Abstract: A process for automating the setting of parameters for a micro jetting system for dispensing reagents and a jetting system and control system arranged to perform the process of the resent invention are disclosed. The parameters which are adjusted by the system, are voltage level and pulse duration. Typically, the process works by cycling through a plurality of combinations of the two parameters, imaging droplets produced by each of those parameters and analysing those images to detect whether a droplet is formed, and if so, whether that droplet is suitable. In a particularly preferred approach, a statistical approach is used to generate a range of appropriate parameter combinations and an associated likelihood of each of those parameter combinations being acceptable.

Abstract: A piezoelectric dispensing apparatus (10) includes a piezoelectric dispensing device (20) including a fluid reservoir (20a) and a piezoelectric dispensing tube (70). The apparatus includes a seat for receiving the device and a plunger which is shaped and configured to abut with and seal the top of the reservoir and which defines a through bore to permit the application of vacuum and or pressure to the reservoir through the bore. The plunger may be moved up and down towards and away from the seat. The fluid reservoir defines an open top and an outlet at the base of the reservoir closed by a filter. The base of the reservoir define a foot. A secondary filter assembly is attachable to the base of the reservoir. The secondary filter assembly defines a bore which is in fluid communication with the reservoir when the secondary filter assembly is attached thereto, The secondary filter assembly also defines means for removably attaching the piezoelectric dispensing tube in fluid communication with the bore.

Abstract: A microdispensing apparatus comprising a jetting tube comprising an orifice at one end and an aperture at the other end, a transducer coupled with the jetting tube and adapted to apply a pressure pulse to the jetting tube in response to an electrical signal applied to the transducer such that liquid in the jetting tube is caused to pass therethrough, and means for collecting, capturing or retaining one or more compounds from liquid passing the jetting tube; a system for sampling, collecting and dispensing compounds in small volumes of liquid including the microdispensing apparatus; and methods of sampling, collecting and arraying small quantities of compounds in a liquid sample on a target.