Eppendorf Research Plus and Xplorer Plus 16-Channel and 24-Channel Electronic Pipetting Systems
| Brand | Eppendorf |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Manufacturer Type | Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) |
| Import Status | Imported |
| Model | Research Plus / Xplorer Plus |
| Instrument Type | Multichannel Electronic Pipette |
| Automation Level | Motorized |
| Channel Count | 16 or 24 |
| Volume Range | 1–100 µL |
| Maximum Capacity | 100 µL |
| Accuracy | ±0.1% at full scale |
Overview
The Eppendorf Research Plus and Xplorer Plus 16-/24-channel electronic pipetting systems are precision-engineered liquid handling instruments designed for high-throughput microplate workflows—particularly optimized for 384-well plate formats. Leveraging motorized piston-driven displacement technology, these multichannel pipettes deliver consistent aspiration and dispensing across all channels simultaneously, minimizing inter-channel variability and operator-induced error. Unlike traditional 8- or 12-channel alternatives—which require multiple parallel strokes to cover a full 384-well plate—these systems enable complete row- or column-wise transfers in a single action, reducing total pipetting steps by up to 50%. Their architecture conforms to ISO 8655-2:2022 standards for piston-operated volumetric apparatus, ensuring metrological traceability and compliance with GLP/GMP laboratory requirements.
Key Features
- Simultaneous 16- or 24-channel operation enables full-row or full-column dispensing into 384-well plates—eliminating sequential multi-step transfers required by lower-channel devices.
- Integrated motorized drive delivers repeatable stroke control and consistent plunger actuation force, independent of user fatigue or technique variation.
- SOFTattach™ light-touch tip attachment mechanism features an elastomeric adapter sleeve that ensures secure, leak-free sealing with epT.I.P.S.® 384 low-retention tips while reducing tip ejection force by 50% versus conventional systems.
- Ergonomic handle design with balanced weight distribution and adjustable thumb rest minimizes wrist flexion and repetitive strain during extended use.
- Onboard memory stores up to 9 programmable protocols—including volume presets, mixing cycles, and reverse pipetting sequences—for rapid recall and standardized execution.
- Calibration-friendly design supports routine verification and adjustment per ISO 8655-6, with documented traceability to national metrology institutes.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
These pipettes are validated for use with Eppendorf’s proprietary epT.I.P.S.® 384 low-binding, filter, and sterile tip lines—ensuring minimal carryover, high aerosol containment, and compatibility with sensitive assays including qPCR, ELISA, and cell-based screening. The system meets IEC 61326-1:2013 for electromagnetic compatibility and IEC 61010-1:2010 for laboratory equipment safety. All models comply with ISO/IEC 17025 documentation requirements for calibration records and support audit-ready data integrity when used in regulated environments under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 and EU Annex 11 guidelines.
Software & Data Management
While the Research Plus is manually operated with motor-assisted plunger control, the Xplorer Plus variant integrates with Eppendorf’s VisioNize Lab Suite via Bluetooth 5.0 for remote protocol management, usage logging, and instrument health monitoring. Audit trails capture timestamped events—including volume changes, tip ejection, and error codes—with user ID attribution. Data export is supported in CSV and PDF formats compatible with LIMS integration. Firmware updates maintain alignment with evolving regulatory expectations for electronic record retention and security.
Applications
- High-density assay setup: Rapid reagent addition to 384-well plates for drug discovery screening, kinase profiling, and cytotoxicity assays.
- Nucleic acid workflows: Accurate loading of PCR master mixes, gel electrophoresis samples, and library preparation reagents with minimized cross-contamination risk.
- Cell culture operations: Uniform seeding across multiwell plates, cytokine dilution series, and media exchange in stem cell or organoid platforms.
- Immunoassay development: Consistent coating, blocking, and detection antibody dispensing for multiplexed ELISAs and lateral flow test validation.
- Biobanking and sample archiving: Precise transfer of biological specimens into cryovial arrays or storage plates under cold-chain conditions.
FAQ
What distinguishes the Research Plus from the Xplorer Plus model?
The Research Plus is a motor-assisted manual pipette offering enhanced ergonomics and precision without programmability; the Xplorer Plus adds full electronic protocol control, onboard memory, and wireless connectivity for advanced workflow automation.
Are these pipettes suitable for viscous or volatile liquids?
Yes—when paired with reverse pipetting mode and low-retention epT.I.P.S.® 384 tips, they accommodate glycerol-rich buffers, DMSO solutions, and ethanol-based reagents with reduced droplet formation and improved recovery.
Can calibration be performed in-house?
Yes—both models support user-performed gravimetric calibration using certified weights and distilled water, following procedures outlined in ISO 8655-6 and documented in Eppendorf’s Calibration Handbook.
Do they meet requirements for FDA-regulated laboratories?
When deployed with VisioNize Lab Suite and configured with electronic signatures and audit trail settings enabled, the Xplorer Plus satisfies 21 CFR Part 11 criteria for electronic records and signatures.
Is service and technical support available globally?
Eppendorf maintains authorized service centers in over 30 countries, providing certified recalibration, preventive maintenance, and ISO/IEC 17025-compliant certification reports upon request.
