).

NOTE

The REPETITIVE Mode is ideal for dispensing aliquots, e.g., dispensing
a PCR master mix into PCR tubes or 96–well, pipetting elution buffer for
DNA extraction, preparing a target for spectrometric analyses, distributing
loading buffer into samples, etc.

1.

Press mode button to access system menu, where you can choose between
different pipette modes. Select REPETITIVE Mode by turning the push button.
To confirm your selection click on the push button.

2.

Turn the push button half way, the screen will display: “Click tochange volume.”

3.

Press the push button; the volume on the display will start to blink, and you can
now adjust the volume.

Set the aliquot volume

8

1.

Click the push button, set the volume by turning the push button and click again
to confirm your settings.

2.

Set the aliquot number: the maximal number of aliquots has been calculated byyour PIPETMAN M. The number of aliquots flashes and you can decrease thisnumber (N – (n ≥1)) by turning the push button.

3.

Press again to confirm your settings.

description | PIPETMAN® M

4.

NOTICE
5.

Always fit a tip
before using
any pipette.

Press push button to aspirate
total volume. The volume
aspirated will be a little bit morethan required (extra volume).
The extra volume is necessary toensure equal operating conditions
for each dispensed aliquot.

DISCARD

ALIQUOTS

PURGE

V (+ extra vol)*V (vol)0
Purge
START button

Optional STOP

Click to Purge

Start Purge

DiscardFigure 3

PIPETTING MODES

Fit a tip suitable for the modelof PIPETMAN M that you
are using (preferably use
PIPETMAN DIAMOND Tips
for assurance of accurate andprecise results; refer to Chapter 8
PIPETMAN DIAMOND Tips on
page 13).

REPETITIVE Mode

Dispense
Press the push button. DISCARD appears on the screen. Discard the extra volume
andcontinue dispensing the aliquots. PIPETMAN M distributes the aliquot volume eachtime you click the push button. The number of aliquots left to dispense is displayed on
the screen. A warning beep indicates the last aliquot.

Purge
Press the push button, PURGE appears on the screen, click again to purge and reset
the piston. Keep your thumb pressing the push button until the end of the purge: thepiston reset takes place after you release the push button again. This feature enables
you to remove the tip from the liquid, without aspirating anything.

Eject Tip
Pressing the ejection button.

MIX ModeThis is the classic pipette mode (forward pipetting) followed by a mixing phase, composedof repeatedly aspirating and dispensing, as well as an optional forward pipetting step.

NOTE

The MIX Mode can be used to prepare a PCR master mix, enzyme restriction
mix, protein solution, oligonucleotide dilution and to mix samples withgel loading buffer and so on…you can mix two different solutions or
homogenize one solution. If you work with higher viscosity than water (e.g.,
restriction enzyme), you may change the aspiration speed (refer to Chapter 7
Pipetting Speed Control on page 13). If you work with genomic DNA, then you
should always pipette very carefully to avoid shearing and nicking.

1.

Press mode button to access menu, where you can choose between different pipettemodes. Select MIX Mode by turning the push button, to confirm your selection clickon the push button.

2.

Set the first volume, named VOLUME 1: press the push button, set the volume byturning the push button and click to confirm your selection. This is the first volume
you will aspirate and dispense. Set the second volume, named VOLUME 2: press thepush button, you can now set the second volume by turning the push button.
Click again to confirm your settings.
PIPETMAN® M | USER’S GUIDE9

PIPETTING MODES

NOTE

If you set VOLUME 1 or VOLUME 2 = 0 µL, then the step will not appear.
If you set VOLUME 1 and 2 = 0 µL, then the cycle will start directly with
the MIX step.

3.

Set the MIX volume: press the push button, set the volume by turning the pushbutton. Confirm your settings with a simple click. This is the volume which will
be aspirated and dispensed repeatedly. “MIX” as long as you press the pushbutton.

4.

Set the additional pipetting volume, named VOLUME 3: You can choose avolume to be aspirated and dispensed after the mixing step, so you can continue
routine pipetting.
Press the push button, and then set the volume by turning the push button.
Confirm your settings by a simple click.

NOTE
5.

If you set the VOLUME 3 = 0 µL, then the cycle will stop after the MIX
step.

Fit a tip suitable for the model of PIPETMAN M that you are using (preferably
use PIPETMAN DIAMOND Tips for assurance of accurate and precise results;
refer to Chapter 8 PIPETMAN DIAMOND Tips on page 13).

NOTICE

Always fit a tip before using any pipette.

Aspirate VOLUME 1
Press the push button.

V1

V2

Push button pressed

V3

V

Dispense
Press and release the push button:
three things happen: sample
0
dispense, automatic purge and piston Purge
reset to zero. Or, keep your thumb
START button
Optional STOP
Start Purge
pressing the push button until the
Figure 4
end of the dispense cycle: the piston
reset takes place after you release the MIX Modepush button again.
If you choose VOLUME 1 = 0, thenThis feature enables you to remove
step 2 won’t occur, if you choose
the tip from the liquid, without
VOLUME 2 = 0 µL, then step 4 won’t
occur, as well if you set VOLUME
aspirating anything.
NOTE

Aspirate and Dispense theSecond Volume

1 and 2 = 0 µL, then step 1–4 will
disappear. If you set VOLUME 3 =0 µL step 7, then will not occur.

“VOLUME 2”, repeat steps Aspirate Volume 1 and To dispense.

Mix
Press push button; as long as you keep your thumb pressing the button, the pipettecontinues mixing. Release the push button to complete the current mixing cycle.

Purge
Press push button, PURGE appears on the screen, click again to purge and reset thepiston.

Pipette10

If you have chosen a VOLUME 3 > 0, you can now aspirate and dispense this volume
by repeating steps 2 and 3.
description | PIPETMAN® M

REVERSE Mode
The REVERSE Mode is reverse pipetting with a manual pipette. During
aspiration, additional liquid is added. After delivery, the excess volume
remains in the tip and is discarded.

Electrophoresis Gels Loading Protocol
Electrophoresis gels loading protocol: first change the pipetting speed of your pipette(refer to Chapter 7 Pipetting Speed Control on page 13). Aspiration can be done byusing the standard speed (by default speed 6). Dispensing should be done very slowly
and carefully, to prevent swirling and spilling of the samples, so select the lowest speed 1.

NOTICE1.

PIPETTING MODES

The REVERSE Mode is ideal for pipetting viscous liquids; liquids with high vapor
pressure or those that tend to foam. Your PIPETMAN M aspirates a selected volume
and an excess. This excess compensates for the liquid that remains as a film inside thetip during dispensing. For example: protein extraction, cell lysis, plasmid isolation, cell
culture, buffer preparation and, many others.

If you purge without pulling out the tip air bubbles could get into your gel!

Press mode button to access system menu, where you can choose between
different pipette modes. Select REVERSE Mode by turning the push button.
To confirm your selection click, the push button.

Set the volume
1.

Press the push button, set the volume by turning the push button and press again
to confirm your settings.

2.

Fit a tip suitable for the model of PIPETMAN M that you are using (preferably use
PIPETMAN DIAMOND Tips for assurance of accurate and precise results; refer to
Chapter 8 PIPETMAN DIAMOND Tips on page 13).

NOTICE

Always fit a tip before using any pipette.

Aspirate
Press push button to aspirate the selected volume.
An amount of liquid equal to the amount of purged
air is added. The volume aspirated will be a little bit
more than the set volume.

V (+ extra vol)*Dispense
Press push button to dispense the volume, theadditional amount of liquid remains in the tip.

Purge

0

Press push button, ‘‘PURGE’’ appears on thescreen, press again to purge and reset the piston.
Keep your thumb pressing the push button until
the end of the purge: the piston reset takes place
after you release the push button again.
This feature enables you to remove the tip fromthe liquid, without aspirating anything.

Purge
START button

Click to Purge

Optional STOP

Start Purge

Figure 5

REVERSE Mode

Eject tip
Press the ejection button.

PIPETMAN® M | USER’S GUIDE11

PIPETTING MODESCUSTOM Mode
The CUSTOM Mode enables personalized pipetting protocol creation on a PC fortransfer to PIPETMAN M through PIPETMAN M programmable software, an easy-to-use
software. To use this mode, the software has to be installed on the PC (file downloadable
on www.gilson.com/pipetmanm).
To install PIPETMAN M software:1.

 ownload PIPETMAN M software zip file and extract the installation files.
D
Then choose the programm corresponding to your operating system (Windows®
32-bit or 64-bit).

2.

 ouble-click the installer and follow the instructions on the screen to complete theDinstallation.

3.

When completed, the PIPETMAN M Software icon will appear on desktop of the PC if“Create desktop shortcut ” was selected.

4.

If PIPETMAN M Software is not launched automatically, then double-click the
PIPETMAN M icon on the desktop.

Once installed, the PIPETMAN M Software can be run by any user on the installed PC.
You can then create, edit, import, or export custom protocols easily and rapidly.
To create a protocol, choose tasks in PIPETMAN M programmable software:●

Aspirate: aspirates specified volume into the tip.

●

Beep: makes pipette produce a beep sound while selected tasks are executed.

●

Dispense: delivers the specified volume from the tip.

●

Dispense all: dispenses all remaining volume from the tip followed by a purge
action.

●Mix: aspirates then dispenses a specified volume one or more times.

●

Purge: dispenses all remaining volume from the tip followed by purging extra
volume.

●Repetitive: dispense liquid into a number of aliquot.

●

Reverse: handle liquid using reverse pipetting.

●Wait: introduces a wait for a specified number of seconds.

●

Wait for click: pauses the protocol until Push button is clicked.

In this mode, the protocols can be automatically executed, avoiding repetitive pushes on
the button, helping to decrease risk of RSI.
To transfer a protocol to your PIPETMAN M pipette, click Transfer custom protocols to
pipette and follow the instructions on the screen.
The CUSTOM Mode is available in pipettes from firmware version V2.02.
For more information on PIPETMAN M Software, refer to Appendix B - Z Factor on page 52.

12

description | PIPETMAN® M

Chapter 7

PIPETTING SPEED CONTROL

1.

Press mode button to access system menu, where you can find the different
pipette modes, the speed menu and configuration menu.

2.

Select SPEED by turning the push button, to confirm your selection click on
the push button.

3.

Set ASPIRATION SPEED: aspiration speed is blinking, set the speed by turning thepush button and click to confirm your selection.

4.

Set DISPENSING SPEED: dispensing speed is blinking, set the speed by turning
the push button and click to confirm your selection.

After selecting the speed you go automatically back to pipetting mode.

PIpetting speed control

PIPETMAN M is set by default on speed 6 (maximum speed). You may need to change
the speed of aspiration or dispensing depending on your application. You can change
aspiration speed and dispensing speed independently of one other: from very slow tovery fast (speed 1 — speed 6). Your speed selection is memorized for each pipetting
mode until you change it again.

