QIAcube Connect: Learn about automated sample processing

May 2020

QIAGEN spin columns are the gold standard for nucleic acid extraction and purification. Many research labs, however, are challenged by the number and variability of samples that need to be processed. 

QIAcube Connect offers automation for over 80 QIAGEN kits with up to 12 samples per run. It was developed by five teams with members from Germany, Switzerland, UK, India and the USA. With it, QIAGEN now offers a breakthrough system with advanced digital capabilities and connectivity. It builds on the success of ~3000 QIAcube instruments that already allow research labs to fully automate and track their well-known QIAGEN spin-column protocols with just a push of a button. 

In this article, we will give you a brief introduction to how QIAcube Connect can help you to stay connected and how it will enable you to experience increased confidence in your results.

QIAcube Connect processes up to 12 samples per run and automates the purification of DNA, RNA and proteins. It is only intended for RUO purposes and supports applications like sequencing, Gene expression, Genotyping, Proteomics, Microbiome, Liquid Biopsy, Epigenetics and more. There is no need to buy dedicated kits for QIAcube Connect. Just use the manual QIAGEN kits you are familiar with on the QIAcube Connect instrument. QIAcube Connect comes with over 150 pre-installed protocols and it can automate over 80 kits. Additionally, customized protocols can be ordered. 

Its pre-installed and intuitive software is easily accessible on the touchscreen or a tablet (included). The QIAcube Connect software guides the user through the setup process step by step to eliminate the risk of any errors. An external PC is not required to operate QIAcube Connect, saving space in the lab.  

Setting up the QIAcube Connect has become even easier, as the worktable is now well illuminated. QIAcube Connect comes with a barcode reader. With it, you can seamlessly import kit data and sample barcodes into your workflow. Data can also be imported via USB. 

The connectivity concept enhances digitization of the sample purification process for setup and monitoring. A tablet enables you to stay connected with your instrument even when away from QIAcube Connect via the software. Features included are a guided setup and pre-installed protocols at a push of a button, scanning sample kits with a bar code reader for easy data import, remote real-time run status, error alerts and complete run messages. Once run is complete, reports can be easily generated and exported to USB, network, or the tablet. All this allows for a new dimension of utility and enhanced process safety.  The tablet included is a regular tablet. You can use it to listen to your favorite internet radio station if you like. 

QIAcube Connect ensures the highest safety standards for researchers. A built-in UV light enables full worktable decontamination; managed user-access ensures tracking of use and data protection. Pre-run checks guarantee correct loading of the instrument. The hood of the QIAcube Connect can be opened during the loading phase only. It is locked after the run has started. You can, however, see what’s going on the worktable through the hood. 

P.S.: Did you know that QIAcube Connect is three instruments in one? The centrifuge and the heatable shaker of the QIAcube Connect can be operated independently if the instrument is not performing a protocol run.

QIAcube Connect is designed to perform fully automated purification of nucleic acids and proteins in molecular biology applications. The system is intended for use by professional users trained in molecular biological techniques and the operation of QIAcube Connect.

Inga Irle image

Inga Irle

Dr. Inga Irle, is a Senior Strategic Marketing manager based in QIAGEN’s Hilden office, Germany. She obtained her Master of Science degree in Biochemistry in 2006 focusing on molecular medicine and biomarker discovery and received her PhD in 2009 working in the field of cancer and epigenetics. Dr. Irle joined QIAGEN in 2010 and was the Global Product Manager for various products, including qPCR and Epigenetics. She is currently responsible for the global marketing activities around QIAGEN’s Microbiome products and Life Science Sample preparation instruments.