High-throughput sample prep and assay setup for human identity samples
The STAR Q SP/AS Instrument automates sample purification from forensic and other human identity samples using the Investigator STAR Lyse&Prep Kit. The instrument also automates assay setup for quantification, normalization and STR assay setup for downstream PCR analysis. The STAR Q SP/AS combines QIAGEN’s expertise in performance and process safety with high-throughput liquid handling, to enable processing of up to 192 samples per day with no compromise in terms of quality or DNA recovery.
Please note: STAR Q SP/AS Instrument will be discontinued as of March 31, 2021. We recommend the alternative products: QIAsymphony SP/AS instruments or EZ1 Advanced XL. For more information, please contact QIAGEN Technical Services.
The STAR Q SP/AS Instrument is a high-throughput (HTP) liquid-handling platform designed for sample purification and assay setup from forensic and human identity samples. The instrument uses a dedicated ISO 18385 forensic DNA grade magnetic bead chemistry, enabling recovery of highly pure DNA for human- and male-specific quantification, STR analysis and other downstream applications. Magnetic bead chemistry is based on QIAGEN’s trusted silica technology, in a format designed specifically for high-throughput use. This ensures the most cost-effective use and the highest levels of process safety. Unlike other HTP liquid-handling systems, the STAR Q SP/AS comes with pre-validated protocols for sample purification and assay setup. While these pre-installed protocols allow ease of use and speed of implementation, lysis and elution volumes can be adjusted to enable optimal processing depending on sample type. Together with the Investigator Kits for sample prep, quantification and STR amplification, the STAR Q SP/AS provides a complete solution for high-throughput processing of forensic samples, combining capacity and speed with quality and process safety.
The high-quality DNA obtained using the STAR Q SP/AS Instrument and Investigator STAR Lyse&Prep Kit is suitable for direct use in forensic and human identity testing for applications, such as:
| Features | Specifications |
| Dimensions | 166.4 x 79.5 x 90.3 cm (65 x 31.3 x 35.6 inches) [Autoload: 100.6 cm (39.6 inches)] |
| Modal precision | x-y-z positional accuracy of 0.1 mm |
| Noise level | <65 dBA (regarding EN27779) <46 dBA in standby mode |
| Voltage | 115 VAC / 230 VAC |
| Delayed action fuse – 600 VA | 115 V: 6.3 A (T6.3AL250) 230 V: 3.15 A (T3.15AL250) |
| Tip sizes | Low and intermediate volume: 50 µl Standard volume: 300 µl High volume: 1000 µl |
| Power consumption | Standby power consumption: 100 VA Maximum power consumption: 600–1000 VA, depending on configuration |
| Weight | 145 kg (320 lbs.) |
| Temperature range | 15–35°C |
| Heat | The power consumed will be transferred to head, e.g.,: 600 or 1000 Watts of Heat = 600 or 1000 Joules/second |
| Installation category | II |
| Work area dimensions | Width (x): 121.5 cm (47.8 inches) Depth (y): 49.7 cm (19.6 inches) Height (z): 14.5 cm (5.7 inches) The maximum height for labware used on the deck is 14.0 cm (5.5 inches) |
| Frequency | 50/60 Hz ± 5% |
| Delayed action fuse – 1000 VA | 115 V: 10 A (T10AL250) 230 V: 5 A (T5AL250) |
| Maximum power consumption | 600 VA or 1000 VA (depending on configuration) |
| Pollution degree | 2 |
| Deck capacity | 54 tracks (T) allow combinations of: maximum of 9 carriers (6 T) holding 5 tip racks or 5 plate positions per carrier |
| Relative humidity | 30%–85% (non-condensing, indoors) |
| Lifespan | 7 years based on 8 h/day, 5 days/week |
| Recommended computer | Intel Core 2 Duo, ≥4 GB RAM, 500 GB Hard Drive, 16x DVD +/-RW, DirectX 250 MB graphic card, MS Windows 7 Professional |
| Use | Indoor use only |
| Communication | USB or RS232 with dual processor board Ethernet or USB with LAN dual processor board |
| Altitude | Up to 2000 m (6500 ft) |