Chapter 8

PIPETMAN® DIAMOND TIPSPIPETMAN DIAMOND Tips are made to the highest specifications;strict quality control is maintained throughout the manufacturing
process. These tips are used to calibrate PIPETMAN M, therefore
for optimum performance we recommend using PIPETMAN Tips
with your PIPETMAN M.

ID Number

However, PIPETMAN M also offers you a high compatibility with alarge number of other tips. For more information, please contact
your Gilson distributor.
Every PIPETMAN DIAMOND Tip is individually marked with an
identification number (ID). To ensure accuracy and precision,
Gilson’s quality assurance system focuses on the following criticalparameters:

Figure 6
ID number●

PIPETMAN DIAMOND Tips are made from pure polypropylene (virgin, metal-free,
to avoid the possibility of contamination). They are available sterilized and withfilters.

●

Sterilized PIPETMAN DIAMOND Tips are certified free of detectable RNases,
DNases, DNA, RNA, and proteases.

●

Optimized shape (revised collar for optimum sealing, thin walls, and fine point),
making them easier to mount, more flexible, with no vortexing, and improved
precision.

●

PIPETMAN DIAMOND Tips are free from even microscopic defects, especiallyat the orifice. All surfaces are smooth and hydrophobic, thereby avoiding theexcessive retention of liquids that causes poor accuracy and a lack of precision.
PIPETMAN® M | USER’S GUIDE

13

pipetman® diamond tips●

Mold and cavity references are marked on the collar, ensuring the traceability. For
quality assurance purposes, batch numbers appear on all packages (bags and boxes).

●

They form an air-tight seal with the tip holder, preventing the leaks that cause
poor accuracy and a lack of precision.

●

PIPETMAN DIAMOND Tips (except filter tips) may be autoclaved at 121°C for
20 minutes at 0.1 MPa.

NOTICEDo not autoclave PIPETMAN Filter Tips as the filter will be damaged.

NOTE

To ensure the best performance from your Gilson pipette, you
shoud ALWAYS use PIPETMAN DIAMOND Tips (in accordance with
ISO8655) system, because PIPETMAN Tips were used to establish thespecifications.

PIPETMAN M SINGLE CHANNELVARIABLE VOLUME MODELSModel

PIPETMANDIAMOND Tips

Volume Range

P10M

D10*
DL10*

DF10
DFL10

0.5–10 µL

P20M

D200

DF30

2–20 µL

P100M

D200

D100

5–100 µL

D200
D300
D200
D300
D1000
D1200

DF200
DF300
DF200
DF300
DF1000DF1200

P200M
P300M
P1200M* A plastic adapter is required to eject D10 and
DF10 tips (short tips). The adapter is suppliedwith P10M. No adapter is required when using
DL10 and DFL10 tips (long tips).

20–200 µL
20–300 µL
100–1200 µL

P5000M

D5000

500–5000 µL

P10mLM

D10mL

1–10 mLPIPETMAN M MULTICHANNEL
P8x10M
P12x10M
P8x20M
P12x20M

D10
DL10

DF10
DFL10

0.5–10 µL

DL10
D200

DFL10
DF30

1–20 µL

D200

DF100

10–100 µL

D200
D300

DF100
DF200
DF300

20–200 µL

D200
D300

DF200
DF300

10–300 µL

D1200

DF120050–1200 µL

Figure 7

Plastic adapter

P8x100M
P12x100M
P8x200M
P12x200M
P8x300M
P12x300M

Ejector spacer

Long tips

P8x1200M
P12x1200M

14

pipetman® diamond tips | PIPETMAN® M

Figure 8P8x10M and P12x10M

Ejector spacer D10

Short tips

Chapter 9

Chapter 9

GUIDELINES FOR GOOD PIPETTINGGUIDELINES FOR GOOD PIPETTING

Aspirate and Dispense
Fit new PIPETMAN DIAMOND Tips for the best results (refer
to Chapter 18 Specifications on page 29).

Single Channel Model
For single channel models, push the tip holder into the tip
using a slight twisting motion to ensure a firm and airtight seal.

MultiChannel Model
PIPETMAN DIAMOND tips are best fitted with the
ROCKY RACK technique, invented by Gilson, available only
in our TIPACK and TOWERPACK.

Pre-Wet the Tips
All Models
Pre-wetting the tips before pipetting helps prepare the tips for the best
pipetting performance. Ideally, the pre-wet includes both immersing the tip
in the liquid and performing one pipetting step.
Pre-wetting the tips helps ensurethat volumes that you pipette willachieve accuracy and precision within
specifications.
Hold the pipette vertically and immerse
the tip in the liquid (refer to page 14).
Press the push button to aspirate the set
volume of liquid. Wait a few seconds (timedepends on model, refer to page 14); thenwithdraw the pipette tip from the liquid.
You may wipe any droplets away fromthe outside of the tip using a medical
wipe; however if you do so, take care to
avoid touching the orifice of the tip.
Place the end of the tip against the insidewall of the recipient vessel (at an angle of
10° to 40°). Press the push button. Wait
for at least a few seconds before releasing
the push button to expel any residualliquid from the tip. While removing thepipette draw the tip along the insidesurface of the vessel.
Eject the tip by pressing firmly on the tip
ejector button.

Table 1

Immersion depth and wait time
MODEL

IMMERSION
DEPTH (MM)WAIT TIME(SECONDS)

P10M

1

1

P20M

2–3

1

P100M

2–4

1

P200M

2–4

1

P300M

2–4

1

P1200M

2–4

2–3

P5000M

3–6

4–5

P10mLM

5–7

4–5

P8x10M/P12x10M

1

1

P8x20M/P12x20M

2–3

1

P8x100M/P12x100M

2–4

1

P8x200M/P12x200M

2–3

1

P8x300M/P12x300M

2–3

1

P8x1200M/P12x1200M

2–4

2–3

PIPETMAN® M | USER’S GUIDE

15

Personalize your PIPETMAN® M

General Guidelines for Good Pipetting●

Make sure that you fit new tips.

●

Each new tip should be pre-wetted with the liquid to be pipetted.

●

When aspirating, keep the tip at a constant depth below the surface of the liquid(refer to table 1 on page 15).

●

Change the tip before aspirating a different liquid, sample, or reagent.

●

Change the tip if a droplet remains at the end of the tip from the previous pipetting
operation.

●

Liquid should never enter the tip holder. To prevent this:○

Never turn the pipette upside down,○

Never lay the pipette on its side when there is liquid in the tip(s),The Gilson Stand Adapter (refer to Chapter 2 Parts Checklist and Accessories on page 5)
is recommended for use with the CARROUSELTM and SINGLETM Pipette Holder to store
your PIPETMAN M pipette in the vertical position. Alternatively the POWER CARROUSELTM
can be used to store and charge up to five PIPETMAN M pipettes.
●

When pipetting liquids with temperatures different to the ambient temperature,
pre-we the tip several times before use in order to reach equilibrium between thetemperatures of the liquid and the pipette’s dead volume.

●

For volatile liquids, saturate the dead volume by aspirating and dispensing the liquid
repeatedly before aspirating the sample.

After pipetting acids or other corrosive liquids that emit vapors, clean the pipette, as
described in Chapter 15 Cleaning and Decontamination on page 26.
The pipette can be used between 4°C and 40°C, but the specifications may vary (refer to
Chapter 18 Specifications on page 29).
●

Do not pipette liquids at temperatures above 50°C or below 4°C.

NOTE

Extreme temperatures can affect accuracy and precision.

Chapter 10

PERSONALIZE YOUR PIPETMAN® M
Tip Ejector Extension for Use with P10M
Tip ejector extensions is required to eject D10 tips and is supplied with P10M pipettes.
The tip ejector extension which is made of PVDF
(polyvinylidene Fluoride), is autoclavable.
To ﬁt a tip ejector extension:
1.
Hold the pipette with the push button upright.
2. Hold the extension with the slot upright.
3. Slide the extension over the tip holder.
4. Push the extension firmly onto the end of the tip
ejector until it clicks into place (see opposite).

Slot

To fitFigure 916

Personalize your PIPETMAN® M | PIPETMAN® M

To remove

Fit a tip ejector

To remove a tip ejector extension (see opposite):1.
Hold the pipette in one hand and grip the extension with the other.
2. Gently twist the extension (either direction) and pull it awayfrom the pipette.
Short
tips

Figure 10

Remove a tip ejector

Your PIPETMAN M offers you two options to mark your pipette.
You can personalize your pipette with a name tag and/or an application tag:
Window Tag:
1.

Remove the window by inserting a small
screwdriver in the access slot.

2.

Position the name tag on the pipette.

3.

Clip the window back in place.

Clip Tag:

Window tag

Clip tag

1.

Pull off the clip.

2.

Position the name tag into the clip.

3.

Clamp the clip back in place.

Figure 11

Name and application tag

Chapter 11

GOOD LABORATORY PRACTICE FEATURES

Good laboratory practice features

Personal Label – Name and/or
Application Tag

Long
tips

Your PIPETMAN M is fully compliant to ISO8655 standard and is CE marked (for EMC
and LDV directives).
PIPETMAN M includes the following good laboratory practice (GLP) features.

General
●Lockable volume.

●

Volume range is printed on the push button.

●

Volume range is displayed on the screen.

●

Serial number is engraved on the body (handle) of the pipette and encoded in thefirmware.

●Bar code: on the box and with the certificate (can be transferred).

Personalization by nametags (for marking application and/or user name), refer to
Chapter 10 Personalize your PIPETMAN M on page 16.

Cycle Counters●

From last volume setting (to count the number of cycles in the current “run”).

●

From manufacture and since the last service (refer to
Chapter 14 Maintenance on page 20).

●

By indicators (R1, R2, R3 … Rx) each time pipette is readjusted.

Maintenance intervals can be specified by weeks or number of cycles elapsed.
PIPETMAN® M | USER’S GUIDE17

POWER MANAGeMENT

Alarms●Low battery warning.

●

Service is overdue warning (refer to Chapter 14 Maintenance on page 20).

●

Service alert can be set “On” or “Off”.

Chapter 12

POWER MANAGEMENTThe PIPETMAN M battery has been
designed to ensure 900 pipetting cycles(750 for PIPETMAN M Multi 200 µL and300 µL) at maximum speed (up to nine
96-well plates) between two charge cycles.
For service continuity when needing morecapacity, your PIPETMAN M can also
be used while charging with the same
performance as a fully charged pipette.

USB port
Plug

Battery Charging
PIPETMAN M charges 80% of its full battery
capacity in less than an hour, and it takes threehours to fully charge the battery.

Stand adapter

Figure 12

PIPETMAN® M Power supply

Charge your pipette by using the power supply:
1.

Connect the AC adapter to a suitable
AC power supply.

2.

Plug the adapter into the USB portof the pipette.

The pipette starts charging.
Charge your pipette by using stand adapter (refer
to Chapter 2 Parts Checklist and Accessories on
page 5):
1.

Place the stand adapter on your Gilson Single
Pipette Holder or Carrousel.

2.

