CyBio FeliX Liquid Handling Workstation by Analytik Jena
| Brand | Analytik Jena |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Model | CyBio FeliX |
| Deck Capacity | 12 plate positions |
| Footprint | 65 × 45 cm |
| Compatible Plate Formats | Standard 96-well and 384-well microplates |
| Core Technology | CHOICE™ single-head variable-volume pipetting (0.5–1000 µL), Select Head™ multi-channel independent-volume dispensing, CyBi®-TipTray™ sealed tip ejection and loading |
Overview
The CyBio FeliX Liquid Handling Workstation is an integrated, benchtop-scale automation platform engineered for precision liquid handling in life science laboratories. Built upon Analytik Jena’s proven CyBi® architecture, it implements a hybrid pneumatic positive-displacement principle combined with advanced tip-sealing mechanics to ensure volumetric accuracy across a broad dynamic range. Unlike traditional multi-head or fixed-volume systems, the FeliX employs a single, motorized pipetting head equipped with CHOICE™ technology—enabling seamless, software-controlled adjustment of aspiration and dispense volumes from 0.5 µL to 1000 µL without mechanical head swapping or manual recalibration. Its modular deck accommodates up to 12 standardized labware positions—including SBS-compliant 96-well and 384-well plates, reservoirs, tip racks, and tube carriers—supporting end-to-end workflows in genomics, drug discovery, and molecular diagnostics.
Key Features
- CHOICE™ Variable-Volume Pipetting: A single pipetting channel dynamically adjusts volume via high-resolution stepper-driven piston displacement, eliminating cross-contamination risks associated with multi-head switching and reducing maintenance overhead.
- Select Head™ Independent-Channel Control: An 8-channel pipettor head allows simultaneous, non-uniform dispensing—e.g., eight distinct volumes into one row—enabling complex gradient dilutions, serial transfers, or combinatorial assay setup without script-level programming.
- CyBi®-TipTray™ Sealed Tip Management: Fully automated, vacuum-assisted tip loading and ejection with real-time seal integrity verification ensures consistent air displacement performance and minimizes evaporation-related error during low-volume transfers.
- Compact Benchtop Integration: With a footprint of only 65 × 45 cm, the system fits within standard fume hood or biosafety cabinet envelopes while maintaining full 12-position deck flexibility—ideal for space-constrained core facilities and regulated QC labs.
- Modular Labware Compatibility: Supports ANSI/SBS-standard microplates, deep-well blocks, PCR strips, conical tubes (up to 50 mL), and custom carriers via configurable deck mapping and collision-avoidance path planning.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The CyBio FeliX handles aqueous buffers, viscous glycerol-DNA mixtures, DMSO-based compound libraries, and serum-containing cell culture media—validated per ISO 8655-6 for gravimetric performance under ambient and temperature-controlled conditions (15–30 °C). All liquid handling protocols are traceable and auditable in accordance with GLP and GMP requirements. The workstation supports electronic signature-enabled method locking, audit trail logging (per FDA 21 CFR Part 11), and integration with LIMS via HL7 or RESTful API. It complies with IEC 61000-6-2 (immunity) and IEC 61000-6-4 (emissions), and carries CE marking for in vitro diagnostic use (IVDR Annex II Class A).
Software & Data Management
Controlled via CyBio Control v5.x—a Windows-based application supporting drag-and-drop protocol builder, real-time run monitoring, and parameterized template libraries. Each protocol includes versioned metadata (user, timestamp, calibration ID), raw sensor logs (pressure, position, tip status), and exportable CSV/Excel reports compliant with ALCOA+ data integrity principles. Optional CyBio Connect module enables remote monitoring, centralized fleet management, and scheduled calibration reminders synchronized with internal service logs. Raw data files are stored in vendor-neutral HDF5 format with embedded schema definitions for long-term archival and third-party analysis interoperability.
Applications
- Nucleic acid purification workflow initiation—including magnetic bead-based extraction and column elution normalization
- PCR and qPCR master mix preparation with dual-volume dispensing for internal controls and experimental replicates
- NGS library quantification and pooling with molar normalization across 96 samples
- High-throughput compound screening using dose-response matrices in 384-well format
- Cell-based assay setup requiring precise cytokine or inhibitor titration across multi-well kinetic plates
- Automated ELISA plate coating, blocking, and detection reagent addition with inter-plate consistency tracking
FAQ
Does the CyBio FeliX support third-party tip brands?
Yes—provided tips meet SBS footprint specifications and pass CyBi®-TipTray™ mechanical fit and vacuum seal validation; Analytik Jena provides a certified tip compatibility matrix updated quarterly.
Can the system be integrated into a robotic arm–based automated lab?
Yes—via optional Ethernet/IP or Modbus TCP interface modules; deck coordinates and status signals are exposed for synchronization with external conveyors or storage carousels.
Is routine calibration required, and how is it documented?
Gravimetric calibration is recommended every 6 months or after 500 operational hours; all calibration events generate PDF-signed certificates with uncertainty budgets traceable to NIST SRM 2849.
What level of user training is needed to develop new protocols?
Basic protocol creation requires <2 hours of guided instruction; advanced scripting (Python-based CyBio Script Engine) is available for users with laboratory informatics experience.
How does the system handle carryover between viscous samples?
It applies programmable pre-wet cycles, air-gap dispensing, and adjustable tip immersion depth—parameters validated per CLSI EP26-A guidelines for residual volume assessment.
