European Launch of EKF’s New Clinical Chemistry Analyzer at Medica 2015

The Altair™ 240 fully automated, cost-effective platform with feature-rich functionality

11 Nov 2015
Lois Manton-O'Byrne, PhD
Executive Editor

Product news

EKF Diagnostics, the global in vitro diagnostics company, has announced that it will launch the Altair™ 240 clinical chemistry analyzer to the European market at Medica 2015, Düsseldorf, 16-19th November. This new analyzer has been launched to fulfill an international requirement for a fully automated bench-top platform that is cost-effective, easy to learn, operate and maintain.

In addition to seeing live demonstrations of the new Altair™ 240, visitors to EKF’s stand (C70, Hall 3) at Medica 2015 can view the latest additions to its range of Stanbio liquid-stable, LiquiColor® and Liqui-UV® clinical chemistry reagents. Alongside these products for the central laboratory, EKF will also exhibit its full range of point-of-care analyzers.

Compact, reliable and random access, the new Altair™ 240 is supported by a broad range of bar-coded, liquid stable, ready-to-use Stanbio Chemistry reagents for routine and special chemistries. With positions for 43 reagents, the ability to configure open channels for esoteric testing, as well as STAT interruption permitted, the Altair 240 provides a flexible and comprehensive solution. This means it can be used as either a main or back-up analyzer, improving productivity in both the hospital and physician’s office laboratory environments.

Incorporating LIS bi-directional connectivity and running on intuitive Windows®-based software, learning and operating the analyzer is quick and easy. Furthermore, the Altair™ 240 automatically reads and manages barcoded reagent bottles and sample tubes. The system’s automated performance also enables auto-rerun and auto-dilution of samples.

The new analyzer is highly efficient since it can run up to 400 tests per hour with an optional ISE module. Dual reagent probes translate to higher throughput and faster patient turn-around times. Operating cost efficiencies are also realized through an integrated cuvette washing station, enabling the reuse of cuvettes; as well as continual 24-hour on-board cooling, which ensures most reagents have a 30-day on board stability to minimize waste.

Also on Stand C70 in Hall 3

At Medica 2015, EKF will also discuss the latest additions to its Stanbio clinical chemistry range, all designed for maximum stability and ease of use. This range includes a large selection of clinical chemistry assays, controls and calibrators, which are fully compatible with most major brand open channel chemistry analyzers, including the Altair™ 240. A notable addition is the Stanbio Chemistry Glycated Serum Protein (GSP) LiquiColor® test; a new diabetes biomarker test that provides a 2-3 week indicator of average blood glucose.

Alongside the new Altair™ 240 and its range of products for the central laboratory, which also includes, Micro 12™, SlidePrep™ and PlasmaPrep™ clinical centrifuges, EKF will also be exhibiting its full range of POC blood analyzers. This comprehensive range includes hemoglobin analyzers, lactate analyzers, glucose testing and HbA1c analyzers. All are simple to use and designed to quickly deliver accurate results to aid the diagnosis of anemia, diabetes and associated conditions.

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HematologyIn Haematology / Hematology, complete blood cell counts (or full blood counts) are obtained using automated blood count analyzers to enumerate blood cell types.  Hematology also encompasses haemostasis and coagulation, thrombophilia and hemophilia, plasma viscosity and ESR analysis, hemoglobinopathies, cell morphology and haematinic measurement.Point-of-CarePoint-of-Care Testing (POCT) or Near Patient Testing (NPT) products are available for urine, blood and other clinical chemistry analyses. POCT includes: blood glucose testing, blood gas and electrolytes analysis, rapid coagulation testing (PT / INR), rapid cardiac markers diagnostics, drugs of abuse screening, urine strips testing, pregnancy testing, fecal occult blood analysis, food pathogens screening, hemoglobin diagnostics, infectious disease testing and cholesterol screening.Clinical ChemistryBiochemistry (or clinical chemistry) involves the analysis of bodily fluids using chemical tests. Techniques used include HPLC, chromatography, spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, immunochemical, electrophoresis, turbidometric / spectrophotometric assay, MRI and ISE analysis. Tests are often carried out on plasma or serum but urine (urinalysis) and fecal specimens are also processed.LactateDiabetesDiabetes is a metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels, either due to insufficient insulin production or resistance to its effects. Ongoing diabetes innovation focuses on developing better diagnostic tools, treatments, and preventive measures. Browse our peer-reviewed product directory to find the best diabetes diagnostic tools, compare products, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.GlucosePoint of Care SolutionsPoint of care solutions provide medical diagnostics and treatments at or near the site of patient care. These technologies offer rapid results, helping healthcare providers make quick decisions. From glucose monitors to molecular diagnostics, point of care solutions are transforming healthcare delivery by reducing wait times and improving patient outcomes. Explore the best point of care products in our peer-reviewed product directory, compare options, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.Molecular DiagnosticsMolecular diagnostics use an individual’s genetic code and gene expression to diagnose and monitor diseases. The technique is used increasingly in the field of infectious diseases and oncology, as well as areas such as coagulation, HLA typing and pharmacogenomics. Molecular diagnostics plays a pivotal role in personalized medicine.Blood AnalysisThe analysis of blood is vital for many areas of life sciences and forensic investigations. Blood samples can be tested for a number of different reasons such as diagnosis, glucose levels, cholesterol and drug testing.Biomarker DiscoveryClinical biomarkers refer to substances related to known medical conditions that can be accurately measured <i>in vitro</i>. Biomarkers can be used to diagnose presence of a disease and indicate disease severity. The discovery of new biomarkers is incredibly valuable in the field of diagnostics.
European Launch of EKF’s New Clinical Chemistry Analyzer at Medica 2015