QIAcube HT/QIAxtractor, platform

Built for laboratories that need standardized, walk-away purification of DNA and RNA from many starting materials, the QIAcube HT/QIAxtractor automated platform from QIAGEN combines magnetic-bead chemistry with robotic plate handling to deliver purified nucleic acids ready for downstream analysis. The system accepts tissue lysates, blood, buffy coat, cells, swabs, stool, and FFPE sections, and supports inline normalization through the integrated QIAxtractor module, reducing manual dilution steps before PCR, qPCR, or next-generation sequencing workflows. Pathogen detection, viral-load monitoring, microbiome surveys, and forensic human identification are the most common application areas.

Up to 96 samples are processed per run using magnetic-particle separation, with processing volumes typically ranging from 100 to 1000 µL depending on the chemistry kit selected. Pre-loaded protocols for the QIAamp 96 DNA Blood, QIAamp 96 Viral RNA, and Investigator chemistry families are stored on the instrument's touchscreen, allowing operators to switch between workflows without manual re-programming. A built-in barcode scanner and LIMS-compatible CSV export provide sample traceability for regulated environments such as clinical research and forensic DNA laboratories. A typical full plate completes in roughly 90 to 180 minutes depending on input volume and elution buffer choice.

For routine operators, the front-panel interface guides reagent-loading checks, waste-bottle status, and tip-handling reminders, while the accessory rack accepts microtiter plates, deep-well plates, and elution tubes in a single batch. Routine maintenance is limited to periodic replacement of the peristaltic pump tubing and UV lamp operation inside the hood for decontamination cycles. The instrument ships as a single platform with a power cable, accessory box, and printed setup guide, and should be installed on a vibration-free bench with a minimum 10 cm clearance at the rear for ventilation.