Agilent Encore Multispan Liquid Handling Workstation

Overview

The Agilent Encore Multispan Liquid Handling Workstation is an integrated, benchtop automation platform engineered for high-precision, high-throughput liquid transfer in regulated and research-intensive laboratory environments. Built upon a dual-arm multispan architecture, the system employs independent X- and Y-axis motion control to enable simultaneous, non-interfering pipetting operations across extended workspaces—extending up to 53 cm (21 inches) beyond the instrument footprint. This design eliminates traditional deck-bound constraints, allowing seamless integration with peripheral devices such as centrifuges, incubators, readers, and storage modules without requiring intermediate sample repositioning. The system operates on the principle of air-displacement pipetting with factory-calibrated positive-displacement pipettors, ensuring traceable accuracy and reproducibility across volumetric ranges typical for molecular biology and drug discovery workflows (e.g., 0.5–1000 µL). Its modular deck layout supports end-to-end assay execution—from sample retrieval and plate normalization to reformatting, dilution series generation, and post-processing transfer—making it suitable for GLP-compliant laboratories and early-stage biopharma development.

Key Features

• Dual independent multispan pipetting arms, each equipped with eight electronically actuated pipette channels, enabling parallel processing across multiple plates or tubes.
• Variable pitch spacing between pipette tips (adjustable via software), supporting flexible sampling from diverse vessel formats—including 96-/384-well plates, PCR tubes, vials, and cryogenic racks.
• Integrated gripper arm with 53 cm horizontal reach, facilitating unattended loading/unloading of external instruments and enabling continuous workflow chaining without manual intervention.
• Factory-calibrated pipetting hardware with NIST-traceable verification; onboard calibration routines support user-initiated performance checks per ISO 8655 and ASTM E1154 standards.
• 32 programmable deck positions, including 24 pipetting-accessible locations and 8 dedicated consumables storage slots—optimized for complex multistep protocols involving reagent addition, mixing, incubation, and detection steps.
• One-click deck mapping functionality that auto-detects and registers installed labware dimensions, minimizing setup time and reducing configuration errors.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Encore Multispan accommodates standard ANSI/SLAS-format microplates (96-, 384-, and 1536-well), conical-bottom tubes (0.5–50 mL), skirted and semi-skirted PCR plates, and custom labware with defined geometric footprints. All pipetting operations comply with ISO 8655-5 (volumetric accuracy) and ISO 5725 (repeatability and reproducibility) requirements. For regulated environments, the system supports audit trail logging, electronic signatures, and role-based access control—fully aligned with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 and EU Annex 11 expectations when deployed with Agilent’s compliant software suite. Instrument qualification documentation (IQ/OQ/PQ) templates are provided to streamline validation in GMP and clinical trial support labs.

Software & Data Management

Controlled by Agilent’s intuitive Multispan Software, the workstation features a drag-and-drop protocol builder with real-time 3D simulation capability. Users can visualize robotic arm trajectories, collision avoidance paths, and liquid handling sequences prior to execution—reducing risk of deck interference or tip crashes. The software includes built-in method libraries for common applications (e.g., serial dilution, hit picking, qPCR setup), exportable SOP templates, and native CSV/Excel import for plate map-driven workflows. All run logs—including timestamps, error codes, pipette calibration history, and user actions—are stored in encrypted SQLite databases with configurable retention policies. Integration with LIMS and ELN systems is supported via RESTful API and HL7-compatible data exchange modules.

Applications

The Encore Multispan serves as a foundational automation layer across multiple life science domains: genomic library preparation (including shearing, size selection, and adapter ligation); protein expression screening with combinatorial transfection and ELISA-based quantification; high-content cell-based assays requiring precise cytokine dosing and time-resolved imaging plate staging; ADME/Tox studies involving hepatocyte co-cultures and metabolite extraction; and target-based small-molecule screening where compound reformatting and dose-response matrix generation are critical. Its flexibility also extends to diagnostic assay development, reference material preparation, and QC testing in contract research organizations.

FAQ

Does the Encore Multispan support third-party liquid handlers or peripherals?
Yes—it features open communication protocols (RS-232, TCP/IP, USB HID) and standardized deck coordinate definitions, enabling interoperability with common lab automation components including barcode scanners, thermal cyclers, and microplate readers.
Can the system perform low-volume dispensing below 1 µL?
While the standard air-displacement pipettes operate down to 0.5 µL, sub-microliter precision requires optional positive-displacement tips or integration with Agilent’s Bravo-enabled nanoliter dispensers, which must be validated separately per application.
Is remote monitoring or cloud-based protocol sharing available?
Local network monitoring is supported via web browser interface; cloud-based collaboration features (e.g., shared method repositories, version-controlled protocols) require deployment of Agilent’s Enterprise Automation Suite with on-premise or private-cloud infrastructure.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for routine operation?
Daily tip ejection checks, weekly deck cleaning, and quarterly pipette calibration verification are advised; full preventive maintenance is scheduled annually by Agilent Field Service Engineers using OEM-certified tools and firmware updates.