DLAB StepMate Stepper Bottle Top Dispenser
| Brand | DLAB |
|---|---|
| Origin | Beijing, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) |
| Product Category | Domestic |
| Model | StepMate Stepper |
| Instrument Type | Manual Bottle Top Dispenser |
| Volume Range | 0.5–50 mL |
| Minimum Increment | 0.5 mL |
| Accuracy | ±0.2–0.8% (depending on volume setting) |
| Random Error | ≤0.2–0.7% (depending on volume setting) |
| Compliance | Factory-calibrated per ISO 8655-3 |
Overview
The DLAB StepMate Stepper Bottle Top Dispenser is an ergonomically engineered, manually operated liquid handling device designed for repeatable, high-reproducibility volumetric dispensing from reagent bottles in routine laboratory environments. Based on a precision-machined stepper mechanism and positive-displacement piston architecture, the StepMate delivers consistent delivery volumes without reliance on user-dependent force or speed—eliminating operator-induced variability common in traditional squeeze-bulb or spring-loaded dispensers. Its core operating principle leverages calibrated mechanical indexing: each full rotation of the dispensing knob advances the piston by a fixed stroke, translating directly into a defined volume increment. This deterministic displacement design ensures metrological traceability to ISO 8655-3 (Piston-operated volumetric apparatus), making it suitable for applications demanding documented accuracy, such as QC sample preparation, standard solution dilution, and buffer formulation in pharmaceutical, academic, and industrial labs.
Key Features
- Ergonomic single-hand operation with low actuation force — optimized for extended use without fatigue
- Factory pre-calibrated at multiple volume points across the full 0.5–50 mL range, with certificate of calibration provided
- Seven interchangeable polypropylene dispenser tips (0.5, 1.25, 2.5, 5, 12.5, 25, and 50 mL), all chemically resistant to common solvents, acids, and bases
- Dual-stage tip locking system prevents accidental disengagement during dispensing or transport
- No-maintenance design: no lubricants, seals, or consumable parts requiring periodic replacement under normal use
- Integrated volume-stop function allows presetting of dispense count (1–5 steps) with automatic mechanical halt after final stroke
- Tip adapter included for 25 mL and 50 mL configurations to ensure secure fit on standard GL45 and GL32 bottle necks
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The StepMate accommodates a broad spectrum of aqueous, organic, and mildly corrosive liquids—including PBS, ethanol, HCl (≤1 M), NaOH (≤1 M), and acetone—when used with certified PP tips. All tip materials comply with USP Class VI biocompatibility standards and are non-pyrogenic. The device meets ISO 8655-3 requirements for piston-type dispensers and supports GLP/GMP documentation protocols through its inherent repeatability and factory calibration traceability. While not electronically audit-trail capable, its mechanical consistency enables integration into SOP-driven workflows where manual dispensing records are maintained per FDA 21 CFR Part 11 Annex A guidelines (e.g., handwritten logs with operator signature, date, and batch reference).
Software & Data Management
As a fully mechanical, non-electronic instrument, the StepMate does not incorporate firmware, connectivity, or digital data output. Volume selection and dispense counting are performed via tactile rotary dial and visual scale window—ensuring operational reliability in environments with electromagnetic interference, humidity, or dust. Calibration data is delivered as a printed certificate referencing NIST-traceable master standards. Users may log usage parameters (tip type, set volume, dispense count) in LIMS or ELN systems manually, supporting audit readiness for ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratories.
Applications
- Preparation of serial dilutions for ELISA, qPCR, and microbiological assays
- Accurate dispensing of culture media, staining solutions, and wash buffers in histology and cell biology labs
- QC release testing of raw materials where intermediate-volume transfers (e.g., 5–50 mL) must meet ±1% tolerance limits
- Standardization of solvent addition in HPLC mobile phase preparation
- Teaching laboratories requiring robust, intuitive tools for introducing volumetric technique fundamentals
- Field-deployable settings where battery-free, contamination-minimized liquid transfer is essential
FAQ
Is the StepMate compatible with glass reagent bottles having GL45 threads?
Yes — all tips up to 12.5 mL mount directly; 25 mL and 50 mL tips require the included adapter (Cat. No. 17400083) for secure GL45 engagement.
What is the recommended practice for ensuring accuracy during continuous dispensing?
Per manufacturer protocol, the first and last dispense of any continuous sequence should be discarded to eliminate meniscus-related boundary effects and ensure steady-state piston performance.
Are sterilized tips available?
No — all tips are supplied non-sterile and intended for use with sterile-filtered or autoclaved liquids; terminal sterilization of PP tips is not recommended due to thermal deformation risk.
Can the device be used with viscous liquids like glycerol or serum?
It is validated for liquids with viscosity ≤500 mPa·s at 20°C; higher viscosities may reduce repeatability and require manual speed modulation.
Does DLAB provide recalibration services?
Yes — accredited recalibration (including uncertainty reporting per ISO/IEC 17025) is available through DLAB’s Beijing service center or authorized regional partners.
