In molecular biology experiments, high-throughput drug screening, large-scale chemical analysis, and other scenarios, researchers often need to process multiple samples simultaneously - such as synchronous sample addition in 8 or 12 columns of a 96 well plate, and parallel operations in multiple control experiments. The traditional single channel pipette has low efficiency in hole by hole operation, andThe multi-channel pipette, with its "multi line parallel" design, can extract and distribute multiple equal volumes of liquid at once, greatly improving experimental efficiency.However, the suction operation of multi-channel pipettes is not simply a "batch replication" of single channel techniques. Its standardized process and detailed control directly affect the accuracy of pipetting and the reliability of experimental results.
1、 Preparation before operation: Matching and calibration are the foundation
Firstly, it is necessary to select a suitable multi-channel pipette according to the experimental requirements, and ensure that the pipette tip matches the channel of the pipette tip strictly. When installing the pipette, insert the pipette vertically into the pipette head box, gently press until you hear a "click" sound, and confirm that all channel pipette heads are securely installed to avoid liquid leakage during suction. If different ranges are used, the target volume needs to be set in advance through the range adjustment knob on the pipette. To ensure accuracy, it is recommended to calibrate the pipette with distilled water before initial use.
2、 Liquid suction operation steps: Vertical and synchronous are key
1. Installing the gun head and pre rinsing: After installing the gun head, if viscous liquids or easily residual reagents are sucked in, a "pre rinsing" should be performed first - suck in the target liquid once and empty it, repeat 2-3 times, ensure that the inner wall of the gun head is fully wetted, and avoid liquid hanging on the wall causing insufficient actual liquid absorption.
2. Immersion in liquid: Align the pipette vertically with the liquid container and keep the tip of the pipette 2-3mm below the liquid surface. For liquids that are prone to foaming, the immersion depth can be appropriately increased to 5mm, but it needs to be kept in a vertical position.
3. Pressing and suction: Slowly press the trigger of the pipette with your thumb, paying attention to maintaining a constant downward pressure to avoid sudden force causing rapid suction and bubble formation. When the liquid in the gun head reaches the target volume, immediately stop pressing and keep the gun head immersed in the liquid for 1-2 seconds to ensure that the liquid is completely filled with the gun head and there are no residual bubbles.
4. Transfer liquid: Keep the pipette vertical, slowly remove the tip from the liquid level, then move the tip to the target container, also vertically press against the hole wall, and slowly release the trigger to release the liquid. When operating with multiple channels, it is necessary to ensure that the hole positions corresponding to each column of channels are aligned to avoid misalignment that may cause cross contamination or missing samples.
3、 Attention: Details determine accuracy
1. Avoid cross contamination: Before each new liquid is drawn, a new nozzle must be replaced; If the same liquid is used continuously, it is also recommended to replace the nozzle after every 10-15 puffs to prevent residual liquid from affecting subsequent operations.
2. Environmental adaptability: When operating in a fume hood or biosafety cabinet, be careful to avoid airflow interference; In high or low temperature environments, the thermal expansion and contraction effects of liquid volume need to be considered.
3. Maintenance and Cleaning: Disassemble the gun head promptly after use and wipe the outer wall of the pipette with 70% ethanol or specialized cleaning agent; Regularly check the sealing of the gun head and body.

The suction operation of the multi-channel pipette, from vertical immersion to synchronous release, is an art of balancing precision and efficiency. Mastering standardized processes and paying attention to detail control are the key to making this "multi line parallel" tool an efficient and reliable assistant in the laboratory.