GEL IMAGING DEVICES

Devices and methods are described for a contrast tray and framing devices for use with imagers. Some embodiments describe a contrast tray for use with an imager comprising one or more light diffusing layers configured to shift at least some of an imaging light and one or more light filtering layers configured to filter out at least some of the imaging light. Light diffusing and light filtering layers can be further configured to upconvert at least some of the diffused and/or non-filtered light. Contrast trays can be used to improve imaging of gels such as PAGE gels when using a green or blue-green light. Other embodiments of the disclosure describe a framing device that provides better illumination and lower background fluorescence for fluorescent gels, such as nucleic acid gels. Framing devices can comprise a mat configured to block out light from a light source and direct all light through a test sample (gel) and a frame to hold a test sample in place and further reduce or prevent light from illuminating materials that are not a part of the test sample.