High-precision micromanipulator MSM 400

manualmotorized

What is the MSM 400?
The MSM 400 is a semi-automated tetrad dissection workstation for ascospore dissection, sorting and documentation in yeast genetics and single-cell research. It supports both head-down manual manipulation and on-screen dissection with image capture, delivering throughput up to 20 tetrad sets per petri, suitable for teaching labs and genomics facilities.

Key features

• Semi-automated tetrad dissection microscope for Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Schizosaccharomyces pombe and other spore-producing species
• Fast motorised stage with positional recall and touchscreen control
• Handheld joystick combined with micromanipulator for precise localisation
• Durable purpose-made glass needles for unicellular manipulation
• Operate head-down (manual) or dissect on-screen with image capture and documentation

Precision control
Vibration-free X/Y needle control and an ergonomic Z dial provide precise, repeatable movements. Needle travel can be performed smoothly or in stepped increments selectable at 24 µm or 300 µm. The system is configurable for right- or left-handed operators.

Intuitive interface
The MSM 400 combines a handheld joystick and micromanipulator with a motorised stage and touchscreen to streamline rapid localisation, manipulation and recording of cells. Image capture, storage and export simplify documentation workflows.

Maintain sterility
An inverted plate holder reduces contamination risk from breath and airborne particles while allowing precise cell manipulation on standard plates.

Workflows supported

• Tetrad dissection: ascospore isolation, sorting and cataloguing for teaching and research
• Ageing studies: replicative lifespan (RLS) protocols with image capture, storage and export
• Single-cell screening: rapid sorting and documentation of individual cells in orthogonal arrays for spatiotemporal and morphological analysis

Accessories & consumables

• Purpose-made durable glass needles and needle holders
• Motorised stage consumables and plate holders designed to minimise contamination risk

Documentation
Product brochure (PDF) and additional resources are available for download from the product resources section.

Technical specifications

• Product type: Semi-automated tetrad dissection microscope/workstation
• Typical throughput: Up to 20 sets of tetrads per petri
• Motion control: Vibration-free X/Y needle control; ergonomic Z dial; motorised stage with positional recall
• Needle movement increments: Smooth or stepped (24 µm or 300 µm steps)
• Control interface: Handheld joystick, micromanipulator, touchscreen
• Plate handling: Inverted plate holder to minimise contamination
• Imaging: On-screen dissection support with image capture, storage and export (suitable for ageing studies)
• Applications: Tetrad dissection (yeast), ageing (RLS), single-cell screening and documentation
• Ergonomics: Calibratable for right- or left-handed use
• Consumables: Purpose-made glass needles and needle holders