Corning Tube 384-2D Square 120uL Review

The Corning Tube 384-2d Sq 120ul R Cs7680 8510: Not Just Another Review

The Corning Tube 384-2d Sq 120ul R Cs7680 8510 might not be the kind of tactical gear that immediately springs to mind when thinking about survival or outdoor adventures. This specialized lab equipment, manufactured by Corning, is designed for high-throughput sample storage and management, primarily in scientific research settings. These aren’t your everyday camping supplies, but understanding the precision and reliability required in these scientific tools offers a unique perspective on quality and durability.

My search for enhanced sample security led me to the Corning Tube 384-2d Sq 120ul R Cs7680 8510. My primary challenge has been maintaining the integrity of collected environmental samples in the field, especially in remote locations where temperature fluctuations and potential contamination are serious concerns. These tubes promised a solution for securely storing and transporting small volumes of precious samples, using the same level of care and precision seen in lab environments.

Unboxing the case of Corning Tube 384-2d Sq 120ul R Cs7680 8510 was an exercise in sterile precision. The sheer volume of tubes (7680 in a case) was impressive, each meticulously racked and barcoded for easy identification. The tubes felt robust for their size, made from what appears to be high-quality, chemically resistant plastic designed to withstand a range of temperatures.

Compared to standard Eppendorf tubes or cryovials I’ve used previously, the Corning Tube 384-2d Sq 120ul R Cs7680 8510 offers significantly higher density storage and advanced tracking capabilities via the 2D barcode. These alternative storage solutions lack the organized racking and high-throughput features offered by this Corning product. I ultimately chose the Corning Tube 384-2d Sq 120ul R Cs7680 8510 for its ability to streamline sample handling, improve organization, and reduce the risk of sample mix-ups, essential when dealing with large datasets.

My first impression was a mix of excitement and slight intimidation given the scale of the purchase and the specialized nature of the Corning Tube 384-2d Sq 120ul R Cs7680 8510. However, the potential for improving sample management and data accuracy made the investment worthwhile, and I was eager to test its real-world application.

Real-World Testing: Putting Corning Tube 384-2d Sq 120ul R Cs7680 8510 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing involved utilizing the Corning Tube 384-2d Sq 120ul R Cs7680 8510 during a water quality assessment project in a remote mountain region. This project required collecting numerous small volume water samples from different locations to analyze for various pollutants. I used the tubes to store the collected water samples, carefully logging each one using the 2D barcode system linked to a ruggedized handheld scanner.

The tubes performed well in a range of conditions, from cool, damp creek-side environments to drier, sun-exposed locations. The secure closures prevented leaks, even when the tubes were jostled around in my pack during transport. I noted a considerable improvement in organization, as the racked tubes simplified sample sorting and reduced the risk of accidental spills or mislabeling compared to previous, less structured methods.

The initial learning curve was primarily related to integrating the 2D barcode scanning into my workflow, which required setting up the database and linking each location with its corresponding barcode ID. Once set up, the process became efficient, saving significant time during data entry and reducing the risk of errors. There were no major issues, although I initially struggled to find a suitable handheld scanner that was both rugged enough for field use and compatible with the Corning barcode system.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of using the Corning Tube 384-2d Sq 120ul R Cs7680 8510 across multiple projects, the system continues to hold up well. The tubes themselves show no signs of degradation, even after repeated exposure to different environmental conditions and chemicals. The barcode labels remain legible, and the racks are sturdy and easy to handle.

Durability has been excellent. The tubes, made of high-quality polypropylene, seem virtually indestructible under normal field conditions. They have withstood accidental drops and compression within my pack without cracking or leaking. The racking system, also made of durable plastic, has shown no signs of wear or breakage.

Maintenance is minimal. The tubes are designed for single use to prevent cross-contamination, but the racks are easily cleaned with standard laboratory detergents. The barcode scanner requires occasional cleaning to remove dust and debris, but that’s a standard maintenance task for any electronic equipment used in the field. Comparing this system to my prior methods of sample storage and tracking, the Corning Tube 384-2d Sq 120ul R Cs7680 8510 has significantly improved efficiency, reduced errors, and enhanced the reliability of my data.

