Finding the right pipette often means compromising on control or efficiency. Manual handheld pipettes offer the necessary control over liquid handling, making them ideal for tasks such as mixing, dissolving pellets or removing supernatants. However, they typically fall short for repetitive steps like aliquoting. On the other hand, electronic or repeater pipettes simplify these workflows and reduce the hand strain associated with manual workflows. Unfortunately, they too come with their own limitations, such as higher costs, the need for user set-up and a less intuitive feel than manual options.
INTEGRA Biosciences designed the SWITCH hybrid pipette to fill the gap. The SWITCH is an innovative, single channel pipette designed to simplify and accelerate pipetting tasks. It is available in sizes from 2 to 1,000 μl, and offers ergonomic handling and adjustments for consistently easy and enjoyable pipetting. The SWITCH enables users to maintain precise liquid control for every application, comparable to a traditional mechanical pipette, while spending less time aliquoting for greater efficiency. This is possible thanks to the pipette’s repeat dispense mode, which allows operators to dispense multiple aliquots from a single aspiration without the need for complex user configuration or training. Seamlessly transition from manual to electronic pipetting using the mode switch, and use the quick set ring to define the dispense volume, number of aliquots and pipetting speed with one hand – all without putting the pipette down. The ring can even rotate past 100 % to 10 % without resetting, and a firmware lock prevents accidental changes during use. Aspiration and dispensing are precisely controlled by the pipette, and activated with a simple press of the plunger for a smoother pipetting experience and improved efficiency. The SWITCH also offers the added convenience of measuring unknown liquid volumes. The pipette displays the exact volume aspirated in real time on the built-in, easy-to-read display, making it fast and simple to measure unknown liquid volumes directly from a container.
The SWITCH has been specifically designed for comfort and efficiency, helping to minimize hand strain and reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries during prolonged pipetting. It is lighter than typical electronic pipettes, with a slightly larger circumference and finger hook to ensure a secure, comfortable grip. Its ergonomic plunger requires less force than traditional mechanical pipettes, and stays at the same height regardless of volume, ensuring precise manual control at small liquid volumes and avoiding overstretching the thumb during full volume dispensing. The plunger height is further reduced in repeat dispense mode, transforming it into a convenient button for effortless aliquoting. The SWITCH also uses GRIPTIPS® pipette tips – which offer exceptionally low attachment and ejection forces – and features a curved tip ejector button that enables a more natural movement than traditional straight-down designs. Last but not least, the pipette’s long-lasting battery supports a full day’s pipetting, and it can be conveniently recharged via the charging contact on the finger hook when mounted on the Flex charging stand, or during use via a USB-C port on the handle.
Product Specifications:
| Specification | Value |
| Pipetting technology | Air displacement |
| Pipetting speed | User controlled when pipetting manually/up to 10 steps, adjustable in repeat dispense mode |
| Weight | 130 g |
| Running time | Approx. 3,000 pipetting cycles, equal to 1 working day |
| Operating conditions | 5-40 °C, max. 80 % RH |
| Power requirements | 100-240 V, 50/60 Hz |
| Battery | Rechargeable, LiPo, 3.7 V, 605 mAh |
| Operating conditions | 5-40 °C, max. 80 % RH |
| Volumes | 0.2 – 2 μl, 1 – 10 μl, 2 – 20 μl, 10 – 100 μl, 20 – 200 μl, 100 – 1,000 μl |
