Squid Full Range Pipette FAQ

What is the Volume Range of the Squid Full Range Pipette?

The Squid Pipette is designed for accurately pipetting volumes between 1 µL and 1000 µL. 

What Kinds of Pipette Tips Does Squid Use?

The Squid Pipette accepts universal pipette tips. Two sizes of universal tips are used to cover the full range. 200 µL tips are used for volumes from 1 – 200 µL and 1000 µL tips are used for volumes from 100 – 1000 µL.

DeNovix offers both tip sizes (200 µL and 1000 µL) in sterile, sterile/filtered, and non-sterile formats that are ISO 8655 certified for use with the Squid Pipette. When using other pipette tip brands, it is recommended to verify the performance of the tips and calibrate if necessary.

What If I’m Using Filter Tips?

Filter tips are compatible with the Squid Pipette but must be matched to the pipetting volume to prevent contamination and maintain accuracy:

• For pipetting volumes 20 µL or less with a filter tip, a tip with the filter in the 20 µL position (commonly referred to as a 20 µL filter tip) must be used.
• For pipetting volumes between 20 and 200 µL with a filter tip, a tip with the filter at the 200 µL position is required.
• When operating in Large Tip Mode, a tip with the filter in the 1000 µL or 1250 µL position can be utilized.

How Do You Change Between Tip Modes on the Squid?

To pipette volumes between 100 and 1000 µL, activate Large Tip Mode by pressing the Ejector until it clicks. On the screen, “100 – 1000 µL Tip” will be displayed along with the Large Tip Mode Tip Status icon.

To pipette volumes between 1 and 200 µL, activate Small Tip Mode by pressing the Trigger Button until it clicks. On the screen, “1 – 200 µL Tip” will be displayed along with the Small Tip Mode Tip Status icon. For more information, view our Quick Start Video Guide.

What are the Different Pipette Modes Available?

The Squid offers several modes, including:

• Standard Mode
• Repeat Mode
• Reverse Mode
• Mix Mode
• Manual Mode
• Custom Protocols

Explore our Interactive Mode Guide to learn more about each pipette mode.

Which Tip Mode Should I Use for 100 – 200 µL, Since Both Cover This Range?

As demonstrated in Technical Note 249, measuring volumes in the 100 – 200 µL range with either Tip Mode achieves a similar level of ISO 8655 compliant accuracy and precision. 

What Comes with the Device?

The Squid ships with a USB-C power cable and charging plug with international power adapters, a quick start guide, spare O-rings, and O-ring grease.

What Maintenance Does the Squid Pipette Require?

Squid requires the same basic maintenance and regular cleaning that every pipette requires. The tip holders and ejector parts are removable for cleaning and are autoclavable. The DeNovix Squid Pipette Service Manual is available upon request by contacting info@denovix.com or your local distributor.

How Do I Clean or Decontaminate the Squid Pipette?

The Squid can be decontaminated using standard cell culture laboratory chemicals: 70% Ethanol, 70% Isopropanol, or 10% Sodium Hypochlorite (Bleach). Spray the disinfectant solution onto a laboratory wipe or paper towel, and then carefully wipe the exterior of the device.

WARNING: DO NOT spray or pour cleaning solutions directly on the pipette. Doing so may damage internal electronics.

Can the Squid Pipette be Autoclaved?

The tip holders and ejectors can be removed from the unit and are safe to autoclave.

WARNING: DO NOT autoclave the entire unit, as extreme heat will damage the display and other electronic components. For more information, view the DeNovix Squid Pipette Service Manual, which is available upon request by contacting info@denovix.com or your local distributor.

What Grease Should be Used on the O-Rings?

DeNovix offers a maintenance kit that includes the O-rings and grease used by DeNovix. Other high-grade silicone-based lubricants are also acceptable.

Who Can Service and Calibrate the Squid Pipette?

The Squid Pipette is compatible with standard gravimetric calibration procedures performed by any accredited pipette calibration provider. Any pipette service company that routinely maintains and certifies pipettes can also provide service for Squid. DeNovix will provide a service guide to any pipette service company that requests it.

Does DeNovix Provide Calibration Services?

For customers in the USA, DeNovix offers a calibration service to provide a convenient option backed by the expertise of the instrument’s manufacturer.

Are Squid Pipette Calibrations NIST-Traceable?

The scale used during the initial calibration and during DeNovix servicing of each Squid Pipette is calibrated with NIST-traceable weights and therefore is a NIST-traceable calibration and certification. If using a different pipette service company for routine calibration, please contact them for details.

Can I use the Squid Pipette in a GMP/GLP Laboratory?

Yes. The Squid meets the requirements to be used in GMP/GLP laboratories.