Biotage Extrahera - Installation and Familiarization Checklist

Importance of the Topic

Proper installation and operator familiarization of analytical instruments such as the Biotage Extrahera is critical to ensure reliable sample processing and data quality. A structured checklist helps mitigate installation errors, verifies compliance with site requirements, and accelerates operator proficiency. Such standardized procedures reduce downtime, support regulatory adherence, and increase throughput in research and QA/QC laboratories.

Objectives and Overview

The installation and familiarization process aims to:

• Confirm receipt and integrity of all shipment components
• Validate site preparation, including power, gas, and environmental conditions
• Complete physical setup, software configuration, and functional validation
• Provide a concise operational overview for new system users

Methodology and Procedures

The overall workflow comprises shipping review, site preparation, hardware setup, start-up, system verification, and operator familiarization. Key steps include:

• Inspect shipment and packaging for damage, verify all parts are present
• Ensure nitrogen and air supplies meet pressure and quality standards
• Verify mains voltage (120–240 VAC, 50/60 Hz) and maintain temperature (18–32 °C) and humidity (10–90 % RH)
• Unpack and place the instrument in a ventilated enclosure or benchtop setup
• Connect electrical, computer, gas, pneumatic, solvent, waste, and vacuum lines
• Power on the system, update software and firmware as needed, and configure system parameters
• Perform solvent and water prime cycles, pressure head tests, waste valve functionality checks, and pipetting performance tests
• Record calibration data, test results, and software versions for traceability

Used Instrumentation

The primary instrument is the Biotage Extrahera automated solid-phase extraction system. Supporting devices include external vacuum or house vacuum pumps, nitrogen and air supply regulators, solvent and tip racks, and a computer loaded with the latest application and controller software.

Main Results and Discussion

The system verification confirmed all solvent pumps and lines are functional, pressure thresholds are met, and waste valve actuation is smooth. Calibration coefficients, offsets, and pipetting accuracy (%CV and %accuracy across eight channels) were within specified tolerances. These results demonstrate successful installation and readiness for analytical workflows.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Ensures consistency and reproducibility of extractions in research and quality control
• Minimizes installation-related errors and instrument downtime
• Accelerates operator competency through structured familiarization
• Supports compliance with ISO and laboratory regulatory standards

Future Trends and Opportunities

As laboratory automation evolves, integration of remote diagnostics, cloud-based monitoring, and AI-driven maintenance scheduling will enhance uptime and data integrity. Advances in modular design and multi-sample parallel processing may further increase throughput and flexibility in diverse analytical applications.

Conclusion

A comprehensive installation and familiarization checklist is essential for optimal performance of the Biotage Extrahera system. Following structured protocols ensures system reliability, regulatory compliance, and efficient user adoption, laying the foundation for robust analytical workflows.