Evaluation of the Technicon Axon analyser

Area of Science:

• Clinical chemistry
• Laboratory automation
• Analytical instrumentation

Background:

• The Technicon Axon analyser is a new automated system for clinical laboratories.
• Evaluating analytical performance is crucial for reliable diagnostic testing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the performance of the Technicon Axon analyser according to established guidelines.
• To evaluate photometric accuracy, imprecision, and carry-over effects.
• To determine the analyser's suitability for routine clinical laboratory use.

Main Methods:

• Photometric studies at 340 nm and 404 nm.
• Evaluation of pipette and diluting systems.
• Analysis of within-run and between-run imprecision for twelve analytes.
• Carry-over studies.
• Comparison with results from a Hitachi 737 analyser.

Main Results:

• Acceptable photometric results were obtained, with better accuracy and imprecision at 404 nm.
• Poor dispersion was noted at both wavelengths.
• Sample pipette imprecision increased with smaller volumes; reagent pipette and diluting systems performed well.
• Within-run imprecision was satisfactory, but between-run imprecision exceeded expectations.
• No significant carry-over contamination was detected.
• Patient sample results showed acceptable relative inaccuracy when compared to the Hitachi 737.

Conclusions:

• The Technicon Axon analyser demonstrates acceptable photometric performance and accuracy for most parameters.
• Significant between-run imprecision requires further investigation and potential optimization.
• The analyser shows potential for routine use, but limitations in between-run precision need to be addressed.