What are accu-beads+?
Accubeads+ consist of three known concentrations of latex beads (3, 18 and 35 M/ml) suspended in an aqueous solution. Similar in size to human sperm, the Accu-Beads+ have been developed to confirm accurate counting procedures used for routine semen analysis.
Who Will Benefit from Using accu-beads+?
Whether you perform your semen counts using an automated analyzer or manually, you can use accu-beads+ for quality control.
What do accubeads+ Evaluate?
When used in an automated semen analyzer, the accu-beads+ test and evaluate the optical and image acquisition systems of the analyzer. For manual methods, the accu-beads+ are used to evaluate the actual counting procedures practiced. Because motility is irrelevant for checking these functions, the static nature of the accu-beads+ will not affect the quality control testing.
How are accu-beads+ used?
Using a pipette, simply draw the required amount (undiluted) and load your standard semen analysis chamber, such as a disposable fixed-depth slide (eg Leja, 2X-CEL) or a Petroff-Hausser, Makler, or Hemacytometer chamber. Position the chamber on the stage of the microscope or analyzer and perform an analysis according to your normal procedure.
Now available in either a two-concentration or three-concentration packages
Additional Information
Accubeads are packaged in 5 ml aliquots and are stable at room temperature for up to 2 years. Complete instructions for use with the Hamilton Thorne automated analyzers and for manual counting methods are included with each package.
US Safety Data Sheet - Download here.