he ability to move liquids around the laboratory in carefully defined volumes is a key component much research, traditionally achieved using small, single-or multi-channel pipettes, operated by hand. However, liquid handling in this way can be impractical, monotonous and time-consuming in most situations, leading to inaccuracy and inconsistency as researchers get fatigued. These issues are compounded as the number of samples and pipetting steps increase, until eventually it becomes impossible to achieve reliable results in a reasonable time frame using manual pipetting. During the late eighties and early nineties, the increased throughput needs of screening laboratories for drug discovery exacerbated this problem, and drove the need for a robust, reliable solution. Automated liquid handling was scientists' saving grace.
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