High precision automatic microbiology analyzer WalkAway plus

for antimicrobial susceptibility testingMALDI-TOF

Overview
The MicroScan WalkAway plus System is the fourth-generation automated platform for identification (ID) and antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST). Designed for mid- to high-volume clinical and reference laboratories, it supports simultaneous processing of conventional, rapid and specialty MicroScan panels on a single instrument to streamline laboratory workflow.

Key benefits

• Gold-standard accuracy for microorganism identification and susceptibility testing
• Simultaneous handling of conventional, rapid and specialty panels on one platform
• Accurate detection of emerging resistance mechanisms, including VISA, VRSA and MRSA
• Scalable for high-volume testing when integrated with specimen processors and MALDI systems
• Support for rapid and specialty ID panels to reduce turnaround time
• Level-sensing and high-volume fluid handling to reduce maintenance and operator intervention

LabPro software
The system includes LabPro Information Manager software to manage workflow and minimize manual interactions. LabPro offers customization, automated detection of atypical results via LabPro Alert EX, and an optional LabPro Connect module to consolidate data from multiple systems for epidemiology and reporting.

Awards & recognition
Independent laboratory evaluations report high user satisfaction with the MicroScan WalkAway family; the system family received the IMV ServiceTrak Award for Best System Performance in the AST/ID category.

Technical specifications

• Physical: WalkAway-40 plus: 29 in H x 38.5 in W x 34 in D; 375 lbs. WalkAway-96 plus: 37 in H x 38.5 in W x 34 in D; 400 lbs. Color: two-tone gray.
• Interface connector: Two serial interface connectors daisy-chained RS-232; In port toward computer, Out port away from computer.
• Power requirements: Line voltage selectable by internal jumpers: 100/120/220/230/240 VAC. Frequency: 50/60 Hz ±5%. Line current: 9 A nominal, 11 A maximum for 100/120 VAC; 4.5 A nominal, 5.5 A maximum for 220/230/240 VAC. Power-loss protection with automatic restart. Heat generation: 3,400 BTU/h.
• Laboratory environment: Operating temperature 15°C to 27°C. Humidity 30% to 80% RH (no condensation).
• Safety: Ground impedance max 0.1 Ω. Dielectric withstand: no breakdown at 1,400 VDC for one minute. Leakage current < 0.5 mA. Removable power cord: 3-conductor, 14 AWG (100/120 V) or 16 AWG (220/230/240 V). Interlocks on access door, reagent dispense drawer and service hatch. Power plug: NEMA 5-15P / IEC 60320 C14. Standards: UL STD 61010-1, CAN/CSA 61010-1, ISO 9000, CE, IVDD, EMC IEC61326 series.
• Overcurrent protection: Primary fuses F1 and F2 IEC (5x20 mm) time-lag/slow-blow, 250 V rated: 12 A (100/120 V) / 6.3 A (220/230/240 V).
• Light source: Tungsten-halogen lamp options (50 W, 12 V or 15 W versions).
• Display: 2-line, 20-character alphanumeric vacuum fluorescence display.
• Temperature control: Set by computer to 35°C ±1°C. Incubation stability ±1°C.
• Barcode: Code 39 compliance.
• Performance / capacity: WalkAway-40 plus: capacity for 40 MicroScan panels (96 wells each); up to eight panel towers with five panels each. WalkAway-96 plus: capacity for 96 MicroScan panels (96 wells each); up to eight panel towers with 12 panels each.
• Reagent & fluid handling: Reagent capacity: 10 reagent types. Reagent dispense volume: 15–75 μL depending on reagent. Oil dispense volume: 60–150 μL. Level-sensing and high-volume fluids to minimize maintenance.
• Operator interface: Front-panel controls and PC keyboard/monitor with LabPro software.