
( Brand: Agilent ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 203942-100 ), ( Unit Type: Unit ), ( Unit Quantity: 50 ), ( Country Of Origin: United States ), ( Intended Use/discipline: Biological Laboratory, Medical Laboratory )
The **Agilent 203942-100 96-Well Round-Bottom Microplate (0.5 mL capacity)** is a high-performance, precision-engineered consumable designed for demanding applications in molecular biology, biochemistry, and high-throughput screening. Crafted from durable, low-autofluorescence polystyrene, this microplate ensures reliable and reproducible results across a wide range of assays, including PCR, real-time PCR, nucleic acid quantification, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). The **round-bottom design** (V-bottom) optimizes sample mixing and settling, making it ideal for centrifugation, resuspension, and pelleting procedures where even distribution and minimal dead volume are critical. With a **0.5 mL well volume**, this plate strikes an excellent balance between sample capacity and cost efficiency, accommodating standard assay volumes while maintaining sensitivity and accuracy.
Each well is meticulously molded to uniform specifications, ensuring consistent performance and compatibility with automated liquid handling systems, plate readers, and thermal cyclers. The **96-well format** adheres to industry standards, allowing seamless integration into multi-well workflows, from high-throughput screening to routine diagnostics. The plate s **low-binding properties** minimize non-specific adsorption of biomolecules, reducing background noise and enhancing the detection limits of assays. Additionally, its **sterile and DNase/RNase-free** construction guarantees contamination-free experiments, which is essential for applications requiring stringent sterility, such as nucleic acid extraction or sensitive protein assays.
Beyond its technical specifications, the Agilent 203942-100 microplate is engineered for **durability and ease of use**. The robust construction resists warping or deformation during repeated use, while its **clear, transparent walls** enable easy visualization of samples without the need for additional lighting. The plate s **flat-bottomed lid compatibility** allows for secure sealing with compatible lids, preventing evaporation and cross-contamination during long-term incubations or storage. Whether used in research laboratories, clinical diagnostics, or pharmaceutical development, this microplate delivers **consistent, high-quality results** while supporting the scalability and efficiency of modern laboratory workflows. Its reliability and versatility make it a trusted choice for scientists seeking precision, reproducibility, and cost-effective performance in their experimental designs.
**Pros and Cons of buying a Agilent 203942-100 96-Well Microplate (0.5 mL Round Bottom)**
### **Pros**
1. **Compatibility with High-Throughput Screening (HTS) and Automation**
The 96-well format is widely used in laboratories for automated liquid handling, robotic systems, and high-throughput assays. This plate is designed to integrate seamlessly with Agilent s and other industry-standard instruments, reducing manual intervention and improving efficiency.
2. **Optimal Volume for Small-Scale Experiments**
The 0.5 mL round-bottom design is ideal for assays requiring precise volume control, such as cell-based assays, enzyme kinetics, or fluorescence-based experiments. The reduced volume minimizes reagent consumption while maintaining sensitivity.
3. **Durability and Chemical Resistance**
Agilent plates are typically made from high-quality materials (e.g., polypropylene or polystyrene) that resist common solvents, detergents, and organic compounds. This ensures long-term usability without degradation or leaching, which is critical for reproducible results.
4. **Consistency in Well Geometry**
The round-bottom design promotes even mixing and settling of samples, reducing variability between wells. This is particularly important in assays where sedimentation or uneven distribution could affect results.
5. **Brand Reliability and Support**
Agilent is a trusted manufacturer in life sciences and analytical instrumentation. Their products often come with warranties, technical support, and compatibility guarantees, which can be valuable for troubleshooting or replacement needs.
6. **Cost-Effectiveness for Bulk Purchases**
Buying in bulk (100 plates) may offer cost savings per unit compared to smaller quantities, especially when factoring in long-term use and reduced waste from single-use plates.
7. **Versatility Across Applications**
The plate can be used for a wide range of assays, including:- Cell culture and viability assays
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs)
- High-content screening (HCS)
- Fluorescence, luminescence, or absorbance-based measurements
- Drug discovery and toxicity testing
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### **Cons**
1. **Single-Use Nature**
Most microplates, including this Agilent model, are designed for single-use to prevent cross-contamination and ensure data integrity. This generates waste, which can be costly and environmentally impactful, especially in high-volume labs.
2. **Limited Reusability Options**
While some plates can be cleaned and reused with strict protocols, Agilent s standard microplates are not typically designed for repeated use. Reusing them may compromise sterility or structural integrity, leading to inconsistent results.
3. **Higher Upfront Cost**
Compared to generic or lower-end brands, Agilent plates are often more expensive. For labs with tight budgets, this could be a significant investment, particularly when purchasing in bulk.
4. **Potential for Compatibility Issues**
While Agilent plates are widely compatible, some older or non-Agilent instruments may require specific plate dimensions or materials. Always verify compatibility with your equipment before purchase to avoid operational delays.
5. **Storage and Handling Requirements**
Microplates must be stored properly (e.g., sealed, protected from light, and at appropriate temperatures) to prevent contamination or degradation. Improper storage can lead to compromised results or plate failure.
6. **Disposal Considerations**
Disposing of plastic microplates can be challenging, especially in large quantities. Labs must adhere to local regulations for hazardous or biohazardous waste, which may incur additional costs or logistical hurdles.
7. **Alternative Formats May Be More Suitable**
If your workflow requires different well volumes (e.g., 1.5 mL or 384-well plates) or specialized coatings (e.g., tissue culture-treated), this 96-well 0.5 mL plate may not be the optimal choice, potentially requiring additional purchases.
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### **Conclusion**
The **Agilent 203942-100 96-well 0.5 mL round-bottom microplate** is a high-quality, reliable option for labs prioritizing automation, precision, and compatibility with Agilent s ecosystem. Its advantages in terms of consistency, chemical resistance, and integration with HTS systems make it a strong choice for research, drug discovery, or diagnostic applications where reproducibility is critical.
However, the **single-use nature, higher cost, and waste generation** may pose challenges, particularly for labs with budget constraints or sustainability concerns. If reusability is a priority, alternatives like reusable plates (e.g., from brands like Corning or Nunc) or cost-effective generic options might be worth considering.
For most **high-throughput or automated workflows**, the Agilent plate offers a compelling balance of performance and reliability, justifying the investment for labs that rely on Agilent instrumentation.
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### **Recommendation**
**Buy the Agilent 203942-100 plate if:**- Your lab uses Agilent or compatible automated systems.
- You require 96-well 0.5 mL round-bottom plates for sensitive assays (e.g., cell-based, fluorescence, or enzyme assays).
- Bulk purchasing aligns with your budget and long-term needs.
- You prioritize brand reliability and technical support.
**Consider alternatives if:**- You need reusable plates to reduce costs or waste.
- Your workflow requires different well volumes or coatings.
- A lower-cost generic brand meets your compatibility and performance needs.
**Additional Tips:**- Check for discounts or bulk purchase options from Agilent or authorized distributors.
- Verify compatibility with your specific instruments before ordering.
- Evaluate your lab s waste management practices to mitigate environmental impact.
Number of Wells 96. height 14.35mm. Warranty This item is guaranteed to be as described. Shipping Buyer pays for all shipping costs.
LOT 50 AGILENT 203942-100 REACTION MICROPLATE 96-WELL POLYPROPYLENE 0.5 mL ROUND: This lot is for one Lot of Agilent reaction microplate 96-well polypropylene round. Well Shape Round. Power cords and power adapters are never included unless specifically mentioned. Bottom Shape Spherical.
This unit will arrive in the condition shown. Orders are shipped to the cardholders billing address.