Let’s Dive into Labnet E1115-16MC-1-5 16 well MC comb for use with 15cm gel system, 1.5mm thick
The Labnet E1115-16MC-1-5 16 well MC comb for use with 15cm gel system, 1.5mm thick, manufactured by Labnet, is a seemingly simple yet critical piece of equipment for any molecular biology lab running electrophoresis. This comb creates 16 wells, each 1.5mm thick, in a gel matrix specifically designed for a 15cm gel system, allowing for the separation and analysis of DNA or protein samples. It’s a tool that, when chosen correctly, streamlines the entire process.
My journey to finding the perfect comb wasn’t driven by a single “aha!” moment, but rather a series of frustrating inconsistencies in my electrophoresis results. Bands were smearing, sample loading was a nightmare with flimsy combs, and well volumes were proving inadequate for the increasing concentration of samples I was running; I needed a robust and precise solution, and this comb seemed to fit the bill.
Upon unboxing the Labnet E1115-16MC-1-5, my initial impression was one of solid construction and thoughtful design. The comb felt substantial in my hand, with a noticeable density suggesting durable materials. The teeth were perfectly aligned and uniformly spaced, promising consistent well formation.
Before settling on the Labnet E1115-16MC-1-5, I considered a couple of alternatives. There was a generic comb, priced lower, but the reviews cited issues with the teeth warping under heat and imprecise well formation. I also looked at a higher-end comb from a different manufacturer, but the price was significantly higher, and it didn’t offer any advantages in terms of well number or thickness for my specific gel system.
My first impression was definitely excitement mixed with a healthy dose of skepticism; could such a seemingly basic tool really make a difference? The potential for improved sample loading and sharper band resolution had me eager to put it to the test, but years of lab work have taught me to temper expectations until proven otherwise.
Real-World Testing: Putting Labnet E1115-16MC-1-5 16 well MC comb for use with 15cm gel system, 1.5mm thick to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Labnet E1115-16MC-1-5 was in my standard molecular biology workflow, analyzing PCR products after site-directed mutagenesis. I tested it across various gel concentrations (0.8%, 1%, and 1.2% agarose) to assess its performance with different sample viscosities and running conditions. The lab temperature was consistently around 22°C, with humidity levels relatively stable.
The comb performed flawlessly under all tested conditions. The 1.5mm thickness provided ample space for loading larger volumes, reducing the risk of overflow and cross-contamination; this was a problem I frequently encountered with thinner combs. The comb’s robust construction ensured consistent well formation, regardless of gel concentration, resulting in uniformly shaped wells.
The Labnet E1115-16MC-1-5 was incredibly easy to use right out of the box. The comb slid smoothly into the gel casting tray, creating clean and well-defined wells. Removing the comb after polymerization was equally effortless, leaving behind perfectly formed wells, without any tearing or distortion of the gel matrix.
The only surprise after first use was how much time I had saved; consistent well formation translated to faster and more efficient sample loading, and the lack of smearing meant less time spent troubleshooting electrophoresis issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Labnet E1115-16MC-1-5 has proven to be an indispensable tool in my lab. It has consistently produced high-quality gels with well-defined bands, allowing for accurate and reliable analysis of my samples.
The Labnet E1115-16MC-1-5 shows no signs of wear and tear, even after repeated use and cleaning. The material is resistant to cracking or warping, ensuring its longevity and reliability.
Maintenance is incredibly simple. After each use, I rinse the comb with distilled water and gently wipe it clean with a soft cloth; occasionally, I will use a mild detergent solution to remove any stubborn residue.
Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper, more flimsy combs, the Labnet E1115-16MC-1-5 is a clear winner. It consistently outperforms its competitors in terms of ease of use, reliability, and durability, providing a superior gel electrophoresis experience.
Breaking Down the Features of Labnet E1115-16MC-1-5 16 well MC comb for use with 15cm gel system, 1.5mm thick
Specifications
The Labnet E1115-16MC-1-5 16 well MC comb for use with 15cm gel system, 1.5mm thick boasts the following specifications:
- Number of Wells: 16. This allows for efficient analysis of multiple samples in a single gel run.
- Well Thickness: 1.5mm. This provides sufficient well volume for loading larger samples, minimizing the risk of overflow and improving band resolution.
- Gel System Compatibility: Designed for use with 15cm gel systems. It’s a tailored fit that ensures optimal well positioning and gel integrity.
- Material: Not explicitly specified, but the robust feel suggests a high-quality, durable plastic resistant to warping and cracking; critical for withstanding repeated use and cleaning.
