Eppendorf Research plus single-channel pipette, variable, 20–200 µL, yellow, 3123000055

Varying sample volumes within the same volume range require a pipette that can be adjusted quickly and without the need for tools. The Eppendorf Research plus single-channel pipette, in its variable 20–200 µL version (yellow), meets precisely this requirement, with 0.2 µL increments and a spring-loaded tip cone that reduces the force required for tip loading. It is designed for workstations where dilution series or different sample volumes are used within the same batch.

Typical applications

The Eppendorf Research plus 20–200 µL is suitable for, amongst other things:

• Standard work in molecular biology
• Dilution series and reagent dispensing in routine laboratories
• Sample aliquoting into reaction vessels
• Preparing reaction mixtures in cell culture

Features and handling

For volumes up to 1 mL, Eppendorf’s Research plus range features a spring-loaded tip cone, which makes attaching and ejecting the pipette tip noticeably easier. As the lightest pipette in the Eppendorf range, the Research plus reduces hand strain during prolonged batch work. The lower section, featuring a Fortron PerfectPiston, can be quickly dismantled without tools for maintenance and cleaning.

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.

Comparing Research plus, Reference 2 and Xplorer

Anyone choosing between the three Eppendorf manual pipette ranges should first consider the operation. The Research plus is adjusted via a mechanical adjustment wheel, with no electronics and no display, making it robust and low-maintenance. The Reference 2 replaces the adjustment wheel with a single-button operation featuring a digital display, which is practical for laboratories with frequently changing volumes and multiple users sharing the same device. The Xplorer and Xplorer Plus go one step further, pipetting electronically programmed sequences, including password protection on the Plus model. For a clearly defined volume range in routine work, the mechanical Research Plus range remains the simplest choice.

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

121 °C, 1 bar overpressure, 20 minutes: the pipette can be autoclaved whilst fully assembled; the lower section does not need to be dismantled for this, only the filter sleeve and protective filter are placed separately in the autoclave. There is no need to re-lubricate the pistons afterwards, although a gravimetric check is still advisable. Without transport packaging, storage is intended at temperatures between –5 and 45 degrees Celsius and relative humidity between 10 and 95 per cent; during operation, the range is 5 to 40 degrees Celsius with the same humidity range. The relevant Eppendorf authorised dealer is the point of contact for warranty matters, excluding wear parts and damage resulting from misuse or the upper part being opened without authorisation.

Fixed volume or variable setting

Those who switch between several volumes within the same range in their day-to-day work – for example, when carrying out dilution series or handling different sample volumes per batch – will find a variable-volume pipette more flexible than using several fixed-volume devices. For a single, recurring value, however, a fixed-volume pipette from the Research-plus range is the better choice, as it prevents the adjustment wheel from being turned in the first place.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Eppendorf Research plus 20–200 µL autoclavable?
Yes. The upper and lower sections can be autoclaved together at 121 degrees Celsius and 1 bar overpressure for 20 minutes without the lower section needing to be dismantled. The filter sleeve and protective filter are autoclaved separately.

Does the pipette need to be recalibrated after autoclaving?
It is not necessary to re-lubricate the pistons after autoclaving. However, a gravimetric accuracy check is still recommended afterwards.

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 20–200 µL?
According to the epT.I.P.S. operating instructions: yellow 53 mm (2–200 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 on typical wearing 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 (20–200 µL, yellow)

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.