Remove the plug. Now place your pipette on theStand Adapter and plug the power transformer
into the stand adapter.

The pipette starts charging.
Battery charging of PIPETMAN M using the
POWER CARROUSEL:
1.

Install the POWER CARROUSEL as describedabove.

2.

Remove the plug. Now place your pipette on the
charging position, please ensurethat the pipette is properly fitted to the contacts
on the top of the carrousel (a proper fitting will
trigger a beep sound).

The pipette starts charging.

18

POWER MANAGeMENT | PIPETMAN® M

Figure 13

POWER CARROUSEL for PIPETMAN® M

Working with Charger Connected to the Pipette
PIPETMAN M can also be used for pipetting while charging.
Plug the power supply into your pipette.

2.

Press the push button to start your pipette.

PIPETMAN M is ready to pipette.

NOTE

NOTICEYou can also recharge PIPETMAN M by USB with your PC; however it willtake much longer than by power supply.

Use only the original power transformer supplied by Gilson. Use of an
incompatible power supply can damage your PIPETMAN M.
Do not operate PIPETMAN while connected to a PC.

POWER MANAGeMENT

1.

Low Battery Warning
PIPETMAN M has a low battery alert. As the battery runs down, thelow battery message appears. The warning is replaced by a blinking
symbol of an empty battery. If it is not recharged, the pipette will switch off after awhile. Settings will not be lost.
If the battery is completely discharged (black screen, no operation) connect thepipette to the charger for at least five minutes, and then a “batt. too low” message
will appear. The pipette will display the last settings used a few minutes later and willcontinue charging.

Changing the Battery
If the following symptoms occur, please contact your Gilson service center:●

PIPETMAN M battery won’t charge or will not operate even if connected to thecharger at least for 10 minutes.

●

PIPETMAN M battery provides you very short cycle time or permanently needs
to be used in connected mode.

CAUTION

PIPETMAN M uses a Lithium-Ion battery. Operation on the battery is doneat user’s risk only. Opening the pipette voids the warranty.

PIPETMAN® M | USER’S GUIDE

19

Chapter 13

Configuration

CONFIGURATIONEnter the menu using the mode button. You will find not
only the pipetting programs and the speed control, butalso the menu CONFIGURATION, including SERVICE and
ADJUSTMENT (refer to Chapter 14 Maintenance below).

Mode button

The navigation of the menus is always done in the sameway — make your selection by rotating the push button andthen enter and confirm with a click.
The Configuration menu allows you to set up the following items:●

Volume limit: Here you can fix the maximal volume of the
Push button
pipette (by default = nominal volume). For example, youhave a P200M pipette, but you would like to use it withyour PIPETMAN Diamond Filter Tips DF100, you can set
the maximal
volume at 100 µL and you won’t risk contamination of your pipette.

●

Beeper: You can switch the tone of your pipette on or off.

●

Contrast: You can choose a value of 1 to 5 to set up the contrast of the screen.

●

Service: refer to Chapter 14 Maintenance below

Adjustment: refer to Chapter 14 Maintenance below.
●

Language: Available from the firmware version 1.20.
Languages available are English, Chinese and Japanese.
To change the language, enter in the Configuration menu:
1.
Select your language by turning the push button.
2. Click on the push button to confirm your selection.
The language selected is blinking.
3.

Press and hold the Mode button for two seconds to confirm your selection.

Chapter 14

MAINTENANCEPIPETMAN M requires very little maintenance. However, to ensure pipette accuracy,
precision, and robustness please proceed periodically with a two–minute inspection asrecommended by Gilson.
Your PIPETMAN M allows you to:●Get service information.

●

Readjust the pipette to user settings.

●

Return to factory settings.

20 Configuration | PIPETMAN® M

●Replace spare parts (for detailed information refer to Chapter 14 Maintenance andChapter 19 Safety Precautions and Limitation of Use on page 31).

●

Prepare the pipette for cleaning or autoclaving by “disassembly” of the parts
specified (refer to Chapter 15 Cleaning and Decontamination on page 26).

PIPETMAN M provides you with all required service information. It will help you
establish an easy diagnosis and plan any service operation with your accredited Gilson
service center.
You will find in the SERVICE menu following sub menus:●

Disassembly●Service info●

Service settings●

Pipette info

MAINTENANCE

Service Information

The navigation of the menu is always done in the same way. Make your selection byrotating the push button, enter and confirm with a simple click.
●●●

Disassembly:○

The multichannel models should not be disassembled: only the push button
and the tip ejector can be replaced.

○

Only the lower part of the single models can be disassembled, the pushbutton, the connecting nut, and the tip ejector can be replaced.

○

This option allows you to disassemble the lower part safely (protection of thepiston and the actuator). If you select disassembly, the following screen appears:“Now, you can remove the lower part of your pipette with complete security”.

Service info provides you with maintenance information; you cannot modify any of
the items:○

Number of pipetting cycles since last maintenance.

○

Number of weeks since last maintenance.

Service settings gives you the option to organize your maintenance, you can set
following service points:○

Number of cycles until next maintenance.

○

Number of weeks until next service.

○

Service date.

○

Activate or deactivate the Service alert.

NOTE●

Changes of service settings will reset all the service info to zero.

Pipette info provides information about your pipette; you cannot modify any of
the items:○

Version of firmware.

○

Serial number.

○

Total number of cycles (one cycle: up and down of the piston).

○

Number of readjustments carried out by this pipette.
PIPETMAN® M | USER’S GUIDE

21

Adjustment

MAINTENANCE

Press the mode button to enter the menu. Select “Configuration” by rotating the pushbutton and click to confirm your selection. Enter the sub-menu in the same way andselect the “Adjustment ” menu.
The adjustment menu allows you to access the following items:●

Standard readjustment●

Reset settings

Standard Readjustment
This menu allows you to adjust the pipette using three calibration points: 10%, 50%,
and 100% of nominal volume (in according with ISO8655 recommendations).
You may want to calibrate your pipette for solutions with a density, viscosity, surface
tension or vapour pressure that are different than that of water. To return to thefactory settings, choose Reset settings. Your PIPETMAN M will be reset to the threefactory calibration values that are permanently stored in the pipette’s firmware.
In accordance with ISO 8655 Gilson recommends a gravimetric procedure for
pipette calibration. This gravimetric method is used to establish the mean massof a given volume of water (taking into account evaporation losses, where
necessary). After converting the mean mass to a volume (using the Z factor, refer toAppendix B - Z Factor on page 52), enter the measured volumes(s) into the pipette’s
memory and the software readjusts the pipette accordingly. This method requires
the strict monitoring of environmental conditions and the use of routinely controlled
equipment that is adapted to the volume being measured.
Conversion to volume must take into account the density of the liquid as well as
evaporation during the cycle time. For each measurement, the corresponding volume(Vi) can be calculated as follows:
Wi is the weight as read on the balancee is the mean evaporation loss during the cycle
time

Vi = (Wi + e) Z

Z expressed in L/mg, is a conversion factor incorporating density of water buoyed inair, at test temperature and barometric pressure (refer to Appendix B - Z Factor on
page 52)
For volumes greater than 20 μL, the evaporation factor can be disregarded.
For more information please refer to “Verification procedure for accuracy andprecision” which you can download from the Gilson website (www.gilson.com).

Maintenance Operation
Disassembly of your PIPETMAN M to Change and Clean Parts
It is best to inspect your pipette regularly and to routinely clean and change partsas required. To help you to keep up a regular schedule and in the interests of goodlaboratory practices (GLP), you can configure your pipette to display an alarm before
servicing is due (refer to page 18).

NOTE

22

The following maintenance operation should only be done when thepipette is in DISASSEMBLY Mode.

Configuration | PIPETMAN® M

Maintenance Warning
PIPETMAN M notifies you when maintenanceis due (Service alert is set by default to “On”).
The following message 1 will appear:

2

1

3

1.

If you click to confirm within 10 seconds. the pipette will automatically switch
to Disassembly mode so you can carry out your maintenance safely.

2.

Wait longer than 10 seconds and the option to have a reminder in one week
will appear 3 .

3.

Click to confirm. Your pipette will be operational again.

MAINTENANCE

After validation by a click, the following message 2 appears:

Maintenance Operation for Single Channel Models
Tip Holder and Tip Ejector
These parts must be changed if they are damaged. You may also remove these partsfor cleaning or decontamination purposes.

Changing the Tip Ejector
1.

Keep the tip ejector button depressed and grip the top of thetip ejector with the other hand.

2.

Gently rotate the tip ejector counterclockwise and separate its
connector from the operating rod.

3.

Pull the tip ejector away from the body of the pipette.

4.

Clean or autoclave the tip ejector and refit or replace it byreversing the procedure.

Figure 14
Ejector clip

Changing the Tip Holder (Lower Part)

After removing the tip ejector, you may remove the lower part of the tip holder, which ismore likely to become contaminated or damaged than the upper part. Removal of thelower part is shown below; for the upper part refer toRemoving the Piston on page 24 (special precautions
are necessary).
1.

Gently rotate the lower part of the tip holder
counterclockwise to unscrew it from the upper part.

2.

Separate the parts and remove the O-ring (refer toChanging the Seal and/or O-ring on page 24)

3.

Clean, and if required, autoclave the lower part of the
tip holder (autoclaving: 20 min. at 121°C and 0.1MPa)

4.

If required, lubricate the piston (refer to
How to Lubricate the Piston on page 25) and fit a
new O-ring.

5.

Screw the two parts together, making sure that thetwo parts are fully tightened, by hand.

6.

Refit the tip ejector.

NOTICE

Tip holder(upper)Tip holder(lower)PistonFigure 15

Changing the tip holder

After autoclaving the tip holder and tip ejector may change color, however
this has no impact on the performance.
PIPETMAN® M | USER’S GUIDE

23

O-ringChanging the Seal and/or O-ring

MAINTENANCE

The O-ring is positioned on the piston; it should not be
autoclaved, if worn or damaged in any way, it must be replaced(refer to Chapter 20 Replacement Parts on page 32).
To access the O-ring, remove the tip ejector and unscrew the
Figure 16
O-ringlower part of the tip holder. You should now be able to remove
the O-ring from the piston. Sometimes, the O-ring may be foundin the recess at the top end, of the lower part of the tip holder. If required, lubricate thepiston (refer to How to Lubricate the Piston on page 25), and then fit a new O-ring bysliding it onto the piston. Reassemble the pipette. Depending on the pipette model thedimensions of the O-ring will vary (refer to Chapter 20 Replacement Parts on page 32).

Servicing the Piston
You may remove the piston assembly to clean, lubricate, or change the piston.

Removing the Piston
1.

Remove the tip ejector and (optionally)
the lower part of the tip holder. If you
remove the lower part, take care to
remove the O-ring as described in
Changing the Seal and/or O-ring above.

2.

Unscrew the connecting nut (turn by hand,counterclockwise).

3.

Gently remove the connecting nut and upper
tip holder.

4.

Pull off the piston assembly from the body of the pipette — separate the parts(see below).

