TECAN EVO100+48 Magnetic Bead-Based Nucleic Acid Extraction and PCR Setup Workstation
| Brand | TECAN |
|---|---|
| Origin | Switzerland |
| Model | EVO100 + 48-Position Magnetic Bead Module |
| Deck Capacity | 20 positions |
| Liquid Handling Range | 0.5–5000 µL |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 1075 × 875 × 870 mm |
| Integrated Modules | Barcode Scanner, Active Reagent Cooling Module (4–12 °C), Rotating Magnetic Bead Separation Module (bidirectional vertical rotation for enhanced mixing efficiency) |
Overview
The TECAN EVO100+48 Magnetic Bead-Based Nucleic Acid Extraction and PCR Setup Workstation is an integrated, walk-away liquid handling platform engineered for high-integrity molecular biology workflows in regulated and research-intensive laboratories. Built upon TECAN’s modular EVO platform, this system combines precise liquid dispensing with optimized magnetic bead-based nucleic acid isolation and downstream PCR master mix assembly—all on a single deck. Its core operational principle relies on paramagnetic bead capture under controlled magnetic fields, followed by sequential washing, elution, and automated reaction setup using air displacement pipetting technology. Designed for reproducible extraction from complex biological matrices—including whole blood, plasma, saliva, urine, and swab eluates—the workstation supports end-to-end processing from raw sample to ready-to-amplify PCR plates within a single run.
Key Features
- Modular architecture with 20-position deck layout, enabling simultaneous integration of magnetic separation, barcode scanning, active reagent cooling (4–12 °C), and multi-channel pipetting modules
- 48-position rotating magnetic bead module featuring bidirectional vertical rotation—enhancing binding kinetics and wash efficiency through uniform suspension and reduced bead aggregation
- High-precision air displacement pipetting with adjustable aspiration/dispense speeds, supporting volumes from 0.5 µL to 5000 µL across 1–8 channels
- Integrated barcode scanner for full traceability of samples, reagents, and consumables; compatible with LIMS and ELN systems via standard API protocols
- Rugged aluminum frame and vibration-damped base ensure positional stability during high-speed deck movements and magnetic actuation cycles
- Pre-configured method templates for common kits (e.g., QIAGEN QIAamp, Thermo Fisher MagMAX, Promega Maxwell) with audit-trail-enabled execution logs
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The system accommodates standard SBS-format consumables including deep-well plates (96-well and 48-well), PCR strips, tube racks (1.5/2.0 mL), and custom magnetic bead carriers. It is validated for use with whole blood (EDTA/K2EDTA), serum, plasma, buccal swabs, nasopharyngeal swabs, and urine—without pre-centrifugation in most protocols. From a regulatory standpoint, the EVO100+48 supports GLP and GMP environments through configurable electronic signatures, user access levels, and 21 CFR Part 11–compliant audit trails when operated with Freedom EVOware v3.x or newer. All methods are fully version-controlled, with change history, operator attribution, and timestamped execution records stored locally or exported to networked repositories.
Software & Data Management
Controlled via TECAN’s Freedom EVOware software, the workstation enables graphical protocol design, real-time monitoring, and post-run analytics. Method files include embedded validation checkpoints (e.g., tip presence detection, liquid level sensing, magnetic field activation confirmation). Data export supports CSV, XML, and PDF formats; raw log files contain full instrument state snapshots (motor positions, pressure profiles, temperature readings, error flags). Integration with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is achieved via HL7, RESTful APIs, or direct database connectors—ensuring seamless alignment with sample tracking, QC reporting, and compliance documentation workflows.
Applications
- High-throughput nucleic acid isolation for diagnostic testing, epidemiological surveillance, and biobanking
- Automated PCR/qPCR master mix preparation with variable template volumes and multiplex primer sets
- NGS library prep workflows requiring fragmentation, end-repair, A-tailing, and adapter ligation setup
- CRISPR gRNA screening assays involving pooled guide RNA transfection and genomic DNA extraction
- Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) gene panel testing with parallel pathogen detection and resistance marker amplification
- Validation studies supporting ISO 15189 and CLIA-certified clinical laboratory accreditation
FAQ
What types of magnetic beads are compatible with this system?
The workstation supports all commercially available carboxyl- or streptavidin-coated paramagnetic beads used in silica-free nucleic acid isolation, provided they meet standard size (1–5 µm) and suspension stability specifications.
Can the system be validated for ISO 13485 or FDA 510(k) submission workflows?
Yes—TECAN provides IQ/OQ documentation packages and supports PQ execution under client-defined acceptance criteria; method-specific validation reports may be generated using built-in performance verification tools.
Is remote monitoring or unattended overnight operation supported?
The system supports scheduled runs, email/SMS alerts for completion or error states, and secure remote desktop access via IT-approved VPN configurations.
How is carryover contamination prevented during high-sensitivity applications?
EVOware enforces tip washing protocols between samples, utilizes disposable low-retention tips, and includes UV-C irradiation options (via optional add-on module) for deck surface decontamination.
Does the active reagent cooling module maintain temperature uniformity across all positions?
Yes—the Peltier-based cooling unit achieves ±0.5 °C stability across its entire 24-position capacity, with independent sensor feedback per zone and automatic condensation suppression.
