An evaluation of the Kemtek 1000 sample processor

The Kemtek 1000 Sample Processor has been evaluated for precision, accuracy, speed and reliability. Precision was better than 1.0% at all volumes tested and accuracy within +/-5%. A l00-tube assay could be set up within 15 min when patient specimens plus two reagents were sampled using a two probe system. Carry-over could be reduced to <0.01% by using a sufficient number of wash steps, the latter being related to the assay requirements. Evidence was found for adsorption of protein to the probe tubing but inaccuracies due to this could be reduced by introducing wash steps between samples. Problems over 12 months have been minor and quickly resolved. The authors were pleased with the way the processor performed and their staffhave confidence in leaving it to set up their assays.