Ergonomic Pipettes

Faculty/Staff Ergonomics

Ergonomic Pipettes

Ergonomic pipettes differ from traditional manual pipettes in that the design offers a way to reduce the force required to perform the pipetting task.

For example,

a lightweight pipette makes it easier to hold;
a finger hook lets you rest your hand and use a lighter grip;
a magnetic latch holds the plunger down reducing the need to exert continued thumb pressure;
a multi-channel reduces repetition and
an electronic pipette eliminates most of the pipetting forces altogether.

In addition to these features, there are new designs that drastically reduce dispensing and ejection tip forces.

There are a variety of ergonomic pipettes available. Sales representatives for the different manufacturers can provide samples for you to try. This can help you decide if an ergonomic pipette is applicable to your needs. Contact your Principal Investigator to find out what your laboratory’s policy is for purchasing and using different pipettes. Keep in mind that purchasing a different pipette will usually require purchasing different tips.

Ergonomic Pipettes

Ergonomic Solution	Features	Procurement
Rainin Pipet Lite LTS (Manual) Single Channel	Pipet Lite reduces ejection forces by 70% Magnetic assist helps locate and hold zero position for improved results LTS® LiteTouch Tip Ejection for ultra-light tip ejection Reduces your risk of RSIs. Uses LTS® tips only	BearBuy (SciQuest) Login to Blu Click “Finance” Tab Click “Fisher UCOP” Search: pipet, rainin lite LTS
Thermo Finnpipette Novus Single Channel (Electronic)	Lightweight electronic pipette. Bright and clear graphical backlit display. Adjust the finger rest, with over 60° of movement, to fit your hand exactly. Ten different pipetting functions and nine pipetting speeds to choose from. Lightweight, long-life battery can be fully recharged in only one hour.	BearBuy (SciQuest) Login to Blu Click “Finance” Tab Click “Fisher UCOP” Search: pipet, thermo finnpipette novus
Eppendorf Research Pipette Single and Multi-channel (Manual)	Separate tip ejection (2-button operation) Reduced operating forces Four-figure volume display is magnified for improved visibility Autoclavable lower section Single-handed operation	BearBuy (SciQuest) Login to Blu Click “Finance” Tab Click “VWR UCOP” Search: pipet, eppendorf research
Biohit mLINE (Single and Multi-channel)	Biohit mLINE is lightweight and has a short length Plunger depression and tip ejection forces are low Volume locking button Patented Optiload tip loading mechanism for perfect tip sealing and effortless tip ejection Clear and easy-to-read display with big numbers and small increments Volume range color-coding for easy pipette selection and 5 color-coding caps	BearBuy (SciQuest) Login to Blu Click “Finance” Tab Click “VWR UCOP” Search: pipet, biohit mLine
VistaLab Ovation Manual and Electronic Single and Multiple Channel Pipettes	The unique design of Vistalab Ovation relaxes the shoulder and upper arm and minimizes forearm and wrist rotations Works best with low-profile containers Low-force, form-fitting plunger manually controls aspiration and dispensing speeds with minimal effort Light tip ejection force Adjustable finger hook Disposable battery	BearBuy (SciQuest) Login to Blu Click “Finance” Tab Click “VWR UCOP” Search: pipet, ovation