A new machine for automated solid phase peptide synthesis

A versatile, fail-safe, and simple machine for automated solid phase peptide synthesis was designed and constructed. A dual programming scheme was used. The variable operations such as kind and quantity of solvent or reagent, reaction or wash times, and other variables, are controlled by a Drum Programmer. The repetitive operations needed to get the solvent or reagent into and out of the reaction vessel are controlled by a Card Programmer. A number of failsafe devices were built into the machine to shut it off if electrical or mechanical failures occur. The operation is also monitored with a strip chart recorder which gives a permanent record of a synthesis. The machine can be operated in both automatic and manual modes.