Eppendorf SOP User Manual

rating Procedure for Pipettes

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P

N)Operating Procedure for Pipettes

Eppendorf SOP

Standard Operating Procedure for Pipettes

Copyright

©

2013 Eppendorf AG, Hamburg. No part of this publication may be

reproduced without the prior permission of the copyright owner.

®

eppendorf
Eppendorf Multipette
Biomaster

, the Eppendorf logo, Eppendorf Reference®, Eppendorf Research®,

®

, Eppendorf Xplorer®, Varipette®, Varispenser®,

®

, Combitips® and PICASO® are registered trademarks of 

Eppendorf AG.

AESOP13640-08/052013

Table of contents

Eppendorf SOP

English (EN)

Table of contents

1 Test and pipette conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

1.1 Balances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

1.1.1 Balance type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

1.1.2 Accuracy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

1.1.3 Minimum requirements for balances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

1.2 Measuring station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

1.2.1 Evaporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

1.2.2 Measuring station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

1.2.3 Test room . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

1.2.4 Temperature differences. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

1.2.5 Test liquid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

1.2.6 Operating Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

2 Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

2.1 Scope of testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

2.1.1 Adjusting adjustable volume pipettes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

2.1.2 Multi-channel pipettes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

2.1.3 Multipette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

2.1.4 Bottle-top dispenser and Top Buret . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

2.2 Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

2.2.1 Work method. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

2.2.2 Removing the test volume from the reservoir. . . . . . . . . . . . 9

2.2.3 Dispensing the test volume into the weighing vessel . . . . . 10

3

3 Evaluation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

3.1 Calculating the systematic error . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

3.2 Calculating the random error . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

4 Sterilization and cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

4.1 Sterilization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

4.1.1 Reference and Biomaster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

4.1.2 Research plus and Reference 2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

4.1.3 Research and Research pro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

4.1.4 Top Buret . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

4.1.5 Varipette and Multipette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

4.1.6 Varispenser . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

4.1.7 Xplorer and Xplorer plus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

4.2 Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Table of contents

4

Eppendorf SOP
English (EN)

5 Leakage check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

5.1 Pipette leakage check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

6 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

6.1 Potential error causes and corrections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

7 Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

7.1 General information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

7.2 Adjusting adjustable-volume pipettes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

7.2.1 Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

7.2.2 Biomaster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

7.2.3 Reference variable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

7.2.4 Reference 2 adjustable-volume. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

7.2.5 Research variable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

7.2.6 Research plusadjustable volume - adjustment to

environmental parameters. . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . 25

7.2.7 Research plus adjustable volume - change to the factory

adjustment.. . . . . . . . .. . . . .. . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

7.2.8 Research Multi-channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

7.2.9 Research plus Multi-channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

7.2.10 Varispenser plus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

7.2.11 Xplorer and Xplorer plus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

7.3 Adjusting fixed-volume pipettes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

7.3.1 Reference fixed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

7.3.2 Reference2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

7.3.3 Research fixed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

7.3.4 Research plus fixed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

7.4 Physical influences of liquids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

8 Factor Z for distilled water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

8.1 Factor Z overview table. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

Table of contents

Eppendorf SOP

English (EN)

9 Technical specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

9.1 Fixed-volume pipettes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

9.1.1 Reference fixed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

9.1.2 Reference 2 fixed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

9.1.3 Research fixed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

9.1.4 Research plus fixed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

9.2 Adjusting adjustable volume pipettes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41

9.2.1 Reference variable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41

9.2.2 Reference 2 adjustable-volume. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42

9.2.3 Research adjustable-volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44

9.2.4 Research pro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45

9.2.5 Research plus adjustable-volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46

9.2.6 Biomaster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

9.2.7 Varipette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

9.2.8 Xplorer and Xplorer plus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48

9.3 Multi-channel pipettes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

9.3.1 Research . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

9.3.2 Research pro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50

9.3.3 Research plus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51

9.3.4 Reference2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52

9.3.5 Xplorer and Xplorer plus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53

9.4 Multipette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

9.4.1 MultipettePlus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

9.4.2 MultipetteM4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

9.4.3 Multipette stream / Multipette Xstream . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

9.5 Varispenser / Top Buret . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

9.5.1 Varispenser and Varispenser plus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57

9.5.2 Top Buret . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57

9.6 Error limits in accordance with EN ISO 8655. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

9.6.1 Air-cushion pipettes, fixed and adjustable volume. . . . . . .58

9.6.2 Positive displacement pipettes (Biomaster) . . . . . . . . . . . .58

9.6.3 Dispenser (Multipette) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59

9.6.4 Single-stroke dispenser (Varispenser) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60

9.6.5 Piston stroke burets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60

5

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

Test and pipette conditions

6

Eppendorf SOP
English (EN)

1 Test and pipette conditions

These test and pipetting conditions are valid for all Eppendorf pipettes
and dispensers.
Follow EN ISO 8655 "Volume-measuring equipment with pistons".

For the calibration or adjustment of pipettes, the scales and measuring station
should fulfill the following requirements:

1.1 Balances

1.1.1 Balance type

Use semi-microbalances and microbalances to calibrate pipettes.

Some companies offer balances that are specially designed to meet the
requirements of pipette calibration, e.g. Sartorius and Mettler.

1.1.2 Accuracy

When selecting the balances, ensure that they are suitable for the accuracy of
the pipette. This helps to ensure that deviations within a measuring series are
recorded exactly for the assessment of the systematic and random measurement
deviations in accordance with EN ISO 8655.

For a pipette volume of less than or equal to 10 µl, balances with a 6-digit
display must be used. With larger volumes, balances with a 5-digit display are
sufficient.

1.1.3 Minimum requirements for balances

Selected volume* of the pipette to be
tested

1 µL to 10 µL 0.001
>10 µL to 100 µL 0.01
>100 µL to 1 000 µL 0.1
>1 mL to 10 mL 0.1
>10 mL to 200 mL 1

* For practical reasons, the nominal volume can be used for the selection of the
balances.

Display resolution (mg)

Test and pipette conditions

Eppendorf SOP

English (EN)

1.2 Measuring station

1.2.1 Evaporation

Take evaporation protection into account while carrying out the measurement.

With volumes < 50 µl in particular, errors caused by the evaporation of the test
liquid must be taken into consideration.

This can be ensured by using a liquid trap or other equipment to prevent
evaporation.

1.2.2 Measuring station

For electronic measurement data processing, we recommend calibration
software and accessories for your balance (PICASO, order no. 3113 004.001).

(see also EN ISO 8655, Part 6)

1.2.3 Test room

The tests should be carried out in a draft-free room under constant climatic
conditions.

The test room should have a constant temperature between 15 °C and 30 °C and
a constant relative humidity above 50 %.

7

1.2.4 Temperature differences

Before the test, the device to be tested and test liquid must have stood in the test
room for a sufficient amount of time, at least 2 hours, in order to reach
equilibrium with the storage conditions.

Direct sunlight and other influences which could affect the temperature should
be avoided at all costs.

1.2.5 Test liquid

Distilled or deionized water of "Quality 3 in accordance with ISO 3696",
degassed or at equilibrium with air. The water must be at room temperature.

1.2.6 Operating Manual

Observe the operating instructions for your pipette.

Calibration

8

Eppendorf SOP
English (EN)

2 Calibration

2.1 Scope of testing

Note concerning the nominal volume:

The nominal volume of an adjustable-volume pipette is the largest volume to be
set by the user and specified by the manufacturer.

When using the Combitip with the Multipette, the nominal volume is the largest
possible dispensing volume of the Combitip. This means that for the Multipette
plus and Multipette M4, the nominal volume is 1/5 of the filling volume of the
Combitip advanced. For the Multipette stream / Xstream, the nominal volume is
the filling volume of the Combitip advanced.

2.1.1 Adjusting adjustable volume pipettes

For variable pipettes, check 3 different volumes with 10 measured values each:

• the nominal volume,

• approx. 50 % of the nominal volume,

• 10 % of the nominal volume.

2.1.2 Multi-channel pipettes

For Multi-channel pipettes check each channel separately with 3 different
volumes, each with 10 measured values:

• the nominal volume,

• approx. 50 % of the nominal volume,

• 10 % of the nominal volume.

2.1.3 Multipette

With the

• Multipette,

• Multipetteplus,

• Multipette stream,

• MultipetteXstream

• MultipetteM4

check the nominal volume with 10 measured values with the Eppendorf
Combitip used.

Calibration

Eppendorf SOP

English (EN)

2.1.4 Bottle-top dispenser and Top Buret

For bottle-top dispensers and the Top Buret, check the nominal volume with 10
measured values.

2.2 Measurement

2.2.1 Work method

1. Place the selected pipette tip on the tip cone of the pipette or on the
corresponding Combitip in the Multipette.

2. Implement the following settings:

• Adjustable-volume piston-stroke pipettes: the smallest volume to be tested

• Multipettes: the nominal volume

• Bottle-top dispenser and Top Buret: the nominal volume

3. For all Multipettes with fully drawn up Combitip, always discard the first
dispensing step.

4. Fill test liquid up to a height of min. 3 mm in the weighing vessel.

5. For piston-stroke pipettes fill the pipette tip 5x with test liquid and empty it
(pre-wet), in order to create a moisture balance in the dead air volume.

6. Replace the single-use tip.

7. Pre-wet the tip 1x.

9

2.2.2 Removing the test volume from the reservoir

1. Hold the pipette vertically.

2. Dip the pipette tip into the test liquid by a few millimeters.

3. Draw in the volume to be tested slowly and evenly. The waiting time of 1 to
3 seconds, for Research 1 to 10 mL 5 seconds must be observed.
(the waiting time corresponds to the size of the tip, see operating
instructions.)

4. Pull the pipette tip slowly out of the liquid, wiping it on the vessel wall.

Calibration

10

Eppendorf SOP
English (EN)

2.2.3 Dispensing the test volume into the weighing vessel

1. Rest the filled tip up against the wall of the weighing vessel at an angle.

2. Dispense the test liquid slowly until the first stop (measuring stroke).

3. Press the control button to the second stop (blow-out) and dispense the
remaining liquid in the tip (does not apply for dispensers and burets).

4. Hold down the control button and pull the tip up the vessel wall.

5. Let the control button slide back into position.

6. Determine the weight.

7. Complete all measurements of a measuring series as described and calculate
the systematic and random error (see p. 11).

8. In case of adjustable-volume pipettes, determine the measurement with the
nominal volume, 50 % and 10 % of the nominal volume. Always begin the
test with 10 % of the nominal volume.

Evaluation

Eppendorf SOP

English (EN)

3 Evaluation

3.1 Calculating the systematic error

Mean value of the dispensed volume:

n = Number of measured values

To convert the measured values into volume values, use correction factor Z for
the dependency of the test liquid on temperature and air pressure for each
individual value (see Factor Z for distilled water on p. 36).

