The new system, the LabChip 300, is effectively an update of the older Caliper 250. As of last November, around 40 of the latter systems had been sold to customers for screening using enzymatic and cell-based assays.

The LabChip 3000 is one-third of the size of its predecessor and is priced at a level that will make it more accessible to smaller companies, according to Caliper. However, its main advantage will be a hike in throughput, achieved by allowing 12 experiments to be run in parallel on the chip. At present, all but the newest 250 systems can only manage four.

In addition, the LabChip 3000 will be able to run adherent cells, such as CHO cells, expanding its capabilities in cell-based calcium flux assays.

The entry-level Assay Development Station is suitable for selectivity screening, enzyme kinetic optimisation and IC50 determinations, and a user can upgrade the system into a full screening system should their requirements increase, according to Caliper.

For more information on the new product, which was introduced at the LabAutomation 2004 meeting earlier this month, visit Caliper's website .