Beckman Coulter Life Sciences is touting its Biomek 4000 Workstation as adaptable, intelligent automation that features intelligent liquid handling that adapts as processes require and incorporates easy-to-use, icon-driven software and an enhanced work surface with interchangeable tools. According to company representatives, the Workstation’s modular deck configuration allows the work surface to be set up with eight standard positions, expandable to 12 positions. New single and multichannel 1000 μL pipetting tools offer higher throughput for assays using volumes greater than 200 μL and up to 1000 μL.
Method building is simple, company spokespersons say, and powerful editing features allow specialized and one-off applications to be readily addressed. Most pipetting functions are available through transfer and combine steps, while the flexibility to fine-tune individual pipetting steps is retained. Pipetting templates and liquid-type editors are standard in the software and make adapting pipetting for any liquid straightforward. An intuitive software interface provides icons for liquid handling, labware movement, and control of external devices. Building blocks for common pipetting tasks, such as liquid transfers or serial dilutions, provide a guide through method editing. Pre-written methods for common life sciences tasks are available as add-ons to the Biomek 4000 Workstation and include PCR Reaction Setup, which automates reaction setup and primer design for 24- or 96-well format labware. A template method for cell staining applications is a starting point for several cell-based workflows, and uses a graphical user interface. These applications do not require programming capability and include on-site training and support. Learn more about this solution, including informative videos.