11

Systematic error e

Systematic error e

in micro liter:

s

in percent:

s

3.2 Calculating the random error

Random error as repeat standard s:

Random error as coefficient of variation CV:

The specifications of the tested pipette can be found in the relevant operating
instructions or technical specifications (see Technical specifications on p. 37).

Sterilization and cleaning

12

Eppendorf SOP
English (EN)

4 Sterilization and cleaning

Further notes on cleaning and sterilization can found in the relevant
operating manual.

4.1 Sterilization

Parameter for autoclaving

• 121 °C

• 20 minutes

• 1 bar overpressure

4.1.1 Reference and Biomaster

The Reference pipettes and the Biomaster are fully autoclavable.

1. Prior to autoclaving, unscrew the upper and lower part of the pipette apart by
approx. one turn to enable the vapor to enter more easily.

2. After autoclaving, allow the pipette to cool down to room temperature and to
dry completely and then screw together.

4.1.2 Research plus and Reference 2

The Research plus pipettes and Reference 2 pipettes are fully autoclavable.

1. You can put the Research plus and Reference 2 into the autoclave as a
complete unit or with the lower part removed. Do not disassemble the lower
part.

2. For 2.5 mL, 5 mL and 10 mL pipettes: remove the old protection filter. Add a
new protection filter and install it after autoclaving. Only autoclave the
protection filter once.
After autoclaving:

3. Cool the pipette down to room temperature and leave to dry.

4. For 2.5 mL, 5 mL / 10 mL pipettes: the protection filter swells during
autoclaving. Slightly squeeze the protection filter when installing it into the
cone tip.

Sterilization and cleaning

Eppendorf SOP

English (EN)

4.1.3 Research and Research pro

With the Research and Research pro pipettes, the lower section is autoclavable.

With single-channel models prior to autoclaving

1. Pull off the ejector sleeve with depressed ejector.

2. Unscrew the lower part of the pipette.

With the Multi-channel versions, you can autoclave the entire lower section.

After autoclaving, assemble the parts only after room temperature has been
reached and the parts have been dried.

4.1.4 Top Buret

The Top Buret can not be autoclaved.

4.1.5 Varipette and Multipette

The

• Varipette,

• Multipette,

• Multipetteplus,

• Multipette stream

• MultipetteXstream

• MultipetteM4

13

are not autoclavable.

4.1.6 Varispenser

The Varispenser and Varispenser plus are only autoclavable when fully
assembled.

With theVarispenser plus

1. Set the discharge valve toggle to the dispensing position (–>).

2. Release the volume setting knob, move to the middle position and leave
released.

3. Place the dispenser on a cloth and autoclave, avoiding contact with hot
surfaces.

4. Only use the dispenser again when it has cooled down to room temperature.

Sterilization and cleaning

14

Eppendorf SOP
English (EN)

4.1.7 Xplorer and Xplorer plus

The lower part of theXplorer and Xplorer plus pipettes can be autoclaved.

1. Pull off the ejector sleeve with depressed ejector.

2. On the lower part of the pipette, push the ring labeled PUSH UP TO
RELEASE upward until the lower part is released.

After autoclaving, assemble the parts only after room temperature has been
reached and the parts have been dried.

4.2 Cleaning

All areas of the underside of the pipette can be cleaned in a soap
solution or isopropanol 60 % provided that no differing instructions are
given in the operating manual.

1. Clean the parts in soap solution or isopropanol.

2. Rinse the parts in distilled water.

3. Allow the parts to dry completely and then assemble.

4. Lightly lubricate the piston of the pipette (Eppendorf special grease

Leakage check

Eppendorf SOP

English (EN)

5 Leakage check

5.1 Pipette leakage check

In order to carry out a leakage check on a pipette, follow the procedure outlined
below:

1. For adjustable-volume pipettes: set the nominal volume.

2. For volumes <20 µl pre-wet the tip several times.

3. Hold the pipette vertically with a full tip for approx. 30 sec. Do not touch the
pipette tip.

4. Observe the meniscus of the liquid on the tip opening. If there is a leak in the
pipette, a drip will form on the tip opening.

6 Troubleshooting

6.1 Potential error causes and corrections

Observe the error descriptions in the operating instructions.

Error Cause Elimination

Droplets on the
inner wall of the
pipette tip.

Pipette is dripping,
pipetted volume is
incorrect.

Uneven wetting of the plastic
wall.

• Tip loose.

• Incorrect pipette tip.

Pipette is leaking because:

•The piston is
contaminated.

• The piston is damaged.

• The seal is damaged.

 Attach a new pipette tip.

 Press the tip on firmly.
 Use an original Eppendorf

tip.

 Clean the piston and

lubricate slightly.

 Replace the piston and

piston sealing and
lubricate slightly.

 Replace the seal.

15

Troubleshooting

16

Eppendorf SOP
English (EN)

Error Cause Elimination

Liquid cannot be
aspirated correctly
or dripping occurs.

• Leakage in the Combitip
advanced.

• Combitip advanced has
heated up.

 Replace the Combitip

advanced with a new
Combitip advanced.

 Ensure that the

temperature is uniform as
the liquid expands when
heated.

The control button
is jammed, runs
jerky.

•The piston is
contaminated.

• The seal is contaminated.

 Clean the piston and

lubricate slightly.

 Disassemble the pipette,

clean all seals, replace if
necessary.

• The piston is damaged.

 Replace the piston and

piston seal and lubricate
slightly.

• Penetration of solvent
vapors

 Unscrew the lower part of

the pipette and aerate the
lower part.

 Clean the piston and

lubricate slightly.

Adjustment

Eppendorf SOP

English (EN)

7Adjustment

7.1 General information

Prior to delivery, all pipettes are adjusted with distilled or de-ionized, degassed
water under the conditions described in Chapters 1 to 3 and according to ISO
3696 (see Calibration on p. 8).

If you have doubts regarding the accuracy of the volume entered, please check
the following points first:

• Is there a leak in the device (see Leakage check on p. 15)?
Exception: Biomaster

• Does the temperature of the pipetted liquid correspond to:
– the temperature of the device?
– the ambient air temperature?

• Is the set volume correct?

• Has the liquid density and air pressure been taken into consideration?

• Does the density of the pipetted liquid deviate from the double-distilled,
degassed water?

• Was the work completed correctly, as described in the "Calibration" chapter
(see p. 8) and "Evaluation" chapter (see p. 11)?

• Were original Eppendorf pipette tips used?

Volume errors can also occur when pipetting liquids with high vapor pressure,
where the density or viscosity deviates considerably from the values of water.

Adjustments should only be carried out on the device after these conditions have
been taken into consideration.

17

7.2 Adjusting adjustable-volume pipettes

Observe the operating instructions for your pipette. There you will find
detailed descriptions on adjustment.

The adjustment of the following adjustable-volume pipettes is a zero point offset:

• Research

• Research plus

• Reference

•Biomaster

• Reference2

Adjustment

18

Eppendorf SOP
English (EN)

7.2.1 Procedure

Requirements

Device, original Eppendorf tip, test liquid and ambient air must have the same
temperature (15 – 30°C) at a constant temperature of ±0.5°C during the test
(according to EN ISO 8655, Part 6).

If your Research, Research plus or Reference has an adjustment, remove
it before carrying out the adjustment.
After adjusting, lock the adjustment opening with a new adjustment
seal.
Adjustment seals can be reordered (see operating manual).

1. Set the pipette to the smallest volume to be tested.

2. Use a matching original Eppendorf tip for single-channel pipettes. For
Multi-channel pipettes, use any channel.

3. Pipette the set volume 10 times.

4. Conduct a weighing after every volume dispensing.

5. Calculate the mean value after 10 measurements (see Evaluation on p. 11).
The calculated mean value of these weighings (observe conversion factor Z =
mg to µL) yields the actual volume.

6. For adjusting, introduce the suitable tool into the opening intended for this
purpose, or place it on the designated location, and adjust the actual volume
(see the following figures or operating manual).

7. Check the set volume by measuring again. If the target volume does not
match the result of the measurement, repeat steps 2 to 6.

8. After the adjustment, check the measured values for accuracy at 50% of the
nominal volume and check the nominal volume for accuracy.

7.2.2 Biomaster

1

0

2

0

Auxiliary equipment

• Supplied pipette wrench (order no. 4910 092.001)

1. Use the pipette wrench to adjust the
volume display of the pipette, with
the piston stroke unchanged, to the
actual volume value of the
measurement.

2. Pull off the pipette wrench.

3. Set the pipette to the target volume
in the usual manner.

4. Mark the adjustment on the pipette.

7.2.3 Reference variable

Adjustment

Eppendorf SOP

English (EN)

19

Auxiliary equipment

• Supplied pipette wrench (order no. 4910 092.001)

• Supplied red CAL seal

1. Insert side B of the pipette wrench
into the adjustment opening in the
lid.

0

6

2

6

2. Using the pipette wrench, set the
digital display of the pipette, with
unaltered piston stroke, to the actual
volume value of the measurement.

3. Pull off the pipette wrench.

4. Set the pipette to the target volume
in the usual manner.

5. After the adjustment has been
successfully completed, lock the
adjustment opening with a red CAL
seal.

Adjustment

Reference 2

ADJ

Reference 2

Reference 2

20

Eppendorf SOP
English (EN)

7.2.4 Reference 2 adjustable-volume

7.2.4.1 User adjustment

Changing the adjustment will change the volume by a specific value. Strictly
speaking, the change only applies to the testing volume.

Example:

You readjust a 10 – 100 µL pipette, with a volume setting of 100 µL, by 1 µL
(1 µL  1%). If the volume setting is 10 µL, the pipette is also adjusted by 1 µL
( 10%).

Auxiliary aids from the delivery package

•Pin

• Red plastic adjustment seal (ADJ)

1. Insert the pin in the middle of the gray adjustment seal (ADJ).

2. Remove the adjustment seal.

3. Insert the adjustment tool.

4. Turn the adjustment tool until the adjustment display shows the desired
value.

5. Read the set value distortion-free using the aligning aid in the viewing
window.

6. Carry out weighings to check the accuracy and precision.

1000 µL

ADJ

+-

11

Adjustment

Eppendorf SOP

English (EN)

7. Attach the red adjustment seal after the inspections.

If the adjustment only applies to a specific liquid, mark the pipette accordingly.
Use the labeling area on the pipette and mark it with the liquid and the volume.
Carry out a gravimetric test for each adjustment change. Follow the EN ISO
8655-2 and EN ISO 8655-6 test procedures.

7.2.4.2 Changing the factory adjustment

Auxiliary aids from the delivery package

• Red plastic safety plug

•Pin

The factory adjustment can be changed using the
corresponding accessories.

The factory adjustment will be marked by a safety plug.
The color of the safety plug indicates the implementing
authority:

ADJ

•Gray - Eppendorf AG

• Red - User

21

The random and systematic errors recorded on delivery can be found in the .
This certificate is included in delivery. The certificate is no longer valid if the
default settings have been changed.

