Status:
ReviewerMember since: 2011
Organization: CRL
Application Area: Cell-Based High Content Screening
"BioCel is a stable, adaptable and dependable screening platform. We use our three systems for end-to-end 'seed to read' cellular HCB screening. It combines industry-leading Agilent components like VSpin, PlateLoc, Bravo and DDR with 3rd party kit. Good system design is key to get optimum use of the deck space. Upgradable with things like light curtains, laminar flow etc. US-based support service is excellent; EU support can be less predictable. For me the USP is the VWorks software. This allows me to precisely control how each experiment takes place, and reconfigure this on the fly to meet changing needs. The latest software has resolved many crashing issues, but lags a bit, and still requires an understanding of Javascript for optimum use. The introduction of Forms and Java helper has improved user-friendliness. Setup costs can be on the high side. "
Status:
ReviewerMember since: 2014
Organization: Amyris
Application Area:Multiple Cell-Based Assays
"The BioCel is a great system that enables the integration of multiple types of automated instrumentation, both Agilent and third party. It is however quite expensive so you must be willing to spend the money. We have had one in our lab for a couple years and it is a workhorse but it has taken a great deal of work to get it to that point. Alot of technical support is required. The VWorks software is not the best and has been somewhat buggy in our hands and prone to crashing. The scheduling events is not that straightforward and requires a great deal of time to get it to work efficiently without stalling. That being said, if these obstacles are overcome, we have found it to be very reliable."
Status:
ReviewerMember since: 2013
Organization: Monsanto
Application Area:DNA extraction
"Scheduling software is intuitive and easy to use and make changes needed. If applications help is needed they are friendly and helpful."
Status:
ReviewerMember since: 2012
Organization: Novartis
Application Area:Cell based screening
"The Biocel is a great integrated automated platform which is a flexible and easy to modify system to many assay challenges. I recommend the system to anyone who needs a high throughput system. If you need a system that has speed combined with flexible assay formats, they are a top competitor."
Status:
ReviewerMember since: 2010
Organization: Novartis
"Agilent has a very responsive and talented support group; further more the integrated nature of the workstation has saved both time and real estate."