Below are questions frequently asked by our customers and partners about GAO Tek’s life science testers. They are further classified by their features melting point testers, peristaltic pumps, polarimeters, and viscometers. 

If you have any questions about our products or want to place an order, our technical experts can help you. Please fill out this form: https://gaotek.com/ask-an-expert/  

or email us at sales@gaotek.com 

 

What is a life science tester? 

A GAO Tek life science tester is a specialized instrument used in biological and medical research to measure various parameters such as pH, temperature, conductivity, fluorescence, luminescence, absorbance, and other biochemical or biophysical properties. 

 

What parameters can life science testers measure? 

GAO Tek’s life science testers can measure pH levels, absorbance, fluorescence, luminescence, temperature, conductivity, enzyme activity, cell viability, and other biochemical or biophysical properties. 

 

How do life science testers contribute to research in biology and medicine? 

Life science testers aid researchers by providing accurate measurements of crucial parameters, enabling the study of biological processes, enzymatic reactions, cellular functions, and disease mechanisms. They help in understanding the intricacies of biological systems and drug development. 

 

What are the different types of life science testers available? 

Typical variants encompass pH meters, spectrophotometers, fluorometers, luminometers, conductivity meters, and temperature meters, each tailored for specific parameter measurements offered. 

 

How accurate are life science testers in their measurements? 

The accuracy of life science testers, including those from Gao Tek, can vary based on the quality, calibration, and model. High-quality Gao Tek testers, for instance, are designed to provide highly accurate measurements within a specified range. 

 

What is the importance of calibration for life science testers? 

Calibration ensures accuracy and reliability in measurements. Regular calibration using standard solutions or calibration tools helps maintain the meter’s accuracy. 

 

How do life science testers differ from regular laboratory equipment? 

Life science testers are specialized instruments designed to measure specific biological or chemical parameters, whereas regular laboratory equipment might have broader applications or functions. 

 

Can life science testers measure multiple parameters simultaneously? 

Our advanced life science testers are equipped to measure multiple parameters simultaneously, providing efficiency in data collection. 

 

What are some common applications of life science testers in research? 

Applications include DNA/RNA quantification, protein analysis, cell viability assays, enzymatic activity assays, environmental monitoring, drug discovery, and clinical diagnostics. 

 

How do environmental factors affect the readings of life science testers? 

Environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and external electromagnetic interference can influence meter readings, necessitating controlled conditions for accurate measurements. 

 

Are there portable versions of life science testers available for fieldwork? 

There are portable versions of various life science testers designed for fieldwork. They are often compact, battery-operated, and ruggedized for use outside laboratory settings. 

 

What are the key features to consider when selecting a life science tester? 

Important features include accuracy, range, resolution, ease of use, compatibility with samples, available accessories, software capabilities, and the need for portability. 

 

Do life science testers require specific maintenance or care? 

Yes, regular maintenance such as cleaning probes, ensuring proper storage, and following our recommended calibration schedules are essential for optimal performance. 

 

How long do the batteries typically last in portable life science testers? 

Battery life varies based on usage and the specific meter. Some portable models offer extended battery life, lasting several hours to days before requiring a recharge or replacement. 

 

Can life science testers be used across various fields of science? 

Yes, our life science testers find applications in biology, biochemistry, medicine, pharmaceuticals, environmental science, food science, and other related fields due to their versatility. 

 

What are the limitations of life science testers in terms of measurement range or sensitivity? 

Some testers might have limitations regarding the range they can measure or their sensitivity, which may not cover extremely high or low values or detect very subtle changes. 

 

Are there any specific safety precautions to consider while using life science testers? 

We provide safety precautions to our customers, which include wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, handling chemicals carefully, and following guidelines for safe operation. 

 

Do life science testers require specialized training for operation? 

While basic operation may be straightforward, specialized training ensures accurate usage, data interpretation, and troubleshooting. Some complex models might require specific training. 

 

How quickly can life science testers provide results? 

Depending on the type and complexity of measurement, life science testers can provide results within seconds to minutes, facilitating rapid data acquisition. 

