A comprehensive evaluation by a leading US laboratory confirms PathFinder™ benchtop systems exceed performance specifications with over 300 samples/hour throughput and 100% accuracy in sample orientation and tube matching.

This study demonstrated excellent reliability with minimal maintenance requirements during 168 sample runs involving over 16,000 tubes. PathFinder™ systems proved well-suited for high-throughput clinical environments while providing the automation flexibility needed to complement existing laboratory infrastructure.

Modern clinical laboratories face increasing pressure to improve accuracy, efficiency, and staff safety—especially during pre-analytical sample handling. This whitepaper explores how Brooks Automation’s PathFinder™ benchtop solutions address these challenges head-on, offering proven results in throughput, reliability, and ergonomic design.

1. Manual Pre-Analytical Errors

Challenge: Up to 68% of lab errors occur during manual pre-analytical tasks like de-capping, sorting, and resealing.
PathFinder™ Solution: Automates these tasks with high accuracy, reducing contamination, misidentification, and human error.

2. Ergonomic Strain and Labor Intensity

Challenge: Manual tube handling contributes to repetitive strain injuries and slows down workflow.
PathFinder™ Solution: Automates de-capping and sealing, improving ergonomics and freeing staff for higher-value tasks.

3. Workflow Inefficiencies and Throughput Bottlenecks

Challenge: Labs struggle to maintain high throughput and consistent sample tracking, especially without full LIS integration.
PathFinder™ Solution: Achieves over 300 samples/hour with 100% barcode orientation accuracy and reliable audit trails—even without LIS integration.