AstraGene is based on a novel, through-the-tip measurement technique, that removes the need to dispense the sample from the pipette and which it is claimed fully protects the tiny 2µl sample from any possible contamination and the effects of evaporative loss, while also enabling the confident re-use of the full sample volume.

Designed and built by AstraNet Systems Ltd in Cambridge UK, the manufacturer claims that this is the fastest and easiest method for measuring micro-volume samples. AstraGene removes the need to dispense the sample onto a measuring surface or into a sample holder and then the requirement to wipe it off or clean up after measurement, their through-the-tip measurement is claimed to completely eliminate these two time-consuming procedures.

AstraNet describe the spectrophotometer as being based on a high resolution, UV enhanced, CCD array detector, with sample measurement, including a spectrum scan, being completed in less than 2 seconds. They say their design uses no moving or mechanical parts, almost completely eliminating maintenance and the need for re-calibration, while enhancing reliability over traditional and other micro-volume spectrophotometer techniques.