If the dispensing accuracy is only be to changed temporarily, the correct method
is to change the user adjustment. Before changing the user or factory
adjustment, observe the general notes and the associated gravimetric tests.

For the factory setting, the volume display will be set to match the piston stroke
and the detected actual volume. If a gravimetric test indicates that an error
needs to be corrected and you will be required to change to factory adjustment,
proceed as follows:

Adjustment

e

e

e

22

Eppendorf SOP
English (EN)

ADJ

1. Check whether the adjustment display is set
to "0".
If the adjustment display is not set to “0”, it
must be set to “0” first using the adjustment

1000 µL

tool. In this case, instead of continuing with
the factory adjustment changes, carry out a

ADJ

+-

11

gravimetric test of the Reference2 with the
adjustment display set to "0".

2. Use the plug to pierce the safety plug, and
remove it.

R

3. Insert the adjustment tool.

ADJ

R

4. Hold the control button with one
hand.

ADJ

R

Adjustment

e

Eppendorf SOP

English (EN)

5. Turn the adjustment tool to set the volume display. Set the volume display
(from the volume setting used during the inspection to the calculated volume
of the gravimetric test). The volume change applies to the entire volume
range. For the volume change, you should initially set the value for 10% of
the nominal volume of the value calculated during the gravimetric test. Then
carry out gravimetric tests to check 50% and 100% of the nominal volume
with this setting. If necessary, change the selected setting again to achieve
the best possible correction for all volumes. Use the error limits in accordance
with ISO 8655-2 and the technical data provided by Eppendorf AG to decide
whether the data obtained meets your requirements.

6. Carry out a gravimetric check of the changes that have been completed.

7. Insert the red safety plug into the
adjustment opening.
The red safety plug on the pipette indicates
that the pipette has been adjusted and
calibrated by the user.

ADJ

R

23

8. Record executed changes and measurements.

Adjustment

200

200

Research

C

B

A

D

24

Eppendorf SOP
English (EN)

7.2.5 Research variable

Auxiliary equipment

• Supplied pipette wrench (order no. 3111 501.016)

• Supplied red CAL seal

1. Insert side D of the pipette wrench
vertically into the lateral adjustment
opening of the pipette grip.

2. Move the pipette wrench into the
vertical position.

3. Turn the volume setting ring toward
– or +.
This adjusts the piston stoke of the
pipette. The digital display does not
change in the process.

4. A revolution corresponds to:

Volume range Vol. per revolution

0.1 – 2.5 µL approx. 0.1 µL

0.5 - 10 µL approx. 0.5 µL
2 - 20 µL approx. 1 µL
10 - 100 µL approx. 5 µL
20 - 200 µL approx. 10 µL
100 - 1 000 µL approx. 50 µL
500 - 5 000 µL approx. 250 µL
1 - 10 mL approx. 510 µL

5. Pull off the pipette wrench.

6. Move the volume setting ring slightly forwards and backwards so that the
counting and stroke systems engage again.

7. After the adjustment has been successfully completed, lock the adjustment
opening with a red CAL seal.

Adjustment

Eppendorf SOP

English (EN)

7.2.6 Research plusadjustable volume - adjustment to

environmental parameters

Adjustment change for specific liquid densities, changed altitudes or pipette tips
that are not used to calculate the random and systematic error.

The Research plus was adjusted, tested and fitted with a gray adjustment seal
with the abbreviation "ADJ" before delivery. The adjustment display on the side
reads "0". Changing the adjustment will change the volume by a specific value.
Strictly speaking, the change only applies to the testing volume.

Auxiliary equipment

• Supplied adjustment tool (order no. 3120 633.006)

• Supplied red adjustment seal (ADJ)

25

1. Remove the gray adjustment seal.

2. Keep the ejector pressed.

3. Insert the adjustment tool (from the delivery package).

4. Turn the adjustment tool until the adjustment display shows the desired value.

5. Place the Research plus on a horizontal
surface (table). When completing the
adjustment, look absolutely vertically at the
window and read the set value via the
backsight in the viewing window.

6. Carry out weighing procedures to check the accuracy and precision.

7. After the tests, close the opening with the red adjustment seal (from the
delivery package).

If the adjustment only applies to a specific liquid, mark the pipette accordingly.
Use the labeling area on the pipette and mark it with the liquid and the volume.

Adjustment

26

Eppendorf SOP
English (EN)

7.2.7 Research plus adjustable volume - change to the factory

adjustment

Auxiliary equipment

• Supplied safety plug tool

• Supplied pin to loosen the safety plug

The factory adjustment can be changed with
the corresponding accessories on a Research
plus with variable volume setting.

You can recognize a change to the factory adjustment that was made by the user
of the Research plus from the red safety plug behind the ejector. If the Research
plus has been adjusted and calibrated by Eppendorf AG, this is indicated by a
gray safety plug.

1. Check whether the adjustment display on
the side is set to “0”.
If the adjustment display is not set to “0”, it
must be set to “0” first using the adjustment
tool. In this case, instead of continuing with
the factory adjustment changes, carry out a
gravimetric test of the Research plus with
the adjustment display set to “0”.

Adjustment

Eppendorf SOP

English (EN)

2. Provide the volume setting ring and the
ejector with a common mark with a pen.
This mark is used for orientation purposes
when changing the factory adjustment.
When changing the factory adjustment, you
can turn the volume setting ring without
changing the volume display. The mark on
the volume setting ring and the ejector
informs you how far you have moved from
the factory setting.

3. Keep the ejector pressed and remove the
safety plug with the pin.

27

Adjustment

28

Eppendorf SOP
English (EN)

4. Continue to keep the ejector pressed. Insert
the safety plug tool in such a way that the
counter locking mechanism is pushed down.

5. Turn the volume setting ring slightly to
change the volume. Proceed as shown in the
illustration.

6. This results in the following approximate volume changes:

single-channel
Nominal volume
Color code

2.5 µL

+½ 
revolution

+¼ 
revolution

–¼ 
revolution

0.106 µL 0.053 µL -0.053 µL -0.106 µL
Dark gray
10 µL

0.53 µL 0.27 µL -0.27 µL -0.53 µL
Medium gray
20 µL

1.06 µL 0.53 µL -0.53 µL -1.06 µL
light gray
20 µL

1.07 µL 0.54 µL -0.54 µL -1.07 µL
Yellow
100 µL

5.4 µL 2.7 µL -2.7 µL -5.4 µL
Yellow
200 µL

10.8 µL 5.4 µL -5.4 µL -10.8 µL
Yellow
300 µL

10.7 µL 5.4 µL -5.4 µL -10.7 µL
Orange
1,000 µL

54 µL 27 µL -27 µL -54 µL
Blue
5 mL

271 µL 135 µL -135 µL -271 µL
Purple
10 mL

542 µL 271 µL -271 µL –542 µL
Turquoise

Adjustment

Eppendorf SOP

English (EN)

–½ 
revolution

29

multi-channel
Nominal volume
Color code

10 µL

+½

revolution

+¼ 
revolution

–¼ 
revolution

–½
revolution

0.53 µL 0.27 µL -0.27 µL -0.53 µL
Medium gray
100 µL

5.4 µL 2.7 µL -2.7 µL -5.4 µL
Yellow
300 µL

10.7 µL 5.4 µL -5.4 µL -10.7 µL
Orange

The values mentioned are theoretical values and are for orientation purposes
only. The volume changes mentioned apply to each volume setting.

Adjustment

30

Eppendorf SOP
English (EN)

7. Push the locking mechanism upwards and
carry out a gravimetric test of the changes
made.

8. If the values measured during the
gravimetric test meet your requirements:
insert the red safety plug in the tool in the
opening of the Research plus and snap it off
the tool.
The red safety plug on the pipette indicates
that the Research plus has been adjusted
and calibrated by the user. If the adjustment
display had also been set to "0" previously,
you must close the opening with a new, red
adjustment seal at the position for the
adjustment seal.

9. Document the changes made and the measurements conducted. Remove the
mark on the volume setting ring and on the ejector. The red safety plug on the
pipette indicates that the Research plus has been adjusted and calibrated by
the user.

7.2.8 Research Multi-channel

C

B

A

D

Auxiliary equipment

• Supplied pipette wrench (order no. 3111 501.016)

•Supplied red ADJ seal

1. Insert the D side of the pipette
wrench horizontally into the
adjustment opening on the side of
the pipette grip.

2. Move the pipette wrench into the
vertical position.

3. Turn the volume setting ring toward
– or +. This adjusts the piston stoke
of the pipette. The digital display
does not change in the process.

Adjustment

Eppendorf SOP

English (EN)

31

4. A revolution corresponds to:

Volume range Vol./turn

0.5 - 10 µL approx. 0.5 µL
10 - 300 µL approx. 5 µL
30 µL approx. 10 µL

5. Pull off the pipette wrench.

6. Move the volume setting ring slightly forwards and backwards so that the
counting and stroke systems engage again.

7. After the adjustment has been successfully completed, lock the adjustment
opening with a red ADJ-seal.

7.2.9 Research plus Multi-channel

Carry out the adjustment as described for the Research plus single-channel
pipette (see p. 25).

Adjustment

32

Eppendorf SOP
English (EN)

7.2.10 Varispenser plus

7.2.11 Xplorer and Xplorer plus

The re-adjustment of the Xplorer pipette is described on the CD which is
enclosed with the pipette.

If you have selected a different adjustment in the Xplorer
pipette options, a wrench symbol will be displayed in the
header of the display.

 Turn the fine adjustment toward + or

–. A revolution corresponds to the
smallest dispensing step:

Reduce volume:

 Turn toward -.

Increase volume:

 Turn toward +.

The factory adjustment was carried out
at 20 °C, using double-distilled,
degassed water.

Another symbol showing the selected adjustment is
displayed to the right of the wrench symbol. If you are
changing back to the factory adjustment at a later stage,
the previously selected adjustment will be deleted and
both symbols will disappear from the header.

Adjustment

Eppendorf SOP

English (EN)

7.3 Adjusting fixed-volume pipettes

The adjustment process for fixed-volume pipettes is identical to the adjustment
process for variable pipettes

(see Adjusting adjustable-volume pipettes on p. 17)

For fixed-volume pipettes, 10 measured values of the nominal volume are checked.

7.3.1 Reference fixed

Auxiliary equipment

• Adhesive label as an adjusting aid for the basic setting

• Supplied pipette wrench (order no. 4910 092.001)

1. In order to simplify relocating the basic
setting, attach the adhesive label

0

4

4

0

supplied as an adjusting aid to the
control button.

2. Using the B side of the pipette wrench,
loosen the inside screw until the control
button can be turned.

3. Set the control button to the calculated
actual volume value of the measurement
(see Adjusting adjustable-volume
pipettes on p. 17).

.

