Abstract: A sampling device includes a table (12) and an overhead beam (14) which is spaced and supported above the table by two columns (16, 18). In the center of the beam, a cutting tool (20) assembly is located. The table is mounted so as to be moveable in the x and y directions in a generally horizontal plane. By moving the table in the x and y directions, any part of the table may be located under the cutting tool assembly. A computerized controller includes a digital scanner to record an image of an array of samples on the table and control the cutting tool to cause it to cut out a sample from the array, pick it up and transfer it to a selected location.