Specifications.docx

Automated liquid handling workstation with software and accessories – Specifications

Liquid handling instrument to allow automated processing of up to 96 samples without user intervention. Instrument will be added to current workflow of tick sample processing for identification of parasitic species. Instrument will allow for implementation of multiple workflows for high-throughput testing.

Brand name epMotion 5073t with epBlue software or Equal

The Eppendorf epMotion 5073t was selected because we already have a machine of the same brand. Our workflow will include the use of both instruments; parts and accessories are compatible and can be used interchangeably. Both machines need to operate with the same software – epBlue software . The joint use of both robots is necessary in maintaining consistency between the samples in the workflow.

Characteristics:

1) Liquid handling instrument

a. Dispensing tools on a robotic arm which operate by a touch-screen computer supplied with the instrument for controlling the software and system functions, including:

i. 1-50ul single-channel dispensing tool

ii. 40-1000ul single-channel dispensing tool

iii. 40-1000ul multi-channel dispensing tool

b. Completely contained housing including door safety mechanism to stop operation if door is opened

c. Fixed deck with six secure ANSI/SLAS workstations with options to hold microtubes & 96-well plates, reagent reservoirs, or tube and pipette tip racks

d. Optical sensor for detecting liquid levels, labware and tips

e. Must contain integrated module that facilitates heating, cooling and mixing of samples in one location

f. Includes optional magnet plate allowing bead-based purification in plates with minimal elution volumes for DNA extraction application

g. Must contain HEPA Air Filter and UV Light for Decontamination of workspace

h. Must have automatic exchange of pipette tools and gripper within program methods which avoids manual intervention during an application run

i. Includes optional gripper tool allows for moving labware to different deck positions or stacking of plates and tip boxes

2) Software

a. Integrated touchscreen PC controller to operate the instrument using existing protocols for liquid additions and mixing and the ability to verify additional user commands and model the automated program before implementation

b. Automatic sensing of 96-well plates or pipette tip racks loaded

c. Automated processing of up to 96 samples

d. Automation protocol application optimization and support

e. Contains database of predefined labware and consumables for all components used on the worktable

f. Offers defined user levels and access rights for increased operational security

g. Programmable and optimizable dispensing and dispensing modes for predefined liquid classes whose physical properties of viscosity, vapor pressure and surface tension differ significantly from water.

h. User-defined pipetting height allowing for optimal magnetic bead cleanup, supernatant removal, and complete emptying of vessels in order to prevent carryover

i. Ability to edit and add to labware database and export newly defined labware to be used on similar or related systems to maximize instrument flexibility and increase capabilities within the available deck space.

3) Accessories

a. 1000µl Box

b. 1000µl SafeRack Filt

c. 50ul Box

d. 50µl Reload

e. 1000ul Reload

f. 50ul Reload Filter

g. 1000ul Reload Filter

h. Reagent Reservoir 10mL

i. Reagent Reservoir 30mL

j. Reagent Reservoir 100mL

k. Liquid waste Tub

4) Installation will be at the end-user’s location and performed by vendor’s trained engineers.

5) On-site training will occur at the end-user’s location during installation, to focus on operation and maintenance of the equipment

6) On-site training will occur at the end-user’s location after installation, to focus on applications used with the robot

7) Availability of annual preventative maintenance program and tool calibration to ensure instrument performance