The Eppendorf Easypet Pipettor is a “must have” in any lab that deals with liquid volume measurements, as it is comfortable, cordless, lightweight and non-fatiguing. Designed with simplicity in mind, the Easypet is easy to use and virtually maintenance free. With only 3 detachable parts, the filter, adapter, and aspirating cone (all autoclavable), there is very little that can go wrong. All that is involved in the operation of the Easypet is the adjustment of the pump speed control and single finger pressure operation of the aspirating and dispensing buttons. A one-year warranty on this product will take care of any manufacturer defects. The Easypet comes with an excellent user’s manual that clearly describes use and troubleshooting.
The Easypet comes with everything needed for immediate operation. Included are a wall holder (for convenient storage), NiCd batteries and a transformer (battery charger). Though it takes around 12 hours to fully charge the batteries, the Easypet can be used while plugged into the transformer. This feature insures that the Easypet is always utilizable, even when the batteries are low on charge—which is conveniently indicated by a charging control lamp. The batteries hold a charge for several hours when in use, and for days when not in use.
The pump speed control is an especially outstanding feature of this product. It allows for the adjustment of the speed of the motor. This allows the operator to optimize the speed of aspiration/dispensing; a faster speed for larger pipets and a slower speed to prevent over filling of small pipets. Varying pressure on the aspiration/dispensing buttons also allows for fine control of dispensing speed, a feature that is difficult to control in older and non-mechanized pipettors. This product increases the ease that volumes can be accurately measured and adjusted and can be used with 0.1-100mL pipets.
The most common problems with the Easypet involve accidental aspiration into the filter and aged rubber adapters (with time, the integrity of the rubber adapter may decrease and pipets may not seat snugly in it). It is necessary to purchase extra filters for the Easypet, as accidental aspiration into the pipettor will occasionally occur. The disk filters (0.45um) recommended by Eppendorf are surprisingly pricey. Investigation into other sources for these filters may be advised.
Overall, the Easypet is a worry free, user-friendly product. Its pump speed control and fine aspiration/dispensing control make this product superior to similar pipettors available. Though not the cheapest pipettor on the market, it’s well worth the investment. Definitely the best mechanized pipettor I’ve used.
Lisa B. Davidson, BS
Research Technician
University of Arizona