Computerized Sample Transport System Connects Diverse Resources

Biotech researchers at large institutions can link the laboratory bench to various sophisticated analytical instruments via a computerized sample transport system.

LAB2LAB, which is produced by TTP LabTech (Royston, United Kingdom), is a novel laboratory sample transport and management system for linking laboratories to existing analytical instrumentation in order to optimize analysis times and maximize equipment usage.

LAB2LAB, which is based on a system of low-pressure compressed air tubes, transfers samples from remote laboratories to existing HPLC, LCMS, GC/MS, UPLC, and NMR equipment.

In its simplest configuration, LAB2LAB comprises a microtube sender, router, buffer, receiver, and the flexible delivery tubing, which connects the system components together. LAB2LAB is easy to expand, as each router can connect up to 30 senders/receivers and multiple routers can be used per system. Future expansion allows the user to connect bulk senders allowing racks of microtubes to be sent automatically.

The microtube sender can be sited in any laboratory. When a sample is ready for analysis, the researcher scans the barcode on the microtube and enters details on a personal computer. The microtube is then sent pneumatically to the router, which manages the flow of microtubes. When each sample is received, its barcode is read, and it is either transferred to an available analytical instrument, to the buffer unit that can hold up to 96 microtubes, or to a manual collection point or waste if no further sample analysis is required.

LAB2LAB has been developed using the same pneumatic technology that has been successfully used in TTP Labtech’s comPOUND and comPILER sample-storage systems for many years, providing a reliable, secure, and rapid means of transporting samples around research facilities. The transport pipes can be run within the superstructure of a building or on the surface of walls and ceilings (as required by the end user). There is no theoretical limit to transport distances. A single six bar compressed air supply can easily transport tubes up to 1,000 meters. Longer distances can be achieved by using boosters.

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