5.

Clean and autoclave (if required) the piston and holder, together with anyother parts that may need to be treated in the same way (refer to Chapter 15
Cleaning and Decontamination on page 26).

Figure 17
PistonThe specifications of the pipette should be checked after changing any part.

NOTE. NOTICE

Don't pull on the piston to remove the assembly.

6.

Lubricate the piston, refer to Figure 18 on page 25.

7.

Reassemble the piston and guide; then carefully insert the assembly into thebody of the pipette. The guide should hold the piston assembly inside the body ofthe pipette. You can hear a “click” when the piston is back in place.

NOTE

24

In the case of P1200M, the piston holder, piston, and guide are a unit — do
not try to separate them.

Take care not to touch the piston, and that it is dust-free. If needed, clean
the assembly with a dust-free cloth.

Configuration | PIPETMAN® M

Tip holder (lower)

Tip holder (upper)

PistonGuide

Connecting
nut

Figure 18

Tip holder parts

8.

Reassemble the upper part of the tip holder and the connecting nut, and thenrefit to the body of the pipette by rotating the connecting nut clockwise until it isfinger tight. Fit the O-ring (for P10M, the seal) and reassemble the lower part of
the tip holder. Refit the tip ejector.

The seals for P10M are fragile and can be used only once; therefore, after unscrewing
the lower part of the tip holder you must fit a new seal.

MAINTENANCE

Pistonholder

How to Lubricate the Piston (except P10M)
Use only Gilson lubricant (P/N: F2070902, as supplied).
Squeeze a small quantity from the tube onto a clean, lintless cloth. Use the cloth totransfer the lubricant to the piston. Ensure that the piston is evenly lubricated and thatyou wipe away any excess — remember only a fine film of lubricant is required (overthe entire piston).

Maintenance Operation for Multichannel Models
For multichannel models, the lower part should not be disassembled: only the pushbutton, the connecting nut, and the tip ejector can be replaced.

Changing the Tip Ejector
To remove the tip ejector, keep bothejector locks depressed. Pull the tip ejector
down.
To refit the tip ejector, gently
re-insert the tip ejector verticallyinto the rails of the ejector
support. Pull lightly on the tip
ejector to check the position.

Replace the Ejector Spacer
1.

Gently press the tabs fromthe ejector spacer andremove it from the tip
ejector.

2.

Insert the ejector spacer andclick it to the tip ejector.

Figure 19

Tip ejector and tip ejector spacer

PIPETMAN® M | USER’S GUIDE

25

Chapter 15

cleaning and decontamination

CLEANING AND DECONTAMINATIONPIPETMAN M is designed so that the parts normally in contact with contaminants caneasily be cleaned and decontaminated.
As part of your quality system, you may have procedures for pipette decontamination.
We recommend that you refer to Decontamination Procedures for Gilson Pipettes, which
you can download from Gilson’s website.
If you use chemical solutions for decontamination or detergents for cleaning, otherthan those specified below, you should check with your supplier that the solution or
detergent is safe for use with one of the following materials: PP (Polypropylene), PBT(Polybutylene Terephthalate), PC (Polycarbonate), POM (Polyoxymethylene), PVDF
(Polyvinylidene Fluoride), PEI (Polyetherimide), and stainless steel.

Cleaning
The pipette must be cleaned, as described below, before it is decontaminated. For
cleaning your PIPETMAN M you may use a simple soap solution or any of the solutions
mentioned in Decontamination Procedures for Gilson Pipettes.

NOTICEUse alcohol (ethanol or isopropanol) to clean up the dirt and dust on the
tip holder.
Liquid must not enter the handle of the pipette.

Single Channel Models
External
1.

Remove the tip ejector for cleaning (refer to Chapter 14 Maintenance on page 20).

2.

Replace the elastomer plug to protect battery charging port.

3.

Wipe the entire pipette with a soft-cloth or lint-free tissue impregnated with soap
solution, to remove all dirty marks. If the pipette is very dirty, a brush with soft
plastic bristles may be used.

4.

To rinse, wipe the entire pipette with a soft-cloth or lint-free tissue impregnatedwith distilled water.

5.

Leave to air dry.

Internal
The following components only can be immersed in a cleaning solution: tip ejector,
tip holder, connecting nut, and piston.

26

1.

Disassemble the pipette as described in Chapter 14 Maintenance on page 20).

2.

Set aside the handle in a dry and secure location.

3.

Clean the individual components using an ultrasonic bath (20 minutes at 50°C) orwith a soft cloth and brushes.

cleaning and decontamination | PIPETMAN® M

Rinse the individual components with distilled water.

5.

Leave the parts to dry by evaporation or wipe them with a clean soft cloth orlint-free tissue.

6.

Lubricate the piston and reassemble the pipette according to the instructions
given in Chapter 14 Maintenance on page 20).

Multichannel Models
The following components only can be immersed in a cleaning solution: tip ejector,
ejector locks and ejector spacer.
1.

Remove the tip ejector and the ejector spacer (refer to Chapter 14 Maintenanceon page 20).

2.

Immerse the tip ejector, ejector locks, and ejector spacer in the cleaning solution
or wipe them with a soft cloth or lint-free tissue impregnated with the cleaning
solution.

3.

Rinse the components with distilled water.

4.

Leave the parts to dry by evaporation or wipe them with a clean, soft cloth orlint-free tissue.

5.

Refit the tip ejector.

NOTE

Please note that although the lower part of PIPETMAN M multichannel canwithstand a few autoclaving cycles, we do not recommend autoclaving it.

cleaning and decontamination4.

Decontamination
Autoclaving – Single Channel Models
However, after separation from the body, any of the following components of thevolumetric module may be autoclaved individually: tip ejector, connecting nut, tipholders, pistons, and seals (except O-rings).
1.

Clean the parts to be autoclaved, especially the tip holders.

2.

Put the parts in an autoclaving bag.

3.

Autoclave for 20 minutes at 121°C and 0.1 MPa.

4.

Check that the parts are dry before reassembling the pipette.

Set the pipette aside to stabilize at room temperature for at least 6 hours.
The body (handle) of the pipette is not autoclavable.

NOTICEThe specifications of the pipette should be checked after autoclaving/disassembling.

Chemical Decontamination – Single andMultichannel Models
You may choose to decontaminate your pipette chemically, in accordance with yourown procedures. Whatever decontaminant you use, check that it is compatible withthe plastics used in the construction of the pipette (refer to page 22).
PIPETMAN® M | USER’S GUIDE

27

leak test

Non-Immersible Parts
1.

Wipe the handle of the pipette with a soft cloth or lint-free tissue covered withthe chosen decontaminant.

2.

Wipe the handle of the pipette with a soft cloth or lint-free tissue covered with
distilled water.

Immersible Parts
Only the following components can be immersed in a decontaminant solution:●

Single channel models a tip ejector, tip holder (both parts), connecting nut,
piston (including holder), and guide.

●

Multichannel models a tip ejector, ejector locks, and ejector spacer.

Please note that although the lower part of PIPETMAN M multichannel can withstanda few number of autoclaving cycles, we do not recommend autoclaving it.
1.

Disassemble the pipette as described in Chapter 14 Maintenance on page 20).

2.

Immerse the components in the decontaminant solution or wipe them according
the intructions given by the manufacturer or supplier of the decontaminant.

3.

Rinse the individual components with distilled or sterile water.

4.

Leave the parts to dry by evaporation or wipe them with a clean, lint-free tissue
or soft cloth.

5.

Lubricate the piston and reassemble the pipette according to the instructions
given in this chapter.

Chapter 16

LEAK TESTThis test may be performed at any time to check that the pipette does not leak,especially after performing a maintenance or decontamination procedure. If a pipettefails this test, you should replace the faulty part (e.g., O-ring, tip holder, etc.) and repeat
this test, after making sure that the pipette is correctly reassembled.
1.

Fit a PIPETMAN DIAMOND Tip.

2.

Set the pipette to the nominal volume.

3.

Aspirate the nominal volume from a beaker of distilled water.

4.

Hold the pipette in the vertical position and wait for 20 seconds.

If a water droplet appears at the end of the tip, there is a leak (refer to Chapter 17
Troubleshooting on page 29)
If you see no droplet, re-immerse the tip below the surface of water.
The water level inside the tip should remain constant; if the level goes down, then there isa leak (refer to Chapter 17 Troubleshooting on page 29)
For multichannel models, check if the water level between each tip is the same.

28

leak test | PIPETMAN® M

Chapter 17

TROUBLESHOOTING
If the problem persists, you may consult the following table that identifies potential
problems and their solutions.

WARNING

Before returning any pipette to your local Gilson service center, ensure that
it is completely free of chemical, biological, or radioactive contamination.
Please use the included safety bag.

PROBLEM

PROBLEM
Pipette is leaking
samplePipette won’t
aspirate

Noisy operation

Pipette is
inaccurate

POSSIBLE CAUSE
Worn O-ring

PAGE

Pipette is not precise

24

Unscrewed lower partof tip holder

24

Damaged or corroded piston

24

Damaged tip holder

23

Improper repair or assembly

22–25

Connecting nut is loose.

24–25

Software needs to be reset

6

Piston needs lubricating

25

Improper repair or assembly

22–25

Unscrewed lower partof tip holder

24

Pipette is out of adjustment

22

Connecting nut is loose

24–25

Tips fall or don’t fit

No OLED display

No operation possible
Calibration impossible

POSSIBLE CAUSE

PAGE

Unscrewed lower part of tip holder

24

Incorrect operator technique15

Worn O-ring

24

Connecting nut is loose

24–25

Damaged or corroded piston

24

Damaged tip holder

23

Low quality tips

13–14

Damaged tip holder

23

Damaged tip ejector

23–25

Ejector spacer is damaged

25

Tip ejector is loose

23–25

Dirty tip holder

23

Pipette is in sleep mode

5

Battery needs recharging

13

Software needs to be reset.

6

Battery needs recharging.

13

Software needs to be reset

6

Software needs to be reset

6

troubleshooting

In case of malfunction, first reset the pipette by pressing on the push button and themode button simultaneously for at least eight seconds.

Chapter 18

SPECIFICATIONSPIPETMAN M is a high quality pipette that offers excellent accuracy and precision; it isfully compliant with ISO 8655 and is CE marked.
The figures given in the PIPETMAN M Maximum Permissible Errors Table 2 on page 30
were obtained using “PIPETMAN DIAMOND Tips”. These figures are only guaranteed
when using genuine PIPETMAN DIAMOND Tips.
Each pipette is inspected and validated by qualified technicians according to the Gilson
quality system. Gilson declares that its manufactured pipettes comply with therequirements of the ISO 8655 standard, by type testing.

PIPETMAN® M | USER’S GUIDE

29

SPECIFICATIONS

The adjustment is carried out under strictly defined and monitored conditions (ISO 8655-6):●●

Basis of adjustment, Ex.

