ProtoDrop is an inexpensive and easy-to-assemble tool to perform digital microfluidic experiments.
The PCB uses readily available electrical components and the popular Arduino Nano microcontroller.
Firmware is easy to upload using the Arduino IDE and an intuitive LabVIEW GUI executable can be run on any Window's machine.
To get ProtoDrop up and running, you must complete 3 main tasks which are detailed in this guide:
- Assemble the electrical hardware
- Upload firmware
- Install software
- Connect high voltage and experiment!
| Component | Quantity | Approximate Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Arduino Nano | 1 | $15.00 |
| AQY210EHA | 1 | $5.00 |
| HV507 | 1 | $19.00 |
| SMD LED 0805* | 2 | $1.00 |
| 10k Ohm SMD Resistor 0805* | 1 | $1.00 |
| 1k Ohm SMD Resistor 0805* | 1 | $1.00 |
| 750 Ohm SMD Resistor 0805* | 1 | $1.00 |
| 2 Pin 5.08 mm Pitch Terminal | 1 | $1.00 |
| 30 Position FFC Connectors | 4 | $15.00 |
| 30 Position FFC Ribbon Cables | 4 | $10.00 |
*Cheap surface mount parts are best purchased from a PCB manufacturer who offers SMD service