Hamilton STAR automated liquid handler open on a laboratory bench, showing pipetting deck with sample tubes and labware
Consistent, Automated
Tube-in-Tube Assembly
Lysis and DNA Extraction
Reduce Backlogs
Up to 96
Samples Per Run
Optimized Process
High DNA Yield
Fully Enclosed System

Highly Reproducible DNA Sample Prep Workflow

From sample input to lysate recovery, AutoLys STAR delivers reproducible, secure forensic DNA extraction along with full sample traceability.

Scientific Citations

Automated Cell Lysis and DNA Extraction System

The AutoLys STAR Assay Ready Workstation fully automates sample lysis and lysate recovery. It integrates incubation, shaking, and centrifugation steps along with barcode tracking in a closed-loop system.

AutoLys STAR works with Hamilton’s AutoLys Tubes featuring an inner tube with filter to hold the sample and an outer 2D-barcoded tube to collect post-centrifugation sample lysate. On the deck, AutoLys channels securely cap, decap, and transport the AutoLys Tubes.

As an ideal solution for forensic and diagnostic laboratories, AutoLys STAR enables high-throughput processing to reduce backlogs and sample processing errors for increased confidence in downstream results.

Automated Differential Extraction

Use AutoLys STAR to automate complex differential extraction steps based on the Gill method. Hands-free processing reduces analyst time and risks of variability.

Secure Chain-of-Custody

When the AutoLys tube barcode is scanned on the AutoLys STAR, information is sent to a LIMS to enable a fully traceable digital audit trail. Detailed run files may be downloaded and standardized to include in case files.

Common applications Genomics, Nucleic Acid Extraction, Biobanking, Pharma & Biopharma, Drug Discovery

Featured Technologies
  • Transport Solutions
    CO-RE Gripper

    For Additional Movements

    Further streamline automated workflows with CO-RE Grippers. These agile grippers transform Hamilton's precision pipette channels into on-deck labware transport solutions on Hamilton automated liquid handlers.

  • Pipetting Technology
    CO-RE II Tip/Tool Attachment

    The Key to Liquid Handling Workflow Excellence

    The new CO-RE II technology assures more precise tip alignment, minimizing the risk of collisions. Also, tip coupling is faster which boosts productivity. Besides tips, a wide range of Hamilton tools are applicable with CO-RE II.

  • Pipetting Technology
    Aerosol-Free Tip Ejection

    To Prevent Cross-Contamination

    As part of CO-RE II technology’s functionality, pipette tips are gently ejected from each automated liquid handler pipetting channel. This prevents aerosol generation that may expose users to harmful biohazards or cross-contaminate samples and laboratory surfaces.

  • Liquid Handling Technology
    MAD - Monitored Air Displacement

    For Unmatched Reliability

    MAD monitors the air displacement in each pipetting channel of a Hamilton automated liquid handler. During liquid aspiration steps, this non-contact technology immediately identifies clots, empty wells, or other aspiration issues. It also delivers a confirmation of successful aspiration in each pipetting channel of a Hamilton automated liquid handler.

  • Liquid Handling Technology
    Dual Liquid Level Detection (LLD)

    For Accurate Aspirations

    Dual LLD uses two sensors on each liquid handling pipetting channel. A capacitance sensor detects aqueous and conductive liquid surfaces while a pressure-based sensor works with non-conductive, viscous, and volatile liquids. Together, they ensure highly accurate and reliable liquid handling performance.

  • Liquid Handling Technology
    TADM – Total Aspiration & Dispense Monitoring

    For Real-Time Pipetting Accuracy

    During aspirate and dispense steps, TADM monitors real-time pressure changes in each Hamilton liquid handler pipetting channel. Results are compared against expected values to expose anomalies like bubbles and insufficient volumes. Sample transfers are verified with a digital audit trail.

  • Accessories
    Autoload

    For Convenient Identification

    Uses a 1D barcode scanner to automatically identify and verify samples, carriers, and consumables such as tips, tubes, micro plates, and reagent troughs as they are placed onto the liquid handling deck. Optional 2D barcode reading is available, and results may be sent to any LIMS for documentation.

