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Extreme Accuracy
Mettler Toledo Manual Multichannel Adjustable Spacer
Mettler Toledo’s Rainin XLS+ manual multichannel adjustable spacer is a precision-engineered liquid handling instrument designed to bridge the gap between different labware formats. Technically, it features a unique mechanical spacing mechanism that allows the operator to expand or contract the distance between the nozzles with a simple adjustment dial.
This capability enables the seamless transfer of multiple samples simultaneously from microcentrifuge tubes to 24, 48, or 96-well plates, or vice-versa. By utilizing high-quality mechanical components and a robust design, this tool maintains strict volumetric accuracy across all channels, significantly improving throughput in workflows that would otherwise require tedious single-channel pipetting.
Mechanical Format Transfer Engineering
The XLS+ Manual Adjustable Spacer is technically defined by its ability to alter the center-to-center distance between its nozzles. This allows the user to transition from a 9 mm spacing (standard for 96-well plates) to a 14 mm or 19 mm spacing (ideal for tubes or 24-well plates). This mechanical flexibility is achieved through a precise internal rack-and-pinion system that ensures all channels move symmetrically and lock into the desired position. This engineering eliminates the inefficiency of moving samples one by one when working with mismatched labware.
Precise Volume Adjustment and Locking
To ensure volumetric integrity, the XLS+ utilizes a high-precision mechanical counter for volume setting. The tool features a locking mechanism that prevents accidental volume changes during pipetting cycles. Technically, this ensures that the selected volume is held constant across all channels throughout the entire sampling process. The friction-free internal components allow for smooth volume adjustment, while the clear digital display provides immediate feedback to the operator, ensuring high readability and reducing the risk of setting errors.
Patented LTS (LiteTouch System) Technology
Mettler Toledo integrates the patented LiteTouch System (LTS) into the XLS+ adjustable spacer to ensure consistent performance across all channels. LTS utilizes a cylindrical nozzle and a thin sealing ring with a positive stop, which technically guarantees a perfect, leak-proof seal with minimal insertion force. This design is particularly critical for manual multichannel tools, as it ensures that all tips are loaded at exactly the same height and with identical force, resulting in highly uniform aspiration and dispensing across the entire head.
Enhanced Ergonomics for Manual Operation
The XLS+ is designed with a focus on reducing the physical strain associated with manual pipetting. It features a lightweight design, a balanced center of gravity, and a contoured handle with a finger hook. These technical ergonomic features allow the user to maintain a relaxed grip and reduce the force required for both piston movement and tip ejection. By minimizing the mechanical resistance within the tool, the XLS+ helps prevent repetitive strain injuries (RSI) during intensive liquid handling sessions.
Superior Materials for Chemical Durability
The technical construction of the XLS+ incorporates high-grade materials to ensure long-term durability and chemical resistance. The internal pistons and external housing are engineered to withstand exposure to a wide range of laboratory reagents and solvents. This robustness ensures that the tool maintains its calibration and mechanical precision even in demanding laboratory environments. Furthermore, the materials are selected to allow for easy cleaning and decontamination, supporting the tool's use in sensitive biological or chemical applications.
Consistent Liquid Delivery Across Channels
Achieving channel-to-channel consistency is a primary technical challenge in manual multichannel tools. The XLS+ addresses this through the synchronized movement of its internal pistons. Every channel is mechanically linked to the central plunger, ensuring that the same amount of force and displacement is applied to each liquid column. This synchronization, combined with the LTS tip system, ensures that the coefficient of variation (CV) remains extremely low, providing the reliability needed for high-stakes experimental data.
RFID Technology for Asset Management
Each XLS+ manual sampling tool includes an embedded RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) chip. This chip stores critical technical information, including the model number, serial number, and calibration history. When used with an optional RFID reader and software, laboratory managers can technically track the tool's lifecycle and compliance status effortlessly. This digital integration simplifies the process of managing large fleets of tools and ensures that every instrument in the lab is properly maintained and within its calibration interval.
Reliability in Diverse Laboratory Workflows
The XLS+ adjustable spacer is technically versatile enough to support a broad spectrum of laboratory workflows, from genomic research to clinical diagnostics. Its ability to handle different volume ranges and labware formats makes it an essential tool for protocols involving sample dilution, reagent addition, or plate reformatting. The mechanical reliability of the adjustable spacer mechanism ensures that it can withstand thousands of adjustments without loss of precision, providing a durable solution for high-throughput manual liquid handling.
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