33

One revolution of the control button corresponds to the following (based on water):

Reference fixed-volume Vol./turn

1, 2, 5, 10 µL approx. 0.5 µL
10, 20 µL approx. 1 µL
25, 50 µL approx. 2.4 µL
100 µL approx. 5 µL
200, 250 µL approx. 12 µL
500, 1 000 µL approx. 46 µL
1 500, 2 000, 2 500 µL approx. 118 µL

Adjustment

C

B

A

D

34

Eppendorf SOP
English (EN)

7.3.2 Reference2

Adjustment is carried out as described for the Reference 2 adjustable-volume
(see p. 20).

7.3.3 Research fixed

Auxiliary equipment

• Supplied pipette wrench (order no. 3111 501.016)

1. Insert side D of the pipette wrench
vertically into the lateral adjustment
opening of the pipette grip.

2. Move the tool into the vertical
position.

3. Turn the volume setting ring toward
– or +. This adjusts the piston stoke
of the pipette.

With reference to water, one revolution of the volume setting ring corresponds to:

Volume range Vol./turn

10 approx. 0.8 µL
20 approx. 0.8 µL
25 approx. 0.8 µL
50 approx. 0.8 µL
100 approx. 0.8 µL
200 approx. 38 µL
250 approx. 38 µL
500 approx. 38 µL
1 000 approx. 38 µL

Adjustment

Eppendorf SOP

English (EN)

7.3.4 Research plus fixed

Adjustment is carried out as described for the Research plus
adjustable-volume(see p. 25).

7.4 Physical influences of liquids

It is possible to adjust the previously described devices for a volume of a liquid
with a different density than water so that the displayed volume value
corresponds to the pipetted volume.

With adjustable-volume pipettes, all other values are then readjusted, as
the adjustable-volume pipette then becomes a fix-volume pipette.

The adjustment process is comparable to the described procedure (see p. 18).
The difference is that the mean value of the weighings is converted to
microliters according to the formula:

.

35

1. Determine the mean value and convert it to microliters.
The calculated value is the nominal value.

2. The digital display of variable pipettes, or the volume of fix-volume pipettes,
must be set to the calculated actual value.

3. Check the value set for the liquid gravimetrically. The accordingly set device
only delivers a dispensing value, which corresponds to the digital display, for
the used liquid and set volume.

4. If necessary correct and check the setting.

5. Label the measuring device following adjustment with the measured value
and the name of the liquid which was used for the adjustment.

Following adjustment, the certificate accompanying the pipette
becomes invalid.

Factor Z for distilled water

36

Eppendorf SOP
English (EN)

8 Factor Z for distilled water

8.1 Factor Z overview table

Factor Z (µl/mg) in accordance with EN ISO 8655 for distilled water depending
on test temperature and air pressure:

Tem pera ture

(°C)

15

15.5
16

16.5
17

17.5
18

18.5
19

19.5
20

20.5
21

21.5
22

22.5
23

23.5
24

24.5
25

25.5
26

26.5
27

27.5
28

28.5
29

29.5
30 1.0052 1.0052 1.0053 1.0053 1.0054 1.0054 1.0054

80 85 90 95 100 101.3 105

1.0017

1.0018

1.0019

1.0020

1.0021

1.0022

1.0022

1.0023

1.0024

1.0025

1.0026

1.0027

1.0028

1.0030

1.0031

1.0032

1.0033

1.0034

1.0035

1.0037

1.0038

1.0039

1.0040

1.0042

1.0043

1.0045

1.0046

1.0047

1.0049

1.0050

1.0018

1.0019

1.0020

1.0020

1.0021

1.0022

1.0023

1.0024

1.0025

1.0026

1.0027

1.0028

1.0029

1.0030

1.0031

1.0032

1.0033

1.0035

1.0036

1.0037

1.0038

1.0040

1.0041

1.0042

1.0044

1.0045

1.0046

1.0048

1.0049

1.0051

Air pressure (kPa)

1.0019

1.0019

1.0020

1.0021

1.0022

1.0023

1.0023

1.0024

1.0025

1.0026

1.0027

1.0028

1.0029

1.0031

1.0032

1.0033

1.0034

1.0035

1.0036

1.0038

1.0039

1.0040

1.0041

1.0043

1.0044

1.0046

1.0047

1.0048

1.0050

1.0051

1.0019

1.0020

1.0021

1.0021

1.0022

1.0023

1.0024

1.0025

1.0026

1.0027

1.0028

1.0029

1.0030

1.0031

1.0032

1.0033

1.0034

1.0036

1.0037

1.0038

1.0039

1.0041

1.0042

1.0043

1.0045

1.0046

1.0047

1.0049

1.0050

1.0052

1.0020

1.0020

1.0021

1.0022

1.0023

1.0024

1.0025

1.0025

1.0026

1.0027

1.0028

1.0029

1.0031

1.0032

1.0033

1.0034

1.0035

1.0036

1.0037

1.0039

1.0040

1.0041

1.0042

1.0044

1.0045

1.0047

1.0048

1.0049

1.0051

1.0052

1.0020

1.0020

1.0021

1.0022

1.0023

1.0024

1.0025

1.0026

1.0027

1.0028

1.0029

1.0030

1.0031

1.0032

1.0033

1.0034

1.0035

1.0036

1.0038

1.0039

1.0040

1.0041

1.0043

1.0044

1.0045

1.0047

1.0048

1.0050

1.0051

1.0052

1.0020

1.0021

1.0022

1.0022

1.0023

1.0024

1.0025

1.0026

1.0027

1.0028

1.0029

1.0030

1.0031

1.0032

1.0033

1.0034

1.0036

1.0037

1.0038

1.0039

1.0040

1.0042

1.0043

1.0044

1.0046

1.0047

1.0048

1.0050

1.0051

1.0053

Technical specifications

9 Technical specifications

The following specifications are valid for the following conditions:

Liquid: Distilled or deionized water
Reference temperature: 20 °C to 25 °C ±0.5 °C
Number of

determinations:

Technical specifications subject to change!

10, in accordance with EN ISO 8655 with original
Eppendorf pipette tips

9.1 Fixed-volume pipettes

9.1.1 Reference fixed

Eppendorf SOP

English (EN)

37

Model Test tip

epT.I.P.S. Color code
Volume range
Length

1 µL light gray
2 µL ±2.0 ±0.04 ±1.2 ±0.024
5 µL ±1.5 ±0.075 ±0.8 ±0.04
10 µL ±1.0 ±0.1 ±0.5 ±0.05
10 µL Yellow
20 µL ±0.8 ±0.16 ±0.3 ±0.06
25 µL ±0.8 ±0.2 ±0.3 ±0.075
50 µL ±0.7 ±0.35 ±0.3 ±0.15
100 µL ±0.6 ±0.6 ±0.2 ±0.2
200 µL Blue
250 µL ±0.6 ±1.5 ±0.2 ±0.5
500 µL ±0.6 ±3.0 ±0.2 ±1.0
1,000 µL ±0.6 ±6.0 ±0.2 ±2.0
1 500 µL Red
2 000 µL ±0.6 ±12 ±0.2 ±4.0
2,500 µL ±0.6 ±15 ±0.2 ±5.0

0.5 - 20 L L
46 mm

2 - 200 µL
53 mm

50 - 1 000 µL
71 mm

500 – 2 500 µL
115 mm

Systematic error Random error

± % ± µL ± % ± µL

±2.5 ±0.025 ±1.8 ±0.018

±1.0 ±0.1 ±0.5 ±0.05

±0.6 ±1.2 ±0.2 ±0.4

±0.6 ±9.0 ±0.2 ±3.0

Error limits

Error

Technical specifications

38

Eppendorf SOP
English (EN)

9.1.2 Reference 2 fixed

Fixed-volume Reference2
Model Test tip

epT.I.P.S. Color code
Volume range
Length

1 µL Dark gray
2 µL ±2.0 ±0.04 ±1.2 ±0.024

0.1 µL – 10 µL

34 mm
5 µL Medium gray
10 µL ±1.0 ±0.1 ±0.5 ±0.05

0.1 µL – 20 µL

40 mm
20 µL light gray

0.5 µL – 20 µL L

46 mm
10 µL Yellow
20 µL ±1.0 ±0.2 ±0.3 ±0.06
25 µL ±1.0 ±0.25 ±0.3 ±0.075

2 L – 200 µL

53 mm
50 µL ±0.7 ±0.35 ±0.3 ±0.15

100 µL ±0.6 ±0.6 ±0.2 ±0.2
200 µL ±0.6 ±1.2 ±0.2 ±0.4
200 µL Blue
250 µL ±0.6 ±1.5 ±0.2 ±0.5
500 µL ±0.6 ±3.0 ±0.2 ±1.0

50 µL – 1 000 µL

71 mm
1,000 µL ±0.6 ±6.0 ±0.2 ±2.0

Eppendorf AG error limits

Error

Systematic error Random error

± % ± µL ± % ± µL

±2.5 ±0.025 ±1.8 ±0.018

±1.2 ±0.06 ±0.6 ±0.03

±0.8 ±0.16 ±0.3 ±0.06

±1.2 ±0.12 ±0.6 ±0.06

±0.6 ±1.2 ±0.2 ±0.4

Fixed-volume Reference2

Model Test tip

epT.I.P.S. Color code

Volume range

Length

2.0 mL Red

2.5 mL ±0.6 ±0.015 ±0.2 ±0.005

0.5 mL – 2.5 mL

Eppendorf AG error limits

Error

Systematic error Random error

± % ± mL ± % ± mL

±0.6 ±0.012 ±0.2 ±0,004

115 mm

9.1.3 Research fixed

Technical specifications

Eppendorf SOP

English (EN)

39

Model Test tip

epT.I.P.S. Color code
Volume range
Length

10 µL Yellow
20 µL ±1.0 ±0.2 ±0.3 ±0.06
25 µL ±1.0 ±0.25 ±0.3 ±0.075

2 - 200 µL
53 mm

Systematic error Random error

± % ± µL ± % ± µL

±1.2 ±0.12 ±0.6 ±0.06

Error limits

Error

50 µL ±0.7 ±0.35 ±0.3 ±0.15
100 µL ±0.6 ±0.6 ±0.2 ±0.2
200 µL Blue
250 µL ±0.6 ±1.5 ±0.2 ±0.5
500 µL ±0.6 ±3.0 ±0.2 ±1.0

0.05 - 1 mL
71 mm

±0.6 ±1.2 ±0.2 ±0.4

1,000 µL ±0.6 ±6.0 ±0.2 ±2.0

Technical specifications

40

Eppendorf SOP
English (EN)