  • Liquid Handling Technology
    Anti-Droplet Control (ADC)

    For Drip-Free Pipetting

    Pressure sensors on Hamilton’s pipetting channels continuously detect variations. Any changes are immediately compensated for by dosing drive movements to prevent droplet formation. Essential for high-precision and accuracy when pipetting volatile liquids like ethanol and acetonitrile.

Fully automated sample lysis and lysate recovery reduce risks of human error and variable manual handling to improve process safety and reliability.

Enhanced heating and shaking design boosts sample lysis efficiency, delivering significantly higher yields for low-input samples compared to manual methods.

AutoLys STAR scans 2D barcodes on the AutoLys tubes for detailed end-to-end sample tracking required by regulated and forensic laboratories.

Easily process up to 96 samples per run with flexible AutoLys STAR configuration options to adapt to diverse application formats and volumes.

  • Hamilton Microlab STAR automated liquid handler with open deck, pipetting arm, tip racks, and reagent carriers
  • Hamilton STAR automated liquid handling workstation with pipetting channels, tip racks, reagent carriers, and sample modules
  • Hamilton STAR automated liquid handler deck with pipetting arm, tip racks, reagent carriers, and sample tubes
  • Hamilton STAR automated liquid handler deck with heater shaker modules, tip racks, and reagent carriers
  • Hamilton STAR automated liquid handler with integrated centrifuge, pipetting arm, tip racks, and reagent carriers on deck
  • Hamilton STAR automated liquid handling workstation with pipetting arm, tip racks, sample carriers, and integrated modules

Explore the AutoLys STAR

The AutoLys STAR automates the full sample lysis process—from sample input to lysate recovery. Optimized for traceability, yield, and reliability, this integrated system combines Hamilton’s engineering with forensic-grade quality to meet the demands of regulated labs and high-throughput facilities.

1

Microlab STAR

The Microlab STAR automated liquid handler performs all pipetting steps and houses on-deck devices necessary for other workflow steps.
2

AutoLys Channels

These channels independently manage critical AutoLys tube handling steps, including automated capping, decapping, and ‘lift-and-lock' positioning.
3

AutoLys Tubes (Sold Separately)

AutoLys Tubes, sold separately, feature a tube-in-tube design that separates sample lysate via filtration to eliminate manual transfers.
4

Heater Shaker Module

Hamilton Heater Shakers include custom adapters to secure AutoLys tubes, ensuring optimal heat transfer and consistent mixing.
5

Integrated Centrifuge

The compact swing-out centrifuge automates lysate filtration with seamless robotic integration, delivering efficient and fully hands-free sample processing.
6

EasyCode Barcode Reader

This high-resolution reader scans AutoLys tube 2D barcodes to support complete traceability and chain of custody documentation throughout the workflow.

AutoLys STAR Specifications

AutoLys STAR Specifications

Print

System Dimensions

Height
90.3 cm (2 ft, 11.55 in)
Width
1.66 m (5 ft, 5.35 in)
Depth
78.1 cm (2 ft, 6.75 in)

Transport Tools

CO-RE Gripper
Standard

Platform/Accessories

Capacity (ANSI/SLAS Positions)
55
Device Integration
180° (Left and Right)

Sample Loading and Tracking Options

Sample Loading
Automatic
Autoload Barcode Scanner (1D)
Standard
Autoload Barcode Scanner (2D)
Optional

Pipetting Options

1 mL Channels
4
AutoLys Channels
4
Pipetting Range 1
1 µL - 1000 µL

1 Depending on Configuration

AutoLys STAR Resources

Browse app notes, user guides, specification documents, and more in our Knowledge Center.

Browse app notes, user guides, specification documents, and more in our Knowledge Center.

Browse app notes, user guides, specification documents, and more in our Knowledge Center.

Services

Trust in Hamilton’s Field Service Engineers for high-quality automated liquid handler installation, preventative maintenance, and field repairs.

Backed by world-class service and support.

For over 75 years, the Hamilton name has been recognized globally for its unwavering commitment to quality. That pledge extends to creating long-term customer partnerships. We're proud to offer in-depth training courses, on-site field support, custom product builds, and so much more.

Let's Talk

Connect with a Hamilton expert to discuss solutions for your workflow. We are here to enable your success.

Request Type: