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LAB 105
Term 2
3 credits

Chemistry and Immunoassay Analyzers

LAB 105 introduces aspiring service technicians to the critical diagnostic instrumentation found in clinical laboratories. Students will delve into the underlying scientific principles of photometry, exploring light sources, detectors, and spectral analysis techniques. The course also covers the operation and calibration of ion-selective electrodes, crucial for electrolyte measurement. Emphasis is placed on the practical aspects of reagent management, including storage, dispensing mechanisms, and fluidic systems. Understanding incubation processes, temperature control, and mixing technologies is central to optimizing analytical performance. Finally, students will learn about various immunoassay detection methods, such as chemiluminescence and fluorescence, preparing them to troubleshoot, maintain, and repair these sophisticated diagnostic platforms effectively.

InstructorJacob Calhoun

Prerequisites

Course outline

Lectures, virtual labs, and graded assignments — completed in your browser.

01Introduction to Clinical Chemistry & Immunoassay Analyzerslecture
02Principles of Photometry: Light Sources and Opticslecture
03Photometric Detection and Signal Processinglecture
04Hands-on Lab: Photometric System Calibration and Troubleshootinglab
05Ion-Selective Electrodes: Principles and Componentslecture
06ISE Calibration, Maintenance, and Common Faultslecture
07Reagent Handling: Storage, Delivery, and Fluidicslecture
08Hands-on Lab & Midterm Review: Reagent Systems and ISE Diagnosticslab
09Incubation Systems: Temperature Control and Mixinglecture
10Immunoassay Principles and Reaction Kineticslecture
11Hands-on Lab: Immunoassay System Operation and Verificationlab
12Immunoassay Detection Technologies: Chemiluminescence & Fluorescencelecture
13Analyzer Software, Data Management, and Connectivitylecture
14Capstone Service Project: Comprehensive Analyzer Maintenance and Repairassignment

Syllabus

["Week 1: Introduction to Clinical Lab Analyzers and Safety Protocols","Week 2: Photometry Fundamentals: Light Absorption and Transmission","Week 3: Components of a Photometric System: Filters, Monochromators, and Detectors","Week 4: Hands-on Lab: Performing Photometric Calibrations and Verifications","Week 5: Ion-Selective Electrode Theory and Electrode Construction","Week 6: ISE Calibration Curves, Drift Compensation, and Interference Management","Week 7: Reagent Management: Aspiration, Dispensing, and Waste Systems","Week 8: Hands-on Lab & Midterm Review: Troubleshooting Reagent Delivery and ISE Issues","Week 9: Optimizing Reaction Conditions: Temperature Stability and Mixing Dynamics","Week 10: Immunoassay Architectures and Labeling Techniques","Week 11: Hands-on Lab: Operating and Testing Immunoassay Analyzer Subsystems","Week 12: Advanced Immunoassay Detection: Signal Generation and Processing","Week 13: Analyzer Interface, Quality Control Integration, and Network Diagnostics","Week 14: Capstone Service Project: Integrated Troubleshooting and Preventative Maintenance"]