Eicom EFC-82 Fraction Collector for Microdialysis
| Origin | Shenzhen, China |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Domestic (PRC) |
| Model | EFC-82 |
| Pricing | Upon Request |
| Temperature Options | Ambient or Refrigerated (with optional EFR-82 module) |
| Sample Vessels | 96-well PCR plates or 0.5 mL microcentrifuge tubes |
| Flow Rate Range | 0.1–10 µL/min (collection interval: 5 s – 99 min) |
| Channel Capacity | 1, 2, or 4 independent microdialysis channels |
| Control Interface | Integrated front-panel programmable controller (standalone operation, no PC required) |
Overview
The Eicom EFC-82 Fraction Collector is a precision-engineered laboratory instrument designed specifically for automated, time-resolved collection of microdialysate samples in neuroscience, pharmacokinetic, and neuropharmacology research. Operating on the principle of programmable timed fractionation, the EFC-82 interfaces directly with microdialysis probes and peristaltic or syringe-based sampling systems to divert effluent into discrete, sequentially indexed vessels. Its architecture supports both ambient and temperature-controlled collection environments—enabling experimental continuity across diverse analyte stability requirements without compromising temporal resolution or sample integrity. Unlike generic liquid handlers, the EFC-82 is calibrated and validated for low-flow microdialysis applications (0.1–10 µL/min), where accurate volume delivery, minimal carryover, and channel-to-channel synchronization are critical for quantitative analysis of neurotransmitters, peptides, and metabolites.
Key Features
- Standalone programmable control panel with intuitive LCD interface—no external computer or software installation required
- Selectable collection modes: single-channel, dual-channel, or quad-channel parallel fractionation with independent timing per channel
- Flexible vessel compatibility: accepts standard 96-well PCR plates (full or partial rows) and individual 0.5 mL microcentrifuge tubes
- Configurable collection parameters: user-defined interval (5 seconds to 99 minutes), total number of fractions (1–99), and start/stop triggers
- Optional EFR-82 refrigeration module enables active cooling down to +4 °C—critical for preserving labile analytes such as dopamine, serotonin, acetylcholine, and cytokines during extended sampling periods
- Low dead-volume fluid path design minimizes cross-contamination and ensures high recovery efficiency across repeated runs
- Robust mechanical indexing mechanism with positional repeatability < ±0.1 mm, ensuring consistent alignment with well/tube centers
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The EFC-82 is routinely deployed in GLP-compliant preclinical studies and academic investigations adhering to NIH and ICH guidelines for bioanalytical method validation. Its mechanical and thermal specifications align with common requirements for microdialysis sample handling under ISO 13485–influenced quality systems. While the device itself is not FDA-cleared, its operational parameters and material contact surfaces (polypropylene tubing, PTFE valves, stainless-steel drive components) meet USP Class VI biocompatibility standards. When used with validated analytical workflows (e.g., HPLC-ECD, LC-MS/MS), the EFC-82 supports data traceability through manual logbook entries or integration with LIMS via timestamped collection metadata. It does not include electronic audit trail functionality per FDA 21 CFR Part 11; however, its deterministic timing engine ensures reproducible fractionation sequences suitable for regulatory submission when paired with appropriate documentation practices.
Software & Data Management
The EFC-82 operates exclusively via its embedded firmware and front-panel interface—eliminating dependency on proprietary software or operating system drivers. All program configurations (e.g., “Channel 1: 2-min intervals × 30 fractions; Channel 3: 5-min intervals × 12 fractions”) are stored in non-volatile memory and persist after power cycling. Timestamps are not generated internally; users are advised to record session start times manually or synchronize with external data acquisition systems (e.g., PowerLab, CED Spike2) using TTL trigger outputs (available on optional I/O expansion port). Export of collection logs requires transcription or third-party camera-based documentation. For laboratories requiring electronic records, integration with ELN platforms is achievable via manual entry or custom Python/LabVIEW scripts interfacing through RS-232 serial protocol (baud rate 9600, 8N1).
Applications
- In vivo neurochemical monitoring in rodent models: real-time tracking of extracellular neurotransmitter dynamics during behavioral assays or drug challenge paradigms
- Pharmacodynamic profiling of CNS-targeted therapeutics, including receptor agonists/antagonists and enzyme inhibitors
- Validation of blood-brain barrier permeability using probe-specific recovery calibration methods (e.g., no-net-flux, retrodialysis)
- Long-term circadian sampling protocols (>24 h) with refrigerated collection to mitigate enzymatic degradation
- Multi-probe comparative studies across brain regions (e.g., striatum vs. prefrontal cortex) using synchronized 4-channel operation
- Preparative collection for downstream immunoassay or mass spectrometry quantification where sample volume constraints necessitate ultra-low-flow concentration strategies
FAQ
Is the EFC-82 compatible with all microdialysis probes?
Yes—the EFC-82 accepts standard 0.15–0.3 mm OD polyethylene or fused silica inlet/outlet tubing and interfaces seamlessly with CMA, Eicom, and SciPro probes via universal compression fittings.
Can I run different collection schedules on each channel simultaneously?
Yes—each of the four channels supports independent configuration of interval duration, fraction count, and activation delay, enabling heterogeneous experimental designs within a single run.
Does the EFR-82 cooling module require external refrigerant or plumbing?
No—the EFR-82 is a self-contained thermoelectric (Peltier) unit with passive heat dissipation; it connects directly to the EFC-82’s rear power port and requires only standard AC input.
What is the minimum recommended sample volume per fraction?
For reliable detection in electrochemical or fluorescence-based assays, ≥0.5 µL is advised; however, the system maintains accuracy down to 0.1 µL/min flow rates with proper calibration and low-dead-volume tubing.
Is service and technical support available outside Japan and China?
Yes—Eicom authorizes regional distributors in North America, Europe, and APAC who provide installation assistance, preventive maintenance, and firmware updates per Eicom’s global service policy.
