Beckman Coulter, a global leader in the clinical diagnostics industry, has announced the launch of its next-generation fully automated microplate system for donor blood testing, the PK7400. Designed for use in blood donor centers, plasma centers and large reference laboratories, the new system offers the industry's highest throughput, processing the greatest volume of samples for a single analyzer in its class – up to 300 samples per hour.

"Customers have relied on our PK systems for more than 30 years to deliver the quality results and workload capacity they have come to expect from Beckman Coulter," said Puneet Sarin, senior vice president and general manager for Beckman Coulter's chemistry and immunoassay business. "We designed the PK7400 to further that legacy by providing donor laboratory professionals with the reliability and workflow they need to improve staff efficiency."

The new PK7400 system also provides the ability to test multiple assays in a single batch without affecting the throughput. The assay menu includes ABO blood grouping, Rh typing, weak D testing, red blood cell antigen screening as well as syphilis qualitative screening. Backed by Beckman Coulter's PROService tool, the PK7400 also facilitates real-time monitoring that helps to improve laboratory system uptime and reduce service visits.

Beckman Coulter's commitment to moving healthcare forward includes providing laboratory professionals with superior workflow solutions to help minimize laboratory workload. The PK7400 was designed with specific workflow enhancements including easier-to-load supplies and improved visual instrument status. These research and development advancements reinforce Beckman Coulter's ongoing mission to bringing innovative solutions to the diagnostics industry.