Laboratory Equipment

Pipetting of samples and reagents occurs daily in most research labs. For reliable results, pipetting must be performed with the highest accuracy and precision in mind. However, accuracy and precision aren’t always the only things to keep in mind regarding efficiency. The safety and comfort level of the lab technician should be factored in as well. Manual pipetting can cause unnecessary Repetitive Strain Injury to the one performing the task. An alternative to manual pipetting is the use of electronic pipettes.

What Are Electronic Pipettes Used For?

Electronic pipettes are one of the most significant advances in pipetting technology. They are used in academic labs, pharmaceutical labs, and research labs. Electronic pipettes come in various shapes, sizes, and technological capabilities.

Electronic pipettes are used for the same purpose as manual pipettes. Both electronic and manual pipettes are lab instruments used for measuring and transferring volumes of liquids. However, there is one main difference.

Manual or mechanical pipettes are ideal if you only occasionally pipette or pipette using small volumes. Mechanical pipetting is used when you have a limited number of samples with steps that are less repetitive. Mechanical pipettes can be used for transferring liquids but not for dispensing liquids.

Electronic pipettes are best used in scenarios where pipetting is frequently performed over long periods or when using large volumes of liquid. These pipettes are typically used to fill plates with reagents, create a dilution, transfer samples from one source to another, and prepare a reagent master mix.

In general, electronic pipettes are ideally used when many pipetting steps need to be repeated. Electronic pipettes help alleviate the strain on the lab technician.

How Do You Use An Electronic Pipette?

Manual pipettes work a little differently than electronic pipettes. With manual pipettes, the following steps are taken:

• set the volume on the pipette 
• depress the plunger
• immerse tip to correct depth
• let plunger go to resting position 
• wait for the liquid to flow into the pipette tip 
• hold pipette at anywhere up to a 45-degree angle against the wall of receiving vessel
• depress the plunger to the first stop 
• then push the plunger to the second stop 
• slide tip up the vessel wall to remove the pipette 
• let plunger return to its resting state

With an electronic pipette, some of these steps are automated. Here are the steps for an electronic pipette:

• set the volume and the speed using the digital display
• aspirate liquid one time
• automatically dispense equal volumes by holding the button down  
• then move the pipette from one position to the next

Are Electronic Pipettes More Accurate?

Electronic pipettes are more accurate than pipetting manually. When mechanically pipetting, you may be using your thumb hundreds of times a day. Accuracy depends on this being done correctly every time at the same and correct angle with a consistent amount of force.

Electronic pipettes remove the hand control one has over the pipette. The volume is set electronically, and with the push of a button, the plunger moves up and down electronically, leaving no room for human error.

Benefits to Switching to an Electronic Pipette:

Save time with electronic pipettes. Manual pipettes require frequent breaks due to hand discomfort when pipetting large volumes. Electronic pipettes eliminate the need for breaks and therefore save time.

Increased accuracy & precision with electronic pipettes. Due to the programmable digital display and motor, electronic pipettes dispense volumes with optimal accuracy and precision since there is no opportunity for human error.

Ergonomics benefits. Due to the improved shape, design, and reduced hand movements during prolonged and repeated use, electronic pipettes reduce the risk of Repetitive Strain Injury.

Reduction of human error. The automated process of pipetting dramatically decreases the likelihood of human error. Data and results become more consistent.

Ease of use. Electronic pipettes require fewer hand movements providing an easier user experience. Pipetting steps are programmable and automated.

Charging & uninterrupted usage of electronic pipettes. Pipettes have charger stands and are constantly charging while not in use. As a result, you never run out of battery.

Lab Pro offers a large variety of electronic pipette products making pipetting applications faster and more convenient. These automated pipettes eliminate the manual effort and prevent muscle strain while maintaining optimal performance. Lab Pro’s electronic pipettes come with adjustable thumb plungers and built-in LCDs.

For over 40 years, Lab Pro Inc. has been committed to delivering the highest quality chemicals, tweezers, and hard-wire cutters, lab supplies, and cleanroom PPE apparel to medical device and electronic manufacturing companies and laboratories worldwide. To learn more, visit the biggest Lab Supply showroom in California, or contact us online at 888-452-2776.