In automated liquid handlers (ALHs) many customers are looking for modularity, flexibility, scalability, and upgradability. At the same time, space limitations are causing a shift from large core-facility, high-throughput screening systems to smaller, dedicated, more distributed screening within individual laboratories. Lab or bench-scale ALHs often lack the capabilities of core lab instruments and workflows change as well. Users therefore demand scalable, relatively low-cost instruments to which they may add functionality later on. Throughput is always a factor in deciding to “go automated.” But many experts have noted that speed is secondary to analysis quality. ALH provides accuracy, repeatability, and essentially error-free record keeping while freeing lab workers to do more creative activities such as planning experiments.
If you currently utilize an automated liquid handling instrument or are planning to purchase one, please check all of the procedures that apply to your lab.*
| Serial dilution | 18% |
| PCR setup | 18% |
| Plate replication | 14% |
| High-throughput screening | 12% |
| Cell culture | 11% |
| Plate reformatting | 10% |
| Whole genome amplification | 5% |
| Array printing | 4% |
| High-density array printing | 3% |
| Other | 5% |
Most of our readers have an annual budget of over $5,000 for the maintenance, parts, repairs and service of their automated liquid handling systems:
| Under $1,000 | 14% |
| $1,000 to $2,500 | 18% |
| $2,500 to $5,000 | 16% |
| $5,000 + | 34% |
| Don’t know | 19% |
Do you currently use or plan to purchase an automated liquid handling instrument equipped with…..*
| Disposable tips | 57% |
| Fixed, washable tips with various chemically resistant and biologically appropriate coatings and lengths | 17% |
| Sound waves that use acoustic energy to transfer liquids | 4% |
| Don’t know | 23% |
The top 10 features that impact our readers’ decisions to buy automated liquid handling instruments:*
| Important | Not Important | Don't Know | |
| Rapid throughput | 92% | 3% | 5% |
| Size — small footprint | 89% | 5% | 6% |
| Accuracy and precision for a wide range of compatible fluids | 89% | 6% | 5% |
| Price | 89% | 8% | 3% |
| Ability to expand on instrument as requirements change | 86% | 10% | 4% |
| Maximize operator safety | 86% | 9% | 5% |
| Compatible with LIMS-generated work lists | 86% | 7% | 7% |
| Maintenance / service / availability of accessories and replacement parts | 84% | 10% | 6% |
| Safe sample handling — no cross-contamination | 83% | 12% | 5% |
| Sample tracking — automated recording and sample data documentation with a choice of bar code reader options | 83% | 12% | 5% |
These sections include results from our sister publication The Scientist
For more information on automated liquid handling, visit www.labmanager.com/liquid-handling
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