●

Reference temperature, 20°C●

Relative humidity, 50%●

Barometric pressure, 101 kPa●

Use of distilled water grade 3 (ISO 3696)

Ten measurements for each test
volume, which are nominal volume,
50% of nominal volume and 10%of nominal volume. (tested mode:
PIPET, speed 6 with
PIPETMAN DIAMOND Tips)

Table 2

PIPETMAN® M maximum permissible errors
PIPETMAN M SINGLE CHANNEL — VARIABLE VOLUME MODELSISO 8655-2

Gilson Specifications
Model

PIPETMANDIAMOND Tips

Part
NumberStandard PIPET mode
Volume Range

Volume(μL)

Systematic
error (μL)

Randomerror (μL)

REPETITIVE
mode
volume

P10M

D10
DL10

DF10
DFL10

F81022

0.5–10 µL

0.5
1
5
10

± 0.040± 0.025± 0.060± 0.080≤ 0.013≤ 0.012≤ 0.020≤ 0.025

0.5–10 µL

P20M

D200

DF30

F81023

2–20 µL2
1020± 0.075± 0.100± 0.150≤ 0.025≤ 0.035≤ 0.050

2–20 µL± 0.35± 0.30± 0.38± 0.40≤ 0.10≤ 0.10≤ 0.12≤ 0.155–100 µL

5 – 200 µL

Systematic
error (µL)

Randomerror (µL)

± 0.12± 0.12± 0.12± 0.12
± 0.2
± 0.2
± 0.2
± 0.2
± 0.8
± 0.8
± 0.8
± 0.8

≤ 0.08≤ 0.08≤ 0.08≤ 0.08
≤ 0.1
≤ 0.1
≤ 0.1
≤ 0.1
≤ 0.3
≤ 0.3
≤ 0.3
≤ 0.3

± 1.6
± 1.6
± 1.6

≤ 0.6
≤ 0.6
≤ 0.6

± 4.0
± 4.0
± 4.0
± 4.0
± 16
± 16
± 16
± 16

≤ 1.5
≤ 1.5
≤ 1.5
≤ 1.5
≤ 6.0
≤ 6.0
≤ 6.0
≤ 6.0

P100M

D200

D100

F81013

5–100 µL

5
10
50
100

P200M

D200
D300

DF200
DF300

F81024

20–200 µL

20
100
200

± 0.40± 0.80± 1.00≤ 0.15≤ 0.22≤ 0.26

P300M

D200
D300

DF200
DF300

F8101420–300 µL

P1200M

D1000
D1200

DF1000DF1200F81015100–1200 µL

20
30
150
300
100
120
600
1200

± 0.80± 0.70± 0.90± 1.05
± 2.5
± 2.4
± 3.6
± 6.0

≤ 0.16≤ 0.20≤ 0.23≤ 0.30
≤ 0.4
≤ 0.4
≤ 0.8
≤ 1.2

± 10
± 15
± 25

≤2
≤4
≤7

100–5000 µL

± 40
± 40
± 40

≤ 15.0≤ 15.0≤ 15.0

± 25
± 30
± 50

≤4
≤8
≤ 12

200 µL–10 mL

± 60
± 60
± 60

≤ 30.0≤ 30.0≤ 30.0

P5000M

D5000

F81016

500–5000 µL

500
2500
5000

P10mLM

D10mL

F81017

1–10 mL

1 mL
5 mL
10 mL

10–300 µL

20–1200 µL

PIPETMAN M MULTICHANNEL
P8x10M
P12x10M
P8x20M
P12x20M
P8x100M
P12x100M
P8x200M
P12x200M
P8x300M
P12x300M

D10
DL10

DF10
DFL10

DL10
D200

DFL10
DF30

D200

DF100

D200
D300

DF100
DF200
DF300

D200
D300

DF200
DF300

D1200

DF1200F810260.5
1
5
10± 0.05± 0.04± 0.08± 0.10≤ 0.02≤ 0.02≤ 0.04≤ 0.06

0.5–10 µL± 0.24± 0.24± 0.24± 0.24≤ 0.16≤ 0.16≤ 0.16≤ 0.16

1–20 µL

1
2
1020± 0.08± 0.09± 0.15± 0.25≤ 0.05≤ 0.06≤ 0.10≤ 0.12

1–20 µL

± 0.4
± 0.4
± 0.4
± 0.4

≤ 0.2
≤ 0.2
≤ 0.2
≤ 0.2

10–100 µL

10
50
100

± 0.25± 0.50± 0.80≤ 0.14≤ 0.20≤ 0.255–100 µL

± 1.6
± 1.6
± 1.6

≤ 0.6
≤ 0.6
≤ 0.6

20–200 µL

20
100
200

± 0.50± 1.00± 2.00≤ 0.16≤ 0.30≤ 0.50

5–200 µL

± 3.2
± 3.2
± 3.2

≤ 1.2
≤ 1.2
≤ 1.2

10–300 µL

10
30
150
300

± 1.00± 1.00± 1.50± 2.40≤ 0.18≤ 0.18≤ 0.375≤ 0.45

10–300 µL

± 8.0
± 8.0
± 8.0
± 8.0

≤ 3.0
≤ 3.0
≤ 3.0
≤ 3.0

50–1200 µL

50
120
600
1200

± 4.0
± 4.0
± 6.0
± 9.6

≤ 0.7
≤ 0.7
≤ 1.5
≤ 1.8

50–1200 µL

± 32
± 32
± 32
± 32

≤ 12
≤ 12
≤ 12
≤ 12

F81027
F81028
F81018
F81019
F81029
F81030
F81031
F81032
F81020P8x1200M
P12x1200M

0.5–10 µL

F81025

F81021

 ilson maximum permissible errors are guaranteed only when PIPETMAN pipettes are used with the recommended
G
PIPETMAN DIAMOND Tips.
Under these conditions:●Gilson volumetric specifications in standard pipetting (PIPET mode) are guaranteed with a performance exceeding
ISO 8655-2 recommendations for this mode.

●

In the absence of ISO recommendations for repetitive pipetting mode for air-displacement pipettes, Gilson volumetricspecifications for repetitive pipetting (REPETITIVE mode) are guaranteed within ISO 8655-2 recommendations for standard
pipetting (Cf. ISO 8655-2 table 2 above).

30 leak test | PIPETMAN® M

Chapter 19

For safety reasons, it is important to observe the following instructions:●
Battery and electrical specifications:•••

NOTICEWe strongly recommend you fully charge the battery before using thepipette. PIPETMAN M is supplied with an AC adaptor that is suitable foryour country. You must only use an original Gilson AC adaptor specific tothis product. Charge the battery in the pipette, using the AC-adapter orthe stand adapter.

Use AC adaptor and stand adapter indoors.

CAUTION

PIPETMAN M uses a Lithium-Ion battery. Operation on the battery is doneat user’s risk only. Opening the pipette voids the warranty.
Dispose of used batteries in accordance with legal regulations. Batteries
may not be disposed of with household waste and may explode if
disposed in fire.
●
Li-ion battery pack; 1 Ah / 3.6 V. Charging time: approx. 3 hours for a
fully discharged battery (80% in one hour).
●AC adaptor : Input voltage, country-specific: 100-240 V, 50/60 Hz(0.5A max.) Output voltage: +5 V DC, 3.5A (17.5W max.)●Class II
this device is double insulated.

WARNING

Do not use PIPETMAN M in a potentially explosive environment or withpotentially explosive chemicals.

When pipetting infectious, radioactive, toxic, and other hazardous solutions, pleaseobserve all the safety precautions (e.g., wear protective clothing, goggles and gloves)and regulations appropriate for your country.

NOTICEDo not allow the liquid to enter the body of the pipette.

●

Storage conditions
Temperature: -20°C to 50°C - Humidity max: 80%●

Temperature of use
Between 4°C and 40°C (specifications may vary).

●Use only genuine PIPETMAN DIAMOND Tips and original Gilson’s accessories andspare parts. If the equipment is used in a manner not specified by Gilson in theuser’s guide, the protection provided in the equipment may be impaired.

●

Equipment disposal
This equipment must not be disposed of with unsorted municipal waste. Instead,
it is your responsibility to correctly dispose of your waste equipment by handing
it over to an authorized facility for separate collection and recycling. It is also yourresponsibility to decontaminate the equipment in case of biological, chemical,
and/or radiological contamination so as to protect from health hazards the
persons involved in the disposal and recycling of equipment. For more information about
where you can drop off your waste equipment for recycling, please contact your local
dealer from whom you originally purchased the product or your local council. By doing so,
you will help conserve natural resources and you will ensure that your waste equipment isrecycled in a manner that protects human health and the environment. Thank you.

●

PIPETMAN M can be used indoor and outdoor, if precautions are respected as
described above and in the the good laboratory practices (GLP).
PIPETMAN® M | USER’S GUIDE

