SWITCH: The hybrid pipette that never forces a compromise

Choosing between efficiency and control is often necessary when selecting the appropriate pipette. Manual pipettes provide accurate control over liquid handling, making them perfect for tasks like mixing, dissolving pellets or removing supernatants. However, manual pipettes fall short when carrying out repetitive processes like aliquoting.

Electronic or repeater pipettes make these processes easier and lessen the hand strain that comes with repetitive manual processes, but often come with a higher price and less straightforward operation compared to manual alternatives.

The SWITCH hybrid pipette stops users from having to compromise, combining the advantages of both manual and electronic pipettes in a single device. With the SWITCH hybrid pipette, there is:

• No need to alter the manual pipetting routine. As with a conventional mechanical pipette, precise liquid control is maintained for each application.
• No need to waste time aliquoting. The repeat dispense mode allows users to rapidly dispense numerous aliquots from a single aspiration, without requiring complicated user set-up or training.
• Reduced risk of RSI. Hand strain is reduced as the plunger is always set to a comfortable height, and both the plunger and tip ejection mechanism require extremely low force.

How it works

The SWITCH is a cutting-edge, single channel pipette that streamlines pipetting activities by combining quick aliquoting and accurate manual control in a single device. Its ergonomic handle and easy-to-adjustment mechanism make pipetting consistently simple and enjoyable. It comes in sizes ranging from 2 to 1,000 μl.

Overview

Image Credit: INTEGRA Biosciences

1. The ergonomic plunger requires less force than conventional mechanical pipette and is always positioned at the ideal height.
2. The quick set ring makes one-handed volume changes and repeat dispense parameter set-up simple.
3. A curved tip ejector button, combined with GRIPTIPS® pipette tips, provides remarkably low ejection forces.
4. The mode switch allows a smooth transition between repeat dispense mode and manual pipetting.
5. Easy-to-read display with large, clear digits.

Same technique, smarter pipette

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The SWITCH provides the same ease of use and comfortable feel as a conventional handheld mechanical pipette. The quick set ring enables users to quickly and simply adjust the dispense volume without setting the pipette down.

A firmware lock guards against unintentional modifications while in use, and the ring can even revolve past 100 % to 10 % without resetting. Users enjoy complete control over aspiration and dispensing speed using their thumb.

Measure unknown volumes

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The SWITCH allows users to conveniently measure unknown volumes of liquid straight from the container. Simply aspirate the liquid, and the pipette shows the precise volume in real time.

Save time when aliquoting

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The SWITCH can be used to automate repeat dispensing, the most common application of electronic pipettes, without the need for elaborate programming. Using the mode switch (1), users can seamlessly change from manual to electronic pipetting. The fast set ring (2) allows users to choose the dispense volume, number of aliquots and pipetting speed. Once these parameters are set, the pipette precisely controls aspiration and dispensing, which is initiated with a single plunger (3) press.

Reduced risk of RSI

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The SWITCH is designed to be both comfortable and efficient, reducing strain during extended pipetting sessions.

• The plunger remains at the same height regardless of volume, ensuring a comfortable grip. This allows for fine manual control over small liquid amounts, as well as full volume dispensing without overstretching the thumb.
• In repeat dispense mode, the plunger height is decreased, creating a convenient button for easy aliquoting.
• GRIPTIPS snap on with minimal force, decreasing strain during tip attachment and ejection.
• The curved ejector button trajectory allows a more natural movement than conventional straight-down designs.
• The SWITCH is lighter than most electronic pipettes. Its slightly wider circumference and finger hook provide a stable, comfortable grasp.

Storage and charging options to fit every lab

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The SWITCH has a long-lasting battery that can sustain a full day of pipetting and offers a variety of charging choices to meet the needs of busy laboratories. The battery can be recharged while the pipette is stored on the Flex charging station, keeping SWITCH pipettes organized and ready to use at all times, or via a USB-C port while the pipette is in use.

Pipettes that never loosen, leak, or fall off

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GRIPTIPS remain securely connected and correctly aligned regardless of how many side well touch-offs are conducted. Users no longer have to hammer pipette tips into place or worry about them falling off during use!

The GRIPTIPS rim (3) snaps over the Multi-Lobes (1), safely attaching them with an o-ring seal (2). As a result, GRIPTIPS will never accidentally fall off. A shoulder (4) acts as a positive stop to prevent over-tightening of the tip. That indicates that the tip is either on or off, with nothing in between.

Sustainability through longevity and plastic reduction

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The longer consumers can use a device, the better for the environment. INTEGRA designs goods to be wear-resistant and easily serviceable, extending their service life and improving sustainability. In addition, the company provides low-plastic consumable solutions for reservoirs and pipette tips.

See it work

Video Credit: INTEGRA Biosciences

Tech info

Product specifications:

Source: INTEGRA Biosciences