Estimate how many distinct PCR samples fit on a plate after reserving control wells and accounting for technical replicates. The calculator reports sample capacity, unused wells, total planned reactions, and how many plates are needed for a target sample count.
Sample capacity = floor((plate wells − reserved control wells) ÷ replicates per sample). Plates needed is the smallest whole number of plates whose per-plate sample capacity reaches the target.
Use the main result as a planning estimate and read the supporting metrics to understand which assumptions drive it.
Results depend on the entered assumptions. Confirm critical decisions with measured operational data or a validated laboratory protocol.
A 96-well plate with 4 control wells and triplicate samples holds 30 complete samples, uses 94 wells, and leaves 2 wells unused.
It uses only the values entered on the page and the formula shown above. Review the inputs whenever operating conditions or lab protocols change.
Use measured averages where possible and include the provided overage, utilization, overlap, or efficiency input rather than hiding variability in another field.
Zero is accepted only where it has a meaningful interpretation. The calculator blocks zero denominators and other combinations that cannot produce a valid result.
No. It is a planning aid. Confirm reagent compatibility, instrument limits, assay performance, and pipetting feasibility with your validated protocol.
Keep full precision through the calculation and round only the quantities you need to measure or report. The calculator follows that approach internally.
| Input | Unit | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Plate capacity | wells | Total usable wells on one plate |
| Reserved control wells | wells | NTC, positive controls, standards, or blanks |
| Replicates per sample | wells/sample | Technical replicate wells |
| Target sample count | samples | Used to estimate plates required |