Safety precautions and limitations of use

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND
LIMITATIONS OF USE

31

Chapter 20

Replacement parts

REPLACEMENT PARTS
Single Channel Models
DESCRIPTION

P10M

P20M

P100M

P200M

P300M

P1200M

P5000M

P10mLM

Connecting nut

F807012

F807012

F807012

F807012

F807012

F807012

F807012

F807012Battery tag, 1x4

F807013

F807013

F807013

F807013

F807013

F807013

F807013

F807013Ejector tag, 1x4

F807014

F807014

F807014

F807014

F807014

F807014

F807014

F807014

Power supply USB

F807015

F807015

F807015

F807015

F807015

F807015

F807015

F807015

Power tub coverF807022

F807022

F807022

F807022

F807022

F807022

F807022

F807022

Battery window

F807005

F807005

F807005

F807005

F807005

F807005

F807005

F807005

Ejector window

F807006

F807006

F807006

F807006

F807006

F807006

F807006

F807006

Lubrican tube 3.5g-

F3070902

F3070902

F3070902

F3070902

F3070902

F3070902

F3070902

Seal, 1x5

F161902

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Seal & O-Ring, 5 sets-

F144863

-

-

-

-

-

-

O-ring, 1x5--

F807146

F2070501

F807134

F807152

F807148

F807149

Tip holder, upper part

F2070117

F2070117

F807135

F2070517

F2070517

F2070617

Tip holder, lower part

F2070218

F2070318

F807136

F2070518

F807153

F2070618

F2070719

F807147

Button assembly

F807141

F807142F807119

F807143

F807120

F807121

F807122

F807123

Tip ejector assembly

F807008

F807009

F807130

F807010

F807010

F807011

F807131F807132

Piston assembly

F807017

F807018

F807126

F807019

F807127

F807020

F807128

F807129--

Multichannel Models
Ejector lockEjectorspacerTip ejector
assembly

Figure 20

Multichannel ejector

32

DESCRIPTION

P8X10M

P12X10M

P8X20M

P12X20M

P8X100M

P12X100M

P8X200M

P12X200M P8X300M

P12X300M P8X1200M 12X1200M

Battery tag, 1x4

F807013

F807013

F807013

F807013Ejector tag, 1x4

F807014

F807014

F807014

F807014

F807013

F807013

F807013

F807013

F807013

F807013

F807013

F807013

F807014

F807014

F807014

F807014

F807014

F807014

F807014

Power supply USB

F807015

F807015

F807015

F807014

F807015

F807015

F807015

F807015

F807015

F807015

F807015

F807015

Power tub coverF807022

F807022

F807015

F807022

F807022

F807022

F807022

F807022

F807022

F807022

F807022

F807022

Battery window

F807005

F807022

F807005

F807005

F807005

F807005

F807005

F807005

F807005

F807005

F807005

F807005

Ejector window

F807005

F807006

F807006

F807006

F807006

F807006

F807006

F807006

F807006

F807006

F807006

F807006

F807006

Button assembly

F807141

F807141

F807144

F807144

F807124

F807124

F807143

F807143

F807145

F807145

F807125

F807125

Ejector spacer

F507001

F507003

F507001

F507003

F507001

F507003

F507001

F507003

F507001

F507003

F807139

F807140

Ejector spacer D10

F807117

F807118

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Ejector lockF507008

F507008

F507008

F507008

F507008

F507008

F507008

F507008

F507008

F507008

F507008

F507008

Tip ejector assembly

F507005

F507006

F507005

F507006

F507005

F507006

F507005

F507006

F507005

F507006

F807137

F807138

Replacement parts | PIPETMAN® M

Chapter 21

PIPETMAN M SOFTWAREPIPETMAN® M Software is an easy-to-use software for creating custom pipetting
protocols for PIPETMAN M pipettes. Use it to create personalized pipetting protocols
on your PC, and to transfer these protocols to PIPETMAN M pipettes in the Custom
Mode, where you can execute them.
PIPETMAN M Software runs on Windows® 7, Windows® 8, and Windows® 8.1.
The software file is downloadable on www.gilson.com/pipetmanm

Passwords and User Information
When running the PIPETMAN M Software for the first time (e.g. after installation),
you are prompted to enter some information regarding your password and yourinstitution.

PIPETMAN M Software

What is PIPETMAN M Software?

User Password
Enter user password and select a Hidden question/Hidden answer (used to recoverforgotten passwords). You can also select I don’t want to use passwords.
You can still switch to start using passwords later (in main menu select Other
administration uChange password).

User Profile
Provide Institution/Company details. Providing this information is optional and canalso be done later (in main menu select Other administration u Institution/Company
profile).
During the installation you are prompted to enter a Recovery password that will be
used to retrieve forgotten passwords.
Password must contain 8–30 characters, start with a letter, contain at least one
numerical digit and one uppercase letter (no special symbols allowed).

NOTE

When using a password, please make sure you remember or save your
Recovery password and/or the answer to the Hidden question — those
are the only two means of retrieving your login information in the eventof forgetting the password (see following section).

Forgotten Password
Users who use password protection have to provide the password to run PIPETMAN M
Software and to modify custom protocols in PIPETMAN M.

PIPETMAN® M | USER’S GUIDE33

PIPETMAN M Software

In the case of a forgotten password, click the Forgotten Password button on the
PIPETMAN M login window. Select one of the following options to recover theforgotten password:●

I know the answer to the hidden question●

I have the recovery password●

And click Next. Provide the answer to the Hidden question or the Recovery
password on the next screen and click Next. On the following window, provide a
new password and click Finish.

Home Screen
After launching PIPETMAN M Software you are directed to the home screen.

Figure 21

PIPETMAN® M Software home screen

The home screen offers the following options:

34●

Manage custom protocols: Create, edit, import or export custom protocols.

●

Transfer custom protocols to pipette: Connect a PIPETMAN M pipette via USB
cable and transfer a selected custom protocol to the PIPETMAN M pipette.

●

Update pipette settings: Access additional pipette settings such as locking
functionality, sound alerts, maximum volume limit, or pipette firmware updates.

PIPETMAN M Software | PIPETMAN® M

●Other administration: Manage the inventory of your PIPETMAN M pipettes, viewhistory of custom protocol uploads to specific PIPETMAN M pipettes, manage
passwords and the Company/Institution profile.
By clicking the home icon
you return to the home screen.

●

Menu bar offers the following options:File u Exit; exit the PIPETMAN M Software○

Help u Help; access the user’s guide○

Help u About; access basic information on the PIPETMAN M Software.

Installing PIPETMAN M Software
PC Requirements for PIPETMAN M Software
PIPETMAN M Software is supported on PC with Windows® 7, Windows® 8 andWindows® 8.1.
Table below lists the PC system requirements for the software.

SYSTEMMINIMUM / ALLOWEDRECOMMENDED

Operating system

Windows 7

Windows 7 and above

Hard drive

1 GB

10 GB

Processor speed

2.0 GHz

2.0 GHz

RAM

1 GB

2 GB

Screen resolution

480x800, 768x1024, 720x1280,
768x1280, 800x1280, 768x1366

768x1024

Text size (Windows only)

100%, 125%, 150%

100%

USB

USB 2.0 High-speed port

USB 2.0 High-speed port

PIPETMAN M Software○

Installing PIPETMAN M Software
1.

Download the appropriate PIPETMAN M Software installation file for youroperating system to the PC.

2.

Double-click the installer and follow the instructions on the screen to complete
the installation.

3.

 hen completed, the PIPETMAN M Software icon will appear on desktop of theW
PC if Create Desktop Shortcut is checked.

4.

If PIPETMAN M Software is not launched automatically, double-click the
PIPETMAN M icon on the desktop.

5.

 nce installed, the PIPETMAN M Software can be run by any user on the installedO
PC.

PIPETMAN® M | USER’S GUIDE

35

Installing the Drivers
On Windows® 7 systems, drivers are installed along with the installer. On some Windows® 8
and Windows® 8.1 systems, drivers might need to be installed manually.

PIPETMAN M Software

Software FilesPIPETMAN M Software stores information about custom pipetting protocols in specificfiles with the extension .pmp.

Uninstalling PIPETMAN M Software
When uninstalling PIPETMAN M, you can select to remove the user data (selectcheckbox Remove user data during uninstall process). This will remove all user data,
custom protocols, pipette data and history related to pipettes and protocols.

Creating and Managing Custom Protocols
In Manage custom protocols you can create, edit, import or export custom protocols.

Creating a Custom Protocol
Start creating a new custom protocol from scratch by clicking the Create a newprotocol button.
Specify the Protocol name (e.g. DNA-isolation) and click Create. The edit custom
protocol screen appears with the Protocol info and Protocol setup tabs.
●

In the Protocol info tab, select a pipette from a list of PIPETMAN M models. Enter
the name of the user who created the protocol (protocol created by: field) andenter any comments into the Comments box, if required.

In the Protocol setup tab, build a pipetting protocol by adding tasks from the Available
tasks list (on the left of the screen) to the Protocol pane (on the right of the screen)and modifying the task’s default parameters:
1.

Select a task in the Available task list.

2.

 rag-and-drop it to the Protocol pane, use the arrow buttonD
double-click on the task).

3.

Modify the task’s parameters in the Edit task window that opens automaticallyafter you add the task to protocol, and click Create to add the task.

4.

Add further tasks to the protocol if desired.

5.

When the protocol contains all desired tasks, click the Save button to store theprotocol. If you are using password protection, you will be asked to confirm thisaction by entering your password.

or simply

The protocol is now listed in Manage custom protocols.
Protocols can contain up to 40 tasks.
Tasks listed in the protocol pane will be executed on the PIPETMAN M from top tobottom. You can move the task’s position in the protocol by drag-and-drop movement
or by using up/down arrows next to the task.

36

PIPETMAN M Software | PIPETMAN® M

PIPETMAN M Software

Figure 22

Bulding a custom protocol

Default tasks available:●

Aspirate: aspirates specified volume into the tip.

●

Dispense: dispenses specified volume from the tip.

●

Dispense all: dispenses all remaining volume from the tip followed by a purge action.

●

Repeat(1): enables repetition of any task once or more.

●

Mix: mixes the specific volume in one or more cycles.

● urge: dispenses all remaining volume from the tip followed by purging
P
extra volume.

●

Wait: introduces a wait for a specified number of seconds.

●

Wait for click: pauses the protocol until Push button is clicked.

●

Beep: makes pipette produce a beeping sound while selected tasks are executed.

Add tasks to the protocol through drag-and-drop actions, by selecting a task andclicking the arrow button
or by double-clicking the task. Drag-and-drop actions
position the tasks in the following way: the selected task will be placed directly above
the task highlighted in the protocol section. If you are moving a task upwards orcreating a new task, the task will be positioned above the highlighted task. If you are
moving the task downwards, the task will be dropped after the highlighted task.
After you add a task to the protocol, you can modify task parameters.
Tasks within Repeat will be executed in a sequence for the specified numberof iterations.
Example: If Repeat contains two tasks: Aspirate 20 µL followed by Dispense
20 µL and the number of iterations is set to 3, the tasks will be executed on
PIPETMAN M in the following order: 1. Aspirate 20 µL, 2. Dispense 20 µL,
3. Aspirate 20 µL, 4. Dispense 20 µL, 5. Aspirate 20 µL, and
6. Dispense 20 µL.
(1)

NOTE

PIPETMAN® M | USER’S GUIDE

37

Default Task Parameters
Each task has modifiable parameters, defined as follows:

PIPETMAN M Software

Aspirate and Dispense tasks have the following parameters:●

Task name(2): specify the name of the task.

●

Volume (µL)(2): specify the volume for the task in µL.

●

Speed(2): specifiy the speed for aspirating and dispensing.

●

Comments: enter any comments related to the task. ●

Display text(2): enter text that is displayed on the pipette’s LCD screen when thetask is activated.

NOTE●

The number of characters for Display text is limited (3).

Execute automatically (checkbox)(4): specify whether the task should be executed
automatically after the previous task is completed.

Dispense all task has the following parameters:●

Task name(2): specify the name of the task.

●

Speed(2): specify the speed for the dispense.

●

Comments: enter any comments related to the task.

●

Display text(2): enter text that is displayed on the pipette’s LCD screen when thetask is activated.

NOTE●

The number of characters for Display text is limited (3).

Execute automatically (checkbox)(4): specify whether the task should be executed
automatically after the previous task is completed.

Repeat task has the following parameters:●

Task name(2): specify the name of the task.

●

Number of iterations(2): specify how many times the pipette should repeat thetasks that are placed inside the repeat task.

●

Comments: enter any comments related to the task.

NOTE

38

For certain PIPETMAN M models the minimal volumes in Aspirate andDispense tasks might be different if these tasks are located inside Repeat loop.

PIPETMAN M Software | PIPETMAN® M

Mix task has the following parameters:
Task name(2): specify the name of the task.

●

Volume (µL)(2): specify the volume for the task in µL.

●

Aspiration speed(2): specify the speed for the aspiration.

●

Dispense speed(2): specify the speed for the dispense.

●

Use push button mixing (checkbox): when checked, mixing will be performed
continuously for as long as the user holds the push button on the pipette; oncethe push button is released, mixing stops and the next task in the protocol is
executed.

