Automated Library Preparation
Mid-High Throughput
48-96
Samples Per Run
Configurable
Standard Class
Qualified Assay Methods
Run Them All
Qualified Methods
Industry-Leading Partners

Everlasting Reliability in NGS Workflows

The NGS STAR Line evolves along with your sequencing workflow automation needs to deliver high-quality results long into the future.

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Use case

How It's Used

The NGS STAR Line from Hamilton combines standardized hardware, software, method programming and features the largest repertoire of biologically tested methods for easy setup and implementation. Watch the video on how the Munich Leukemia Laboratory (MLL) is using NGS STARs in their workflow.

References

Automation of QIAGEN QIAseq DNA Pro Panels on the NGS STAR MOA

Library preparation for Next-Generation Sequencing is…

ONT PCR Tiling of SARS-CoV-2 with Rapid Barcoding and Midnight RT-PCR

Tracking pathogen variation was crucial during the COVID-19…

Scientific Citations

NGS Automation to Cover All the Bases

The NGS STAR Line efficiently and reliably automates next-generation sequencing (NGS) library preparation for up to 48 or 96 samples at once. It uses our Microlab STAR automated liquid handler, featuring CO-RE II Technology for the utmost in pipetting accuracy, precision, and reliability. Two models are available: the NGS STAR features eight independent CO-RE channels, while the NGS STAR MOA also includes a CO-RE 96 Probe Head to enable parallel liquid handling in 96 wells at once. Both may be connected to a laboratory information management system (LIMS) for seamless data flow.

Dedicated Assay-Specific Automation Power from Hamilton

The NGS STAR Line supports NGS workflows like targeted enrichment, whole genome sequencing, transcriptome sequencing, and more. Standardized hardware, software, and method programming with biologically tested methods help you get up and running quickly and easily. Expert consultation and support along the way support long-term efficiencies.
 

Common applications Genomics, NGS Library Prep, Long-String Genomics, Single Cell Analysis, Pharma & Biopharma

Featured Technologies

Hamilton Technology starts at the channel.

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.

    Automated liquid handling system dispensing blue fluid into a row of glass test tubes via multi-channel pipette heads
  • 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.

    Cross-section diagram and 3D render of CO-RE II tip and stop disk, highlighting metal coupler and sealing surface (red o-ring).
  • 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.

    Multi-channel pipette head with disposable tips positioned over a rack of sample tubes on an automated liquid handling platform
  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Liquid Handling Technology
    LFC - Liquid Fractionation Control

    For Detecting Liquid Layers via Pressure Monitoring

    Pressure-based monitoring method to detect liquid interfaces in layered samples like centrifuged blood or liquid-liquid chemical extractions. LFC simultaneously and rapidly identifies, separates, and aliquots up to 16 samples into various labware targets. It includes full sample traceability.

  • 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.

Hamilton STAR automated liquid handler with open lid, showing pipetting arm and deck with labware
Hamilton STAR automated liquid handler deck loaded with tip racks, microplates, and pipetting modules
Hamilton STAR automated liquid handler deck loaded with tip racks, microplates, and pipetting modules

With all devices, modules, and software necessary for impactful NGS library prep in one system, you can rapidly set up and deploy the NGS STAR Line.

The NGS STAR offers robust operation while the NGS STAR MOA offers advanced features including a CO-RE 96-Probe Head. An ODTC enhances walkaway operation on both instruments.

The NGS STAR Line is time-tested and trusted by laboratories worldwide to deliver consistent and reliable results to positively impact genomics applications.

  • Hamilton automated liquid handler deck with pipetting module highlighted, microplate carriers, and tip racks
  • Hamilton automated liquid handler deck with labeled tip racks, microplate carriers, and tube carriers highlighted as Feature 2.
  • Interior view of a server or automated instrument chassis with highlighted modular components labeled 3
  • Interior view of an open server-style instrument chassis highlighting four modular components in a green callout box
  • Interior of an automated liquid handling instrument showing fans, cable management, modules, and a highlighted connector assembly labeled 5
  • Interior view of an open server-style instrument chassis highlighting a small labeled component (item 6) in the lower-right section.

Explore the NGS STAR Line

Decklayouts between NGS STAR and NGS STAR MOA do slightly differ due to different pipetting hardware (NGS STAR MOA deck shown as reference).

Empty positions can be used to expand according to application needs.

Ultraviolet Light Package, Optional

Decontaminates and sterilizes exposed surfaces on the deck of the NGS STAR Line to support workflow integrity.

1

On-Deck Thermalcycler (ODTC), Optional

Thermal cycling with adjustable settings for high precision and reproducibility. Supports most 96-well PCR plates. Use with the PCR ComfortLid. Accessible with the CO-RE 96-Probe Head.
2

Consumables and Reagent Storage

The deck layout offers ample storage space for CO-RE II tips, plates, and reagent reservoirs, with automatic barcode scanning to verify proper placement.
3

Processing Positions

A dedicated zone manages all pipetting steps using MIDI and PCR plates. An integrated magnet plate is used for magnetic bead-based purification steps.
4

Temperature incubation and mixing

Includes 5 Hamilton Heater Shakers (HHS) with speed up to 2500 rpm and heating up to 105 ºC, along with 1 Cold Plate Air Cooled Heater/Cooler (CPAC).
5

Transportation Tool

Agile CO-RE Grippers and optional iSWAP (for ODTC integration) support hands-free processing by reliably moving plates around the deck throughout the workflow.
6

Automated Loading and Scanning

Autoloading and barcode verification enable full sample traceability while verifying proper consumable and reagent loading and placement.

NGS STAR Line Specifications

NGS STAR Specifications

Print

System Dimensions

Height
90.3 cm (2 ft, 11.55 in)
Width
1.66 m (5 ft, 5.51 in)
Depth
78.1 cm (2 ft, 6.75 in)
Hamilton STAR automated liquid handler, front view with deck open, showing pipetting arm and loaded labware carriers

System Compatibility

Platform

Transport Tools

CO-RE Gripper
Optional
Internal Plate Gripper (IPG)
Optional

Platform/Accessories

Capacity (ANSI/SLAS Positions)
55

Sample Loading and Tracking Options

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

Pipetting Options

1 mL Channels
8
Multi-Probe Head Option
n/a
Pipetting Range 1
1 µL - 1000 µL

NGS STAR MOA Specifications

Print

System Dimensions

Height
90.3 cm (2 ft, 11.55 in)
Width
1.93 m (6 ft, 3.87 in)
Depth
78.1 cm (2 ft, 6.75 in)
Hamilton STAR automated liquid handler, front view, open deck with pipetting arm, tip racks, and reagent carriers

System Compatibility

Platform

Transport Tools

CO-RE Gripper
Optional
Internal Plate Gripper (IPG)
Optional

Platform/Accessories

Capacity (ANSI/SLAS Positions)
55

Sample Loading and Tracking Options

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

Pipetting Options

1 mL Channels
8
Multi-Probe Head Option
96
Pipetting Range 1
1 µL - 1000 µL

1 Depending on Configuration

NGS 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.

Comparison
Services

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

From our Field Service Engineers to our compliance with regulatory standards, you can expect high quality from Hamilton.

Our service teams are fully trained and available to support your automation needs.

Backed by world-class service and support.

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