Abstract: A multi-channel dispensing system particularly adapted for dispensing and aspirating precise and/or predetermined quantities of one or more fluids. The multi-channel dispensing system includes a multi-channel manifold positioned intermediate and in hydraulic communication with a positive displacement pump and a plurality of drop-on-demand valves. The pump is adapted to provide an incremental quantity or continuous flow of fluid to the drop-on-demand valves. The multi-channel dispensing system can dispense controlled and/or generally equal quantities and/or flow rates of fluid(s) through one or more channels by opening and closing one or more of the drop-on-demand valves at predetermined frequencies and/or duty cycles.

Abstract: A method for actively controlling the hydraulic pressure within an aspirate-dispense system for aspirating and dispensing precise and/or predetermined quantities of fluid or reagent. The method provides an efficient pressure compensation scheme to achieve the optimal pressures for aspirating and dispensing. The optimized pressures are achieved by a series of operations of a positive displacement pump and a drop-on-demand valve of the aspirate-dispense system. Advantageously, the method increases process speed, improves reliability and accuracy, and reduces dilution and wastage of reagent.