Bio-Rad Personal Molecular Imager™ (PMI™) System - Manual (Page 18)

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The PMI scanner should be on for at least 40 seconds before the host computer is turned
on to allow for complete initialization of the laser scanning mechanism. With certain
PowerMac computer configurations, this start-up order must be reversed. If your
PowerMac does not recognize the scanner following the standard start up procedure, turn
both units off, then try powering up the scanner before the computer.
It is recommended that the PMI scanner be allowed to warm up for 15 minutes before use.
It is recommended that the scanner be left on, unless it is not being used for a period of
more than 48 hours
Fig. 4.1. PMI control panel.
An LCD contrast button is located on the control panel (Figure 4.1). This button can be
used to adjust the brightness of the LCD display. The contrast function cycles so that
holding the button down will cause the display to get lighter and then darker again.
The "On Line" button on the control panel should be depressed only in the unlikely event
that the internal software cannot halt scanner operation.
4.2 Detailed Operating Procedures
4.2.1 How to Prepare K-Type Imaging Screens
Fig. 4.2. K-type imaging screens.
The K-type imaging screens (K, K/Tritium) are not erased prior to shipment from the factory
and should be erased for 20 minutes prior to first use. Subsequent erasures should only
take 10 minutes.
Note: Optimal image quality and sensitivity can only be achieved with a thoroughly erased
screen.
Caution: The captured signal (latent image) stored on a K-type screen can be partially
erased when the screen is exposed to fluorescent room light. Users should rapidly transfer
the screen from the exposure cassette to the laser scanner. Some users choose to dim the
room lights to prevent accidental erasure.
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