 

What are the cost ranges for different types of life science testers? 

Costs vary significantly based on type, features, brand, and complexity. Basic models can start from a few hundred dollars, while advanced, multi-parameter systems or specialized testers can cost thousands to tens of thousands of dollars. 

 

What are the applications of life science testers? 

  • DNA/RNA Quantification: Life science testers are used to measure nucleic acid concentration and purity, crucial in molecular biology, genetics, and biotechnology research. 
  • Protein Analysis: They help in protein quantification, enzyme assays, and studying protein interactions, vital for understanding cellular functions and drug development. 
  • Cell Viability Assays: These testers aid in determining cell viability, proliferation, and cytotoxicity, essential in drug screening, toxicology studies, and cell biology research. 
  • Enzymatic Activity Assays: They are utilized in measuring enzyme activity, kinetics, and substrate specificity, crucial in understanding metabolic pathways and enzymology. 
  • pH Measurement: Life science testers accurately measure pH levels, essential for maintaining optimal conditions in cell cultures, enzymatic reactions, and biological processes. 
  • Temperature Monitoring: They provide precise temperature measurements critical for maintaining the viability and functionality of biological samples and reactions. 
  • Conductivity Measurement: Used in studying ionic content and conductivity of solutions, helpful in analyzing electrolytes, cell culture media, and determining sample purity. 
  • Absorbance and Fluorescence Assays: These testers are employed in quantifying absorbance and fluorescence levels in various assays, such as ELISA, immunoassays, and fluorescence-based analyses. 
  • Luminescence Detection: Used in applications like luciferase assays, ATP detection, and reporter gene assays for studying gene expression and cellular processes. 
  • Environmental Monitoring: Life science testers are utilized in environmental studies to assess parameters like pH, conductivity, and pollutants in water, soil, or air samples. 
  • Clinical Diagnostics: They play a role in clinical laboratories for measuring specific parameters like pH, blood gases, and electrolytes for diagnostic purposes. 
  • Food and Beverage Industry: Life science testers aid in quality control by assessing parameters like pH, microbial content, enzyme activity, and nutrient levels in food and beverages. 
  • Drug Development: Used in various stages of drug development for evaluating drug efficacy, toxicity, and pharmacokinetics. 
  • Bioprocessing and Biomanufacturing: Life science testers help in monitoring and controlling conditions in bioreactors and fermentation processes for producing pharmaceuticals, biofuels, and bioproducts. 

 

What U.S. regulations do GAO Tek life science testers comply with or help customers to comply? 

  • FDA Regulations: Life science testers used in medical diagnostics or healthcare settings might fall under the purview of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They could be classified as medical devices and must adhere to FDA regulations for design, manufacturing, labeling, and marketing. This compliance ensures safety and effectiveness before they are marketed in the U.S. 
  • ISO Standards: Many life science testers adhere to specific International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards relevant to their functionalities. For instance, ISO 13485 specifies quality management systems for medical devices, ensuring conformity to regulatory requirements. 
  • NIST Traceability: The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) establishes traceability standards for measurements. Instruments should have calibration traceable to NIST standards to ensure accuracy and consistency in measurements. 
  • Good Laboratory Practices (GLP): Laboratories using life science testers often comply with Good Laboratory Practices set by regulatory agencies like the FDA, ensuring proper documentation, calibration, maintenance, and validation of equipment. 
  • CE Marking: While not a U.S. regulation, the CE marking is crucial for life science testers imported or sold in the European Economic Area (EEA). Compliance with CE marking demonstrates adherence to European Union directives on safety and performance standards. 
  • ASTM Standards: The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) establishes standards for materials, products, systems, and services. Relevant ASTM standards might apply to specific types of life science meters. 
  • OSHA Requirements: Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations may apply concerning workplace safety, particularly regarding the safe use, maintenance, and handling of laboratory equipment, including life science meters. 
  • IEEE Standards: In cases where the testers involve electronic components or systems, adherence to relevant Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) standards for safety and performance might be necessary. 

