Automated liquid handling (ALH) systems span the range from semi-automated multichannel pipettors to room-sized systems. The industry is trending toward versatile, modular ALH systems—seemingly for every budget. Likewise, instrumentation, software, and methods have followed the trend toward greater user accessibility.
Top 7 Questions You Should Ask When Buying an Automated Liquid Handler
- What kind(s) of dispensing technology is used? Peristaltic pump dispensing offers low prime volumes and back flushing; microprocessor-controlled syringes have fast output and high precision. Hybrid detection systems combine both technologies in one and can even add washing functions.
- Is plate handling automatable? Manual plate handling can slow productivity. Automating the process with a compatible microplate stacker increases throughput with walk-away operation.
- Can it accommodate magnetic or plastic bead-based assays? If using bead-based assays, it should be equipped with appropriate magnets or vacuum filtration for critical wash steps.
- What is the volume range, and how many different sample vessel types may be used?
- Ask about the software—is it integrated and user-friendly? Does it allow for pre-programmed and custom protocols?
- What is the flow rate spectrum? A wide flow rate spectrum allows use with sensitive cell-based assays to viscous liquids.
- What assay validation data is available for this specific liquid handler? This provides proof that the instrument performs as indicated.
Types of automated liquid handling systems used by survey respondents:
| Stand-alone | 35% |
| Individual benchtop workstations | 26% |
| Self-contained multi instrument systems | 17% |
| Don't know | 14% |
| Other | 8% |
Applications for automated liquid handling systems as reported by survey respondents:
| Serial dilution | 31% |
| High-throughput screening | 14% |
| PCR setup | 13% |
| Plate replication | 6% |
| Plate reformatting | 4% |
| Cell culture | 3% |
| Whole genome amplication | 1% |
| Other | 25% |
Nearly 35% of respondents are engaged in purchasing a new automated liquid handling system. The reasons for these purchases are as follows:
| Addition to existing systems, increase capacity | 36% |
| First time purchase | 20% |
| Replacement of an aging system | 29% |
| Setting up a new lab | 15% |
Top 10 features/factors respondents look for when purchasing an automated liquid handler:
| Accuracy and precision for a wide range of compatible fluids | 77% |
| Safe sample handling - No cross-contamination | 76% |
| Maintenance/service/availability of accessories and replacement parts | 53% |
| Price | 47% |
| Rapid throughput | 47% |
| Maximum operator safety | 46% |
| Pipetting flexibility - Pipette with 384, 96, 24, 16, 12, or 8 tips | 37% |
| Size – small footprint | 37% |
| Sample tracking – automated recording and sample data documentation with a choice of bar code reader options | 34% |
| Ability to expand on instrument as requirements change | 32% |
