Press Releases

Nexar Array Tape Instrument Cuts Costs and Increases Throughput

Alexandria, Minnesota – January 6, 2008. The Douglas Scientific Nexar™ is the world’s first array tape based automation instrument, replacing individual microplates with wells embossed into a continuous plastic tape. The array tape platform lowers high costs associated with processing and transferring individual microplates while using smaller reaction volumes (as low as 800 nl) and low cost consumables. This results in up to 90 percent price per data point cost reduction over microplate based methods. Compound addition, reagent addition, incubation, cover tape application and removal, and detection are performed in an in-line, reel-to-reel fashion. Nexar™ features quick-release interchangeable modules maximizing flexibility for changes in reaction protocols and increasing cost savings when updating the instrument with the latest liquid handling or detection technologies. The small footprint Nexar™ is an excellent alternative to complex, high-cost robotic systems. The ability to load hundreds of microplate equivalents on one reel provides true walk-away capability. The arrays in an entire reel can be processed simultaneously in a water bath thermal cycler or incubator, providing unparalleled thermal cycling and incubation throughput. The array tape also has superior thermal transfer capabilities in comparison with microplates, which ensures sharper temperature transitions and more accurate results. For more information, call our exclusive representative at 952.886.0987 or visit www.douglasscientific.com.

"The voyage can be long
but the future is
nearby if you just look
for it"