Abstract: The present invention is directed to devices for adjusting a drop dispenser (adjustment devices). Each device consists of two horizontal axis adjusters, one vertical axis adjuster and two rotational axis adjusters wherein the adjusters are integral with a body comprising a base for mounting the device to a drop dispenser. Some embodiments of the invention are directed to a drop-dispensing apparatus comprising at least one module comprising a drop dispenser mounted to a device as described above. Some embodiments of the invention are directed to apparatus for synthesizing arrays of biopolymers on a substrate where the apparatus comprises a dispensing apparatus as mentioned above.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for preparing an array of polymeric compounds on a substrate. Drops of polymer subunits are dispensed to a surface of a substrate from two or more drop dispensing modules wherein each module comprises dispensers for dispensing a respective polymer-forming reagent. At least two of the modules and a substrate are brought into drop dispensing relationship in at least one step prior to conducting the step of preparing the surface for repeating the drop-dispensing step. Next, the surface is subjected to reagents to prepare the surface for repeating the drop-dispensing step. The above steps are repeated for a sufficient number of cycles to prepare the array of polymeric compounds.

Abstract: Flow cell devices and methods for using the devices are disclosed. In one aspect, the flow cell devices are used to expose substrate surfaces comprising biopolymers or monomers to a desired fluid. Workstations are also provided including a flow cell device and one or more station(s) for processing a substrate, such as one or more of a printer, reaction chamber, wash chamber, and scanner. Computer program products for implementing functions of the devices and workstations and for performing the methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: Methods of producing nucleic acid arrays using an in situ nucleic acid synthesis protocol are provided. Embodiments include a functional group generation step performed by flowing a plurality of different fluids across the surface of a substrate in a manner such that any given lower density fluid is always above any given higher density fluid of the plurality. Also provided are the arrays produced using the subject methods, methods for use of the arrays, and devices for use in practicing the subject methods.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are disclosed for printing a plurality of biopolymer features on the surfaces of substrates. An apparatus comprises a substrate mount for receiving a substrate, a dispensing device for dispensing reagents for synthesizing a biopolymer on a surface of the substrate, an optical system for positioning the substrate mount along a y-axis and an optical system for positioning the dispensing device along an x-axis. The apparatus may comprise a touch system for positioning the substrate and the dispensing device along a z-axis. One of the substrate mount or the dispensing device is adapted for translation along the y-axis and for rotation about a central axis that is parallel to a z-axis. The other of the above is adapted to move along the x-axis transversely to the direction of, and independently of, movement of the one adapted for translation along the y-axis. The optical systems cooperate to position the substrate mount and the dispensing device relative to one another.

Abstract: Pulse jet printhead assemblies having multiple reservoirs and multiple printhead dies, as well as methods for their use in the deposition of fluids, typically fluids containing a biopolymer or precursor thereof, onto a substrate surface, are provided. The subject printheads are characterized by having a multiple printhead die printhead and a multiple reservoir housing affixed to the multiple die printhead. In using the subject printhead assemblies, the firing chambers of the printhead assembly are loaded with a volume of fluid that includes a biopolymer or precursor thereof. The loaded printhead assembly is then placed in opposing relation to a surface of a substrate and actuated to deposit a volume of fluid on the substrate. The subject printhead assemblies find use in a variety of applications, including the production of biopolymeric arrays.