The new AU-CONNECTOR from Olympus enables Clinical Chemistry and Immunoassay analysis to be consolidated on one single workstation without compromising functions or performance of the connected systems.

Unlike a track-based approach which can create additional throughput bottlenecks and increase turnaround times, the AU-CONNECTOR uses its Intelligent Sample Management and tube pre-sorting capabilities to keep all the analysers working at full potential.

With the Olympus AU-CONNECTOR one or two AU3000i’s – the new Olympus Immunoassay analysers - can easily be consolidated with the AU family of Clinical Chemistry analysers.

The AU-CONNECTOR selects each bar-coded sample tube from standard loading racks and directs it to the appropriate analyser, whilst monitoring all connected subsystems. Its software gives full control of all connected analysers via a single graphic user interface. Samples are automatically routed and re-routed to the most appropriate analytical systems – whichever are in operation or have the appropriate reagents. The system is designed to optimise turnaround times and simultaneously minimise start up and shut down procedures.

Samples requiring both Clinical Chemistry and Immunoassay analysis but do not require sample carry over protection can go to either analyser first, depending on their workloads. Carry over sensitive samples will go first to AU3000i using disposable tips, to eliminate sample contamination by the Clinical Chemistry system.

Racks with pre-sorted samples are transported to the connected analysers. A large rack buffer zone on the sorter guarantees continuous sample loading even during peak workload situations.

The transported racks are downloaded from the rack transport shuttle onto satellite areas for each analyser. These provide additional sample loading stations for each analyser - the Active Trays. STAT samples, calibrators and controls can be loaded onto the Active Trays without disturbing routine operations of the AU-CONNECTOR.

The operator can load reagents or perform maintenance on connected AU systems without interrupting the routine workload. Each subsystem of the AU-CONNECTOR can also be run in standalone mode to provide built in back up.

The sample transport system of the AU-CONNECTOR handles more than 600 sample tubes per hour in the sorting area to manage the workload of high-throughput systems such as the AU2700 and the AU3000i.

The AU-CONNECTOR can also be used to create powerful island solutions for each diagnostic area by connecting for example two AU2700 Clinical Chemistry systems or two AU3000i Immunoassay systems.

Olympus AU-CONNECTOR – The new definition of Intelligent Sample Management