Agilent BioTek MultiFlo FX Multifunctional Microplate Dispenser

Overview

The Agilent BioTek MultiFlo FX Multifunctional Microplate Dispenser is an engineered liquid handling platform designed for precision, flexibility, and reproducibility in high-throughput life science laboratories. Built upon a modular architecture, it integrates multiple dispensing modalities—including parallel dispensing, Random Access Dispensing (RAD), and Automated Media Exchange (AMX)—within a single compact footprint (43.51 × 29.21 × 20.32 cm). Unlike traditional fixed-function dispensers, the MultiFlo FX operates on a dual-pump system: one peristaltic pump for robust bulk reagent delivery and one syringe pump for high-accuracy, low-volume transfers—enabling consistent performance across volumes from microliters to milliliters. Its core function is the automated, contact-free or wall-guided dispensing of liquids into microplates ranging from 6- to 1536-well formats, supporting both standard assay protocols and advanced cell-based workflows such as 2D/3D culture maintenance, bead-based immunoassays, ELISA, and concentration normalization.

Key Features

• Modular Dual-Pump Architecture: Combines a peristaltic pump for high-flow buffer delivery and a syringe pump for precise low-volume dispensing—ensuring optimal accuracy and repeatability across diverse assay demands.
• Parallel Dispensing Capability: Simultaneously dispenses up to four different reagents into the same plate without cross-contamination, using independently controlled dispensing manifolds with tilt-adjustable nozzles.
• RAD (Random Access Dispensing): Enables non-sequential, well-specific dispensing across any plate layout—ideal for hit-picking, dose-response setup, or multi-analyte normalization without plate reconfiguration.
• AMX (Automated Media Exchange) Module: A proprietary, gentle aspiration-and-replacement system optimized for sensitive 3D spheroids and suspension cultures; maintains structural integrity during media refresh by minimizing shear stress and mechanical disruption.
• Tilt-Adjustable Dispense Nozzles: Deliver reagents along the inner wall of wells rather than directly onto cell monolayers—reducing splash, foaming, and detachment in adherent cultures.
• Onboard Touchscreen Control: Integrated Windows-based computer with intuitive software interface for method creation, execution logging, and real-time status monitoring—no external PC required for routine operation.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The MultiFlo FX accommodates standard ANSI/SLAS-compliant microplates (6–1536-well), including deep-well, skirted, and low-profile formats. It interfaces seamlessly with Agilent’s BioStack stacker, BioSpa live-cell imaging incubator, and BenchCel robotic deck—enabling end-to-end automation of cell-based assays. For regulated environments, the system supports configurable user roles, electronic signatures, and full audit trails compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11. Instrument logs—including dispensing parameters, timestamps, operator IDs, and error events—are stored locally and exportable in CSV or PDF format. The platform is routinely validated against ISO/IEC 17025 and ASTM E2877-13 guidelines for volumetric accuracy in microplate liquid handlers.

Software & Data Management

Controlled via BioTek’s Gen5 Microplate Reader and Dispenser Software (v3.12+), the MultiFlo FX allows method development through drag-and-drop workflow builders, parameter scripting, and conditional logic (e.g., “if plate type = 384-well, then use syringe pump at 10 µL/s”). All methods are version-controlled and password-protected. Data output includes raw dispensing logs, QC reports (CV%, % deviation), and integration-ready CSV exports compatible with LIMS and ELN systems. Optional software modules support GLP-compliant electronic lab notebook (ELN) synchronization and automated report generation aligned with SOP templates.

Applications

• High-content screening (HCS) workflows requiring sequential reagent addition and wash steps prior to imaging
• 3D organoid and spheroid culture maintenance with periodic media exchange under controlled CO₂ and temperature (when integrated with BioSpa)
• ELISA and multiplex immunoassays involving serial dilution, capture antibody coating, and detection reagent delivery
• Magnetic bead-based nucleic acid purification and protein pull-down assays
• Concentration normalization of compound libraries prior to cellular toxicity or functional assays
• Automated cell passaging and subculturing in bioprocessing R&D environments

FAQ

What plate formats does the MultiFlo FX support?
It accepts all ANSI/SLAS-standard microplates from 6-well through 1536-well, including round-bottom, V-bottom, and tissue-culture-treated plates.
Can the MultiFlo FX be integrated into existing robotic workcells?
Yes—it features standard RS-232, USB, and Ethernet interfaces, and supports third-party command protocols (Tecan Fluent, Hamilton VANTAGE) via ASCII-based API.
Is calibration traceable to NIST standards?
Yes—Agilent provides optional factory calibration services with NIST-traceable gravimetric verification per ISO 8655 and ASTM E2877-13.
How is maintenance performed on the dual-pump system?
Peristaltic tubing and syringe pump seals are user-replaceable; scheduled maintenance intervals are tracked automatically in the onboard service log.
Does the system support regulatory documentation for audit readiness?
All software versions include 21 CFR Part 11 compliance packages with role-based access, electronic signatures, and immutable audit trails—validated for GxP environments.