Tomtec Quadra 4 Automated Liquid Handling Workstation

Overview

The Tomtec Quadra 4 Automated Liquid Handling Workstation is an engineered platform for high-precision, medium-throughput liquid manipulation in regulated life science laboratories. Built upon over four decades of Tomtec’s expertise in automated fluidics, the Quadra 4 implements a dual-mode 96-channel parallel pipetting architecture—capable of simultaneous aspiration and dispensing across full microtiter plate formats. Its core operational principle relies on positive displacement air-gap pipetting, optimized for reproducible volumetric delivery across aqueous and organic solvent systems without tip exchange. This eliminates cross-solvent contamination and reduces consumable waste—a critical advantage in multi-step workflows such as compound library preparation, bioanalytical sample cleanup, and assay plate replication. Designed for robust daily use in QC, drug discovery, and clinical research environments, the Quadra 4 integrates mechanical precision with workflow modularity, enabling seamless transition between routine dilution series, solid-phase extraction (SPE), and plate-based assay setup—all within a single instrument footprint.

Key Features

• 96-channel pipetting engine with selectable tip volumes (up to 450 µL), supporting deep-well plate handling and high-volume transfers without tip changeover
• Integrated ultrasonic tip cleaning station with programmable wash cycles, ensuring carryover-free operation across diverse chemistries
• Dual-mode SPE module supporting both positive-pressure and vacuum-driven cartridge conditioning, elution, and drying—fully automated and protocol-controlled
• Six-position motorized deck with positional encoding and collision-aware navigation; accommodates standard SBS-format microplates, reagent reservoirs, and auxiliary modules
• Standalone touchscreen interface with embedded operating system—no external computer or driver installation required
• Open-system design compliant with ANSI/SLAS footprint standards; accepts third-party 96-well plates, SPE cartridges (e.g., Waters, Agilent, Phenomenex), and custom labware via user-defined deck maps

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Quadra 4 supports a broad range of sample matrices including serum, plasma, urine, cell lysates, organic extracts, and buffered aqueous solutions. Its pipetting system maintains accuracy and precision per ISO 8655-6 (volumetric performance of piston-operated instruments) across defined volume ranges. For regulated environments, the workstation supports audit-trail-enabled method storage and execution logs, aligning with GLP and GMP documentation requirements. While not pre-certified for FDA 21 CFR Part 11, its standalone architecture allows integration into validated laboratory information management systems (LIMS) or electronic lab notebooks (ELN) via CSV export and time-stamped protocol logging. All SPE protocols adhere to established EPA Method 8270 and ASTM D7237-18 guidelines for solvent compatibility and cartridge flow control.

Software & Data Management

The Quadra 4 runs Tomtec’s proprietary QuadraControl™ software, installed onboard and accessed via a 10.1-inch capacitive touchscreen. Protocols are constructed using a drag-and-drop graphical workflow editor, with parameterized steps for pipetting, SPE manifold control, deck movement, and tip washing. Each executed run generates a timestamped log file containing step-by-step actuator status, volume verification flags, and error codes—exportable via USB or network share. Method versions are stored with metadata (author, date, calibration ID), supporting version control and traceability. No cloud connectivity or remote access is enabled by default, preserving data sovereignty in closed-network facilities.

Applications

• High-fidelity serial dilutions for dose-response assays and reference standard preparation
• Automated solid-phase extraction of small molecules from biological matrices prior to LC-MS/MS analysis
• Plate replication and reformatting (e.g., 384-to-96, 96-to-384) in HTS screening pipelines
• Cell-based assay setup requiring precise cytokine or inhibitor dosing across multiplate arrays
• Pre-analytical sample cleanup for clinical toxicology and therapeutic drug monitoring workflows
• Method development for regulatory submissions where reproducibility, documentation, and equipment qualification are mandatory

FAQ

Does the Quadra 4 require a dedicated computer or IT infrastructure?

No—it operates independently with an integrated industrial-grade controller and touchscreen interface. External PCs are optional only for advanced data archiving or LIMS integration.
Can I use non-Tomtec SPE cartridges with this system?

Yes. The Quadra 4’s SPE module is mechanically and pneumatically agnostic; it supports industry-standard 1 mL, 3 mL, and 6 mL cartridges from multiple vendors when used with compatible manifold adapters.
Is calibration documentation provided with the instrument?

Yes. Each unit ships with a factory calibration certificate covering pipetting accuracy (per ISO 8655-6), deck positioning repeatability, and pressure control linearity for SPE operations.
What maintenance is required for the ultrasonic tip washer?

The ultrasonic bath requires periodic deionized water replacement and visual inspection of transducer integrity every 6 months under typical usage (≤8 hrs/day). No consumable parts are replaced during routine service.
How is method validation supported for regulated labs?

The system enables full parameter locking, electronic signature capture (via optional USB keyboard), and immutable run logs—providing foundational elements for IQ/OQ/PQ execution in alignment with USP and ISO/IEC 17025 frameworks.