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LAB-ON-VALVE is an exceptionally versatile  tool for automated microminiaturization  of reagent based assays. By measuring reaction rate kinetics ( rather than the “end” point), a typical assay is completed within a minute or less, and since typically 20 microliters of sample  and a similar  volume(s) of reagent(s) are used per assay,  saving on reagent cost – a most expensive consumable  in a serial assay – is substantial.  As an example, the amount of ammonia reagent intended for a single manual assay ( Hach Co. Ammonia kit ) is sufficient for one thousand assays when used in  FIAlab-on-valve system. Even with an extensive wash, a sampling cycle generates only about 0.5mL of waste.

VERSATILITY is the key feature of the LAB-ON-VALVE design. The six position valve allows a random access to sample and reagent ports, and the forward-reverse-stop flow microfluidic processing allows a sequence of reagents to be added to a sample, to mix and to  incubate the reaction mixture and to carry out measurement in real time in any desired sequence in the same flow system configuration.  While the conventional flow through analyzers must be physically reconfigured, when changing from one reagent based chemistry to another one, LAB-ON-VALVE system is simply  “reconfigured” by changing the software protocol, that controls the dilution, mixing, sequencing and reaction times by programming the microfluidic flow.

MEASUREMENT of reagent/analyte reaction can be carried by UV-VIS SPECTROPHOTOMETRY, while data are collected at four independently selectable wavelengths, of which one may serve for  referencing as a baseline. Data collection and baseline zeroing is automated at selected point in the measurement cycle. The entire spectrum can be obtained at any time, thus assisting in selection of best wavelengths. The same applies for FLUORESCENCE or LUMINESCENCE measurements to which the FIAlab-on-valve is fully compatible.

CALIBRATION, and ASSAY is carried fully automatically when using a sample changer, programmed and controlled by FIAlab software. The same software  serves as  a an integrated platform for all functions of the assay protocol as well as for report generation, graphical presentation, remote control via internet and data transmission.  Small sample series are conveniently assayed manually, since the rapid sample turnover ( up to two measurements  per minute – depending on the reaction rate) does not waste operators time. Rapid startup and shutdown time ( max 5.min) allows rapid changeover from one type of assay to another.

Please email or phone FIAlab Instruments for additional product information. Email: fialab@flowinjection.com, Voice: 425-376-0450 or 1-800-963-1101,  Fax: 425-376-0451

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