Labnet Enduro GDS Touch II Gel Documentation System Review

Let’s Talk About Labnet Enduro GDS Touch II Gel Documentation System

The Labnet Enduro GDS Touch II Gel Documentation System, manufactured by Labnet, promises to be a next-level solution for visualizing and documenting protein and DNA in gels. This system aims to simplify the often-complex process of gel documentation with features like easy image capture and optional quantification software.

My work often involves analyzing protein and DNA gels, and my current setup is outdated and time-consuming. I’m looking for a system that provides high-quality images, ease of use, and reliable performance.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the compact and thoughtfully designed system. The Labnet Enduro GDS Touch II felt solid and well-built, with a clean interface and intuitive layout.

Compared to similar systems from competitors like Bio-Rad and Thermo Fisher Scientific, the Labnet Enduro GDS Touch II stood out due to its integrated tablet and streamlined workflow. I chose this system hoping for a faster and more user-friendly experience than other options on the market. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; if it performs as well as it looks, it could be a game-changer in my lab.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Labnet Enduro GDS Touch II Gel Documentation System to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Labnet Enduro GDS Touch II in my molecular biology lab, focusing on documenting ethidium bromide-stained DNA gels and Coomassie blue-stained protein gels. The lab environment is temperature-controlled and typically dry, but the system must perform consistently under normal laboratory conditions.

The system handled both types of gels with ease, capturing clear and detailed images. The intuitive software eliminated the long setup times I was used to; I found the touch interface easy to navigate, and the auto-exposure feature worked remarkably well.

After the first use, I was impressed by the system’s speed and simplicity. The only initial issue I noticed was that the included tablet sometimes lagged when handling large image files.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of daily use, the Labnet Enduro GDS Touch II has proven to be a reliable workhorse in my lab. The system consistently produces high-quality images, even when imaging faint bands.

There are no signs of significant wear and tear, although I’ve been careful to keep the system clean and dust-free. Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a quick wipe-down of the exterior surfaces and the transilluminator glass.

Compared to my previous manual camera setup, the Labnet Enduro GDS Touch II is significantly faster, easier to use, and produces much better results. The improvement in image quality and workflow efficiency has been substantial.

Breaking Down the Features of Labnet Enduro GDS Touch II Gel Documentation System

Specifications

• Image Resolution: 3.2 MP – Provides sufficient resolution for most gel documentation needs, capturing fine details in bands. The 3.2 MP resolution ensures clear and publication-quality images.
• Field of View: 15 x 20 cm – Accommodates a variety of gel sizes, from small agarose gels to larger polyacrylamide gels. A 15 x 20 cm field of view is versatile for various applications.
• Standard Illumination: UV (302 or 365nm), epi white – Offers versatile illumination options for different types of stains and samples. The inclusion of both 302nm and 365nm UV wavelengths, along with epi white light, enhances its adaptability.
• Epi-Blue Lights: 470nm epi-blue lights for use with Safe Dyes – Enables the use of safer alternatives to ethidium bromide, such as GelGreen and SYBR Safe. This feature promoting safe dye usage is a significant advantage for lab safety.
• USB 2.0 ports: 2 – Allows for easy transfer of images to a computer or external storage device. The presence of two USB 2.0 ports is convenient for data transfer and accessory connection.
• Dimensions: 12 x 15 inches (31 x 38 cm) – A compact footprint that fits easily on most lab benches. Its relatively small dimensions make it easy to integrate into existing lab setups.
• Certifications: cTUVus; CE Computer – Meets industry safety and performance standards. These certifications ensure compliance and adherence to safety standards.
• Software: Included fully-featured qualitative software – Ideal for creating publication and notebook quality images. The provided software streamlines image capture, enhances image quality, and makes the process more efficient.
• Tablet: Included Tablet – Simplifies operation and provides a user-friendly interface. The integrated tablet provides a dedicated interface for the system’s functions.
• Warranty: 2-Year Warranty – Provides peace of mind and protection against manufacturing defects. A 2-year warranty demonstrates the manufacturer’s confidence in the product’s reliability.

Performance & Functionality

The Labnet Enduro GDS Touch II excels at its core function: capturing high-quality images of DNA and protein gels. The system’s auto-exposure feature consistently delivers optimal results, even with faint bands, minimizing the need for manual adjustments.

While the system performs exceptionally well, the software could benefit from more advanced image analysis features. The system meets expectations for basic gel documentation but could exceed them with enhanced software capabilities.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Labnet Enduro GDS Touch II is excellent. The materials feel durable and well-assembled, and the system has a solid, stable feel.

The integrated tablet and user-friendly software make the system incredibly easy to use. The minimal learning curve allows even novice users to quickly become proficient in gel documentation.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the Labnet Enduro GDS Touch II appears to be built to last. The system has held up well under daily use, and the components seem robust and reliable.

Maintenance is simple, involving only occasional cleaning of the exterior and transilluminator. With proper care, the Labnet Enduro GDS Touch II should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Labnet Enduro GDS Touch II comes with a fully integrated tablet and image capture software. Optional accessories, such as the TotalLab software license, provide quantification capabilities.

The system’s standard design limits extensive customization options, but it is compatible with a wide range of commercially available gel stains and dyes.

Pros and Cons of Labnet Enduro GDS Touch II Gel Documentation System