Abstract: Methods and apparatus configured and adapted to provide less carryover in an automated clinical analyzer are disclosed. The methods include aspirating a scavenger segment (e.g., a buffer- and surfactant-containing segment) into the interior of a pipette along with the specimen or reagent. The scavenger film aids in preventing adherence of the specimen or reagent to the interior of the pipette. Apparatus configured to carry out the methods are provided, as are other aspects.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus configured and adapted to provide less carryover in an automated clinical analyzer are disclosed. The methods include immersing a pipette into a neutralizing liquid vessel and aspirating a neutralizing liquid (e.g., a hypochlorite solution) into an interior of a pipette. The aspirated portion of the neutralizing liquid used to cleanse the pipette interior is then dispensed back into the neutralizing liquid vessel, rather than disposing of the used neutralizing liquid to a waste station. Apparatus and systems configured to carry out the methods are provided, as are other aspects.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus configured and adapted to provide less carryover in an automated clinical analyzer are disclosed. The methods include aspirating a scavenger segment (e.g., a buffer- and surfactant-containing segment) into the interior of a pipette along with the specimen or reagent. The scavenger film aids in preventing adherence of the specimen or reagent to the interior of the pipette. Apparatus configured to carry out the methods are provided, as are other aspects.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus configured and adapted to provide less carryover in an automated clinical analyzer are disclosed. The methods include immersing a pipette into a neutralizing liquid vessel and aspirating a neutralizing liquid (e.g., a hypochlorite solution) into an interior of a pipette. The aspirated portion of the neutralizing liquid used to cleanse the pipette interior is then dispensed back into the neutralizing liquid vessel, rather than disposing of the used neutralizing liquid to a waste station. Apparatus and systems configured to carry out the methods are provided, as are other aspects.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are adapted to wash magnetic particles isolated in a vessel. The methods include providing a vessel with wash liquid and a layer of magnetic particles, providing a probe having aspiration capability, positioning a probe tip above the layer of magnetic particles, aspirating at least some of the wash liquid above the layer, positioning the probe tip below the layer, and aspirating at least some of the wash liquid from below the layer of magnetic particles. The suction may be turned off as the probe tip descends past the layer. A novel magnetic particle washing apparatus are disclosed.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are adapted to wash magnetic particles isolated in a vessel. The methods include providing a vessel with wash liquid and a layer of magnetic particles, providing a probe having aspiration capability, positioning a probe tip above the layer of magnetic particles, aspirating at least some of the wash liquid above the layer, positioning the probe tip below the layer, and aspirating at least some of the wash liquid from below the layer of magnetic particles. The suction may be turned off as the probe tip descends past the layer. A novel magnetic particle washing apparatus are disclosed.