Eppendorf Research plus single-channel pipette, variable, 0.5–10 µL, medium grey, 3123000020

Varying sample volumes within the same volume range require a pipette that can be adjusted quickly and without tools. The Eppendorf Research plus single-channel pipette, in its variable 0.5–10 µL version in medium grey, meets precisely this need, with an increment of 0.01 µL and a spring-loaded tip cone that reduces the effort required to attach the tip. It is designed for workstations where dilution series or different sample volumes occur within the same reaction. One example is the optimisation of qPCR reactions, where primer and probe volumes vary slightly from run to run and need to be set once, rather than having to keep several fixed-volume pipettes on hand.

Typical applications

The Eppendorf Research plus 0.5–10 µL is suitable, amongst other things, for:

• Dilution series during qPCR assay optimisation, where primer and probe volumes vary slightly from run to run
• PCR reactions and dilution series
• Reagent addition in ELISA diagnostics
• Sample preparation for sequencing

Features and handling

The spring-loaded tip cone, which Eppendorf uses in all Research plus pipettes up to 1 mL, reduces the force required to attach and eject the pipette tip. As the lightest pipette in the Eppendorf pipette range, Research plus reduces hand strain during prolonged batch work. For cleaning and maintenance, the lower section with the Fortron PerfectPiston can be quickly dismantled without the need for tools.

Eppendorf provides a user adjustment feature for the Research-plus range, known as secondary adjustment, which allows the pipette to be set for a liquid other than water without permanently altering the factory setting.

Selection guide within the Research-plus range

The volume ranges vary significantly across the variable Research plus models. The following overview shows neighbouring variable models from the same range:

The appropriate volume in each individual case depends on the actual sample quantities and reagent volumes involved in the respective step. Selecting a volume that is too large reduces relative accuracy at the lower end of the scale, whilst selecting a volume that is too small necessitates several pipetting steps instead of a single one.

This model uses the medium-grey tip range (0.1 to 20 µL), which also covers the fixed-volume 5 µL and 10 µL models from the same range.

A comparison of Research plus, Reference 2 and Xplorer

The Eppendorf pipette range is divided into three lines, each offering increasing ease of use. Research plus is the basic mechanical line, where the volume is set manually using the adjustment wheel. Reference 2 uses a single-button operation with a digital display for the same purpose, which saves time, particularly when volumes are changed frequently. Xplorer and Xplorer plus dispense electronically and can be programmed for recurring pipetting steps; Xplorer plus also features password protection and freely definable fixed volumes. For a laboratory that needs to maintain a constant volume over many repetitions, Research plus offers the simpler and more cost-effective solution.

Differentiation within the Research plus range

If the volume range of this pipette does not fully meet your requirements, it is worth considering neighbouring Research plus models, for example the Eppendorf Research plus single-channel pipette, variable (1–10 mL), 3123000080 Eppendorf Research plus G pipette, single-channel, variable, 2–20 µL, light grey, epT.I.P.S. box, 3123000098. This allows you to put together a suitable combination of several volume ranges without having to switch to a different product line.

Use, storage and maintenance

The pipette can be autoclaved whilst assembled at 121 °C, 1 bar overpressure for 20 minutes, without the need to dismantle the lower section. The filter sleeve and protective filter must be placed separately in the autoclave. Re-lubrication of the pistons is not required afterwards, although a gravimetric check is nevertheless recommended. For storage without packaging, the conditions are –5 to 45 degrees Celsius and 10 to 95 per cent relative humidity; the instrument is designed for operation at 5 to 40 degrees Celsius within the same humidity range. The warranty is handled via the local Eppendorf authorised partner; wear parts and damage resulting from improper use or unauthorised opening of the upper part are excluded from the warranty.

Fixed volume or variable setting

A variable-volume pipette is worthwhile whenever different volumes within the same range are required during a workflow, such as for dilution series or varying sample volumes. The adjustment wheel allows for adjustment without tools and without changing equipment. If, on the other hand, only a single volume is pipetted on a permanent basis, a fixed-volume pipette from the same range reduces the risk of error caused by accidental adjustment. When optimising qPCR protocols, the volume of primers and probes varies from run to run; the variable setting eliminates the need to switch between several fixed-volume pipettes.

Frequently asked questions

Can the pipette withstand steam sterilisation?
Yes, at 121 degrees Celsius and 1 bar overpressure for 20 minutes, whilst assembled and without first dismantling the base unit. The filter sleeve and protective filter must be placed separately in the autoclave.

Is re-lubrication necessary after autoclaving?
No, according to the manufacturer, there is no need to re-lubricate the pistons after autoclaving. However, a gravimetric check of accuracy afterwards is recommended.

How is the volume set on the variable model?
Via the mechanical adjustment wheel on the pipette head, without a display or electronics. The set value is retained until the next adjustment.

Which pipette tips are compatible with the Eppendorf Research plus 0.5–10 µL?
According to the operating instructions, epT.I.P.S. medium grey 40 mm (0.1–20 µL).

Is the pipette an in vitro diagnostic device?
According to the operating instructions, the Research plus range is designed for the low-contamination transfer of liquids, including samples from the human body and reagents within the context of an in vitro diagnostic application as defined by Directive 98/79/EC.

To whom should warranty claims be addressed?
To the relevant Eppendorf authorised dealer. Excluded are damages resulting from misuse, unauthorised opening of the upper part, and wear and tear of typical wear parts.

Can the pipette be readjusted if it deviates from the factory setting?
According to the manufacturer, secondary calibration is provided for the Research-plus range. Details are set out in a separate Eppendorf calibration document, the full text of which was not available at the time of writing.

What does the IVD marking on the Research-plus range signify?
The user manual generically refers to the pipette as an in vitro diagnostic device within the meaning of Directive 98/79/EC, for the entire Research-plus range. No product-specific confirmation was available at the time of writing.

Technical details

Contents

• 1 Eppendorf Research plus single-channel pipette (0.5–10 µL, medium grey)

Individual requirements & procurement service

For suitable pipette tips, spare parts or additional volume ranges from the Research plus range, LT Laborhandel provides support via its own procurement service at lt-laborhandel.de/service.