Active Sample Manager (ASM)
The ASM is our automated sample management system for high-throughput storage of tubes, vials, and plates with a temperature range down to -20°C.
ASM Store
Each self-contained ASM Store is equipped to pick and compile individual 2-D barcoded microtubes, cryovials, or 96-microtube racks or microplates at quick rates, all within an inert, temperature-controlled environment from ambient to -20˚C. Three different models allow you to choose the right ASM Store to accommodate your storage needs.
The specialized design of the ASM Store allows for the expansion of the ASM system by combining multiple ASM Store modules to one ASM Server. In addition, as tube picking and compiling functions are contained within each ASM Store module, tube pick rates and overall system output increases proportionately with the addition of each ASM Store module.
Compiled racks can be held until needed within the secure, user-defined storage of the ASM Store, or can be transferred directly to the ASM Server module or hand-off arm for retrieval and processing. This system architecture provides users with the highest level of flexibility and accessibility to meet current and future application demands.
ASM Server
The ASM Server module is combined with one or more ASM Store modules to complete the Active Sample Manager (ASM) system. The ASM Server provides automated microtube input/output functionality for one or more ASM Store modules yielding a balanced, efficient work flow.
Otherwise known as the “brains” of the system, the ASM Server features an integrated active thaw, a robotic hand-off arm to third-party devices, and integrated 1-D and 2-D barcode reading. Every barcode is tracked on entry and exit to the system.
Hamilton Storage Technologies’ software and standard Applications Programming Interface (API) makes integration with Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and third-party instrumentation quick and easy.
Modular, scalable and transportable, the ASM system can grow with your library.
Features &
Benefits
- Flexible consumable configuration―An ASM Store module can store up to 207,360 microtubes or 2,160 microplates, accommodating all the popular microtube sizes, including 0.5 and 1.4 ml microtubes and 1 dram vials.
- Processing speed―Up to 120 tube racks and plates can be delivered out of storage, per hour while the high-speed picking, thawing and return rates of microtubes are 300 to 1,000 microtubes per hour. These rates are unparalleled thanks to our proprietary adaptive process technology (APT). Additionally, an ASM picks even faster with more than one Store. Unlike other systems that slow down as their single picker becomes overburdened with a growing tube collection, the design of the ASM allows for multiple pickers with simultaneous picking. Each additional Store that is added has its own gantry for rack selection, picker for tube selection and smart cache for look-ahead picking.
- Modular capacity―As your library expands, you can easily add new ASM Store modules. Each ASM Store has the ability to de-fragment racks to eliminate empty positions―maximizing storage capacity.
- Integrated thaw―Each ASM Server module features integrated active thaw of 40 racks simultaneously, application program interface and integrated 1-D and 2-D barcode reading. Additionally, the ASM Server allows up to 40 racks to be accessed manually from the door.
- Integrated hand-off―With the ASM Store, you can create and store custom map files to preset how cherry-picked microtubes are organized in the destination rack. Then, use the fully automated hand-off arm for scheduled delivery to your MICROLAB® STAR workstation along with other 3rd party instruments.
- Storage flexibility―The system allows users to select the most appropriate conditions for their samples: nitrogen or dry air atmosphere, and user selectable thaw temperature.
- Process safety―The system monitors and records all hardware movements and features large system-status displays, redundant safety systems, as well as automated error recovery and emergency shutdown procedures.
- Easy installation―The ASM system is easily installed in your lab without the disruption and expense of large-scale investments in facilities or infrastructure.
