Using the syringe pumps
These instructions describe the usage of the ESP32-based controller
Step 1: Main Screen & Navigation
Select Pump: Press the 'C' key to cycle through pumps A, B, C, and D.
Active Indicator: The currently selected pump is marked with a greater-than symbol (>) on the left (e.g., >A).
Status Display: The bottom line shows the current flow rate and the pump state (RUN or STOP).
Step 2: Basic Operation (Flow & Direction)
Set Flow Rate:
- Press the 'A' key.
- Enter the value (Numeric keys).
- Press '#' to save.
Change Direction:
- Press the 'B' key to toggle between Infuse and Withdraw.
- Press '#' to confirm.
Start/Stop: Press the star (*) key to toggle the motor.
Note: Flow must be between 1 and 6000 µL/h. If you enter a value outside this range, you can press '*' to clear the input and retry immediately.
Step 3: Advanced Settings Menu
Press the '#' key from the main screen to enter the hardware configuration menu.
Use '2' (Up) and '8' (Down) to navigate and '#' to select.
| Menu Category | Options Available |
|---|---|
| Diameter | Set syringe ID in mm (supports decimals via 'D' key). |
| Units | µL/min, µL/h, mL/min, mL/h |
| Gearbox | 1:1, 25:1, 100:1 |
| Microstep | 1/8, 1/16, 1/32, 1/64, 1/256 |
| Thread Rod | 1-start, 4-start (Lead screw type) |
An asterisk (*) next to an option indicates the current active setting for that motor.
Step 4: Setting Syringe Diameter
For accurate delivery, the diameter must be set according to the specific syringe used.
- In the Settings Menu, select Diameter.
- Enter the value in millimeters (mm). Press the 'D' key to insert a decimal point. (1 mL Syringe: 4.78 mm and 3 mL Syringe: 8.66 mm)
- Press '#' to confirm.
Note: These values are only references. Diameter must be between 1 and 50 mm. If you enter a value outside this range, you can press '*' to clear the input and retry immediately.
Step 5: Correcting Mistakes & Errors
Clear Entry: Press the star (*) key while entering a value for Flow or Diameter to erase the input and reset to 0.
Out of Range: If a value exceeds safety limits (e.g., a diameter > 50 mm), the screen will display "Out of range!". The input will auto-clear, allowing you to re-type the value immediately.
Decimal Points: Use the 'D' key to insert a decimal. Only one decimal point is permitted per entry.
Step 6: Priming and Experiments
Priming:
- Fill the syringes with the appropriate liquids and position them upright on the pump.
- Set the flow rate to a high safe value (3000 µL/h) and run until liquid reaches the end of the tubing.
- If you are manipulating multi-phase liquids, repeat these steps for both the oil phase and the aqueous phase.
Instant Updates: You can adjust the flow rate while the pump is running. The motor speed will update immediately upon pressing '#'.
Memory: The controller saves all operation and hardware settings to internal memory. These persist even after the device is powered off.
Note: Priming can be done manually if the pump design allows you to do so (if it does not have a gearbox).