●

Number of cycles(2): specify how many times the volume should be mixed.

●

Comments: enter any comments related to the task.

●

Display text(2): enter text that is displayed on the pipette’s LCD screen when thetask is activated.

NOTE●

The number of characters for Display text is limited (3).

PIPETMAN M Software● xecute automatically (checkbox)(4): specify whether the task should be executedEautomatically after the previous task is completed.

Purge task has the following parameters:●

Task name(2): specify the name of the task.

●

Comments: enter any comments related to the task.

●

Display text(2): enter text that is displayed on the pipette’s LCD screen when thetask is activated.

NOTE●

The number of characters for Display text is limited (3).

Execute automatically (checkbox)(4): specify whether the task should be executed
automatically after the previous task is completed.

Wait task has the following parameters:●

Task name(2): specify the name of the task.

●

Duration(s)(2): specify the duration of the pause in seconds.

●

Comments: enter any comments related to the task.

●

Display text(2): enter text that is displayed on the pipette’s LCD screen when thetask is activated.

NOTE

The number of characters for Display text is limited (3).

Wait for click task has the following parameters:●

Task name(2): specify the name of the task.

●

Comments: enter any comments related to the task.

●

Display text(2): enter text that is displayed on the pipette’s LCD screen when thetask is activated.
PIPETMAN® M | USER’S GUIDE39

PIPETMAN M Software

Beep task has the following parameters:●

Task name(2): specify the name of the task.

●

Comments: enter any comments related to the task.

●

Example of use: in order to produce a beep sound with duration of 1 second on
the pipette before the Aspirate task, position the following set of tasks before theAspirate task:○

Beep task (creates the beep start and end tasks).

○

Wait task (with duration 1 s), which should replace the beep placeholder task
between the two beep tasks.
Parameters marked with an asterisk are mandatory.

(2)

Pipettes are able to display a limited number of characters on their LCD screen.
If you use longer strings of characters in Display text not all may be displayed.

(3)

NOTE

(4)

Display text field is disabled when Execute automatically is checked.

Additionally, the Use Push button mixing option for mix mode is also disabled fortasks that are automatically executed.

Editing, Cloning, and Deleting Tasks
Once the task is listed in the protocol, you can edit its parameters by selecting thetask, right-clicking on it and selecting Edit task, or by double-clicking the task.
The Edit task window opens, where you can modify the task’s parameters and storethem.
You can clone a task by right-clicking on the desired task and selecting Clone task.
Add task window opens, where you can rename the task and change the parameters
if desired. When done, add the task to the protocol by clicking Create button.
The task is added immediately after the original task.
You can delete tasks from the protocol by right-clicking on the desired task andselecting Delete task. Alternatively, you can select a task in the protocol and click
the left-arrow. When deleting a task, a pop-up window appears, where you canconfirm task deletion.

Pipette Volume Indicator
As you build a protocol, the pipette volume indicator
will display how much of the pipette’s maximum
volume is used at the end of the protocol withindicator bars (green to red color). The exact volume
is also displayed next to the color bars (displayedin microliters). If you click on a particular task,a rectangle will mark the volume of the current
task (blue rectangle indicates aspirating, and red
rectangle indicates dispensing of volume).
If the volume in pipette exceeds the maximal volume,or is below the minimal volume of the pipette, thepipette volume indicator will be surrounded with a
red rectangle.

40 PIPETMAN M Software | PIPETMAN® M

100%
full pipette

50%
full pipette

Figure 230%full pipette

Numbers displayed next tocolored bars represents volume
remaining in the pipette at theend of protocol (displayed in
microliters).

Warning and Error Messages

In certain cases a yellow warning sign ! will appear next to a protocol in Manage
custom protocols and Transfer custom protocols to pipette. More details about thewarning are available if you position the mouse over the warning sign. Such protocols
may be transferred to a pipette and can be exported. However, executing these
protocols on the pipette repeatedly may cause the pipette to have an error.

Managing Existing Protocols in Manage Custom Protocols
All protocols that have been created are listed in the Manage custom protocols
window with information on pipette model, date of creation, date of last modification,
person that created the protocol, and person that last modified the protocol.
If a protocol contains a warning or an error, the warning or error icon is displayed.

PIPETMAN M Software

PIPETMAN M Software verifies the protocol after the addition of each task, or after
modification of a task, to determine whether the volume of the pipette is still within
the volume specifications for that particular PIPETMAN M model. Should the volume
in pipette model fall outside specifications, an error sign
will appear next to thetask that caused this. More details about error are available if you position the mouseover the error sign. Protocols that contain one or more error signs
may be saved,
however they cannot be transferred to a pipette and cannot be exported.

Figure 24

Custom protocols are listed in Manage custom protocol window.

For each of the protocols listed you can perform the following actions. Simply selectthe protocol and click on one of the buttons:●

View: view a protocol. No parameters can be changed in the “ View mode”.

●

Edit: edit a protocol (change the PIPETMAN M model, rename protocol, add/edit/
remove tasks).

PIPETMAN® M | USER’S GUIDE41

PIPETMAN M Software●

Clone: clone a protocol (if you are creating a similar protocol, cloning will savetime).

●

Export: export a protocol to a .pmp file and store it on the PC.

●

Export to pdf: create a summary of the protocol in the form of a print-ready pdf
document.

●

Delete: delete a protocol.

Alternatively, you can perform these actions by right-clicking on a desired protocol.
Editing protocol is also available by double-clicking the selected protocol.

Importing a Protocol
You can add protocols to the Manage custom protocols by importing a previously
created protocol (.pmp files).
Click on Import a protocol from file button, navigate to the .pmp file and click Open.
The protocol is then available in Manage custom protocols.

Practical Tips for Creating Custom Protocols
If you have existing protocols, cloning and modifying them will save you time.
PIPETMAN M Software enables you to easily create a similar protocol on a different
PIPETMAN M model. Simply clone the protocol and change the PIPETMAN M model.
If necessary, modify the volume of transfers to fit volume specifications of the new
PIPETMAN M model.

Transferring Custom Protocols to the Pipette
To transfer a protocol to a PIPETMAN M pipette, click the Transfer custom protocols to
pipette button and follow the instructions on the screen:
1.

Connect pipette to the PC via USB cable and click Next.

NOTE

Should the pipette not be recognized immediately, disconnect the USB
cable, reconnect it and click Try again button. If a pipette is already correctly
connected when Transfer custom protocols to pipette button is clicked, thisstep is skipped.

By default, the protocols for the connected PIPETMAN M model are listed.
You can access the protocols created for other PIPETMAN M models by selecting themodel from the Show protocols for pipette model(2): drop-down list.
2.

Select a protocol in the list and click Finish.

If a pipette is locked, transferring protocols will unlock it. For that purpose, a pop-up
window appears, where you can confirm that you would like to transfer the selected
protocol, unlocking the pipette in the process.
You can also check “Mute beeps” if you want to disable any pipette sounds during
beep tasks.
3.	Disconnect the pipette. The Custom protocol is now available on the pipette.

NOTE

42

Protocols that have a red error sign

PIPETMAN M Software | PIPETMAN® M

cannot be transferred to pipettes.

You can transfer a protocol created for a different PIPETMAN M model to theconnected pipette, providing the protocol is using volumes within the connected
pipette’s volume specifications. Protocols that contain volumes outsideconnected pipette’s volume will have a red error sign.

●

The pipette must be registered in the software prior to transferring custom
protocols. If the connected pipette is not yet registered, a pop-up appears which
informs you that the pipette is not yet registered. Here, you can click on Add
pipette now, which takes you to the pipette management screen, or you canproceed to/stay at step 1 by clicking Connect different pipette.

●

 n the bottom left of Transfer custom protocols to pipette wizard, you can findO
the Pipette connection information — An icon accompanied with text which
reports the current connectivity status. The icon is green
if there is a pipetteconnected to the PC or graywhen there are no pipettes connected. The
connectivity status is refreshed when any of the buttons is clicked.

PIPETMAN M Software●

Figure 25

Selecting a protocol for transfer to a PIPETMAN M P200M pipette.

PIPETMAN® M | USER’S GUIDE43

Updating Pipette Settings

PIPETMAN M Software

Here you can set the following configurations on the connected PIPETMAN M pipette:●

Set the Beep to On or Off (switches the tone of the pipette to On or Off). Beep On
and Off only affects the built-in pipette protocols, as well as Aspirate, Dispense,
Mix, Purge tasks (but NOT beep task!).

●

Set the Lock pipette On or Off (Lock pipette On disables access to Configuration,
Speed and Mode on PIPETMAN M pipette).

●

Set Maximal volume limit: this sets the maximal allowed volume on the particular
pipette; it cannot be higher than pipette’s specified maximal volume. Simply enterthe volume (in µL) in the field.

●

Update Firmware.

Figure 26

Update pipette settings.

To modify these configurations, follow these steps:
1.

Click Update pipette settings in the main menu.

2.

If a pipette is already correctly connected, proceed to step 4.

3.

 onnect pipette to the PC via USB cable and click Next. Should the pipette not beCrecognized immediately, disconnect the USB cable, reconnect it and click Try again
button.

44 PIPETMAN M Software | PIPETMAN® M

Check the checkbox for the configuration that you would like to change and thenmodify it (e.g. change Beep from On to Off; or modify the Maximal volume limit);
Unchecked configurations will not be updated.

5.

Click Finish.

6.

Disconnect pipette.

You can refresh the pipette’s Maximal volume limit to pipette’s specified maximal
volume by clicking the Reset to pipette max.

NOTE

●

The pipette must be registered in the software prior to transferring custom
protocols. If the connected pipette is not yet registered, a pop-up appears
which informs you that the pipette is not yet registered. Here, you can click
on Add pipette now, which takes you to the pipette management screen, or
you can proceed to/stay at step 1 by clicking Connect different pipette.

On the bottom left of Update pipette settings wizard, you can find the Pipetteconnection information — An icon accompanied with text which reports thecurrent connectivity status. The icon is green
if there is a pipette connected to
the PC or graywhen there are no pipettes connected. The connectivity status isrefreshed when any of the buttons is clicked.

PIPETMAN M Software

4.

Updating Pipette Firmware
To update firmware on PIPETMAN M pipette follow these steps:
1.

Click Update pipette settings in the main menu.

2.

If a pipette is already correctly connected, proceed to step 4.

3.

 onnect pipette to the PC via USB cable and click Next. Should the pipette notC
be recognized immediately, disconnect the USB cable, reconnect it and click Try
again button.

4.

Click the Update firmware button.

5.

Navigate to the firmware file and click Open.

6.

On the next dialog, click OK to confirm the firmware update.
NOTICE

7.

The pipette must not be disconnected during firmware update. Disconnecting
pipette could result in pipette malfunction.

Wait for the firmware update, click OK and disconnect pipette.

PIPETMAN® M | USER’S GUIDE

45

Other Administration

PIPETMAN M Software

Here you can perform the following administrative tasks:●

Pipette management: Manage the inventory of your PIPETMAN M pipettes.