Breaking Down the Features of Corning Tube 384-2d Sq 120ul R Cs7680 8510

Specifications

• Catalog Number: 89168-526
• Type: Disposable Plastics
• Description: TUBE 384-2D SQ 120UL R CS7680
• Supplier Number: 8510
• Volume: 120 µL (microliters) – This is the maximum volume of liquid each tube can hold.
• Format: 384-well format – These tubes are designed to fit into standard 384-well plates, enabling high-throughput automation.
• Shape: Square – The square shape maximizes space utilization in the rack and allows for robotic handling.
• Barcode: 2D Barcoded – Provides unique identification for each tube, crucial for sample tracking and data management.
• Racked: Yes, comes racked – The tubes are pre-loaded into racks for easy handling and automation.
• Case Size: 7680 tubes per case – The case contains a large quantity of tubes, ideal for high-volume applications.
• The Corning specifications ensure compatibility with automated liquid handling systems and minimize manual intervention. This level of precision contributes to both efficiency and data integrity.

Performance & Functionality

The Corning Tube 384-2d Sq 120ul R Cs7680 8510 excels in its intended function: high-density, secure, and trackable sample storage. The 2D barcode system dramatically reduces the chance of sample mix-ups, a critical factor in research environments. The tubes’ 120µL volume capacity is suitable for storing small but precious aliquots of liquids.

The main strength is the integration of high-density storage with an advanced tracking system, minimizing manual labor and greatly enhancing data accuracy. The system requires a compatible barcode scanner and database, which can be a limiting factor if not already available.

Overall, the Corning Tube 384-2d Sq 120ul R Cs7680 8510 meets and even exceeds my expectations by bringing a level of organization and reliability to my field sample handling that I previously thought impossible.

Design & Ergonomics

The Corning Tube 384-2d Sq 120ul R Cs7680 8510 features a practical design optimized for automated handling and high-density storage. The square shape allows for close packing in the racks, saving valuable space. The racks themselves are lightweight but sturdy, making them easy to transport and manipulate.

The design is user-friendly, particularly for those already familiar with multi-well plate formats. There is a slight learning curve associated with setting up the barcode tracking system, but once implemented, the process becomes streamlined.

Durability & Maintenance

The Corning Tube 384-2d Sq 120ul R Cs7680 8510 tubes are built to last under normal laboratory conditions, made from chemically resistant polypropylene. Their single-use design mitigates contamination risks. The racking system is also durable and can withstand repeated handling.

Maintenance is straightforward, primarily involving cleaning the racks as needed. The tubes themselves do not require maintenance, as they are disposable.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Corning Tube 384-2d Sq 120ul R Cs7680 8510 comes with racked tubes, ready for immediate use. The key accessory is a compatible 2D barcode scanner capable of reading the Corning format. While there aren’t direct customization options for the tubes themselves, the flexibility lies in integrating the barcode data with various laboratory information management systems (LIMS).

These tubes are designed to be highly compatible with automated liquid handling systems commonly found in labs. There may be 3rd party accessories available to expand the use case but I have not explored these extensively.

Pros and Cons of Corning Tube 384-2d Sq 120ul R Cs7680 8510

Who Should Buy Corning Tube 384-2d Sq 120ul R Cs7680 8510?

The Corning Tube 384-2d Sq 120ul R Cs7680 8510 is perfect for research scientists, lab technicians, and environmental monitoring professionals who need to store and track a high volume of small liquid samples. Any setting where sample integrity and accurate data management are paramount would benefit from these tubes.

This product might be overkill for small-scale or hobbyist projects that don’t require the level of precision and automation that these tubes offer. If you only need to store a few samples and don’t require advanced tracking, simpler and cheaper options would be more suitable.

A must-have accessory is a high-quality 2D barcode scanner that is compatible with the Corning system. Integration with a LIMS or custom database is also highly recommended to fully leverage the tracking capabilities of the barcoded tubes.

Conclusion on Corning Tube 384-2d Sq 120ul R Cs7680 8510

The Corning Tube 384-2d Sq 120ul R Cs7680 8510 represents a significant investment in sample management, but it delivers substantial returns in terms of organization, accuracy, and efficiency. The advanced barcoding system and high-density storage are game-changers for anyone dealing with large sample collections.

The high price is justified by the enhanced data integrity and reduced risk of errors, making it a worthwhile investment for serious researchers and professionals. I would highly recommend the Corning Tube 384-2d Sq 120ul R Cs7680 8510 to anyone seeking a reliable, high-throughput solution for managing liquid samples. Streamline your workflow, reduce errors, and improve data accuracy with this top-of-the-line system – your research will thank you.