Odyssey® M Infrared Imaging System by LI-COR Biosciences

"The Odyssey M is a high-quality image scanning system. Compared to the Odyssey CLx, the images are of higher quality and are acquired much faster. I am able to scan fluorescent IHC slides in multiple channels and detect colocalization. Scanning ~10 slides in two channels takes an hour, a very reasonable amount of time. The results are consistent when confirmed with our fluorescent microscope. The scans are reproducible. One of my favorite features is the pre-scan feature. The instrument will show you a preview of the area you have selected to scan so you can edit the area to ensure the sample is seen. Many of the other members of my lab have used this instrument for western blots and found it produced high-quality images. If you purchase this instrument, I highly recommend the empiria studio analysis software. This software has the same ease of use as the acquisition software. It guides you step-wise through image analysis. The instrument is very easy to use. It clearly prompts you through the workflow when acquiring images and analyzing them after. In order to critique the ease of use, my lab recommended that I not attend the training session and "blindly" attempt to use the machine. I found it quite easy to use. Our collaborators have had this same experience. We have been participating in Beta testing for this instrument, and we have had fantastic customer service from LI-COR. They respond in a timely manner and are always willing to help. I highly recommend working with them. This imaging system has the capacity to scan blocks of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues, stained slides, western blots, gels, membranes, and custom areas. It can image in 4 fluorescent channels as well as color. This instrument is of great value for any lab, as it can be used in many projects."