Fully automated sample preparation system TMA Grand Master

roboticfor sample preparationfor research

Overview
The TMA Grand Master automates tissue microarray (TMA) production for high‑throughput research and diagnostic environments, managing selection, coring and placement of tissue samples with traceability and reproducibility.

Key Features

• Fully automated walkaway operation designed for large‑scale TMA production
• Total block capacity per run: 72 blocks (60 donor blocks and 12 recipient blocks)
• Throughput: approximately 250–280 cores per hour
• High‑density arraying: up to 558 cores per block with 0.6 mm cores
• Supports core diameters: 0.6 mm, 1.0 mm, 1.5 mm, 2.0 mm
• Clone block creation for identical TMAs
• Sample extraction workflow for downstream molecular analysis (PCR)

Precision & Core Selection

• Digital slide overlay and alignment for precise core targeting
• Automated donor block image capture to support accurate selection
• Supports MRXS and JPEG digital slide formats
• Integrated 1D/2D barcode scanning for sample and block tracking

Advanced Automation & Smart Features

• High‑speed robotic arm for consistent core placement
• Automatic block height measurement for uniform coring depth
• Parallel processing: simultaneous loading, imaging, drilling and punching
• Automatic saving of donor block and label images for documentation
• Project data stored in an internal database for traceability

Molecular Pathology Support

• PCR extraction function for molecular workflows
• Holds 6 PCR cassettes, each for 10 PCR tubes (sample extraction to tubes)
• Prepares extracted FFPE tissue for DNA extraction and PCR analysis
• Integrated cleaning block to reduce cross‑contamination risk

Data Management & Integration

• Exports TMA data: ODS, XLS, XLSX, CSV, XML
• Imports clinical data and integrates with research workflows
• Compatible with digital pathology workflows and image formats used in research

Capacity & Throughput Details

• Total block capacity (single run): 72 blocks (60 donor + 12 recipient)
• Maximum core throughput: ~250–280 cores per hour
• Maximum cores per TMA block by core diameter:
  • 0.6 mm cores: up to 558 cores per block
  • 1.0 mm cores: up to 286 cores per block
  • 1.5 mm cores: up to 135 cores per block
  • 2.0 mm cores: up to 84 cores per block

Software & Workflow

• Control software: TMA Control (layout, core selection, digital slide overlay, automated alignment)
• Workflow management and automatic saving of TMA project data for downstream analysis with TMA Module software

Physical Specifications

• Dimensions (W x D x H): 80 x 50 x 46 cm
• Weight: 48 kg

Applications / Intended Use

• Research, biomarker studies and drug development
• Institutional pathology laboratories and diagnostic workflows requiring high‑throughput TMA production
• Biobanks, large research centers, pharmaceutical R&D

Characteristics / Technical specifications

• Model name: TMA Grand Master
• Manufacturer / Brand: 3DHISTECH
• Total block capacity per run: 72 blocks (60 donor + 12 recipient)
• Supported core diameters: 0.6 mm, 1.0 mm, 1.5 mm, 2.0 mm
• Max cores per block: 0.6 mm: 558; 1.0 mm: 286; 1.5 mm: 135; 2.0 mm: 84
• Throughput: ~250–280 cores/hour (up to 280 cores/hour noted)
• Tissue extraction for molecular analysis: PCR extraction; supports 6 PCR cassettes × 10 PCR tubes
• Automation features: automatic block height measurement, integrated 1D/2D barcode scanning, automatic donor block/label image saving
• Data export formats: ODS, XLS, XLSX, CSV, XML
• Digital slide compatibility: MRXS, JPEG formats
• Physical dimensions: 80 x 50 x 46 cm
• Weight: 48 kg
• Primary software: TMA Control (control software for layout, selection and overlay)