Description. The QIAsymphony SP performs fully automated purification of nucleic acids using magnetic particle technology. Batches of up to 24 samples can be processed. The instrument controls integrated components including a lysis station, a 4-channel pipetting system, a robotic gripper and an array of magnetic rods protected by rod covers. These rods can pick up or dispense magnetic particles in the wells of a sample preparation cartridge, depending on whether the magnetic rods are inserted in the rod covers or not. The QIAsymphony SP is preloaded with various protocols and corresponding assay control sets for the purification of RNA, genomic DNA and viral and bacterial nucleic acids. The user loads reagents (in prefilled, sealed reagent cartridges) and consumables into the appropriate drawer, inserts the samples and selects a protocol via the touchscreen. The user then starts the protocol, which provides all necessary commands for sample lysis and purification. A fully automated inventory scan (either after closing each drawer or before starting the run) helps ensure that the QIAsymphony SP is correctly set up for the protocol. The QIAsymphony AS performs fully automated assay setup using a 4-channel pipetting system and is operated using the built-in touchscreen on the QIAsymphony SP. The QIAsymphony AS is turned on using the power button on the QIAsymphony SP. During assay setup, the touchscreen displays the assay setup user interface and provides information about assay runs, including their progress. Single or multiple assays can be set up in a single assay run, and master mix can be premixed or prepared by the instrument. The QIAsymphony AS comes with predefined protocols specifically designed for use with QIAGEN kits. These protocols are called assay definitions. Assay parameter sets define the parameters for a protocol. These files, including other QIAsymphony AS files (e.g. cycler files, result files, loading information), can be transferred to/from the QIAsymphony SP/AS instruments via the USB ports on the QIAsymphony SP. When an assay run has been defined via the touchscreen, the software automatically calculates the workbench requirements for a defined run (e.g. number and type of filter tips, volume of reagent). An automatic inventory scan (performed when the drawers are closed or before an assay run starts) ensures that each drawer is set up correctly for the defined assay run. It is possible to reload filter tips during a run. There are 2 modes of operation of the system to suit your workflow needs – integrated and independent mode. In integrated mode, samples processed on the QIAsymphony SP are transferred directly to the QIAsymphony AS via an internal transfer module, reducing manual handling steps and documentation. For additional flexibility, the QIAsymphony SP and QIAsymphony AS can also be operated independently in standalone mode