9.1.4 Research plus fixed

Research plus fixed volume

Model Test tip

epT.I.P.S. Color
code
Volume range
Length

10 µL Medium gray

0.1 µL – 20 µL
40 mm

20 µL light gray

0.5 µL – 20 µL L

46 mm
10 µL Yellow
20 µL ±1.0 ±0.2 ±0.3 ±0.06
25 µL ±1.0 ±0.25 ±0.3 ±0.08

2 µL - 200 µL

53 mm

50 µL ±0.7 ±0.35 ±0.3 ±0.15
100 µL ±0.6 ±0.6 ±0.2 ±0.2
200 µL ±0.6 ±1.2 ±0.2 ±0.4
200 µL Blue
250 µL ±0.6 ±1.5 ±0.2 ±0.5
500 µL ±0.6 ±3.0 ±0.2 ±1.0

50 µL – 1 000 µL

71 mm

1,000 µL ±0.6 ±6.0 ±0.2 ±2.0

Eppendorf AG error limits

Error

Systematic

Random error

error

± %± µL± %± µL

±1.2 ±0.12 ±0.6 ±0.06

±0.8 ±0.16 ±0.3 ±0.06

±1.2 ±0.12 ±0.6 ±0.06

±0.6 ±1.2 ±0.2 ±0.4

9.2 Adjusting adjustable volume pipettes

9.2.1 Reference variable

Technical specifications

Eppendorf SOP

English (EN)

41

Model Test tip

epT.I.P.S. Color code
Volume range
Length

0.1 - 2.5 µL Dark gray

0.1 - 10 µL
34 mm

0.5 - 10 µL light gray

0.5 – 20 µL
46 mm

2 - 20 µL light gray

0.5 – 20 µL
46 mm

2 - 20 µL Yellow

2 - 200 µL
53 mm

10 - 100 µL Yellow

2 - 200 µL
53 mm

50 – 200 µL Yellow

2 - 200 µL
53 mm

50 – 250 µL Blue

50 - 1 000 µL
71 mm

100 – 1 000 µL Blue

50 – 1 000 µL
71 mm

500 – 2 500 µL Red

500 – 2 500 µL
115 mm

Tes ting
volume

Systematic error

Error limits

Error

Random error

± % ± µL ± % ± µL

0.25 µL ±12.0 ±0.03 ±6.0 ±0.015

1.25 µL ±2.5 ±0.031 ±1.5 ±0.019

2.5 µL ±1.4 ±0.035 ±0.7 ±0.018
1 µL ±2.5 ±0.025 ±1.8 ±0.018
5 µL ±1.5 ±0.075 ±0.8 ±0.04
10 µL ±1.0 ±0.1 ±0.4 ±0.04
2 µL ±3.0 ±0.06 ±2.0 ±0.04
10 µL ±1.0 ±0.1 ±0.5 ±0.05
20 µL ±0.8 ±0.16 ±0.3 ±0.06
2 µL ±5.0 ±0.1 ±1.5 ±0.03
10 µL ±1.2 ±0.12 ±0.6 ±0.06
20 µL ±1.0 ±0.2 ±0.3 ±0.06
10 µL ±3.0 ±0.3 ±0.7 ±0.07
50 µL ±1.0 ±0.5 ±0.3 ±0.15
100 µL ±0.8 ±0.8 ±0.15 ±0.15
50 µL ±1.0 ±0.5 ±0.3 ±0.15
100 µL ±0.9 ±0.9 ±0.3 ±0.3
200 µL ±0.6 ±1.2 ±0.2 ±0.4
50 µL ±1.4 ±0.7 ±0.3 ±0.15
100 µL ±1.1 ±1.1 ±0.3 ±0.3
250 µL ±0.6 ±1.5 ±0.2 ±0.5
100 µL ±3.0 ±3.0 ±0.3 ±0.3
500 µL ±1.0 ±5.0 ±0.2 ±1.0
1,000 µL ±0.6 ±6.0 ±0.2 ±2.0

0.5 mL ±1.5 ±7.5 ±0.3 ±1.5

1.25 mL ±0.8 ±10 ±0.2 ±2.5

2.5 mL ±0.6 ±15 ±0.2 ±5.0

Technical specifications

42

Eppendorf SOP
English (EN)

9.2.2 Reference 2 adjustable-volume

Reference2 single-channel variable
Model Test tip

epT.I.P.S. Color code
Volume range
Length

0.1 µL – 2.5 µL
Increment:

0.002 µL

0.5 µL – 10 µL
Increment:

0.01 µL

2 µL – 20 µL
Increment:

0.02 µL
2 µL – 20 µL

Increment:

0.02 µL
10 µL – 100 µL

Increment:

0.1 µL
20 µL - 200 µL

Increment:

0.2 µL
30 µL – 300 µL

Increment:

0.2 µL
100 µL – 1 000 µL

Increment:
1 µL

Dark gray

0.1 µL – 10 µL
34 mm

Medium gray

0.1 µL – 20 µL
40 mm

light gray

0.5 µL – 20 µL L
46 mm

Yellow
2 µL - 200 µL
53 mm

Yellow
2 µL - 200 µL
53 mm

Yellow
2 µL - 200 µL
53 mm

Orange
20 µL – 300 µL
55 mm

Blue
50 µL – 1 000 µL
71 mm

Tes ting
volume

Eppendorf AG error limits

Error

Systematic

Random error

error

± % ± µL ± % ± µL

0.1 µL ±48.0 ±0.048 ±12.0 ±0.012

0.25 µL ±12.0 ±0.03 ±6.0 ±0.015

1.25 µL ±2.5 ±0.031 ±1.5 ±0.019

2.5 µL ±1.4 ±0.035 ±0.7 ±0.018

0.5 µL ±8.0 ±0.04 ±5.0 ±0.0025
1 µL ±2.5 ±0.025 ±1.8 ±0.018
5 µL ±1.5 ±0.075 ±0.8 ±0.04
10 µL ±1.0 ±0,10 ±0.4 ±0.04
2 µL ±5.0 ±0,10 ±1.5 ±0.03
10 µL ±1.2 ±0.12 ±0.6 ±0.06
20 µL ±1.0 ±0.20 ±0.3 ±0.06
2 µL ±5.0 ±0.12 ±1.5 ±0.03
10 µL ±1.2 ±0.12 ±0.6 ±0.06
20 µL ±1.0 ±0.2 ±0.3 ±0.06
10 µL ±3.0 ±0.3 ±0.7 ±0.07
50 µL ±1.0 ±0.5 ±0.3 ±0.15
100 µL ±0.8 ±0.8 ±0.2 ±0.2
20 µL ±2.5 ±0.5 ±0.7 ±0.14
100 µL ±1.0 ±1.0 ±0.3 ±0.3
200 µL ±0.6 ±1.2 ±0.2 ±0.4
30 µL ±2.5 ±0.75 ±0.7 ±0.21
150 µL ±1.0 ±1.5 ±0.3 ±0.45
300 µL ±0.6 ±1.8 ±0.2 ±0.6
100 µL ±3.0 ±3.0 ±0.6 ±0.6
500 µL ±1.0 ±5.0 ±0.2 ±1.0
1,000 µL ±0.6 ±6.0 ±0.2 ±2.0

Reference2 single-channel variable
Model Test tip

epT.I.P.S. Color code
Volume range
Length

0.25 mL – 2.5 mL
Increment:

0.002 mL

0.5 mL – 5 mL
Increment:

0.005 mL
1 mL – 10 mL

Increment:

0.01 mL

Red

0.25 mL – 2.5 mL
115 mm

Purple

0.1 mL – 5 mL
120 mm

Turquoise
1 mL – 10 mL
165 mm

Tes ting
volume

Technical specifications

Eppendorf AG error limits

Systematic

error

Eppendorf SOP

English (EN)

Error

Random

error

± % ± mL ± % ± mL

0.25 mL ±4.8 ±0.012 ±1.2 ±0,003

1.25 mL ±0.8 ±0,010 ±0.2 ±0.0025

2.5 mL ±0.6 ±0.015 ±0.2 ±0.005

0.5 mL ±2.4 ±0.012 ±0.6 ±0,003

2.5 mL ±1.2 ±0,030 ±0.25 ±0.006

5.0 mL ±0.6 ±0,030 ±0.15 ±0.0075

1.0 mL ±3.0 ±0,030 ±0.6 ±0.006

5.0 mL ±0.8 ±0,040 ±0.2 ±0,010

10.0 mL ±0.6 ±0,060 ±0.15 ±0.015

43

Technical specifications

44

Eppendorf SOP
English (EN)

9.2.3 Research adjustable-volume

Model Test tip

epT.I.P.S. Color code
Volume range
Length

0.1 - 2.5 µL Dark gray

0.1 - 10 µL
34 mm

0.5 - 10 µL light gray

0.5 – 20 µL L
46 mm

2 - 20 µL Yellow

2 - 200 µL
53 mm

10 - 100 µL Yellow

2 – 200 µL
53 mm

20 - 200 µL Yellow

2 - 200 µL
53 mm

100 –
1 000 µL

Blue

0.05 – 1 mL
71 mm

0.5 – 5 mL Purple

0.1 – 5 mL
120 mm

1 – 10 mL Turquoise

1 – 10 mL
165 mm

Tes ting
volume

Systematic

error

Error limits

Error

Random

error

± % ± µL ± % ± µL

0.25 µL ±12.0 ±0.03 ±6.0 ±0.015

1.25 µL ±2.5 ±0.031 ±1.5 ±0.019

2.5 µL ±1.4 ±0.035 ±0.7 ±0.018
1 µL ±2.5 ±0.025 ±1.8 ±0.018
5 µL ±1.5 ±0.075 ±0.8 ±0.04
10 µL ±1.0 ±0.1 ±0.4 ±0.04
2 µL ±5.0 ±0.1 ±1.5 ±0.03
10 µL ±1.2 ±0.12 ±0.6 ±0.06
20 µL ±1.0 ±0.2 ±0.3 ±0.06
10 µL ±3.0 ±0.3 ±1.0 ±0.1
50 µL ±1.0 ±0.5 ±0.3 ±0.15
100 µL ±0.8 ±0.8 ±0.2 ±0.20
20 µL ±2.5 ±0.5 ±0.7 ±0.14
100 µL ±1.0 ±1.0 ±0.3 ±0.3
200 µL ±0.6 ±1.2 ±0.2 ±0.4
100 µL ±3.0 ±3.0 ±0.6 ±0.6
500 µL ±1.0 ±5.0 ±0.2 ±1.0
1,000 µL ±0.6 ±6.0 ±0.2 ±2.0

0.5 mL ±2.4 ±12 ±0.6 ±3.0

2.5 mL ±1.2 ±30 ±0.25 ±6.25

5.0 mL ±0.6 ±30 ±0.15 ±7.5

1.0 mL ±3.0 ±30 ±0.6 ±6.0

5.0 mL ±0.8 ±40 ±0.2 ±10

10.0 mL ±0.6 ±60 ±0.15 ±15

9.2.4 Research pro

Technical specifications

Eppendorf SOP

English (EN)

