This article defines and introduces automated tube labelers. It includes concepts to consider when adding labelers to a laboratory workflow. The list of tube labelers at the end of this article includes all models we are aware of on the market today with images and vendor links for each robot. We also have links to articles and reviews Rave Robot has written for each system. If you want us to add another tube labeler or to contribute a review, please let us know.
What is an Automated Tube Labeler?
Automated tube labelers are systems that do any of the following to label tubes:
- etch labels into tubes using lasers or acetone
- apply adhesive labels that are printed onto tubes
- print directly onto tube with ink
Tube labelling robots have do 1 of the above and also have the following capability:
- The ability to be programmed to follow a variable driven set of commands based in input from at least one of the following
- integrated sensors
- user commands
- automated data retrieved from some other source
What automated tube labeler is best for my lab?
There are not that many off-the-shelf automated tube labelers on the market. Depending on your throughput needs, you may need to have a system built for you. To decide what type of automation you need you should consider the following:
- types of tubes you need labelled
- labelling throughput required
- whether you need to associate labels with pre-barcoded tubes
You need to understand your workflows to choose or build the automated tube labeler that is right for you.
A nearly comprehensive list of automated tube labelers
Below is the list of automated tube labelers we have used or found while searching for our own laboratory automation needs. We are sure that there are other systems we’ve missed and new systems designed and released each year. Please comment if there are other automated tube labelers that should be added to the list or if you have an experience with one of the automated tube labelers on the list that you’d like included.
SCI-PRINT VX2, Scinomix
Description:
- Tube Labelling Robot
- Printing Type: Printed labels on tube
- Tube handling: Tubes in racks with tube picking arm that can work with multiple diameter tubes
- Integrated sensors: 2D barcode reader to check tubes ID prior to printing, pressure feedback on tube handling robotic arm
Manufacturer Link:
TubeWriter 360
Description:
- Printing type: Inkjet on tube
- Tube handling: Works with multiple tube types but manual loading and unloading
- Integrated sensors: unknown
Manufacturer Link:
XTL-96, Brooks
Manufacturer Link:
Tube Marker 2, 4titude
Manufacturer Link:
Tell us about other automated tube labelers
Did we miss any good automated tube labelers? Let us know!
If you have experience with one of the above automated tube labelers and want to write a review or update the list, leave a comment and we will contact you.
If you are interested in any of our other lists, check out Rave Robot’s List page.
