Roche, a leader in research-focused healthcare with combined strengths in pharmaceuticals and diagnostics launched cobas p 312 fully automated pre-analytical system, designed for small to medium sized laboratories faced with limited space or lack of skilled manpower. The cobas 312 pre-analytical system is a stand-alone solution with online connectivity, enabling workflow efficiency on no more than one square meter footprint in the laboratory.

With the introduction of the cobas p 312 pre-analytical system, Roche now offers a complete portfolio of automated sample management solutions for laboratories of all sizes: connected automation with Modular Pre-Analytics and the cobas p 501 and cobas p 701 sample storage and retrieval modules and non-connected solutions with the cobas p 312, cobas p 512 and cobas p 612 pre-analytical systems.

The company noted that the system has two unique features;Unique customized layout flexibility and Seamless online connectivity. The cobas p 312's ergonomic design allows a customized sample rack layout and management. Such innovation in sample preparation and sorting offers maximum efficiency at minimal space requirements for highest flexibility with a throughput of 450 samples per hour. Full online connectivity to the Laboratory Information System (LIS) enables managers to seamlessly integrate the cobas p 312 into the laboratory's IT infrastructure. Its easy IT connectivity to the cobas pre- and post-analytical systems family allows laboratories to flexibly integrate into a Total Laboratory Automation (TLA).

The company further noted that cobas p 312 aids efficiency, minimizes manual handling and offers accurate sample tracking throughout the whole process. For improved control, safety and service to clinicians, the cobas p 312 provides decapping, sorting and archiving of all common types of sample tubes within the laboratory´s Serum Work Area (SWA), hematology, coagulation and urinalysis. Health professionals reduce error prone manual routine processes and time consuming intervention of sample preparation while the potential of bio hazardous exposition decreases considerably.

"Automation is one of the key drivers of high testing efficiency that laboratories are increasingly seeking today. By offering powerful yet compact pre-analytical automation, the new cobas p 312 makes it easier for all labs to access the benefits of automation, to help improve efficiency and raise productivity. Roche looks forward to continue introducing the latest technologies to India in helping to advance healthcare standards here," said Mr Lance Little, managing director of Roche Diagnostics Asia Pacific.