> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://help.sbtinstruments.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://help.sbtinstruments.com/item-register/vials-you-prepare/sample-vial.md).

# Sample vial

Measure your sample vial with BactoBox®

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<figure><img src="https://4199970748-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FAjOYV4v43T0TFlSRqgAp%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-7edb0fd2e9fb4049e8184087da06ebdc7f9e7cf2%2Fvial-rack--simple-outline--three-vials-and-one-connected.png?alt=media" alt=""><figcaption><p>Illustration of a sample vial</p></figcaption></figure>
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:label: **You make it.** There is no item number

:droplet: Contains **10 mL of dilution liquid, plus your sample**

⏳ Use **immediately**
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{% endcolumns %}

A sample vial is a dilution vial with your own sample added to it. The dilution vial comes from either [dilution route](/item-register/dilution-routes.md), ready-made or filled by you from bulk liquid. We cannot sell you a sample vial, because the sample is yours.

See [What can I measure on?](/troubleshooting/faq/what-can-i-measure-on.md) for which samples work.

{% hint style="warning" %}
**If you fill your own dilution vials, fill them fresh**

Never store a filled vial, not overnight and not in the fridge. Growth develops in it, and cold takes the conductivity outside the range BactoBox® needs. Dispense the vial you are about to use, through the [syringe filter](/item-register/consumables/syringe-filter.md).
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Measure a sample vial immediately**

Do not let it stand. BactoBox® dilution liquid has a relatively low salt concentration, so the longer your cells sit in it, the more of them may lyse, which shifts the measured concentration. See [BactoBox® pitfalls](/troubleshooting/bactobox-r-pitfalls.md).
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="warning" %}

## Your sample vial is for *single use* only

Once you run the liquid through BactoBox®, the properties change *significantly*.

**Always discard your sample vial after use.**
{% endhint %}


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