45

Model Test tip

epT.I.P.S. Color code
Volume range
Length

0.5 - 10 µL light gray

0.5 – 20 µL L
46 mm

5 - 100 µL Yellow

2 - 200 µL
53 mm

20 – 300 µL Orange

20 – 300 µL
55 mm

50 - 1 000 µL Blue

50 - 1 000 µL
71 mm

500 – 5 000 µL Purple

0.1 – 5 mL
120 mm

Tes ting
volume

Systematic

Error limits

error

Error

Random

error

± % ± µL ± % ± µL

1 µL ±2.5 ±0.025 ±1.8 ±0.018
5 µL ±1.5 ±0.075 ±0.8 ±0.04
10 µL ±1.0 ±0.1 ±0.4 ±0.04
10 µL ±2.0 ±0.2 ±1.0 ±0.1
50 µL ±1.0 ±0.5 ±0.3 ±0.15
100 µL ±0.8 ±0.8 ±0.2 ±0.2
30 µL ±2.5 ±0.75 ±0.7 ±0.21
150 µL ±1.0 ±1.5 ±0.3 ±0.45
300 µL ±0.6 ±1.8 ±0.2 ±0.6
100 µL ±3.0 ±3.0 ±0.6 ±0.6
500 µL ±1.0 ±5.0 ±0.2 ±1.0
1,000 µL ±0.6 ±6.0 ±0.2 ±2.0

0.5 mL ±3.0 ±15 ±0.6 ±3.0

2.5 mL ±1.2 ±30 ±0.25 ±6.25

5.0 mL ±0.6 ±30 ±0.15 ±7.5

Technical specifications

46

Eppendorf SOP
English (EN)

9.2.5 Research plus adjustable-volume

Research plus adjustable single-channel
Model Test tip

epT.I.P.S. Color code
Volume range
Length

0.1 µL – 2.5 µL
Increment:

0.002 µL

0.5 µL – 10 µL
Increment:

0.01 µL

2 µL – 20 µL
Increment:

0.02 µL
2 µL – 20 µL

Increment:

0.02 µL
10 µµL – 100 µL

Increment:

0.1 µL
20 µL - 200 µL

Increment:

0.2 µL
30 µL – 300 µL

Increment:

0.2 µL
100 µL – 1 000 µL

Increment:
1 µL

Dark gray

0.1 µL – 10 µL
34 mm

Medium gray

0.1 µL – 20 µL
40 mm

light gray

0.5 µL – 20 µL L
46 mm

Yellow
2 µL - 200 µL
53 mm

Yellow
2 µL - 200 µL
53 mm

Yellow
2 µL - 200 µL
53 mm

Orange
20 µL – 300 µL
55 mm

Blue
50 µL – 1 000 µL
71 mm

Tes ting
volume

Eppendorf AG error limits

Error

Systematic

error

Random

error

± % ± µL ± % ± µL

0.1 µL ±48 ±0.048 ±12 ±0.012

0.25 µL ±12 ±0.03 ±6.0 ±0.015

1.25 µL ±2.5 ±0.031 ±1.5 ±0.019

2.5 µL ±1.4 ±0.035 ±0.7 ±0.018

0.5 µL ±8.0 ±0.04 ±5.0 ±0.025
1 µL ±2.5 ±0.025 ±1.8 ±0.018
5 µL ±1.5 ±0.075 ±0.8 ±0.04
10 µL ±1.0 ±0.1 ±0.4 ±0.04
2 µL ±5.0 ±0.1 ±1.5 ±0.03
10 µL ±1.2 ±0.12 ±0.6 ±0.06
20 µL ±1.0 ±0.2 ±0.3 ±0.06
2 µL ±5.0 ±0.1 ±1.5 ±0.03
10 µL ±1.2 ±0.12 ±0.6 ±0.06
20 µL ±1.0 ±0.2 ±0.3 ±0.06
10 µL ±3.0 ±0.3 ±1.0 ±0.1
50 µL ±1.0 ±0.5 ±0.3 ±0.15
100 µL ±0.8 ±0.8 ±0.2 ±0.2
20 µL ±2.5 ±0.5 ±0.7 ±0.14
100 µL ±1.0 ±1.0 ±0.3 ±0.3
200 µL ±0.6 ±1.2 ±0.2 ±0.4
30 µL ±2.5 ±0.75 ±0.7 ±0.21
150 µL ±1.0 ±1.5 ±0.3 ±0.45
300 µL ±0.6 ±1.8 ±0.2 ±0.6
100 µL ±3.0 ±3.0 ±0.6 ±0.6
500 µL ±1.0 ±5.0 ±0.2 ±1.0
1,000 µL ±0.6 ±6.0 ±0.2 ±2.0

Research plus adjustable single-channel
Model Test tip

epT.I.P.S. Color code

Tes ting

volume
Volume range
Length

0.5 µL – 5 mL
Increment:

0.005 mL
1 µL – 10 mL

Increment:

0.01 mL

Purple

0.1 µL – 5 mL
120 mm

Turquoise
1 µL – 10 mL
165 mm

0.5 mL ±2.4 ±12 ±0.6 ±3.0

2.5 mL ±1.2 ±30 ±0.25 ±6.0

5.0 mL ±0.6 ±30 ±0.15 ±8.0

1.0 mL ±3.0 ±30 ±0.6 ±6.0

5.0 mL ±0.8 ±40 ±0.2 ±10

10.0 mL ±0.6 ±60 ±0.15 ±15

9.2.6 Biomaster

Technical specifications

Eppendorf SOP

English (EN)

Eppendorf AG error limits

Error

Systematic

error

Random

error

± % ± µL ± % ± µL

47

Model Pipette tip Testing

volume

Systematic error

Error limits

Error

Random error

± % ± µL ± % ± µL

Biomaster 4830 Mastertip 2 µL ±6.0 ±0.12 ±4.0 ±0.08

3 µL ±5.0 ±0.15 ±3.0 ±0.09
5 µL ±4.0 ±0.2 ±2.0 ±0.1
10 µL ±3.0 ±0.3 ±1.5 ±0.15
20 µL ±2.5 ±0.5 ±0.8 ±0.16

9.2.7 Varipette

Model Pipette tip Testing

volume

Systematic error
± % ± mL ± % ± mL

Varipette 4720 Varitip S 2.5 mL ±1.0 ±0.025 ±0.2 ±0.005

5 mL ±0.4 ±0.02 ±0.2 ±0.01
10 mL ±0.3 ±0.03 ±0.2 ±0.02

Varipette 4720 Varitip P 1 mL ±0.6 ±0.006 ±0.2 ±0.002

5 mL ±0.5 ±0.025 ±0.1 ±0.005
10 mL ±0.3 ±0.03 ±0.1 ±0.01

Error limits

Error

Random error

Technical specifications

48

Eppendorf SOP
English (EN)

9.2.8 Xplorer and Xplorer plus

pipette
Increment

Pipette tip
Color code
Volume range
Length

Tes ting
volume

Error limits

Systematic

error

Error

Random

error

µL µL ±% ± µL ±% ± µL

0.5 µL – 10 µL
Increment:

0.01 µL
5 µL– 100 µL

Increment:

0.1 µL
15 µL – 300 µL

Increment:

0.2 µL
50 µL – 1 000 µL

Increment:
1 µL

Medium gray

0.1 µL – 20 µL
40 mm

Yellow
2 µL - 200 µL
53 mm

Orange
15 µL – 300 µL
55 mm

Blue
50 µL – 1000 µL
71 mm

1 µL ±2.5 ±0.025 ±1.8 ±0.018
5 µL ±1.5 ±0.075 ±0.8 ±0.04
10 µL ±1.0 ±0.1 ±0.4 ±0.04
10 µL ±2.0 ±0.2 ±1.0 ±0.1
50 µL ±1.0 ±0.5 ±0.3 ±0.15
100 µL ±0.8 ±0.8 ±0.2 ±0.2
30 µL ±2.5 ±0.75 ±0.7 ±0.21
150 µL ±1.0 ±1.5 ±0.3 ±0.45
300 µL ±0.6 ±1.8 ±0.2 ±0.6
100 µL ±3.0 ±3.0 ±0.6 ±0.6
500 µL ±1.0 ±5.0 ±0.2 ±1.0
1000 µL ±0.6 ±6.0 ±0.2 ±2.0

mL mL mL ±% ± mL ±% ± mL

0.25 mL – 5 mL
Increment:

0.005 mL

0.5 mL – 10 mL
Increment:

0.01 mL

Purple

0.1 mL – 5 mL
120 mm

Turquoise
1 mL – 10 mL
165 mm

0.5 mL ±3.0 ±15.0 ±0.6 ±3.0

2.5 mL ±1.2 ±30.0 ±0.25 ±6.25
5 mL ±0.6 ±30.0 ±0.15 ±7.5
1 mL ±3.0 ±30.0 ±0.60 ±6.0
5 mL ±0.8 ±40.0 ±0.20 ±10.0
10 mL ±0.6 ±60.0 ±0.15 ±15.0

9.3 Multi-channel pipettes

9.3.1 Research

Technical specifications

Eppendorf SOP

English (EN)

49

Model Test tip

epT.I.P.S. Color
code
Volume range
Length

Research8-channel

0.5 - 10 µL

light gray

0.5 – 20 µL
46 mm

Research12-channel

0.5 - 10 µL
Research8-channel

10 - 100 µL

Yellow
2 - 200 µL
53 mm

Research12-channel
10 - 100 µL

Research8-channel
30 - 300 µL

Orange
20 – 300 µL
55 mm

Research12-channel
30 - 300 µL

Volume

in µL

Systematic

Error limits

Error

Random error

error

± % ± µL ± % ± µL

1 ±8.0 ±0.08 ±5.0 ±0.05

5 ±4.0 ±0.2 ±2.0 ±0.1

10 ±2.0 ±0.2 ±1.0 ±0.1

see 8-channel

10 ±3.0 ±0.3 ±2.0 ±0.2

50 ±1.0 ±0.5 ±0.8 ±0.4

100 ±0.8 ±0.8 ±0.3 ±0.3

see 8-channel

30 ±3.0 ±0.9 ±1.0 ±0.3

150 ±1.0 ±1.5 ±0.5 ±0.75

300 ±0.6 ±1.8 ±0.3 ±0.9

see 8-channel

Technical specifications

50

Eppendorf SOP
English (EN)

9.3.2 Research pro

Model Test tip

epT.I.P.S. Color code
Volume range
Length

Research pro
8-channel /12-channel

0.5 - 10 µL
Research pro

8-channel /12-channel
5 - 100 µL

Research pro
8-channel /12-channel
20 – 300 µL

Research pro
8-channel /12-channel
50 – 1 250 µL

light gray

0.5 – 20 µL L
46 mm

Yellow
2 - 200 µL
53 mm

Orange
20 – 300 µL
55 mm

Green
50 – 1 250 µL
76 mm

Tes ting
volume

Error limits

Error

Systematic

error

Random

error

± % ± µL ± % ± µL

1 µL ±5.0 ±0.05 ±3.0 ±0.03
5 µL ±3.0 ±0.15 ±1.5 ±0.075
10 µL ±2.0 ±0.2 ±0.8 ±0.08
10 µL ±2.0 ±0.2 ±2.0 ±0.2
50 µL ±1.0 ±0.5 ±0.8 ±0.4
100 µL ±0.8 ±0.8 ±0.25 ±0.25
30 µL ±2.5 ±0.75 ±1.0 ±0.3
150 µL ±1.0 ±1.5 ±0.5 ±0.75
300 µL ±0.6 ±1.8 ±0.25 ±0.75
120 µL ±6.0 ±7.2 ±0.9 ±1.08
600 µL ±2.7 ±16.2 ±0.4 ±2.4
1 200 µL ±1.2 ±14.4 ±0.3 ±3.6

