Agilent Vertical Liquid Handling Workstation
| Brand | Agilent Technologies |
|---|---|
| Origin | Singapore |
| Manufacturer Type | Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) |
| Import Status | Imported |
| Model | Vertical Pipetting System |
| Plate Positions | 8 |
| Pipetting Range | 100 nL to 250 µL |
Overview
The Agilent Vertical Liquid Handling Workstation is an engineered solution for high-precision, high-throughput liquid transfer in modern life science and analytical laboratories. Built upon a vertically oriented pipetting architecture—distinct from conventional horizontal gantry systems—it leverages gravity-assisted tip engagement, reduced mechanical overtravel, and optimized Z-axis kinematics to achieve exceptional repeatability and minimal dead volume. This design enables consistent aspiration and dispensing across ultra-low volumes (down to 100 nL) while maintaining robust performance at higher ranges up to 250 µL. The system is purpose-built for applications requiring stringent volumetric accuracy—such as assay development, compound screening, qPCR setup, NGS library preparation, and QC sample dilution—where trace-level consistency directly impacts data integrity and regulatory compliance.
Key Features
- Vertical Pipetting Architecture: Eliminates lateral arm deflection and improves Z-axis positional stability; supports simultaneous multi-height calibration for variable plate stacks and accessories.
- 8-Position Plate Carrier: Modular deck accommodates standard SBS-format microplates (96-, 384-, and 1536-well), deep-well plates, tube racks, and custom labware—each position independently configurable in software.
- Sub-microliter Precision: Integrated positive-displacement or air-displacement pipetting modules (configurable per application) deliver CV ≤ 2.5% at 100 nL and ≤ 0.5% at 10 µL, validated per ISO 8655-6 and ASTM E2758.
- Sub-25 µm Positional Accuracy: High-resolution linear encoders and servo-controlled motion systems ensure X/Y/Z repeatability of ±0.025 mm—critical for edge-of-well targeting and low-volume transfers into small-diameter wells.
- Rapid Tip Exchange: Tool-free, under-two-minute pipette head swap enables seamless transition between low-volume and high-volume protocols without recalibration.
- Modular Integration Readiness: Equipped with RS-232, Ethernet/IP, and standardized I/O ports compliant with SLAS/ANSI automation interface guidelines; compatible with third-party robotic arms and LIMS middleware via RESTful API and OPC UA support.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The workstation handles aqueous buffers, viscous glycerol-based solutions (up to 80% v/v), DMSO-containing compound libraries, and protein-rich biological matrices without cross-contamination, supported by integrated tip wash stations and HEPA-filtered laminar airflow options. All fluidic pathways are chemically resistant to common solvents (e.g., ethanol, acetonitrile, 1M NaOH). The system complies with ISO/IEC 17025 requirements for testing laboratories and meets essential criteria for GLP and GMP environments—including full audit trail logging, electronic signature support per FDA 21 CFR Part 11, and user-access-level permissions aligned with Annex 11 principles.
Software & Data Management
Controlled via Agilent’s OpenLab Liquid Handling Software—a validated, 21 CFR Part 11-compliant platform featuring drag-and-drop protocol builder, real-time motion visualization, and embedded error diagnostics. Protocols include automatic tip collision detection, liquid level sensing (capacitive), and adaptive aspiration speed control. Raw log files (CSV/JSON) record timestamped events: tip pickup, aspiration volume, dispense location, pressure transients, and maintenance alerts. Data export supports direct integration with Agilent MassHunter, OpenLab CDS, and enterprise ELN systems through secure TLS 1.2–encrypted channels.
Applications
- High-content screening (HCS) assay plate replication and reformatting
- Serial dilution series generation for IC50/EC50 determination
- qRT-PCR master mix and template distribution with low-volume precision
- NGS library normalization and pooling prior to sequencing
- Automated calibration standard preparation for LC-MS and ICP-MS workflows
- Cell-based assay seeding and cytokine stimulation in 384-well formats
FAQ
Is the Vertical Liquid Handling Workstation compatible with non-Agilent consumables?
Yes—the system accepts universal SBS-compliant tips and plates; however, Agilent-certified tips are recommended for sub-200 nL performance validation.
Can it be operated without integration into a larger automation suite?
Yes—standalone mode includes touchscreen HMI, onboard protocol storage, and USB export functionality for offline operation.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for routine operation?
Daily tip ejection verification, weekly Z-axis homing calibration, and quarterly fluidic path integrity testing using gravimetric verification kits (Agilent P/N 5190-1001).
Does the system support dynamic liquid level detection during aspiration?
Yes—capacitive sensing provides real-time meniscus tracking and adjusts aspiration height automatically for variable fill levels across plates.
How is traceability ensured for regulated environments?
All user actions, protocol executions, calibration events, and system errors are time-stamped, digitally signed, and stored in an immutable database with role-based access controls and exportable audit reports.
