With its touchscreen operation, the repetitive pipette HandyStep touch from BRAND brings a new operating concept for repetitive pipettes to the lab.
Suggestions from users have been taken into consideration and three new functionalities have been implemented. The first is fast volume setting via keypad: swipe or type – in addition to the jog dial, the new version offers the possibility to enter the volume via a keypad. Next is new volume ranges for multidispensing: for even more flexibility in volume setting, the new version offers finer step intervals in all modes. The third new functionality is a calibration reminder: in addition to saving their last calibration, users can now also set a reminder for the next calibration date.
In addition, optimised font sizes and the automatic energy-saving mode even with inserted PD-Tip make working with the HandyStep touch even easier and more efficient.
Touchscreen operation provides many advantages: desired functions are quickly and easily accessed with a simple swipe, important information is always in view, and integrated help functions are just a tap away. The new device now brings all the advantages of touchscreen efficiency to the laboratory. Its user interface (UI) was inspired by smartphones and uses self-explanatory, easily understood symbols.
In addition, the new solution offers several other advantages. Attaching tips is as simple as inserting the tip and initiating automatic locking with a tap of the user’s finger. With electronic tip ejection, removing tips is just as easy: users simply tap on the display screen, confirm with the press of a button, and the tip is ejected. Electronic tip ejection reduces the risk of contamination.
Dispensing is effortless. A simple press with the index finger operates the Step button, minimising the risk for RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury Syndrome). With the integrated Favourites function, complex processes can be saved to avoid repetitive programming. Once a defined process is saved as a favourite, the user can access it again and again.
The HandyStep touch S model offers an extended range of functions, for increased flexibility in the laboratory. In addition to the standard modes “Multi-Dispensing”, “Auto-Dispensing” and “Pipetting”, the touch S also includes “Sequential Dispensing”, “Multi-Aspiration” and “Titration” modes.
Setting up different dispensing steps in “Sequential Dispensing” mode is particularly straightforward. Up to 10 different steps can be defined with individual volumes. Steps can be changed, added or deleted, at any time. Several steps can be looked at simultaneously, in tabular form, without switching the view. This way, the user recognises immediately when an error has occurred in the series; for example, as a result of duplication or skipping a work step.
The device demonstrates its strengths not only during, but also after a work process. Cleaning the glass display screen is considerably easier and faster than cleaning a button-controlled repeating dispenser. When required, the robust glass surface can be safely cleaned using standard detergents and disinfectants.
In “Auto-Dispensing” mode, the device can use the learning mode to calculate the average interval time for three dispensing processes and continues to work at this rate when the Step button is held. This reduces hand strain, particularly during long series. Additionally, defined time intervals can be set. In all modes, the device remembers the last tip that was used and the corresponding settings for efficiency when the same protocol is frequently performed.
The device is simple to charge: when placed in the optional charging stand, the battery charges inductively. The charging stand itself features an LED strip that lights up during charging. Once the battery is charged, the LED turns off, indicating that the device is ready for use.
The HandyStep touch repeating pipette automatically detects the volume of BRAND PD-Tips II. Tips from many other manufacturers can be also used. Due to the positive displacement principle, the new solution can be used for wide range of applications, including for volatile, foamy or highly viscous media.
