FACScaliber vs Coulter XL:summary of replies

From: Eric Miller (e.miller@icrf.icnet.uk)
Date: Wed Jun 23 1999 - 08:14:42 EST


Here is my summary of opinions from round the cytometry group: thanks folks!
PS. these are only opinions I recieved: my own views are not included!


Approximately 70% of responders favoured FACScaliber.
The rest preferred Coulter, apart from one responder who used a MoFlo and
liked it very much.

FACS pros:

Negative population is shown as a discreet population
More 4-colour reagents are available
Machine and computer are faster in use.
Less of a learning curve in upgrading from FACscan
Easier to use
Good technical backup
Upgradable to sorting and dual laser

FACS cons:

More expensive

Coulter XL pros:

Well developed data acquisition system
Superior fluidics(sample acquisition can be halted without wasting sample)
Gating can be altered during acquisition
Good technical and service support
Good interface for clinical samples
Cheaper than FACS

Coulter cons:

No upgrade to sorting
Not as good with dim fluorescence
Negative population not displayed -leading to
difficulty in setting compensation

MoFlo pros:

Speed of sorting (c. 20-40,000 cells/sec)
Simple design
Easy adjustments

MoFlo cons:

Smaller user base
No UK office
No local knowledge of machine



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