5-Part Hematology Analyzer with Autoloader and Barcode

What is the 5-Part Hematology Analyzer with Autoloader and Barcode?

This model pairs the five-part flow cytometry platform with a close-tube autoloader and full barcode identification, allowing batches to run unattended and results to match the worklist automatically. It suits hospital laboratories with peak batches and multiple wards sending tubes at the same time.

Overview

Closed-tube sampling protects the operator from aerosols and removes the need to open each tube, while barcode reading eliminates manual worklist entry. The autoloader accepts racks of ten to twenty tubes, mixes and aspirates them in sequence, and uses the barcode to fetch patient and test information from the LIS through HL7 or ASTM. Results are returned to the correct record, and flagged samples can be routed to a review rack. Continuous loading allows a STAT tube to be inserted during a batch, and the software normally implements delta checks and automatic repeats. Throughput is 80 to 100 samples per hour, and the system stores a cumulative record of workload, reagent consumption and quality control for accreditation purposes.

How does it work?

These analyzers combine impedance counting with a flow cytometry channel. A diluted and stained sample passes a sheath flow cell where hydrodynamic focusing aligns cells in single file. A laser beam strikes each cell, and three signals are recorded: forward scatter, which reflects cell size; side scatter, which reflects internal granularity and complexity; and fluorescence from a dye that stains nucleic acids and cell membranes. Clustering algorithms in the instrument software separate the signals into five leukocyte populations, and the same data support flags for band forms, blasts, atypical lymphocytes and nucleated red cells. Impedance channels measure red cells, platelets and a second white cell count for comparison. Hemoglobin is measured photometrically after lysis. Because the flow channel provides much more information than a size histogram, the analyzer can also report reticulocytes, immature platelet fraction and body fluid cell counts when the corresponding reagent and software options are installed.

What are the key features?

• Closed-tube sampling with cap piercing for operator safety
• Barcode identification linked to the LIS worklist
• Continuous loading with STAT sample priority
• Automatic routing of flagged samples to a review rack
• Delta check against the previous patient result
• Workload and reagent consumption log for accreditation

What are the technical specifications?

A typical 5-part hematology analyzer with autoloader and barcode configuration offers throughput of 80–100 samples/h with 5-part differential, autoloader capacity of 10 racks of 10 tubes, continuous loading, sample identification of Barcode reader supporting code 128, code 39, aspiration mode of Closed-tube cap piercing, 25 µL, reportable parameters of 26 parameters including 5-part differential and mixer of Automatic tube inversion before aspiration. Values are indicative of the product class; the exact figures for each configuration are confirmed on the quotation and the calibration documents supplied with the instrument.

Which applications is it used for?

The 5-Part Hematology Analyzer with Autoloader and Barcode is used in hospital ward batch blood counts, outpatient department high-volume testing, health screening programmes and emergency department routine counts. Across the wider 5-Part Analyzers class, laboratories also deploy it for hospital routine and emergency blood counts, neutropenia and chemotherapy monitoring and leukemia and lymphoma screening.

Which standards and certifications apply?

Relevant standards and methods include ISO 15189, CLSI H26-A2, CLSI H20-A2, CLSI EP05, CLSI H21, IEC 61010-1 and IEC 61010-2-101. Certification candidates for this model are CE, ISO 13485 manufacturing and NMPA class II registration; each is to be confirmed for the specific configuration before shipment, and certificates are supplied only where they have been issued.

Install the analyzer on a stable bench with a dedicated grounded outlet, controlled room temperature of about 15 to 30 degrees Celsius and low dust. Verify performance at installation with precision, carryover, linearity and method comparison studies, including a specific check of the differential against manual microscopy on abnormal samples. Run three levels of control each day, join an external quality assessment scheme, and review flag rates regularly, because an excessive flag rate increases manual reviews and delays reporting. Clean the flow cell, probes and waste lines according to the maintenance plan, protect the laser and optics from vibration, and keep sheath fluid and cleaning reagents within their expiry dates. Handle all blood samples as potentially infectious.

How do I select the right 5-Part Hematology Analyzer with Autoloader and Barcode?

Select this variant when tubes arrive in batches from multiple wards and manual worklist handling causes delays or transcription errors. Specify the tube sizes and barcode symbologies in use, the required LIS interface protocol, and whether two-way communication is needed for test requests. Ask about the recovery procedure after a jam or power failure and the maximum rack queue length.

How does it compare with other 5-Part Analyzers variants?

Specify a 5-part analyzer when clinicians act on the differential, for example to follow neutropenia during chemotherapy, to screen for leukemia, or to manage pediatric infections. Compare throughput, which ranges from about 60 to more than 120 samples per hour, and the first-result time for emergency work. Check which optional modes are included: reticulocyte count, nucleated red cell count, immature platelet fraction and body fluid analysis all require dedicated reagents and software licences. Confirm the minimum sample volume for pediatric samples and the linearity at low white cell counts. Ask about the flagging performance for blasts, the review rules the software applies, and whether a slide maker or digital morphology review is supported. Confirm LIS connectivity, reagent openness, calibration interval of the flow channel, and local service support.