Abstract: A magnetic base for a sample plate of a sample processing system is provided comprising a first plate comprising a first top surface; a bottom surface; and a sample plate mounting cavity wall mounted to the first top surface, wherein the first plate and the sample plate mounting cavity wall define a sample plate mounting cavity configured to accommodate a sample plate of a sample processing system. The magnetic base further comprises a second plate extending parallel to the first plate, the second plate comprising a second top surface; and a magnet mounting cavity wall extending between the bottom surface of the first plate and the second top surface of the second plate, wherein the first plate, the second plate, and the magnet mounting cavity wall define a magnet mounting cavity configured to accommodate a free floating magnet.