SOCOREX Acura 956 Precision Multi-Channel Electronic Pipette
| Brand | SOCOREX |
|---|---|
| Origin | Switzerland |
| Model | 956 |
| Instrument Type | Multi-Channel Electronic Pipette |
| Channels | 8 or 12 |
| Volume Range | 0.5–350 µL (model-dependent) |
| Increment | 0.05–5.0 µL |
| Accuracy | ±0.6% to ±3.5% (varies by volume and tip type) |
| Precision (CV) | <0.25% to <0.9% (mid- to max-volume, ISO 8655-compliant conditions) |
| Tip Compatibility | Ultra-Low Retention (ULR), 10–350 µL universal fit |
| IP Rating | IP54 |
| Power | Rechargeable Li-ion battery (included) |
| Warranty | 2 years |
Overview
The SOCOREX Acura 956 is a high-precision, multi-channel electronic pipette engineered for reproducible liquid handling in demanding life science, clinical diagnostics, and pharmaceutical R&D environments. Built upon SOCOREX’s Swiss precision mechanics and microprocessor-controlled actuation, the 956 operates on a closed-loop motor-driven piston system that eliminates mechanical drift and ensures consistent plunger displacement across all channels—critical for applications requiring strict adherence to ISO 8655 calibration standards. Its modular architecture supports both 8-channel and 12-channel configurations, enabling parallel dispensing into 96-well and 384-well microplates without cross-contamination risk. The device is designed for routine use in GLP-compliant laboratories and integrates seamlessly into workflows governed by FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when paired with validated software and audit-trail-enabled data management systems.
Key Features
- Ergonomic & Ambidextrous Design: Low-profile, lightweight chassis (≤185 g) reduces operator fatigue during extended use; symmetrical body geometry and reversible LCD orientation allow seamless transition between left- and right-handed operation.
- Adjustable Aspiration/Dispense Speed: Front-panel speed toggle enables rapid switching between high-speed bulk transfer and low-speed precision dispensing—ideal for viscous or volatile samples.
- Programmable Pipetting Modes: Six preconfigured modes (Standard, Reverse, Mix, Dilute, Repeat Dispense, Calibration) accessible via single-button navigation—no firmware update or external PC required.
- Intelligent Tip Ejection System: Dual-height adjustable ejection lever (±4 mm Justip™ adjustment) ensures optimal force distribution across diverse tip brands and materials, including low-retention and filtered tips.
- Rotatable Multi-Channel Cartridge: 360° swivel mount allows angular alignment of pipette tips to match plate well geometry or robotic deck layout—minimizing lateral shear forces during tip attachment.
- Traceable QC Documentation: Each unit ships with a factory-issued calibration certificate traceable to NIST standards, compliant with ISO/IEC 17025-accredited metrology practices.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Acura 956 accommodates standard conical polypropylene tips (10–350 µL), ultra-low retention (ULR) tips, and sterilizable glass Pasteur pipettes (2 mL and 5 mL) via optional adapters—supporting both aqueous and mildly organic solvents. All channel-specific performance data (accuracy and precision) are validated per ISO 8655-2:2022 using gravimetric methodology at three volume points (min/mid/max) under controlled environmental conditions (20–25°C, 40–60% RH). The instrument meets IEC 61326-1 electromagnetic compatibility requirements and carries CE marking for in vitro diagnostic (IVD) use. For regulated environments, the embedded memory logs all user-defined settings and mode selections—providing foundational data integrity for internal SOPs aligned with GxP principles.
Software & Data Management
While fully functional as a standalone instrument, the Acura 956 supports optional USB-C connectivity for firmware updates and parameter backup via SOCOREX’s AcuraLink desktop application (Windows/macOS). This software enables export of pipetting logs—including date/time stamps, mode selection, volume setpoints, and cumulative cycle counts—in CSV format for integration into LIMS or ELN platforms. Audit trail functionality records user ID, timestamp, and action type for each configuration change—meeting baseline expectations for FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliance when deployed with appropriate system validation protocols.
Applications
- High-throughput screening (HTS) assay setup in oncology and neuropharmacology research
- qPCR and RT-qPCR master mix preparation across 96-well plates
- ELISA plate coating and serial dilution workflows in clinical microbiology labs
- Cell culture media dispensing with minimized shear stress on sensitive primary cells
- Calibration of automated liquid handlers using gravimetric reference standards
- Quality control testing of raw materials in API manufacturing (ICH Q5A/Q5B contexts)
FAQ
Is the Acura 956 compatible with third-party pipette tips?
Yes—the 956 features universal tip cone geometry and has been verified with over 20 major tip brands, including Eppendorf, Gilson, and Thermo Fisher, within its specified volume ranges.
Can the pipette be autoclaved?
No—the main housing is not autoclavable; however, the detachable multi-channel cartridge and tip ejector components are autoclavable at 121°C for 20 minutes (max 5 cycles), per SOCOREX’s validated sterilization protocol.
What is the battery life under typical usage?
A full charge supports ≥2,500 pipetting cycles (at 100 µL, standard mode) before recharge; battery status is displayed in real time on the LCD screen.
Does the device support volume locking for GLP workflows?
Yes—volume parameters can be locked via password-protected menu access to prevent accidental changes during routine operations.
How often should recalibration be performed?
Annual calibration is recommended for non-regulated use; in GMP environments, interval-based calibration (e.g., quarterly) aligned with risk assessment and historical performance data is advised.
