BRAND HandyStep® Manual and Electronic Continuous Dispensers
| Origin | Germany |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | HandyStep® |
| Pricing | Available Upon Request |
Overview
The BRAND HandyStep® Continuous Dispenser is a precision-engineered liquid handling instrument designed for high-reproducibility, multi-step dispensing in research laboratories, quality control environments, and regulated production settings. Based on positive-displacement piston technology—distinct from air-cushion pipetting—the HandyStep® eliminates variability caused by vapor pressure, viscosity, or density fluctuations. This principle ensures consistent delivery of challenging liquids including glycerol solutions (up to 80% v/v), ethanol/water mixtures, DMSO, concentrated acids/bases, and high-salt buffers. Unlike single-channel pipettes, the HandyStep® operates via controlled plunger advancement along a calibrated helical drive, translating rotational motion into precise linear displacement of the piston within the syringe barrel. Its architecture supports both manual and microprocessor-controlled operation modes, enabling seamless integration into workflows requiring traceable, repeatable dispensing across volumes from 1 µL to 50 mL.
Key Features
- Five-Position Volume Selector Dial: Enables rapid, tactile selection of five preset dispensing volumes without digital input—ideal for routine assays requiring fixed-volume replication.
- Ergonomic Dual-Function Control Button: Combines aspiration lock and dispensing activation in a single, low-force actuator; optimized for prolonged use with minimal hand fatigue.
- Integrated Tip-Lock Mechanism: A monolithic polymer housing secures PLASTIBRAND® PD- and Combitips®/Combitips®+ tips without separate locking components—reducing mechanical failure risk and eliminating tip ejection inconsistencies.
- Factory-Calibrated & Maintenance-Free Operation: Delivered with ISO 8655-compliant calibration certificates; no user recalibration or lubrication required throughout standard service life.
- Electronic Mode Intelligence: Microcontroller automatically detects attached PD-tip geometry (via physical coding grooves) and configures stroke parameters accordingly—ensuring optimal piston travel and backpressure compensation.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The HandyStep® accommodates all BRAND PD-series positive-displacement tips (0.1–50 mL capacity), as well as third-party ISO 8655-compliant piston tips meeting dimensional tolerances per DIN EN ISO 8655-3. It complies with EU Directive 2014/30/EU (EMC) and 2011/65/EU (RoHS). For GxP-regulated environments, electronic models support audit-trail-enabled software (via optional PC interface) compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when paired with validated data management systems. Performance validation follows ISO 8655-5 guidelines for dispensers, with accuracy ±1.0% and repeatability ≤0.5% CV across full volume range under controlled temperature (20–25°C) and humidity (40–60% RH) conditions.
Software & Data Management
Electronic HandyStep® units communicate via USB-B or Bluetooth 5.0 to BRAND’s proprietary DispenseControl™ software (Windows/macOS). The interface enables programmable dispensing protocols—including standard dispense, rapid dispense, and auto-timed continuous mode (triggered after three consecutive user-initiated dispenses). All parameter changes, volume selections, and operational events are timestamped and logged with operator ID fields. Export formats include CSV and PDF reports compatible with LIMS integration. Optional firmware updates maintain alignment with evolving ISO/IEC 17025 documentation standards for metrological traceability.
Applications
- Serial dilution series preparation for ELISA, PCR master mixes, and cell culture media supplementation
- High-throughput plate filling in 96-/384-well formats using PD-10 or PD-50 tips
- Accurate dispensing of viscous reagents (e.g., agarose gels, polymer solutions) in molecular biology workflows
- QC testing of raw materials where volumetric consistency directly impacts assay sensitivity
- Calibration standard preparation requiring sub-microliter precision over extended dispensing cycles
FAQ
What tip types are compatible with the HandyStep®?
PLASTIBRAND® PD- tips (0.1–50 mL), Combitips® and Combitips®+ tips, and other ISO 8655-3–certified positive-displacement tips with matching conical geometry and sealing interface.
Does the electronic model require external power?
No—integrated rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides ≥1,200 full-volume dispenses per charge; charging via included USB-C adapter takes <2.5 hours.
Can dispensing volume be adjusted in real time during operation?
Yes—in electronic mode, volume can be modified via rotary encoder or software interface between dispenses without interrupting workflow continuity.
Is cleaning or sterilization supported?
The main body is wipe-clean only (70% ethanol/isopropanol); PD-tips are single-use and non-sterile unless specified; autoclavable versions available upon request (PD-sterile line).
How is metrological traceability maintained?
Each unit ships with a UKAS-accredited calibration certificate referencing NIST-traceable standards; annual recalibration services are available through BRAND-certified labs worldwide.
