Description:

The Advanced Instruments Model 3320 Micro-Osmometer is a countertop, single-sample osmometer that determines solution osmolality by the freezing-point-depression method. It draws a mere 20 µL with the Ease-Eject® sampler, automatically super-cools, initiates freezing, then captures the plateau temperature, delivering a result in about 60 seconds that appears on a multilingual LCD and may be printed or exported. The instrument’s on-board processor handles automatic calibration, self-diagnostics, and basic statistics, while a protected cooling chamber and sliding cradle simplify maintenance. Connectivity options—RS-232 serial, parallel printer port, and an optional barcode scanner—let labs integrate the 3320 into LIS or study workflows without extra middleware. An internal solid-state design (no compressor) keeps the 14 in × 14 in footprint quiet and vibration-free, using just 60 W from any 100–240 V outlet.

Economic Advantage:

The 3320’s value proposition is speed and sample thrift: its 60-second cycle turns instruments around up to four times faster than multi-sample bath osmometers, boosting throughput with no queuing. Needing only 20 µL conserves precious sera, formulation lots, or cell-culture media—especially critical in early-stage biotech and pediatric labs—while automatic calibration and robust repeatability (≤2 mOsm/kg SD below 400 mOsm/kg) cut costly reruns. The combination of small footprint, low power draw, and freedom from consumables beyond inexpensive sampler tips keeps total ownership costs among the lowest in its class.