9.3.3 Research plus

Research plus adjustable multi-channel
Model Test tip

epT.I.P.S. Color code
Volume range
Length

0.5 µL – 10 µL
Increment:

0.01 µL

10 µL – 100 µL
Increment:

0.1 µL
30 µL – 300 µL

Increment:

0.2 µL

Medium gray

0.1 µL – 20 µL
40 mm

Yellow
2 µL - 200 µL
53 mm

Orange
20 µL – 300 µL
55 mm

Tes ting
volume

Technical specifications

Eppendorf AG error limits

Systematic

error

Eppendorf SOP

English (EN)

Error

Random

error

± % ± µL ± % ± µL

0.5 µL ±12 ±0.06 ±8.0 ±0.04
1 µL ±8.0 ±0.08 ±5.0 ±0.05
5 µL ±4.0 ±0.2 ±2.0 ±0.1
10 µL ±2.0 ±0.2 ±1.0 ±0.1
10 µL ±3.0 ±0.3 ±2.0 ±0.2
50 µL ±1.0 ±0.5 ±0.8 ±0.4
100 µL ±0.8 ±0.8 ±0.3 ±0.3
30 µL ±3.0 ±0.9 ±1.0 ±0.3
150 µL ±1.0 ±1.5 ±0.5 ±0.75
300 µL ±0.6 ±1.8 ±0.3 ±0.9

51

Technical specifications

52

Eppendorf SOP
English (EN)

9.3.4 Reference2

Reference2 Variable multi-channel (8-channel/12-channel)
Model Test tip

epT.I.P.S. Color code
Volume range
Length

0.5 µL – 10 µL Medium gray

0.1 µL – 20 µL
40 mm

10 µL – 100 µL Yellow

2 µL - 200 µL
53 mm

30 µL – 300 µL Orange

20 µL – 300 µL
55 mm

Tes ting
volume

0.5 µL ±12.0 ±0.06 ±8.0 ±0.04
1 µL ±8.0 ±0.08 ±5.0 ±0.05
5 µL ±4.0 ±0.2 ±2.0 ±0.1
10 µL ±2.0 ±0.2 ±1.0 ±0.1
10 µL ±3.0 ±0.3 ±2.0 ±0.2
50 µL ±1.0 ±0.5 ±0.8 ±0.4
100 µL ±0.8 ±0.8 ±0.3 ±0.3
30 µL ±3.0 ±0.9 ±1.0 ±0.3
150 µL ±1.0 ±1.5 ±0.5 ±0.75
300 µL ±0.6 ±1.8 ±0.3 ±0.9

Eppendorf AG error limits

Error

Systematic

error

Random

error

± % ± µL ± % ± µL

9.3.5 Xplorer and Xplorer plus

Technical specifications

Eppendorf SOP

English (EN)

53

pipette
Increment

Pipette tip
Color code
Volume range
Length

Testing
volume

Error limits

Systematic

error

Error

Random error

µL µL % µL % µL

0.5 µL – 10 µL
Increment:

0.01 µL
5 µL – 100 µL

Increment:

0.1 µL
15 µL – 300 µL

Increment:

0.2 µL
50 µL – 1200 µL

Increment:
1 µL

Medium gray

0.1 µL – 20 µL
40 mm

Yellow
2 µL –200 µL
53 mm

Orange
15 µL –300 µL
55 mm

Green
50 µL–1250 µL
76 mm

1 µL ±5.0 ±0.05 ±3.0 ±0.03
5 µL ±3.0 ±0.15 ±1.5 ±0.075
10 µL ±2.0 ±0.2 ±0.8 ±0.08
10 µL ±2.0 ±0.2 ±2.0 ±0.2
50 µL ±1.0 ±0.5 ±0.8 ±0.4
100 µL ±0.8 ±0.8 ±0.25 ±0.25
30 µL ±2.5 ±0.75 ±1.0 ±0.3
150 µL ±1.0 ±1.5 ±0.5 ±0.75
300 µL ±0.6 ±1.8 ±0.25 ±0.75
120 µL ±6.0 ±7.2 ±0.9 ±1.08
600 µL ±2.7 ±16.2 ±0.4 ±2.4
1200 µL ±1.2 ±14.2 ±0.3 ±3.6

Technical specifications

54

Eppendorf SOP
English (EN)

9.4 Multipette

The following specifications for the Multipette plus, Multipette stream /
Multipette Xstream, Multipette M4 apply to the following conditions:

• Using the Combitips advanced

• Liquid: Distilled or deionized water

• Reference temperature: 20 to 25 °C, ±0.5 °C

• Number of determinations: 10 according to EN ISO 8655, with the original
Eppendorf Combitip advanced

Multipette stream / Multipette Xstream:

• Volume test in "DIS" mode

• Set speed level: 7

9.4.1 MultipettePlus

Combitip advanced Testing volume Error limits

Error
Systematic error Random error
± % ± µL ± % ± µL

0.1 mL
(beige piston)

0.2 mL
(blue piston)

0.5 mL 10 µL ±0.9 ±0.09 ±1.5 ±0.15

1 mL 20 µL ±0.9 ±0.18 ±0.9 ±0.18

2.5 mL 50 µL ±0.8 ±0.4 ±0.8 ±0.4

5 mL 100 µL ±0.6 ±0.6 ±0.6 ±0.6

10 mL 200 µL ±0.5 ±1.0 ±0.6 ±1.2

25 mL
(blue adapter)

50 mL
(dark gray adapter)

2 µL ±1.6 ±0.032 ±3.0 ±0.06
20 µL ±1.0 ±0.2 ±2.0 ±0.4
4 µL ±1.3 ±0.052 ±2.0 ±0.08
40 µL ±0.8 ±0.32 ±1.5 ±0.6

100 µL ±0.8 ±0.8 ±0.6 ±0.6

200 µL ±0.6 ±1.2 ±0.4 ±0.8

500 µL ±0.5 ±2.5 ±0.3 ±1.5

1,000 µL ±0.5 ±5.0 ±0.25 ±2.5

2 000 µL ±0.5 ±10 ±0.25 ±5.0
500 µL ±0.4 ±2.0 ±0.6 ±3.0
5,000 µL ±0.3 ±15 ±0.25 ±12.5
1,000 µL ±0.3 ±3.0 ±0.5 ±5.0
10,000 µL ±0.3 ±30 ±0.3 ±30

Technical specifications

9.4.2 MultipetteM4

Combitip advanced Testing volume Error limits

Error

Systematic error Random error

± % ± µL ± % ± µL

0.1 mL
white
Increment: 1 µL

0.2 mL
light blue
Increment: 2 µL

0.5 mL
purple
Increment: 5 µL

1 mL
yellow
Increment: 10 µL

2.5 mL
green
Increment: 25 µL

5 mL
blue
Increment: 50 µL

10 mL
orange
Increment: 0.1 mL

25 mL
red
Increment: 0.25 mL

50 mL
light gray
Increment: 0.5 mL

2 µL ±1.6 ±0.032 ±3.0 ±0.06
20 µL ±1.0 ±0.2 ±2.0 ±0.4

4 µL ±1.3 ±0.052 ±2.0 ±0.08
40 µL ±0.8 ±0.32 ±1.5 ±0.6

10 µL ±0.9 ±0.09 ±1.5 ±0.15
100 µL ±0.8 ±0.8 ±0.6 ±0.6

20 µL ±0.9 ±0.18 ±0.9 ±0.18
200 µL ±0.6 ±1.2 ±0.4 ±0.8

50 µL ±0.8 ±0.4 ±0.8 ±0.4
500 µL ±0.5 ±2.5 ±0.3 ±1.5

100 µL ±0.6 ±0.6 ±0.6 ±0.6
1 000 µL ±0.5 ±5.0 ±0.25 ±2.5

200 µL

±0.5 ±1.0 ±0.6 ±1.2

0.2 mL
2 000 µL

±0.5 ±10 ±0.25 ±5.0

2 mL
500 µL

±0.4 ±2.0 ±0.6 ±3.0

0.5 mL
5 000 µL

±0.3 ±15 ±0.25 ±12.5

5 mL
1 000 µL

±0.3 ±3.0 ±0.5 ±5.0

1 mL
10 000 µL

±0.3 ±30 ±0.3 ±30

10 mL

Eppendorf SOP

English (EN)

55

Technical specifications

56

Eppendorf SOP
English (EN)

9.4.3 Multipette stream / Multipette Xstream

Combitip
advanced

0.1 mL
(white piston)
Increment: 0.1 µL

0.2 mL
(blue piston)
Increment: 0.2 µL

0.5 mL
Increment: 0.5 µL

1 mL
Increment: 1 µL

2.5 mL
Increment: 2.5 µ

5 mL
Increment: 5 µL

10 mL
Increment: 10 µL

25 mL
(blue adapter)
Increment: 25 µL

50 mL
(dark gray adapter)
Increment: 50 µL

Volume range Testing

volume

Systematic

error

Error limits

Error

Random

error

± % ± µL ± % ± µL

1 µL - 100 µL 10 µL ±1.6 ±0.16 ±2.5 ±0.25

50 µL ±1.0 ±0.5 ±1.5 ±0.75
100 µL ±1.0 ±1.0 ±0.5 ±0.5

2 µL - 200 µL 20 µL ±1.3 ±0.26 ±1.5 ±0.3

100 µL ±1.0 ±1.0 ±1.0 ±1.0
200 µL ±1.0 ±2.0 ±0.5 ±1.0

5 µL - 500 µL 50 µL ±0.9 ±0.45 ±0.8 ±0.4

250 µL ±0.9 ±2.25 ±0.5 ±1.25
500 µL ±0.9 ±4.5 ±0.3 ±1.5

10 µL – 1 000 µL 100 µL ±0.9 ±0.9 ±0.55 ±0.55

500 µL ±0.6 ±3.0 ±0.3 ±1.5
1,000 µL ±0.6 ±6.0 ±0.2 ±2.0

25 µL – 2 500 µL 250 µL ±0.8 ±2.0 ±0.45 ±1.125

1,250 µL ±0.5 ±6.25 ±0.3 ±3.75
2,500 µL ±0.5 ±12.5 ±0.15 ±3.75

50 µL - 5 000 µL 500 µL ±0.8 ±4.0 ±0.35 ±1.75

2,500 µL ±0.5 ±12.5 ±0.25 ±6.25
5,000 µL ±0.5 ±25 ±0.15 ±7.5

0.1 mL – 10 mL 1 mL ±0.5 ±0.005 ±0.25 ±0.0025
5 mL ±0.4 ±0.02 ±0.25 ±0.0125
10 mL ±0.4 ±0.04 ±0.15 ±0.015

