Harvard Apparatus Pump 11 Elite Microprocessor-Driven Syringe Pump

Overview

The Harvard Apparatus Pump 11 Elite is a high-precision, microprocessor-driven syringe pump engineered for reproducible, low-flow and high-flow fluid delivery in demanding laboratory environments. Utilizing closed-loop stepper motor control with sub-micron positional resolution (0.031 µm per step), the Pump 11 Elite achieves exceptional volumetric accuracy (±0.5%) and outstanding repeatability (0.05%) across its full operational range—from ultra-low nanoliter-per-hour applications to rapid milliliter-per-minute infusions. Its dual-mode architecture supports both infusion-only and programmable infusion/withdrawal operation, enabling bidirectional flow control essential for microdialysis, HPLC solvent delivery, cell microinjection, and closed-loop microfluidic systems. Designed and manufactured in the United States, the device complies with international safety and electromagnetic compatibility standards including CE, ETL (UL/CSA), WEEE, EU RoHS, and the IECEE CB Scheme—ensuring suitability for regulated research settings and GLP-compliant workflows.

Key Features

• 4.3-inch WQVGA color touchscreen interface with intuitive icon-based navigation and real-time status feedback—including dynamic error/warning messaging during operation
• Dual operational modes: Infusion-only (single/dual channel) and fully programmable infusion/withdrawal (single/dual channel), supporting up to 50-step methods with user-defined naming (alphanumeric)
• Wide flow range: 1.28 pL/min to 88.28 mL/min—compatible with syringes from 0.5 µL to 60 mL capacity
• Integrated I/O architecture featuring RS-232, USB, TTL footswitch, RS-485, IEEE-1394, 15-pin D-Sub, and mini phono jack for seamless integration into automated test benches or multi-instrument control networks
• Robust mechanical design delivering 16 kg (35 lbs) linear force and optimized thermal stability—suitable for use with optional accessories including syringe heaters, cooling modules, and nano-bore tubing assemblies
• No PC dependency for method creation or execution; full programming and parameter adjustment performed directly on-device

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Pump 11 Elite accommodates standard Luer-lock and plastic/rubber syringes across a broad volume spectrum (0.5 µL–60 mL), enabling precise delivery of aqueous buffers, viscous polymer solutions, cell suspensions, and organic solvents. Its modular hardware platform supports optional temperature-controlled accessories—such as the Harvard Apparatus Syringe Heater (70-4510) and Vertical Cooling Module (70-4520)—to maintain sample integrity during extended infusions. Regulatory compliance extends beyond basic safety certification: the device’s firmware architecture supports audit-trail-ready operation when integrated with validated software platforms compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements. It meets ISO 13485-aligned manufacturing practices and is routinely deployed in laboratories adhering to ASTM D3418 (viscosity standards), USP (drug release testing), and ISO 8536-4 (infusion equipment specifications).

Software & Data Management

While fully functional as a standalone instrument, the Pump 11 Elite integrates natively with Harvard Apparatus’ proprietary software suite—including PumpControl and LabView-compatible drivers—for remote configuration, method synchronization, and time-stamped data logging. All user-defined protocols can be uploaded via USB or downloaded to host PCs for version-controlled archiving. The system records operational metadata (start/stop timestamps, flow deviations, error codes) in CSV-compatible format, facilitating traceability in QA/QC documentation and regulatory submissions. Optional Ethernet-to-serial gateways enable centralized fleet management across core facilities, with TLS-secured API endpoints available for integration into LIMS or ELN ecosystems under GxP-aligned validation protocols.

Applications

• Microdialysis sampling and analyte delivery in neuroscience and pharmacokinetic studies
• Gradient elution and mobile phase delivery in HPLC and UHPLC systems
• Precision microinjection into oocytes, embryos, or single cells for transgenic research
• Controlled reagent introduction in microfluidic organ-on-chip platforms
• Calibration and verification of mass spectrometry ion sources requiring stable nanoflow introduction
• Long-duration nutrient or drug infusion in chronic in vivo rodent models

FAQ

What syringe sizes are supported by the Pump 11 Elite?
The pump accepts syringes ranging from 0.5 µL to 60 mL, including glass, polypropylene, and stainless-steel variants with standard Luer-lock fittings.
Can the Pump 11 Elite perform bidirectional flow without external hardware?
Yes—the infusion/withdrawal programmable models (70-4504 and 70-4505) execute reversible flow sequences natively, with no need for external valves or pressure regulators.
Is firmware update capability available over USB?
Yes—Harvard Apparatus provides signed firmware updates via USB flash drive, with version rollback support and checksum validation to ensure integrity.
Does the device support GLP-compliant audit trails?
When operated with validated third-party software (e.g., LabArchives ELN or Thermo Fisher SampleManager), the Pump 11 Elite generates timestamped, immutable logs meeting ALCOA+ principles for regulated environments.
What is the maximum backpressure tolerance at minimum flow rates?
At 1.28 pL/min, the pump maintains stable operation up to 100 psi (6.9 bar) with appropriate syringe and tubing selection; performance curves are documented in the technical manual for each syringe size.