BioTek 405 LS Microplate Washer - SiLA 2 Server

This repository provides a SiLA 2 server and an integrated Python driver for the BioTek 405 LS / TS Microplate Washer.

This implementation provides an independent, cross-platform interface for interoperability with the instrument. It abstracts the complex, low-level RS-232 serial protocol into standardized SiLA 2 commands.

Demonstration

A video demonstration of a multi-instrument workflow—showing a robotic arm transferring a plate between a sealer, dispenser, and this Biotek Microplate Washer in a fully automated sequence—is available below.

Features

• SiLA 2 Compliant: Built using the official sila2-python framework.
• Comprehensive Control: Exposes all core hardware capabilities, including:
  • Multi-cycle Wash routines (ExecuteWashCycle)
  • Standalone Aspirate and Dispense
  • Plate Shaking and Soaking
  • Buffer Priming and Auto-cleaning sequences
• State-Aware Polling: Actively polls the instrument's hardware registers rather than relying on fixed time delays, ensuring robust error handling and execution tracking.

Requirements

• Python 3.8+
• RS-232 Serial connection to the host PC (Configured for 38400 Baud, 8 Data Bits, No Parity, 2 Stop Bits).

Installation

Install the package and its dependencies in editable mode:

python -m pip install -e .

Running the SiLA Server

To start the SiLA 2 server, use the package entry point and provide the COM port your washer is connected to.

On Windows:

python -m biotek_405_server --com-port COM11 --insecure

On Linux:

python -m biotek_405_server --com-port /dev/ttyUSB0 --insecure

Use the --help flag for a full list of available server arguments, including options for TLS encryption and SiLA discovery.

Local Testing

An example script is provided to quickly boot the server locally for testing:

python examples/run_sila_server.py