Millipore Introduces Scepter Handheld Automated Cell Counter

Millipore has introduced Scepter, a handheld, automated cell counter, at the American Society of Cell Biology Annual Meeting in San Diego. Scepter miniaturizes Coulter cell counting technology found in much larger instruments into a portable device, the size of an automated pipette.

The company claims that the instrument contains sophisticated electronics for cell sensing, signal processing, and data storage. A graphical display reports the cell count and average cell volume within 20 seconds of inserting the tip into a cell culture sample. The Scepter instrument will be commercially available during the latter half of the first quarter of 2010.

John Sweeney, vice president of life science business at Millipore, said: “The Scepter handheld cell counter represents a breakthrough for life science researchers. Unlike any other cell counter, this handheld device provides researchers with a simple and affordable automated option for counting cells and monitoring the health of their cultures.”

“This introduction once again demonstrates Millipore’s commitment to developing innovative products and technologies that simplify scientific workflows and enable advancements in life science research.”