0.25 mL - 25 mL 2.5 mL ±0.3 ±0.0075 ±0.35 ±0.0088

12.5 mL ±0.3 ±0.0375 ±0.25 ±0.0313
25 mL ±0.3 ±0.075 ±0.15 ±0.0375

0.5 mL - 50 mL 5 mL ±0.3 ±0.015 ±0.50 ±0.025
25 mL ±0.3 ±0.075 ±0.20 ±0.05
50 mL ±0.3 ±0.15 ±0.15 ±0.075

Technical specifications

Eppendorf SOP

English (EN)

9.5 Varispenser / Top Buret

The following specifications for Varispenser and Top Buret are valid for the
following conditions:

Liquid: Distilled or deionized water
Reference temperature: 20 to 25 °C, ±0.5 °C unchanging
Number of determinations: 10, in accordance with EN ISO 8655

9.5.1 Varispenser and Varispenser plus

57

Setting range Tested volume Systematic error

(inaccuracy)

0.5 – 2.50 mL 2.5 mL ± 0.6 % ≤ 0.1 %

1.00 – 5.00 mL 5.0 mL ±0.5 % ≤ 0.1 %

2.00 – 10.0 mL 10.0 mL ±0.5 % ≤ 0.1 %

5.00 – 25.0 mL 25.0 mL ±0.5 % ≤ 0.1 %

10.0 – 50.0 mL 50.0 mL ±0.5 % ≤ 0.1 %

20.0 – 100.0 mL 100.0 mL ±0.5 % ≤ 0.1 %

Random error
(imprecision)

9.5.2 Top Buret

Size Setting range Systematic error

(inaccuracy)

C 25 mL ±0.2 % ≤ 0.1 %
H 50 mL ±0.2 % ≤ 0.1 %

Random error
(imprecision)

9.6 Error limits in accordance with EN ISO 8655

The error limits always refer to the overall system: pipette and tip. If the nominal
volume of the pipette lies between two entries in the table, the absolute error
values for the next largest nominal volume apply.

The absolute error limits in µL referring to the nominal volume apply to each
volume which can be set on the piston stroke pipette. The list below includes the
absolute and relative error limits in relation to the volume.

Technical specifications

58

Eppendorf SOP
English (EN)

9.6.1 Air-cushion pipettes, fixed and adjustable volume

Nominal volume Error limits

Measurement errors

Systematic Random

± % ± µL ± % ± µL

1 µl ±5.0 % ±0.05 µl ±5.0 % ±0.05 µl
2 µl ±4.0 % ±0.08 µl ±2.0 % ±0.04 µl
5 µl ±2.5 % ±0,125 µL ±1.5 % ±0.075 µl
10 µl ±1.2 % ±0,12 µL ± 0.8 % ±0.08 µl
20 µl ±1.0 % ±0.2 µl ±0.5 % ±0.1 µl
50 µl ±1.0 % ±0.5 µl ±0.4 % ±0.2 µl
100 µl ± 0.8 % ±0.8 µl ±0.3 % ±0.3 µl
200 µL ± 0.8 % ±1,6 µL ±0.3 % ±0.6 µl
500 µl ± 0.8 % ±4,0 µL ±0.3 % ±1.5 µl
1 000 µL ± 0.8 % ±8,0 µL ±0.3 % ±3,0 µL
2 000 µL ± 0.8 % ±16,0 µL ±0.3 % ±6,0 µL
5 000 µL ± 0.8 % ±40,0 µL ±0.3 % ±15,0 µL
10 000 µL ±0.6 % ±60,0 µL ±0.3 % ±30,0 µL

For Multi-channel pipettes, the error values are two times the values
specified for single-channel pipettes.

9.6.2 Positive displacement pipettes (Biomaster)

Nominal volume Error limits

Measurement errors

Systematic Random

± % ± µL ± % ± µL

5 µl ±2.5 % ±0,13 µL ±1.5 % ±0.08 µl
10 µl ±2.0 % ±0.2 µl ±1.0 % ±0.1 µl
20 µl ±2.0 % ±0.4 µl ± 0.8 % ±0,16 µL
50 µl ±1.4 % ±0,7 µL ±0.6 % ±0.3 µl
100 µl ±1.5 % ±1.5 µl ±0.6 % ±0.6 µl
200 µL ±1.5 % ±3.0 µL ±0.4 % ±0.8 µl
500 µl ±1.2 % ±6.0 µL ±0.4 % ±2.0 µL
1 000 µL ±1.2 % ±12.0 µL ±0.4 % ±4.0 µL

Technical specifications

Eppendorf SOP

English (EN)

9.6.3 Dispenser (Multipette)

Nominal volume Error limits

Measurement errors

Systematic Random

± % ± µL ± % ± µL

0.001 mL ±5.0 % ±0.05 µl ±5.0 % ±0.05 µl
0,002 ml ±5.0 % ±0.1 µl ±5.0 % ±0.1 µl
0,003 ml ±2.5 % ±0.075 µl ±3.5 % ±0,11 µL
0,01 ml ±2.0 % ±0.2 µl ±2.5 % ±0.25 µl
0,02 ml ±1.5 % ±0.3 µl ±2.0 % ±0.4 µl
0,05 ml ±1.0 % ±0.5 µl ±1.5 % ±0.75 µl
0,1 ml ±1.0 % ±1,0 µL ±1.0 % ±1,0 µL

0.2 ml ±1.0 % ±2,0 µL ±1.0 % ±2,0 µL

0.5 ml ±1.0 % ±5,0 µL ±0.6 % ±3,0 µL
1 ml ±1.0 % ±10,0 µL ±0.4 % ±4,0 µL
2 ml ± 0.8 % ±16,0 µL ±0.4 % ±8,0 µL
5 mL ±0.6 % ±30,0 µL ±0.3 % ±15,0 µL
10 mL ±0.5 % ±50,0 µL ±0.3 % ±30,0 µL
25 ml ±0.5 % ±125,0 µL ±0.3 % ±75,0 µL
50 mL ±0.5 % ±250 µL ±0.25 % ±125.0 µL
100 ml ±0.5 % ±500 µL ±0.25 % ±250.0 µL
200 ml ±0.5 % ±1 000 µL ±0.25 % ±500,0 µL

59

Technical specifications

60

Eppendorf SOP
English (EN)

9.6.4 Single-stroke dispenser (Varispenser)

Nominal volume Error limits

Measurement errors

Systematic Random

± % ± µL ± % ± µL

0.01 ml ±2.0 % ±0.2 µl ±1.0 % ±0.1 µl

0.02 ml ±2.0 % ±0.4 µl ±0.5 % ±0.1 µl

0.05 ml ±1.5 % ±0.75 µl ±0.4 % ±0.2 µl

0.1 ml ±1.5 % ±1.5 µl ±0.3 % ±0.3 µl

0.2 ml ±1.0 % ±2.0 µL ±0.3 % ±0.6 µl

0.5 ml ±1.0 % ±5.0 µL ±0.2 % ±1.0 µL
1 ml ±0.6 % ±6.0 µL ±0.2 % ±2.0 µL
2 ml ±0.6 % ±12.0 µL ±0.2 % ±4.0 µL
5 mL ±0.6 % ±30.0 µL ±0.2 % ±10.0 µL
10 mL ±0.6 % ±60.0 µL ±0.2 % ±20.0 µL
25 ml ±0.6 % ±150.0 µL ±0.2 % ±50.0 µL
50 mL ±0.6 % ±300.0 µL ±0.2 % ±100.0 µL
100 ml ±0.6 % ±600.0 µL ±0.2 % ±200.0 µL
200 ml ±0.6 % ±1 200 µL ±0.2 % ±400,0 µL

9.6.5 Piston stroke burets

Nominal volume Error limits

Measurement errors

Systematic Random

± % ± µL ± % ± µL

<1 mL ±0.6 % ±6,0 µL ±0.1 % ±1,0 µL
2 ml ±0.5 % ±10,0 µL ±0.1 % ±2,0 µL
5 mL ±0.3 % ±15,0 µL ±0.1 % ±5,0 µL
10 mL ±0.3 % ±30,0 µL ±0.1 % ±10,0 µL
20 ml ±0.2 % ±40,0 µL ±0.1 % ±20,0 µL
25 ml ±0.2 % ±50,0 µL ±0.1 % ±25,0 µL
50 mL ±0.2 % ±100,0 µL ±0.1 % ±50,0 µL
100 ml ±0.2 % ±200 µL ±0.1 % ±100,0 µL

Eppendorf SOP

Index

English (EN)

61

Index

A

Accuracy............................................ 6

Adjustable-volume pipettes

Adjust......................................... 18

Adjusting adjustable volume pipettes

Technical specifications............. 41

Adjustment ...................................... 17

Fixed-volume pipettes ............... 33

General information................... 17

B

Balance

Type ............................................. 6

Balances ............................................ 6

Accuracy ...................................... 6

minimum requirements ............... 6

C

Calibration software .......................... 7

Cleaning .......................................... 14

Climatic conditions............................ 7

D

Dispensing the

test volume............................. 9, 10

E

Error causes .................................... 15

Error correction............................... 15

Error limits.......................................57

Evaporation........................................7

F

Factor Z

Table...........................................36

Fixed-volume pipettes

Adjust .........................................33

Technical specifications.............37

J

Justierung

Adjustable-volume pipettes........ 17

L

Leakage check ................................. 15

M

Measurement

Work method................................ 9

Measuring station..............................7

Multi-channel pipettes

Technical specifications.............49

Multipette

Technical specifications.............54

P

Physical influences of liquids ..........35

Pipette conditions..............................6

Index

62

Eppendorf SOP
English (EN)

R

Random error.................................. 11

S

Scope of testing

Adjusting adjustable volume

pipettes ........................................ 8

Bottle-top dispenser, Top Buret... 9

Multi-channel pipettes................. 8

Multipette .................................... 8

Sterilization ..................................... 12

Systematic error.............................. 11

T

Technical specifications

Adjusting adjustable volume

pipettes ...................................... 41

Conditions.................................. 37

Fixed-volume pipettes ............... 37

Multi-channel pipettes............... 49

Multipette .................................. 54

Top Buret ................................... 57

Varispenser................................ 57

Temperature differences ................... 7

Test conditions.................................. 6

Test liquid.......................................... 7

Test room .......................................... 7

Top Buret

Technical specifications............. 57

Technical specifications.............57

Volume errors..................................17

W

Work method ..................................... 9

V

Varispenser

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