Esco TEPAT Single-Channel Electronic Pipette

Overview

The Esco TEPAT Single-Channel Electronic Pipette is an air-displacement-based liquid handling instrument engineered for precision, repeatability, and ergonomic efficiency in routine and high-throughput laboratory workflows. Designed in accordance with ISO 8655-2 (volumetric accuracy and precision requirements for piston-operated volumetric apparatus), the TEPAT leverages motorized actuation to eliminate user-induced variability associated with manual thumb pressure and plunger control. Its core architecture integrates a brushless DC micro-motor, high-resolution optical encoder, and sealed pneumatic system—ensuring consistent aspiration and dispense kinetics across all volume ranges. Unlike mechanical pipettes, the TEPAT delivers programmable stepwise motion profiles (e.g., pre-wet, slow aspirate, pause before dispense), enabling robust performance with viscous, volatile, or foaming liquids. The device operates within ambient temperature ranges of 15–30 °C and relative humidity up to 80% non-condensing, making it suitable for standard biosafety cabinets, cleanrooms, and QC laboratories compliant with GLP and ISO/IEC 17025 frameworks.

Key Features

• Ergonomic design with balanced weight distribution and soft-grip textured housing, reducing hand fatigue during extended use (validated per ISO 5349-1 grip force testing)
• 1.44-inch full-color TFT display with intuitive icon-driven interface and real-time parameter visualization (volume, mode, battery status, error codes)
• Multi-mode operation: Forward pipetting, reverse pipetting, sequential dispensing, multi-step mixing, variable-volume aliquoting, and customizable repeat dispensing
• High-fidelity volume setting via dual-function rotary dial—enabling rapid adjustment with tactile feedback and visual confirmation
• Rechargeable Li-ion battery supporting ≥2000 pipetting cycles per full charge (30-minute fast-charge capability); hot-swappable design allows uninterrupted workflow
• Optimized air-tightness: proprietary O-ring and conical tip-fit geometry ensures >99.9% seal integrity with universal low-retention tips (tested per ISO 8655-5)
• Modular lower assembly (pipette head) compatible with autoclaving at 121 °C, 15 psi for 20 minutes—validated for sterility assurance in cell culture and molecular diagnostics applications

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The TEPAT is validated for use with aqueous buffers, saline solutions, ethanol/water mixtures, glycerol-containing reagents (up to 40% v/v), and common cell culture media. It is not recommended for highly corrosive solvents (e.g., acetone, chloroform) or strong oxidizers without tip compatibility verification. Device firmware complies with IEC 61326-1 (EMC requirements for laboratory equipment) and IEC 61010-1 (safety requirements for electrical equipment). Calibration documentation supports traceability to NIST-traceable standards; optional calibration certificate (ISO/IEC 17025-accredited) available upon request. All operational logs—including volume changes, mode selections, and error events—are timestamped and stored locally for audit readiness under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 (electronic records and signatures) when used with Esco’s optional LabLink software suite.

Software & Data Management

While standalone operation requires no software, the TEPAT supports bidirectional USB-C connectivity for firmware updates and configuration backup/restore via Esco LabLink Desktop (Windows/macOS). LabLink enables creation of SOP-compliant method templates—including volume presets, dwell times, and aspiration/dispense speeds—with exportable CSV reports for QA review. Audit trail functionality records operator ID (via optional RFID badge integration), date/time stamps, and parameter modifications—meeting ALCOA+ data integrity principles. Data exports are compatible with LIMS platforms via standardized XML schema (ASTM E1482-22 compliant).

Applications

• Preparation of qPCR and NGS library dilution series requiring sub-microliter accuracy
• Cell seeding into 96-/384-well plates with consistent viability and density control
• ELISA assay setup with precise antigen/antibody titration across multiple concentrations
• Automated sample normalization prior to HPLC or mass spectrometry analysis
• CRISPR guide RNA complex assembly where stoichiometric fidelity directly impacts editing efficiency
• Quality control testing of pharmaceutical excipients and biologics formulations under GMP Annex 1 environmental controls

FAQ

Is the TEPAT compatible with third-party low-retention tips?
Yes—when tip dimensions conform to ISO 8655-3 specifications, reproducibility remains within stated accuracy limits.
Can the device be calibrated in-house?
Yes, using gravimetric methods per ISO 8655-6; Esco provides calibration kits and certified reference weights.
What is the recommended maintenance interval?
Visual inspection and function check every 3 months; full service (seal replacement, motor calibration) every 12 months or after 50,000 cycles.
Does the TEPAT support sterile field operation inside biosafety cabinets?
Yes—the compact footprint (≤120 mm × 55 mm base) allows placement within Class II A2 cabinets without compromising airflow integrity.
How is data integrity ensured during electronic record keeping?
LabLink enforces role-based access control, electronic signatures, and immutable audit trails aligned with 21 CFR Part 11 Subpart B requirements.