SpectraMax iD5e Multi-Mode Microplate Reader
detection modes: absorbance, fluorescence, luminescence, time-resolved fluorescence (TRF),
and tunable fluorescence polarization (FP). Supported by hybrid optics, a touchscreen interface,
and temperature control, this reader provides flexibility and precision for complex assays.
Optional upgrades include bottom-read luminescence, TR-FRET (including HTRF®), and western
blot detection. For live cell assays and microbial growth experiments, environmental controls for
CO2/O2 and advanced shaking are also available.
Superior hybrid optical system
The high-efficiency monochromator and filter-based optical system, combined with an ultra-cooled photomultiplier tube (PMT), minimizes noise while increasing sensitivity, selectivity, and dynamic range.
Live cell assays
Advanced shaking and user-installable gas mixer (CO2/O2) that support ideal environments for cell-based and microbial growth experiments are available as optional upgrades.
Automatic filter identification
Automatically identify filter sets using NFC functionality, simplifying workflows and ensuring accuracy and reliability.
Flexible temperature control
Precise and intuitive temperature regulation—from 5°C above ambient conditions up to 66 °C—empowering your lab to perform a wide range of temperature-sensitive assays with confidence.
Read height optimization (Z height)
Z-height optimization automatically adjusts the detection height to maximize sensitivity and signal quality—while minimizing sample volume—ensuring reliable results even in low-volume or precious samples.
Microvolume & cuvette options
The SpectraDrop Micro-Volume Microplate for low-volume (2 to 4 μL) and SpectraCuvette™ Adapter Plate for cuvette-based applications eliminate the need for additional instrumentation.
Personalized touchscreen control
The intuitive touchscreen software simplifies tasks with Quick Read icons that save time when starting new experiments and a personalized library that stores frequently used protocols.
Western blot capable
The optional enhanced time-resolved fluorescence (TRF) detection module is optimal for quantitating as little as femtogram protein samples, providing improved sensitivity, extended signal stability and versatility to support a wide range of applications.
| General specifications | SpectraMax iD3s | SpectraMax iD5e |
| Read modes | Absorbance Fluorescence (top/bottom read) Luminescence (top read) |
Absorbance Fluorescence (top/bottom read) Luminescence (top/bottom read) Time-Resolved Fluorescence (top/bottom read) Fluorescence Polarization (top/bottom read) HTRF (top/bottom read) HTRF |
| Wavelength ranges | Abs: 230 - 1000 nm FL Ex: 250 - 830 nm FL Em: 270 - 850 nm Lumi: 300 - 850 nm |
Abs: 230 - 1000 nm FL Ex: 250 - 830 nm FL Em: 270 - 850 nm Lumi: 300 - 850 nm TRF Ex: 350 nm TRF Em: 450 - 750 nm FP: 300 - 750 nm |
| Wavelength selection | Monochromator tunable in 1-nm increments | Hybrid filters and monochromator tunable in 1 nm increments |
| Absorbance photometric accuracy/linearity | < ±0.010 OD ±1.0%, 0 - 3 OD VIS 0 - 3 OD UV | < ±0.010 OD ±1.0%, 0 - 3 OD VIS 0 - 3 OD UV |
| Absorbance photometric precision/repeatability | < ±0.003 OD ±1.0%, 0 - 3 OD VIS 0 - 3 OD UV | < ±0.003 OD ±1.0%, 0 - 3 OD VIS 0 - 3 OD UV |
| Sensitivity top read optimized | FL: 1 pM fluoresein 96 well, 1 pM fluorescein 384 well Lumi: 2 pM ATP 96 well, 4 pM |
FL: Mono: 1 pM fluorescein 96 well, 1 pM fluorescein 384 well; Filters: 0.3 pM fluoresein 96 well, 0.5 pM fluorescein 384 well Lumi: 2 pM ATP 96 well, 4 pM ATP 384 well TRF (filters with enhanced TRF module): 10 fM Europium (2 amol/well) 96 well, 10 fM Europium (1 amol/well) 384 well FP: Mono: 2 mP @ 10nM 96 well, 2 mP @ 10nM 384 well; Filters: 1 mP @ 1 nM 96 well, 2 mP @ 1 nM 384 well |
| Light source(s) | High power xenon flash lamp | High power xenon flash lamp |
| Detector(s) | Silicon photodiode Ultra-cooled photomultiplier tube |
Silicon photodiode Ultra-cooled photomultiplier tube |
| Read types (endpoint, kinetic, etc) | Endpoint Kinetic Spectrum scan Well scan |
Endpoint Kinetic Spectrum scan Well scan |
| Read times (kinetic interval for 96-well plate)* | Abs: 28 seconds FL: 21 seconds Lumi: 21 seconds |
Abs: 28 seconds FL: 21 seconds Lumi: 21 seconds TRF: 25 seconds FP: 35 seconds |
| Plate shaking | Linear Orbital Double orbital |
Linear Orbital Double orbital |
| Injectors | dual injector, optional | dual injector, optional |
| Western blot | not available | with optional cartridge |
| Stand-alone touchscreen operation | yes | yes |
| Robotics / automation | compatible | compatible |
| Plate type(s) | 6-384 well plates | 6-384 well plates |
| Temperature control |
Ambient + 5°C to 66°C |
Ambient + 5°C to 66°C |
| Dimensions | H 40.1 cm x W 53.2 cm x D 59.8 cm | H 40.1 cm x W 53.2 cm x D 59.8 cm |
| Validation tools |
Absorbance validation plate |
Absorbance validation plate |
The SpectraMax iD5e is a hybrid monochromator- and filter-based, five-mode microplate reader that allows you to expand the boundaries of your research to include a wide variety of applications.
- Cell biology
- Protein biology
- Apoptosis
- BRET
- Cellular imaging assays
- Cell cycle analysis
- Cell proliferation, viability, cytotoxicity
- Enzyme activity
- Epigenetics
- Flash based applications including dual luciferase and ATP assays
- Fluorescent protein expression
- FRET
- Genotyping
- GPCRs
- HTRF®
- Immunoassays
- Ion channels
- Membrane potential assays
- Micro Volume (Low volume) Applications
- Molecular interactions
- Nuclear receptor
- Nucleic acid and Protein quantitation
- Reporter assay
- Time-Resolved Fluorescence (TRF)
- Western blot detection
- Cell line development
- Antibody discovery
- Screening
- Genomics




























