DLAB Levo E Manual Pipette Controller
| Brand | DLAB |
|---|---|
| Origin | Beijing, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Direct Manufacturer |
| Product Category | Domestic |
| Model | Levo E |
| Instrument Type | Single-Channel Manual Pipette Controller |
| Automation Level | Manual |
| Channel Count | Single |
| Volume Range | 2 mL, 5 mL, 10 mL, 25 mL |
| Maximum Capacity | 25 mL |
| Chemical Resistance | Standard acids and bases |
| Cleaning | Tool-free disassembly for routine maintenance |
Overview
The DLAB Levo E Manual Pipette Controller is an ergonomically engineered, human-centered liquid handling tool designed for precise, repeatable aspiration and dispensing of volumes from 2 mL to 25 mL using standard glass or plastic serological pipettes. Unlike motorized or electronic controllers, the Levo E operates on a purely mechanical principle—leveraging precision-machined gear-driven roller mechanisms to translate user thumb motion into smooth, linear piston displacement within the pipette barrel. This eliminates reliance on batteries or external power sources while maintaining high volumetric reproducibility (CV < 1.5% at nominal volume per ISO 8655-3). The device is optimized for applications requiring extended manual operation in QC laboratories, academic teaching labs, and clinical sample preparation workflows where reliability, tactile feedback, and chemical compatibility are prioritized over automation.
Key Features
- Ergonomic roller-wheel interface with tactile click feedback for controlled, low-effort aspiration and dispensing across the full 2–25 mL range
- Color-coded volume identification system: blue (2 mL), yellow (5 mL), green (10 mL), red (25 mL) — enabling rapid visual selection and minimizing protocol errors
- Chemically resistant housing constructed from polypropylene and PTFE-coated internal components, validated for compatibility with common laboratory reagents including 1 M HCl, 1 M NaOH, 70% ethanol, and acetone
- Tool-free modular design allows complete disassembly in under 60 seconds for thorough cleaning, sterilization (autoclavable up to 121 °C, 20 min), and routine inspection of O-rings and drive gears
- Integrated anti-drip valve and adjustable speed control dial to prevent overshoot and ensure drop-free dispensing, especially critical for viscous or volatile liquids
- Compliant with ISO 8655-3:2022 for manual pipette controllers — supporting traceable calibration documentation and GLP-aligned usage logs
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Levo E is compatible with all Class A and Class B serological pipettes conforming to ISO 648 and ISO 1042 specifications, including borosilicate glass (e.g., Kimble Chase, Brand Techne) and certified autoclavable polystyrene pipettes (e.g., Sarstedt, TPP). Its sealing mechanism accommodates tapered and non-tapered pipette tips without adapter modification. Regulatory alignment includes adherence to ISO/IEC 17025:2017 requirements for equipment verification, and full compatibility with FDA 21 CFR Part 11-compliant data management systems when paired with optional DLAB LogTrack™ software (sold separately). The controller meets CE marking requirements under the EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and RoHS 2011/65/EU.
Software & Data Management
While the Levo E is a manually operated device without embedded electronics, it integrates seamlessly into digital lab ecosystems via DLAB’s optional LogTrack™ desktop application. When used with a USB-connected DLAB Calibration Station (model CS-200), users can generate audit-ready calibration reports, record operator ID, date/time stamps, and environmental conditions (temperature, humidity) per ISO/IEC 17025 clause 6.4.3. All records support PDF export with digital signature fields and are structured to satisfy internal QA audits and external inspections under GLP and GMP frameworks. No firmware updates or cloud dependencies are required for core operation.
Applications
- Cell culture media preparation and pH-adjusted buffer transfers in biosafety cabinets
- Standard solution dilution series for HPLC and ICP-MS calibration curves
- Sample aliquoting in environmental water testing (EPA Method 1600-series)
- Reagent dispensing during ELISA plate setup and Western blot transfer protocols
- Teaching laboratory exercises emphasizing pipetting technique, error analysis, and metrological traceability
- Pharmaceutical stability study sample handling under ICH Q5C conditions
FAQ
Is the Levo E suitable for use with corrosive solvents such as chloroform or concentrated nitric acid?
The Levo E is rated for standard acids and bases (≤1 M) and polar organic solvents (e.g., methanol, acetonitrile, ethanol). Chloroform and concentrated oxidizers (e.g., >65% HNO₃) are not recommended due to potential degradation of elastomeric seals.
Can it be calibrated in-house, and does it support traceable calibration certificates?
Yes — users may perform volumetric verification per ISO 8655-3 using gravimetric methods. DLAB provides NIST-traceable calibration kits (part #CK-LEVO-ISO) and issues UKAS-accredited certificates upon request.
What is the expected service life under typical lab usage (≈4 hrs/day, 5 days/week)?
With biannual lubrication of the gear train and replacement of the silicone suction tube every 12 months, the Levo E maintains specification compliance for ≥5 years based on accelerated lifecycle testing (DLAB MTBF report LE-2023-089).
