Tecan Spark Cyto plate reader with real-time image cytometry

Tecan’s Spark Cyto is claimed to be the first live cell plate reader to offer real-time detection and analysis of biological, chemical and physical events — capturing the maximum amount of data from every well, at the same time and under the same conditions. Building on the original Spark platform, it combines the flexibility of a high-end multimode plate reader with whole well imaging and comprehensive environmental control for cell-based assays.

The product uses high-quality camera components and an LED autofocus system to provide real-time data acquisition and analysis for 6- to 384-well formats, ensuring that no key event is missed. It allows qualitative and quantitative information to be integrated into multiparametric data sets, delivering meaningful insights quickly. With three magnification levels and four acquisition channels, it enables entire cell populations to be investigated by capturing the whole well area of 96- or 384-well microplates in just one image, without tiling or distortion.

Powerful SparkControl and Image Analyzer software give the operator complete control of all experimental parameters, with predefined methods for common cytometry applications. Together with user-programmable advanced features — such as Real Time Experimental Control (REC) for automatic performance of kinetic experiments — this unlocks more possibilities for cell-based research.