CAMAG®
AUTOMATIC TLC SAMPLER 4

The CAMAG Automatic TLC Sampler 4 is a fully automated device designed for precise sample application onto TLC and HPTLC plates. The ATS 4 ensures efficient workflows, making it ideal for both qualitative and quantitative analyses in high-throughput laboratory environments.

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In a nutshell

The key to quality and reproducibility

The Automatic TLC Sampler 4 initiates the HPTLC process by applying samples, which plays a crucial role in determining analysis quality. Additionally, automation enhances productivity, making the HPTLC lab more efficient. Designed for routine operations and high throughput, the ATS 4 efficiently handles both qualitative and quantitative analyses, as well as preparative separations.

Specifically, the Automatic TLC Sampler 4 applies samples as bands, spots, or rectangles using the spray-on technique. It precisely delivers large volumes and concentrates rectangles into narrow bands with a high-strength elution solvent before chromatography.

Furthermore, the ATS 4 supports “overspotting,” sequentially applying samples onto the same position. This feature proves particularly useful for pre-chromatographic derivatization, spiking, and other similar procedures, enhancing its versatility for a range of applications.

Fully automated sample application
Application of bands, spots or rectangles
Any plate format up to 20 x 20 cm (glass or aluminium foil)
Spray-on application or by contact transfer
Software-controlled by visionCATS

SOFTWARE INTEGRATION

OPERATION WITH VISIONCATS Software

Accurate sample application is essential for achieving high-quality HPTLC analysis. When paired with visionCATS HPTLC software, the ATS 4 enables fully automated sample application, optimized for routine use and high sample throughput.

The instrument parameters dialog box provides user-friendly default settings. For example, selecting a solvent similar to the one in use allows the software to automatically adjust instrument settings based on viscosity, volatility, and surface tension. Additionally, the filling/rinsing process, which controls syringe rinsing frequency and filling repetition, can be customized for specific tasks.

How the ATS 4 works

CAMAG AUTOMATIC TLC SAMPLER 4_septum punch

An application sequence begins with sample uptake. The vial septum is punctured, and the needle is inserted into the sample vial through the puncture. The syringe is then filled with the sample solution.

CAMAG AUTOMATIC TLC SAMPLER 4_septum punch retraction

The septum punch retracts, ensuring that the tightly sealed septum wipes off the exterior of the needle.

CAMAG AUTOMATIC TLC SAMPLER 4_pre-dosage

Before the first application from a newly filled syringe, a small sample volume is pre-dosed onto a waste plate to ensure consistent conditions at the needle tip. This pre-dosage is performed in the same manner as sample application, either through contact spotting or the spray-on technique.

The syringe moves to the programmed position of the plate and starts application of the desired sample volume. If several applications of the same sample have been programmed, these are applied in sequence from the same syringe filling, provided the remaining volume is sufficient. Otherwise, the syringe is automatically refilled.

CAMAG AUTOMATIC TLC SAMPLER 4_syringe emptied

After the final sample application, the syringe is emptied into the waste bottle.

CAMAG AUTOMATIC TLC SAMPLER 4_solvent emptied

The syringe is filled with rinsing solvent, and the plunger moves beyond the side connection to remove any excess solvent. Once the rinsing solvent is emptied into the waste bottle, the dosing system is prepared for the next application sequence.

Watch the ATS 4 in action

Technical specifications

General data

Plate/sheet size supported

up to 20 x 20 cm
Plate/sheet material supported

glass, aluminium and plastic
Plate/sheet thickness supported

up to 8 mm
Application method

contact (spots) using contact needle or spray (spots, bands or rectangles) using spray needle
Syringe volume

standard: 25 μL, options: 10 or 100 μL
Sample dosing volume (application volume)

programmable from 100 nL to 1 ml in steps of 100 nL
Dosage speed

programmable from 10 to 2500 nL/s
Septum puncher

pneumatic operation
Sample rack capacity

standard: 66 sample vials 2 mL (12 x 32 mm), option: support for 96 well-plates
Syringe and needle rinsing

automatic at the beginning and end of each run and between different sample vials
Rinsing cycles

programmable from 0 to 5
Band length

programmable 0.0 – 200 mm in 0.1 mm steps
Bands/spots positions on the plate in the x-axis direction

programmable 0.0 – 100 mm in 0.1 mm steps
Bands/spots positions on the plate in the y-axis direction

programmable 0.0 – 195 mm in 0.1 mm steps
Sample heating during spray

optional: up to 60°C by using Heated Spray Nozzle
Display

two lines LCD display
Instrument control

controlled and programmed by visionCATS software
Diagnostics

via visionCATS software
Over spotting

programmable, from different vials onto the same spot or band
Communication port

RS-232 serial port
External gas supply

compressed air or nitrogen, 4.5 – 6 bar (65 – 90 PSI)
Gas consumption

approx. 2 liters per minute while spraying
Mains voltage

90 – 240 V, 50 – 60 Hz
Dimensions (W x D x H)

630 x 530 x 500 mm
Weight

36 kg