Reliable and Versatile Plate Reader for Routine Luminescence and Absorbance Assays

August 17, 2026

BlueskyReddit
SUNY UB
Research Scientist

Overall

Performance

Ease-of-Optimization

What do these ratings mean?
Write a Review

Company:

Agilent Technologies / BioTek

Product Name:

Cytation 1 Imaging Reader

Catalog Number:

BTCYT1V

We use the Cytation 1 Imaging Reader for several routine assays in our neuroscience laboratory. I use the instrument for luminescence-based Lactate-Glo assays and MycoAlert mycoplasma detection, as well as absorbance measurements with the Pierce BCA Protein Assay Kit for protein quantification prior to Western blotting. The ability to perform different types of plate-based measurements on the same instrument makes it particularly useful for our laboratory workflow.

Experimental Design and Results Summary

Performance, Range, and Accuracy

The Cytation 1 has provided reliable and reproducible measurements for both luminescence- and absorbance-based assays in our laboratory. We routinely use it for Lactate-Glo and MycoAlert luminescence measurements and for BCA protein quantification before Western blotting. The instrument consistently provides clear quantitative readouts and has performed reliably across these different applications.

Throughput, Workflow Efficiency, and Automation

The instrument is convenient for routine 96-well plate assays and allows an entire plate to be measured quickly after assay preparation. Once the plate layout and measurement parameters are defined, data acquisition requires minimal hands-on time. Using the same reader for both absorbance and luminescence assays also simplifies our laboratory workflow.

Sample Integrity and Consumable Requirements

We primarily use standard 96-well microplates, with plate selection depending on the detection method. For absorbance-based BCA assays, standard compatible plates can be used, while for luminescence assays the choice of plate is particularly important. We use white 96-well plates for luminescence measurements because they provide substantially better signal than clear plates.

Footprint, Facilities, and Daily Maintenance

The Cytation 1 fits easily on a standard laboratory bench and does not require complicated infrastructure for our routine applications. Daily operation is straightforward, and we have not needed extensive maintenance for routine plate-reading applications. The instrument is easy to incorporate into normal laboratory workflows.

Connectivity, Data Output, and Software Compliance

The software provides straightforward setup of plate layouts and measurement parameters and allows results to be reviewed immediately after acquisition. Data can be exported for subsequent analysis and record keeping. For our research applications, the workflow from plate setup through data collection and export is simple and practical.

Additional Advice

For luminescence-based assays, I strongly recommend using white microplates rather than clear plates. In our experience, plate selection has a major effect on signal intensity and should be optimized before running valuable samples.

DOI or PMID #

10.1126/sciadv.adt2527

Image Gallery

Summary

The Good

Reliable performance across both luminescence and absorbance assays, easy plate setup, and the ability to use one instrument for several routine laboratory applications.

The Bad

Assay performance can depend strongly on using the appropriate plate type, particularly for luminescence measurements.

The Bottom Line

The Cytation 1 is a reliable and versatile plate reader that works well for routine luminescence and absorbance assays. We have successfully used it for Lactate-Glo assays, MycoAlert mycoplasma testing, and BCA protein quantification, and it has provided consistent results across these applications. It is straightforward to operate and has become a useful multipurpose instrument in our laboratory.

Join the discussion