Hamilton STARlet automated liquid handler open on lab bench, showing pipetting head and MPE module inside

MassXtract STAR Line

Sample prep
2-IN-1
Workflows
Maximize
COMPACT
Bench space
Specialized framework
VENUS
Rapid method development

Streamline Mass Spec Sample Preparation

MassXtract STAR Line combines all the tools you need to fully automate solid-phase extraction and protein precipitation workflows.

Mass Spec Sample Prep Simplified

The MassXtract STAR Line is a fully automated mass spectrometry sample prep solution to ease solid-phase extraction and protein precipitation, and liquid-liquid extraction workflows.

Our Microlab STAR automated liquid handling platform, with robust performance and exclusive CO-RE II Technology (Compressed O-Ring Expansion Technology), is the bedrock of this assay ready workstation. By integrating useful tools on the platform’s deck, workflow steps are consistently performed without taking up your time or attention.

Everything is controlled through our approachable VENUS Software. From basic to highly nuanced methods, a specialized framework helps to speed your development pace. 

Common applications Pharma & Biopharma, Drug Discovery, Gene and Cell Therapy, Bioprocess Downstream, Microbial Strain and Fermentation Development

Featured Technologies

Hamilton Innovation Starts at the Channel

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.

    Diagram showing three pipette tip states—Normal, Empty, and Clogged—each with a corresponding pressure curve graph.
  • 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.

    Infographic showing 3 common pipetting issues: vessel overflow, over aspiration, and liquid on outside the tip
  • 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.

    Syringe diagram with plunger, pressure sensor, and volatile liquid labels; graphs showing pressure over time with droplet and oscillation patterns.
  • Pipetting Technology
    DPS - Dynamic Positioning System

    For Efficient Movements

    DPS enables all channels to pipette simultaneously, even across non-uniform patterns. Unlike fixed channels with equidistant spreading, DPS offers efficient yet flexible liquid handling for cherry picking, non-uniform and variable volume samples, and complex pipetting workflows.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

Add walkaway convenience to your protein precipitation, solid-phase, and liquid-liquid extraction workflows. This frees your precious time and expands your mass spec workflow potential without consuming valuable lab space.

The importance of sample preparation in mass spectrometry workflows cannot be overstated. With this in mind, we crafted MassXtract with precision pipetting, powerful software, and high-performing on-deck devices to boost your mass spec sample prep workflows.

By removing or reducing sources of variability in pipetting, timing, temperature, and other areas, you can be confident that your mass spec analyses truly reflect your sample characteristics without ionizable contaminants.

  • Hamilton STARlet automated liquid handling workstation with MPE² module and robotic arm on white background
  • Hamilton STARlet automated liquid handler with MPE² module, robotic arm, and labware deck, labeled "2"
  • Hamilton STARlet automated liquid handler with MPE² module and on-deck centrifuge, labeled 3
  • Hamilton STARlet automated liquid handler with MPE² module installed on deck, front view
  • Hamilton STARlet automated liquid handler with MPE² module and heater shaker units on the deck
  • Hamilton Heater Cooler

Explore the MassXtract STAR Line

1

VENUS Software

User-friendly yet impactful with remote monitoring, specialized framework, and integration with most lab information management systems (LIMS) and third-party software.
2

Microlab STAR

Microlab STAR automated liquid handler offers a compact footprint and includes our CO-RE II technology to ensure reliable, safe liquid handling.
3

On-Deck Centrifuge

Spin many labware types up to 60 mm high, with a maximum g-force of 2000 x g.
4

[MPE]2

Automate solid phase extraction workflows with positive pressure and optional evaporation and reagent dispensing modules.
5

Heater Shaker

Accelerate precipitation with speeds up to 2500 RPM and temperatures up to 105 °C.
6

Heater Cooler

Store processed sample plates at controlled temperatures between steps or after method completion.

MassXtract STAR Line Specifications

MassXtract STARlet Specifications

Print

System Dimensions

Height
90.1 cm (2 ft, 11.47 in)
Width
1.39 m (4 ft, 6.76 in)
Depth
1.01 m (3 ft, 3.69 in)
Hamilton STARlet automated liquid handler, front view, deck open, with MPE² module and robotic pipetting arm visible

Transport Tools

CO-RE Gripper
Standard

Platform/Accessories

Capacity (ANSI/SLAS Positions)
25
Device Integration
180° (Left and Right)

Sample Loading and Tracking Options

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

Pipetting Options

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

1 Depending on Configuration

MassXtract STAR Line 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.

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