 

What Canadian regulations do GAO Tek life science testers comply with or help customers comply with? 

  • Health Canada Regulations: Life science testers used in medical diagnostics, healthcare, or related applications might be classified as medical devices by Health Canada. They must adhere to regulations laid out in the Medical Devices Regulations under the Canadian Food and Drugs Act. Compliance involves meeting safety, efficacy, and quality standards before they can be sold or used in Canada. 
  • ISO Standards: Like the United States, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards play a significant role in setting quality and safety benchmarks. For instance, compliance with ISO 13485 ensures adherence to quality management systems specific to medical devices. 
  • Measurement Canada: Devices used for measurements, including some types of scientific meters, might fall under the purview of Measurement Canada, ensuring accuracy and adherence to legal metrology standards. 
  • CE Marking: While not a Canadian regulation, the CE marking is recognized in Canada and demonstrates compliance with European Union directives on safety and performance standards. Many devices that comply with CE marking standards are accepted in the Canadian market. 
  • NRC Requirements: The National Research Council of Canada (NRC) establishes standards and guidelines relevant to scientific instruments and equipment used in research and laboratory settings. 
  • CSA Group Standards: The Canadian Standards Association (CSA) develops standards for a wide range of products, including electrical and laboratory equipment. Compliance with relevant CSA standards might be necessary for certain types of life science meters. 
  • Laboratory Accreditation: Laboratories using these testers might need to adhere to specific laboratory accreditation requirements, such as ISO/IEC 17025, ensuring competence in testing and calibration procedures. 

 

What international standards do GAO Tek life science testers comply with or help customers comply with? 

  • ISO 13485: This standard specifies the requirements for a quality management system for medical devices, ensuring conformity to regulatory requirements and emphasizing risk management and continual improvement. 
  • ISO 15189: Specifically for medical laboratories, this standard outlines requirements for quality and competence, including technical competence of personnel, calibration and traceability of equipment, and quality control. 
  • ISO/IEC 17025: Applicable to testing and calibration laboratories, it specifies general requirements for competence in carrying out tests and calibrations, ensuring accuracy, traceability, and reliability of measurements. 
  • ISO 9001: Although not specific to life science meters, adherence to this quality management system standard ensures consistent quality in manufacturing, testing, and customer satisfaction. 
  • ISO 17034: About the competence of reference material producers, this standard ensures the reliability and quality of materials used in calibrating and verifying the accuracy of life science meters. 
  • ISO 10993: Relevant for medical devices, it outlines biological evaluation and testing requirements to assess the safety of materials used in the manufacturing of medical devices. 
  • IEC 60601: Specific to medical electrical equipment, this standard ensures the safety and essential performance of medical devices, covering aspects related to electrical safety and electromagnetic compatibility. 
  • IEC 61010: Applies to electrical equipment used for measurement, control, and laboratory use, ensuring safety in laboratory environments where life science testers are employed. 
  • ASTM Standards: Standards developed by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) cover various aspects relevant to life science meters, such as materials, performance, and testing protocols. 

 

What alternative names does a life sciences tester have? 

The alternative names for life sciences tester are the analytical instrument, biological measurement instrument, laboratory analyzer, bioanalytical tool, diagnostic tester or analyzer, physicochemical measurement instrument, biomedical test equipment, biosensor, biphotonic device, cell analysis instrument, environmental measurement device, biochemical assay tool, life science analytical instrument, molecular analysis instrument, and spectrometer. 

 

What life science testers does GAO Tek have? 

Here is the link for the entire life science testers category https://gaotek.com/category/life-sciences/. The life sciences testers are further categorized by feature: melting point testers, peristaltic pumps, polarimeters, and viscometers. 

 

How much time does GAO Tek take to ship to a USA location? 

GAO Tek ships overnight to anywhere on the continental U.S. from one of its North American facilities. 

 

How much time does GAO Tek take to ship to a Canadian location? 

GAO Tek ships overnight to anywhere in continental Canada from one of its North American facilities.Â