The Narishige PC-10 is a versatile, vertical-pull micropipette puller designed for the high-precision fabrication of glass microelectrodes and injection needles. This model replaces older semi-automatic units like the PP-830, offering a more automated and robust experience for researchers in biotechnology and electrophysiology. Core Operation Modes The PC-10 features two primary pulling modes that determine the final shape and utility of the pipette: Single-Stage (Step 1): Pulls the glass capillary in one continuous motion. This mode typically produces larger tip diameters or more "supple" pipettes. Two-Stage (Step 2): Pulls the capillary in two separate heat-and-pull cycles. This is ideal for creating firm, parallel microelectrodes for patch-clamping or long, thin needles for microinjection. Precision Controls and Settings The device uses gravitational force as its pulling mechanism, which can be adjusted through several manual and digital controls: Weight Blocks: Tension is adjusted by adding or removing weights. Two types (light ~25g and heavy ~100g) are provided to allow for four distinct levels of pulling force. Digital Heater Levels: Values from 0 to 100 represent the proportion of maximum power output (approx. 2.5V) delivered to the Kanthal wire heating element. Adjustment Plates: In two-stage mode, researchers can set the "drop length" for the first pull to determine where the second heating phase begins, which directly influences the tip's final taper and sharpness. Critical Maintenance and Calibration According to the Narishige PC-10 User Manual , achieving reproducibility requires careful alignment and environmental awareness: Centering: For consistent results, the glass capillary must be perfectly centered within the heating coil. Users should loosen the heating element positioning screw to align the heater block before tightening. Environmental Factors: Because the unit relies on radiant heat, external factors like air currents and humidity can affect performance. The PC-10 includes an acrylic shroud to shield the pipette from drafts. Heater Integrity: If a pipette fails to separate or looks distorted, the heater coil may be bent or deteriorated. Replacing a heater involves loosening copper clamps and using a piece of glass as a guide to ensure the new coil is correctly centered. Troubleshooting Tips No.051 Setting Values in the PC-10 Puller (Revised)
Subject: Narishige PC-10 Manual: A Comprehensive User Guide and Technical Overview Introduction The Narishige PC-10 is a precision instrument widely recognized in the fields of neuroscience, physiology, and cell biology. It is a micropipette puller designed specifically for the fabrication of glass microelectrodes and injection pipettes. Unlike horizontal pullers that use a heating filament and gravity, the PC-10 utilizes a vertical design with a weight-based gravitational pull mechanism. This guide serves as a detailed manual supplement for new users or those seeking a refresher on the operation, theory, and maintenance of the Narishige PC-10.
1. Instrument Overview Principle of Operation: The PC-10 operates on the principle of gravitational pulling. A glass capillary is held vertically in a clamp. A heating element (platinum or nichrome wire) surrounds the glass. When the glass softens due to heat, a weight attached to the lower end of the glass pulls it downward, stretching the glass until it separates into two halves. One half remains in the upper clamp, and the other falls into a receiver, forming two identical microelectrodes. Key Components:
Main Unit: Houses the controls and mechanical structure. Heater: A coil (usually platinum/iridium) that heats the glass. Weight: The physical mass that provides the pulling force. Glass Holder (Chuck): Secures the glass capillary at the top. Glass Receiver: Catches the lower half of the pulled glass. Magnifier: A lens to observe the heating and pulling process. Controls: narishige pc10 manual new
Heater Knob: Adjusts the voltage/current to the heater. Range Switch: Selects the heating range (High/Low). Step Switch: Selects the heater mode (Step 1/Step 2).
2. Safety Precautions Before operating the PC-10, review the following safety measures:
Power Supply: Ensure the voltage rating on the back of the unit matches your local power supply. Hot Surface: The heater coil reaches extremely high temperatures (often exceeding 800°C). Do not touch the heater immediately after a pull. Allow it to cool. Glass Breakage: Glass capillaries are fragile. Handle with care to avoid cuts. Broken glass should be disposed of in a designated sharps container. Ventilation: If pulling glass with internal filaments or specialized coatings, ensure adequate ventilation, as some coatings may emit fumes when heated. This mode typically produces larger tip diameters or
3. Preparation and Setup Step 1: Selecting the Glass The PC-10 is compatible with various glass capillaries (e.g., borosilicate, aluminosilicate).
Outer Diameter (OD): Usually 1.0mm to 1.5mm. Inner Diameter (ID): Varies based on application. Note: Ensure your glass fits the specific chuck (holder) size installed on your unit.
Step 2: Installing the Glass
Loosen the clamping screw on the upper glass holder. Insert the glass capillary vertically through the heater coil. Push the glass down until the bottom end protrudes sufficiently below the heater. Secure the upper clamping screw. Ensure the glass is held firmly but do not over-tighten (which can crack the glass).
Step 3: Attaching the Weight