- MC Comb Design: Refers to the specific mold/comb design by Labnet, ensuring compatibility with their gel boxes and consistent well formation.
These specifications are critical for efficient and reliable gel electrophoresis. The number of wells determines the throughput of the experiment, while the well thickness influences the volume of sample that can be loaded. The gel system compatibility ensures that the comb fits perfectly within the electrophoresis apparatus, preventing any leakage or distortion of the gel matrix.
Performance & Functionality
The Labnet E1115-16MC-1-5 excels at its primary job: creating consistent, well-defined wells in agarose gels. This translates to improved sample loading, sharper band resolution, and more reliable electrophoresis results.
The comb’s strengths lie in its robust construction, precise well formation, and ease of use. The only potential area for improvement might be offering different comb depths to accommodate varying sample volumes, although the 1.5mm thickness has proven adequate for most applications.
The Labnet E1115-16MC-1-5 definitely meets and exceeds expectations. It has become an indispensable tool in my lab, consistently delivering superior results compared to previous combs I’ve used.
Design & Ergonomics
The Labnet E1115-16MC-1-5 features a simple yet functional design. The comb is lightweight and easy to handle, and its smooth surface facilitates easy cleaning.
The comb is incredibly user-friendly, requiring no special training or expertise to operate; simply insert it into the gel casting tray before polymerization and remove it carefully afterwards. The smooth, consistent well formation minimizes the learning curve, making it accessible to both novice and experienced researchers.
Durability & Maintenance
The Labnet E1115-16MC-1-5 is built to last. The durable material is resistant to cracking and warping, ensuring its longevity and reliability; with proper care, this comb should provide years of dependable service.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only rinsing with distilled water and occasional cleaning with a mild detergent solution.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Labnet E1115-16MC-1-5 does not come with any accessories. Its functionality is self-contained, focusing on the creation of gel wells; there are no customization options available, as the design is optimized for its specific purpose.
It’s designed to be compatible with Labnet‘s own 15cm gel systems, and likely with other gel systems that accommodate standard-sized combs; however, careful measurement and comparison are essential to ensure proper fit.
Pros and Cons of Labnet E1115-16MC-1-5 16 well MC comb for use with 15cm gel system, 1.5mm thick
Pros
- Consistent Well Formation: Ensures uniform wells for accurate sample loading.
- Durable Construction: Withstands repeated use and cleaning without warping or cracking.
- Optimal Well Thickness (1.5mm): Allows for larger sample volumes, reducing overflow and improving band resolution.
- Easy to Use: Requires no special training or expertise.
- Improved Electrophoresis Results: Sharper bands and more reliable data.
Cons
- Lack of Comb Depth Options: A deeper comb might be beneficial for very large sample volumes.
- Limited System Compatibility: Specifically designed for 15cm gel systems, potentially requiring a separate purchase for other gel sizes.
Who Should Buy Labnet E1115-16MC-1-5 16 well MC comb for use with 15cm gel system, 1.5mm thick?
The Labnet E1115-16MC-1-5 is perfect for molecular biologists, biochemists, and other researchers who routinely perform gel electrophoresis with 15cm gel systems. It’s ideal for labs needing high-throughput sample analysis due to its 16-well configuration. Any researcher seeking consistent and reliable gel results will benefit from this product.
Anyone working with smaller gel systems, or who only occasionally performs electrophoresis, might find this product overkill. If budget is a primary concern, a cheaper, generic comb might suffice, although the long-term cost savings from improved results and durability should be considered.
A must-have complement to this comb is a high-quality gel casting system to ensure proper gel polymerization and prevent leakage. Additionally, having a reliable micropipette is essential for accurate sample loading.
Conclusion on Labnet E1115-16MC-1-5 16 well MC comb for use with 15cm gel system, 1.5mm thick
The Labnet E1115-16MC-1-5 16 well MC comb for use with 15cm gel system, 1.5mm thick is a seemingly simple tool that can significantly improve the quality and reliability of gel electrophoresis results. Its robust construction, precise well formation, and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any molecular biology lab.
While the price of $87.99 might seem high for a comb, the improved efficiency, reduced troubleshooting, and increased data accuracy justify the investment. The durability of the comb ensures years of dependable service, further enhancing its value proposition.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Labnet E1115-16MC-1-5 to any researcher seeking to optimize their gel electrophoresis workflow. Invest in this comb, and experience the difference that a well-designed tool can make in your experiments! Don’t let inconsistent results and frustrating sample loading hold you back; upgrade your electrophoresis game today!