Use of the Dynal MPC®-S is recommended over the Dynal MPC®-M because the magnet is stronger.
Flat-sided tubes vary in size. Use one that is at least 16 x 125 mm.
The flat side of the tubes should be 60 x 10 mm or 55 x 11 mm size. Tubes with smaller flat sides are available but should not be used because they provide less surface area for beads to contact the magnet.
Prepare enough 1X SL buffer-A from the 10X SL buffer-A supplied in the IMS kit to process all the samples for at least a week.
Use 1.7 mL microcentrifuge tubes to allow sufficient headspace.
Use low-retention, low-binding, or siliconized microcentrifuge tubes (Fisherbrand 02-681-320 or equivalent) to minimize loss of (oo)cysts during transfer steps.
Use filter-barrier pipette tips to help prevent contamination.
Use pipettes that are calibrated at least yearly with the proper pipette tips.
Equivalent equipment may be used if sufficient proficiency has been documented with recommended quality control (QC):