Tecan Freedom EVO NGS Fully Automated Library Preparation Workstation

Overview

The Tecan Freedom EVO NGS Fully Automated Library Preparation Workstation is an engineered solution for high-integrity, reproducible next-generation sequencing (NGS) sample processing in regulated and research-intensive laboratory environments. Built upon Tecan’s modular Freedom EVO platform, this workstation implements liquid handling robotics governed by precise air-displacement pipetting technology, enabling accurate dispensing across a dynamic range of 0.5–1000 µL. Its core function centers on automating end-to-end NGS library preparation workflows—including fragmentation (when integrated with Covaris ultrasonication systems), end repair, A-tailing, adapter ligation, size selection, and PCR amplification—while maintaining strict adherence to molecular integrity and stoichiometric consistency. Designed for laboratories scaling from pilot validation studies to routine clinical or translational genomics operations, the system supports both standardized and custom protocols under GLP- and GMP-aligned operational frameworks.

Key Features

• Modular deck architecture supporting up to 28 standard positions (configurable as 20-position base layout), accommodating plates, tubes, reagent reservoirs, temperature-controlled blocks, and ancillary instruments such as thermal cyclers or magnetic particle processors.
• Integrated temperature control across sample and reagent positions (0–105 °C), enabling precise thermal management during enzymatic reactions, denaturation steps, and post-PCR hold conditions.
• TouchTools™ software interface—a validated, role-based, touchscreen-driven environment that guides users through protocol selection, deck layout configuration, and run initiation without requiring scripting expertise.
• Open-system compatibility certified with major commercial NGS library prep kits, including Illumina TruSeq®, KAPA HyperPrep™, Ion AmpliSeq™, and Thermo Fisher Ion Chef™-compatible chemistries—ensuring method transferability and vendor independence.
• Automated support for downstream consolidation steps: fluorometric or qPCR-based library quantification, molar normalization, and equimolar pooling—all executed on-platform without manual intervention or inter-instrument transfers.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Freedom EVO NGS accepts purified DNA or RNA inputs in standard formats (e.g., 96-well plates, tube racks, PCR strips) and accommodates input volumes ranging from sub-microliter to 100 µL per reaction. It complies with ISO/IEC 17025 requirements for testing laboratories and supports audit-ready operation under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when deployed with appropriate electronic signature and audit trail configurations. All validated protocols undergo cross-laboratory performance assessment per ISO 20387 (Biobanking) and CLSI EP12-A2 guidelines for qualitative molecular assay verification. The system is routinely deployed in CAP-accredited and CLIA-certified laboratories performing oncology panel sequencing, whole-exome sequencing, and cfDNA analysis.

Software & Data Management

TouchTools™ provides intuitive, context-aware workflow navigation with built-in error prevention logic—such as volume conflict detection, tip collision avoidance, and real-time deck occupancy validation. Protocol methods are stored in encrypted, version-controlled repositories; each run generates a timestamped, digitally signed execution log containing metadata on pipetting events, temperature profiles, and user actions. Integration with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) is supported via RESTful API or middleware adapters compliant with HL7 and ASTM E1437 standards. Audit trails meet ALCOA+ principles (Attributable, Legible, Contemporaneous, Original, Accurate, Complete, Consistent, Enduring, Available) for regulatory submissions.

Applications

• High-throughput genomic library construction for whole-genome, exome, targeted panel, and RNA-Seq applications.
• Automated cfDNA and FFPE-derived library prep with low-input optimization and UMIs (Unique Molecular Identifiers) handling.
• Standardized library QC workflows: PicoGreen®-based quantification, Bioanalyzer/TapeStation integration via plate mapping, and qPCR library titering.
• Multi-omic sample harmonization: parallel preparation of DNA, RNA, and ChIP-seq libraries on shared deck layouts using color-coded consumables and segregated wash stations.
• Scalable deployment in core facilities, CROs, and diagnostic labs requiring SOP-driven repeatability across shifts and operators.

FAQ

Does the Freedom EVO NGS require proprietary reagents or consumables?

No. The system operates as an open platform and is validated for use with commercially available NGS library preparation kits from multiple vendors—no lock-in to Tecan-branded chemistry is required.

Can the system be integrated with upstream nucleic acid extraction platforms?

Yes. Standardized plate formats (e.g., 96-well PCR plates, deep-well blocks) enable seamless handoff from automated extraction systems such as QIAGEN QIAcube HT or Thermo KingFisher Flex.

Is remote monitoring or unattended operation supported?

The workstation supports network-connected status reporting via Tecan’s iSW software suite and can execute overnight runs with automated shutdown and alert escalation via email or SNMP traps.

What level of validation documentation is provided for regulated use?

Tecan supplies IQ/OQ documentation templates, protocol-specific verification reports, and traceable calibration records aligned with ISO/IEC 17025 and GxP expectations.

How is cross-contamination mitigated during high-sensitivity library prep?

The system employs positive-pressure filtered tip boxes, UV-C irradiation modules (optional), dedicated wash stations with ethanol/sodium hypochlorite cycles, and air-gap aspiration strategies validated per ISO 20387 Annex B for carryover prevention.