Workflow Automation

Automation is a key requirement for high-throughput screening as well as for streamlining assay preparation in academic, clinical, and industrial laboratories. Find out how BMG LABTECH microplate readers can be easily integrated into automated systems.

Automation aims at converting benchtop assays to automated high-throughput screenings. This is typically achieved by the use of robotic platforms to autonomously manage multiple samples and microplates simultaneously, in order to significantly speed up data acquisition. 

Robotic platforms for high-throughput screenings range from simple automated liquid handling machines to multidimensional workstations performing multiple functions. An automated workflow station usually requires the integration of different equipment such as liquid handling systems, plate hotels, and handlers, analysis instruments such as microplate readers, and data handling systems.

This is usually achieved with the support of one or more mechanical arms. Typically, a robotic system manages microplates from station to station for several steps such as reagent addition, mixing, incubation, and detection.

Besides screening, automation is also used to streamline assay preparation in academic, clinical, and industrial laboratories.

Easy integration

All BMG LABTECH microplate readers are designed to be easily integrated into automated systems and are equipped with an accessible robot-compatible plate carrier.

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Moreover, the PHERAstar FSX, CLARIOstar Plus, VANTAstar, and Omega series readers share the same x-y dimensions and plate out/in locations. Therefore, once automation hardware has been designed for one, the solution will work for the other platforms as well, minimizing the cost of automation.

 

Straightforward control

BMG LABTECH’s microplate readers can be controlled through ActiveX, DDE, and SiLA interfaces. All interfaces are fully documented and manuals are included with our software. BMG LABTECH’s reader control language for basic commands has remained consistent, ensuring the future-proofing of any automated system.  In addition, early drivers can execute basic functions (i.e., plate in, plate out and read) even on the most advanced readers.

Our software includes many automation features that allow flexibility without any programming. The ASCII data output is the most versatile in the industry and works with most LIMS and automation platforms. For more complex tasks, our experienced software team can work with you to help design any automation solution.

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Examples of BMG LABTECH automation collaborations

  • PHERAstar FSX integrated with a HighRes Biosolutions system at the Pivot Park Screening Centre, Oss, NL, for high-throughput screening of compounds
  • CLARIOstar Plus integrated with a PAA S-LAB Pro automated handler and a LiCONiCs incubator for high-throughput detection of cells under physiological conditions
  • Multifunctional screens with the PHERAstar FSX and HighRes Biosolutions’ MicroStar, or the 
  • Kinase TR-FRET screen with the PHERAstar and The Automation Partnership’s AssetTM HTS System
  • Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) screen with the PHERAstar and Caliper® Life Science’s Twister® robot
  • Compound solubility screen with the NEPHELOstar® and Hamilton’s Microlab® Star
  • DNA quantification screen with the FLUOstar® Omega and Hamilton’s Microlab® Star

Companies that integrated our readers in their automation workflow

Automation logos

 
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CyBi-Screen-Machine is a registered trademark of CyBio AG. 

Hamilton Microlab is a registered trademark of Hamilton Corp. 
Twister is a registered trademark of Caliper Life Sciences, Inc. 

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