Many laboratories experience difficulties when using ion-selective electrode 
(ISE) analysers with traditional electrodes, as the electrodes must be replaced 
periodically. Failing electrodes can give erroneous results, interrupt 
workflows and are expensive to replace.

To address this problem, Erba Mannheim launches EC 90, a new electrolyte 
analyser with maintenance-free electrodes in an all-in-one sensor cartridge, 
aimed at labs of all sizes. The EC 90 directly measures Na+, Cl-, K+ and Ca2+ 
from whole blood, plasma, serum and pre-diluted urine using a sensor 
incorporating thick film technology.

A "plug and play" sensor cartridge is integrated into a new reagent pack 
capable of performing up to 3,000 samples, with a market leading on-board 
lifetime of 3 months. No maintenance or cleaning of the pack is required, and 
waste is self-contained. The EC 90 can analyse samples in 35 seconds, with a 
typical throughput of 90 samples/hour, and has 35 microliters and 70 
microliters sample volume measuring modes. Results can be given with a 
resolution of 0.1mmol/L for Na[+] and Cl-, 0.01mmol/L for K[+] and Ca[2+] and 
are reproducible with CV< 1%.

Small and lightweight (337 x 273 x 422mm, <8kg), with an 8.5" colour 
touchscreen display, LIS connectivity, automatic calibration, two USB ports, 
on-board 24 column thermal printer and a serial port. 

"We are delighted to launch the new EC 90 analyser at MEDLAB Middle East," says 
Dimitris Giantzoudis, Global Product Manager for Clinical Chemistry. "Our R&D 
team has huge experience in thick film electrode design, so we are confident 
about system robustness in labs and point of care environments."

Nikhil Vazirani, MD of Erba Mannheim, added: "We believe this is a game-changer 
for labs seeking fast, high quality electrolyte measurements in a stand-alone 
format at an affordable price. Because it offers superior accuracy and cost 
effectiveness, we are already integrating this approach into our range of fully 
automatic clinical chemistry analysers to offer the same high-performance 
electrolyte measurements next year."

The EC 90 will be launched on February 3rd at the MEDLAB Middle East trade fair 
(Z4.B10, Hall 4) More details can be found at 
https://electrolyte-analyser-ec90.erbamannheim.com/.

About Erba Mannheim:

Erba Mannheim is a global company focused on delivering innovative, affordable, 
total lab automation. Operating and providing clinical diagnostic products in 
over 100 countries. 

To learn more about Erba Mannheim visit: www.erbamannheim.com.

Contact: 
Arlene Hooper
Global Marketing Communications Manager
Erba Corporate Services Ltd
GW1 Great West House 
Great West Road 
London TW8 9DF UK 
Mobile: +44-(0)-749-4208-556 
Email: a.hooper@erbamannheim.com

SOURCE: Erba Mannheim