The PlateCrane EX™ is a microplate handler for laboratory automation which is optimized for handling labware in the "SBS footprint", including microplates, reservoirs, and disposable tip racks. The PlateCrane is optimized for loading and unloading automated lab instruments, such as microplate readers, microplate washers, automatable centrifuges and reagent dispensers. The PlateCrane microplate stacker is heavily used in assay development, cell biology, bioassay validation, DNA quantification, PCR setup and cleanup and high-throughput drug screening.
The EX features state-of-the-art controls and a new, rugged design. Never has lab automation been easier or more reliable. Interfaces are available to more than 150 microplate-based instruments, including virtually every reader, lab incubator, dispenser and pipettor commonly used in laboratories today. It has a capacity of up to 450 microplates, and makes it easy to configure a wide range of automation workcells.
The PlateCrane is available in a standard configuration, with 345° of horizontal rotation, and an advanced model, the PlateCrane 360™, which offers unlimited rotation. Also, both models offer a "Random Access" configuration where plates are stacked in shelves for random selection.
The PlateCrane EX™ is supplied with Hudson’s SoftLinx™ laboratory automation software. SoftLinx provides scheduling capability and an easy-to-use icon-based drag and drop Method Editor.
The PlateCrane EX™ can be part of a larger microplate transportation system by increasing the number of available stacks or combining it with the LabLinx microplate track based delivery system.
FEATURES
Plate Capacity: Up to 450 plates without lids or up to 275 plates with lids.
Plate Format: Portrait & Landscape – (Rotary Gripper)
Plate Storage Device: 2 removable stacks (expandable up to 15)
Housing Material: Painted steel covering cast aluminum housing.
Gripper Material: Black anodized aluminum; textured neoprene rubber inserts.
Arm Mechanism: Ball bearing axis with high-speed screw rail; mechanical stops to prevent continuous rotation (345° maximum).
Rotary Travel: 345° ¨
Horizontal Reach: From center of vertical axis: 12" – 18" radius
Vertical Reach: Maximum 22.75 in. from table, minimum 4.25 in. from table, total 18.0 in. vertical travel distance.
Size (H x W x D): 27 in. x 19 in. x 27 in.
Weight: about 45 lbs.
Computer Interface: RS-232 serial cable
