Abstract: Apparatus and a method are described which permit the detection of penetration of liquid by an apertured container used for aspirating and dispensing the liquid. The apparatus and method feature control means for advancing the container an increment of the maximum possible distance to the liquid; generating a pressure differential within the dispensing container that is sufficient to generate a signal that is indicative of whether the container aperture is closed by the liquid; detecting and signalling the pressure produced within the container by such a pressure differential; and comparing such signalled pressure against a reference value determinative of whether the container has penetrated the liquid.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to a method and apparatus for forming electrical contact with an analysis slide of the potentiometric type. A probe unit, electrically connected to an electrometer, comprises a plurality of probe tips which are adapted to penetrate into the electrodes of an analysis slide and to move laterally in a direction generally parallel to the electrode layers after penetration. A means is provided for preloading the probe tips to control the force required to effect lateral movement of the tips.

Abstract: An incubator is provided for use with a chemical analyzer of the type in which a fluid sample is metered onto a test slide which is analyzed after a suitable period of incubation. The incubator includes a temperature-controlled chamber having a conveyor mounted therein which comprises a plurality of slide holding members. A drive means for the conveyor is adapted to successively advance the slide holding members past load and unload slots located adjacent slide transfer mechanisms.