Automated Diabetes Monitoring with the Olympus AU680

The Olympus AU680® mid-size chemistry analyzer now offers a fully automated HbA1c assay, eliminating the inconvenience and risk associated with manual pre-treatment. With this high-speed whole blood testing capability, laboratory professionals can attain faster results and improved efficiencies. HbA1c assays, available from Olympus in May 2008, are commonly ordered laboratory tests used to ascertain blood glucose levels over a three-month period.

Olympus Chemistry Analyzer

In addition to the improved automated performance of the HbA1c assay, the recently introduced Olympus chemistry analyzer has been designed to streamline workflow through faster repeat and reflex testing. Its fully open design provides the user with the capability to operate as a stand-alone instrument or connected to a track system for direct track sampling. An updated graphical user interface (GUI) adds convenience and operator maintenance training videos integrated into the system software for enhanced ease of use. With increased on-board reagents (up to 63 tests including ISE), reduced sample volumes, user-defined functions and flexible operation capabilities, combined with the well-known Olympus AU series' standardization and reliability, laboratories reap the benefit of controlling costs and efficient time utilization of their staff.

The throughput range of the AU680 reaches up to 1200 tests per hour by way of Olympus' broad 125-test menu that includes general chemistries, ISEs, special chemistries, thyroids and Syva Emit®, TDMs and DATs. The system also accommodates pediatric sampling and can perform automated pre-dilution and immediate STAT processing without workload interruption.

Diabetes Monitoring

"The AU680 system provides outstanding, fully automated performance for diabetes monitoring and so much more," said Hiro Sekiya, Director of Marketing, Diagnostic Systems, Olympus America. "It is perfect for laboratories that want a solution incorporating best-of-breed instrumentation."

Customers have the option of a cost-per-reportable finance program. In addition, they receive the benefits of the Olympus Partner Advantage program. This unique web-based service gives laboratories access to a suite of online features available right at the analyzer including real-time QC analysis, training, reagent order placement and tracking, extensive technical documentation, priority notification of user updates, and Olympus SUPPORTVISIONSM for real-time remote monitoring and enhanced technical support.