The new device, called Cellometer Model Auto T4, automates cell counting - a key step in cell-based assays used in cancer research and drug discovery.
The currently used method - manual haemocytometer - involves counting cells manually which is time-consuming, tedious and susceptible to the operator judgment, and therefore can affect sample quality and results accuracy.
The firm claims the new method is affordable, small and easy to use. Samples are pipetted into a disposable chamber and placed into the Auto T4, which is then connected to a computer via a USB cable. Finally, imaging software automatically measures cell concentration and viability.
"We have designed the Auto T4 to satisfy the need to simplify cell counting," said Jean Qiu, president of Nexcelom Bioscience.
"Our customers told us that cells should be counted when experimental procedure requires it, but not when a centralised instrument is available."
Furthermore, cells within a heterogeneous sample with various sizes and shapes can also be measured, providing data not obtainable by other methods.
The Auto T4 is also free of cross-contamination and clogging as samples are contained within the disposable chamber, concluded the firm.