●

View history: View the history of protocol uploads to PIPETMAN M pipettes andthe history of protocol modifications by user.

●

Change password: Change the password to access PIPETMAN M Software.

●

Institution/Company profile: Manage the information related to your Institution/
Company.

Pipette Management
Here you can register your individual PIPETMAN M pipettes. Registering a pipette isrequired to allow for transfer of your personalized protocols onto the pipette, as well as
updating the pipette settings.
Register a new pipette by clicking Register new pipette button and follow the
instructions on the screen:
1.

Connect a pipette to the PC via USB cable and click Next. Should the pipette
not be recognized immediately, disconnect the USB cable, reconnect it and click
Try again button. If a pipette is already correctly connected when Register new
pipette button is clicked, this step is skipped.

2.

Type in the name of the pipette and click Finish.

3.

Pipette is now listed in the Registered pipettes list along with the basic information(Model, Firmware version, Serial number, Minimal volume (µL), Maximal volume (µL),
Last maintenance date, Next maintenance date).

You can rename a pipette in the Registered pipettes list by selecting the pipette,
clicking the Rename button, entering a new name and clicking Rename.
You can reset the maintenance dates (last and next) by clicking the Refresh dates
button. This process requires you to connect the selected pipette to the PC.
You can delete a pipette in the Registered pipettes list by selecting the pipette, andclicking Delete this pipette button.

NOTE

On the bottom left of Register new pipette wizard, you can find the Pipetteconnection information — An icon accompanied with text which reports
the current connectivity status. The icon is green
if there is a pipetteconnected to the PC or graywhen there are no pipettes connected.
The connectivity status is refreshed when any of the buttons is clicked.

46 PIPETMAN M Software | PIPETMAN® M

View History
Here you can view the history of protocol uploads to PIPETMAN M pipettes (tabProtocol upload) and history of protocol modifications (tab Protocol management).

PIPETMAN M Software

To display the history of protocol uploads to PIPETMAN M pipettes, navigate to theProtocol upload tab, select the time interval and click Show history. The protocols
that have been uploaded to any PIPETMAN M pipette within the selected timeinterval will be listed in the table below, displaying the following information for each
protocol: Protocole name, Pipette name, Pipette model, Pipette serial, Uploaded on,
and Result.

Figure 27

Display history of protocol uploads to PIPETMAN® M
pipettes.

To display history of protocol modifications, navigate to Protocol managementtab, select the time interval, and click Show history. The protocols that have been
modified within selected time interval will be listed in the table below, displaying
the following information for each protocol: protocol ID, Original protocol name,
Modified by, Modified on, and Action.

Figure 28

Display history of protocol modification

PIPETMAN® M | USER’S GUIDE

47

Change Password

PIPETMAN M Software

Here you can change a password, change the Hidden question and Hidden answer, ordisable/enable the use of passwords (checkbox: Don’t use password).

NOTICE

Remember or store the answer to the hidden question in case of password
recovery.

Figure 29

Change password, Hidden question, Hidden answer

Institution/Company Profile
Enter the information related to your Institution/Company here or modify it.
Simply enter the information in provided fields and click Save.
None of the information is mandatory.

Figure 30

Enter the information related to your Institution/
Company

48 PIPETMAN M Software | PIPETMAN® M

Chapter 22

EC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
P10M, P20M, P100M, P200M, P300M, P1200M, P5000M, P10mLM, P8x10M,
P12x10M, P8x20M, P12x20M, P8x100M, P12x100M, P8x200M, P12x200M,
P8x300M, P12x300M, P8x1200M, P12x1200M.
Comply with the requirements of the following standards:
Standards for EU
Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 2014/30/EU
Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU
The use of hazardous substances directive 2015/863/EU
Standards for UK
Electromagnetic Compatibility, Regulation 2016, BS EN Standard 61326-1
Electrical Equipment (Safety), Regulation 2016, BS EN Standard 61010-1

PIPETMAN® M | USER’S GUIDEEc Declaration of conformity

Gilson certifies on its sole responsibility that the products listed below:

49

Chapter 23

WARRANTYWARRANTY
Gilson warrants this pipette against defects in material under normal use andservice for a period of 24 months from the date of purchase.
This warranty shall not apply to pipettes which are subject to abnormal use
and/or improper or inadequate maintenance (contrary to the recommendations
given in the user’s guide), including, but not limited to pipettes which have been
subjected to physical damage, improper handling, or spillage or exposure to any
corrosive environment. This warranty shall also be void in the event pipettes arealtered or modified by any party other than Gilson or its designates. Gilson’s soleliability under this warranty shall be limited to, at Gilson’s sole option, repair or
replacement of any defective components of pipettes or refund of the purchaseprice paid for such pipettes.
THE FOREGOING WARRANTY IS EXCLUSIVE AND GILSON HEREBY DISCLAIMSALL OTHER WARRANTIES, WHETHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING ANYWARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND ANY WARRANTIES OF FITNESSFOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHALL GILSONBE LIABLE FOR ANY CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE, INDIRECT OR INCIDENTALDAMAGES ARISING OUT OF ANY BREACH OF ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIEDWARRANTY.

50 WARRANTY | PIPETMAN® M

APPENDICES
Appendix A – Example of a Performance Check1.

Determine the mean value eof the evaporation loss ei that
occurs during your pipetting
cycles. Proceed as described inAppendix C - Evaporation Loss on
page 53 to determine ei.

4.

Calculate the mean volume.
For a temperature of 21.5°C and an airpressure of 1013 hPa, the Z factor isequal to 1.0032 µL/mg (see table 3 inAppendix B - Z Factor on page 52).

Appendices

Below is an example of how to evaluate the performance of PIPETMAN P10M at 1 µL.

V = ( W+e ) x Z_
V_ = (0.964+0.018) x 1.0032
V = 0.985 µL

5.

Evaluate accuracy

E = V - V0

Systematic
2.

Change the pipette tip and performthe first weighing. Then, keep aregular cycle and perform the ten
following measurements.

wr = 0.957 mg
w1 = 0.968 mg
w6 = 0.966 mg
w2 = 0.960 mg
w7 = 0.955 mg
w3 = 0.984 mg
w8 = 0.972 mg
w4 = 0.942 mg
w9 = 0.958 mg
w5 = 0.969 mg
w10 = 0.967 mg
wr rinsing measurement which isdisregarded for the calculation

3.

error (E):V0 true value set on the instrument
E = 0.985 - 1 = - 0.015 µL

Relative error

E% = (V - V0) x 100 / V0

(E%):

6.

E% = (-0.015 x 100) / 1 = - 1.50 %Evaluate precision (repeatability)

Standard Deviation (SDW)(Wi - W) 2
n-1
i=1
n

SDw =

Calculate the mean weight

_
1 n
Wi
W=
n i=1

n number of weighings
Wi weighing results_
W = (0.968+0.960+0.984+0.942+ 0.969+0.966+0.955+0.972+ 0.958+0.967) / 10_
W = 0.964 mg

2

SDw =

n

1

2

( Wi - W )

n-1

i=1
2

2

SDw =

2

2

(0.968-0.964) + (0.960-0.964) + (0.984-0.964) +1 (0.942-0.964)2+ (0.969-0.964)2+ (0.966-0.964)2+22
2
9 (0.955-0.964)2+ (0.972-0.964) + (0.958-0.964) +(0.967-0.964)

SDw = 0.011 mg

Random error (SDv):
SDv = SDw x Z
SDv = 0.011 x 1.0032 = 0.011 µL
PIPETMAN® M | USER’S GUIDE

51

Appendix B – Z Factor
The reference calculation equation is :AppendicesZ = [1/(PW-PA)] [1-(PA/PB)]

Where:		PA = density of air at t°C.
PW = density of the test liquid at t°C.
PB = density of the balance weights.
Use 8 g/cc for PB

Weights conforming to International recommendation N°33 of OIML havebeen adjusted to give results when weighing in air as if the density of theweights were 8.0 g/mL.

NOTE

Values of the conversion factor Z (µL/mg) as a function of temperature and pressure for
distilled water.

Table 3
Z Factor

TEMPERATURE

52

AIR PRESSURE (HPA)

(°C)

800

853

907

960

1013

1067

15

1.00181.00181.00191.00191.00201.002015.5

1.00181.00191.00191.00201.00201.002116

1.00191.00201.00201.00211.00211.002216.5

1.00201.00201.00211.0022

1.0022

1.002317

1.00211.00211.0022

1.0022

1.00231.002317.5

1.0022

1.0022

1.00231.00231.00241.002418

1.0022

1.00231.00241.00241.00251.002518.5

1.00231.00241.00251.00251.00261.002619

1.00241.00251.00251.00261.00271.002719.5

1.00251.00261.00261.00271.00281.002820

1.00261.00271.00271.00281.00291.002920.5

1.00271.00281.00281.00291.00301.003021

1.00281.00291.00301.00301.00311.003121.5

1.00301.00301.00311.00311.0032

1.003222

1.00311.00311.0032

1.0032

1.00331.003322.5

1.0032

1.0032

1.00331.00331.00341.003523

1.00331.00331.00341.00351.00351.003623.5

1.00341.00351.00351.00361.00361.003724

1.00351.00361.00361.00371.00381.003824.5

1.00371.00371.00381.00381.00391.003925

1.00381.00381.00391.00391.00401.004125.5

1.00391.00401.00401.00411.00411.004226

1.00401.00411.0042

1.0042

1.00431.004326.5

1.0042

1.0042

1.00431.00431.00441.004527

1.00431.00441.00441.00451.00451.004627.5

1.00441.00451.00461.00461.00471.004728

1.00461.00461.00471.00481.00481.004928.5

1.00471.00481.00481.00491.00501.005029

1.00491.00491.00501.00501.00511.005229.5

1.00501.00511.00511.0052

1.0052

1.005330

1.0052

1.0052

1.00531.00531.00541.0055

Appendices | PIPETMAN® M

Appendix C – Evaporation Loss
Procedure for the Determination of Evaporation Loss
Use the same distilled water, weighing vessel, and balance as you will be using for thegravimetric check.
1.

 over the weighing vessel with its lid and place it on the balance using a pair ofCtweezers.

2.

Aspirate a sample.

3.

Tare the balance and take the weighing vessel out of the balance.

4.

Take off the lid with tweezers.

5.

Dispense the sample into a dummy vessel.

6.

 eplace the lid on the weighing vessel and, using tweezers, replace the vessel onRthe balance.

7.

Read the negative result e1 (record the absolute value).

8.

Repeat steps 3 to 8, three times to obtain e2 , e3 , and e4 .

9.

Calculate the evaporation loss e using the formula:

NOTE

AppendicesHalf fill the weighing vessel with distilled water.

e = 1 (e1 + e2 + e3 + e4)
4

In normal conditions, this value is usually between 0.01 mg and 0.03 mg.

PIPETMAN® M | USER’S GUIDE

53

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