Poorly calibrated pipettes impact accuracy and reproducibility.  As with precision laboratory scales and balances, periodic recalibration is necessary for testing and adjusting pipettes in accordance with ISO 9001 and GLP directives.

Recalibrating pipettes in-house is made easy with the aptly named EASYCAL™ 4.0 test software on CD-ROM available through Tovatech.  It guides technicians through the PC-based pipette test procedure, carrying out all calculations automatically and comparing them with the tolerance of the current norms or previously defined custom limit values.

Test records can be printed in accordance with ISO 4787, ISO DIN 8655 and other standards, or saved on the PC.  As a pipette calibration package Kern’s ABT 220-5DM premium analytical balance is the closest thing to tailor made for pipette calibration.

Proper storage and use of pipettes are important to maintaining accuracy between calibrations.  They should be stored in an upright position (never inverted on the side when liquid is in the tip), primed before use by depressing the plunger and used only within their designed range. Remember to pipette slowly and not more than 20º from vertical.

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What procedures govern pipette use and calibration in your company?  Do you calibrate in-house or use an outside service?