2017 Automated Liquid Handling Survey Results
Learn readers’ liquid handling purchasing plans and more from our latest survey results.
Automated liquid handling (ALH) systems span the range from semi-automated multichannel pipettors to roomsized 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 backflushing; 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 | 60% |
| Individual benchtop workstations | 38% |
| Self-contained multi instrument systems | 22% |
| Don't know | 2% |
| Other | 3% |
Applications for automated liquid handling systems as reported by survey respondents:
| Serial dilution | 63% |
| Plate replication | 33% |
| PCR setup | 33% |
| Plate reformatting | 30% |
| High-throughput screening | 23% |
| Whole genome amplication | 7% |
| Cell culture | 5% |
| Other | 28% |
Nearly 45% 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 | 29% |
| Replacement of an aging system | 21% |
| Setting up a new lab | 9% |
| Other | 5% |
Top 10 features/factors respondents look for when purchasing an automated liquid handler:
| Safe sample handling - No cross-contamination | 85% |
| Accuracy and precision for a wide range of compatible fluids | 78% |
| Maintenance/service/availability of accessories and replacement parts | 59% |
| Maximum operator safety | 57% |
| Rapid throughput | 52% |
| Price | 51% |
| Pipetting flexibility - Pipette with 384, 96, 24, 16, 12, or 8 tips | 46% |
| Sample tracking – automated recording and sample data documentation with a choice of bar code reader options | 45% |
| Ability to expand on instrument as requirements change | 40% |
| Size – small footprint | 32% |
For more information on liquid handlers, including useful articles and a list of manufacturers, visit www.labmanager.com/liquid-handling
See previous survey results: