Automated DNA Size Selection Systems
These systems automate the collection of specific DNA size ranges. By replacing manual gel excision, they eliminate cross-contamination and provide unparalleled reproducibility in fragment sizing.
Manual gel cutting is prone to human error and inconsistent yields. Sage Science systems use integrated software and optical detection to collect DNA fractions automatically into buffer, ensuring that every library is sized with mathematical precision.
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Choose the Right Pippin System for Your Lab
Pippin Prep
The industry standard for routine NGS size selection between 50bp and 1.5kb.
BluePippin
Expanded range capability using pulsed-field electrophoresis for fragments up to 50kb.
PippinHT
High-capacity platform processing up to 24 samples per run for large-scale sequencing projects.
Automated NGS Library Construction
Precision Sizing for Short-Read Workflows
As a benchmark for automated DNA size selection, the Pippin Prep is recommended by leading platform providers for producing tightly sized insert libraries. It replaces manual gel purification, eliminating operator-dependent variability and cross-contamination. The system typically processes up to five samples per cassette in 30 to 60 minutes, ensuring high-quality DNA for applications like RNA-seq and ChIP-seq.
| Parameter | Specification |
| Capacity | 5 samples per gel cassette |
| Size Selection Range | 100 bp – 1.5 kb |
| Electrophoresis Type | Continuous optical tracking with preparative gel cassette electrophoresis |
| Monitor Requirement | Resolution 1366x768 (VGA connection) |
| Item Number | Description |
| PIP0001 | Pippin Prep Instrument |
| PIPD001 | Pippin Prep Instrument with complete accessory pack (monitor not included) |
| PCF0001 | Optical Calibration fixture for Pippin Prep |
| 720040 | BluePippin and Pippin Prep Rinse Cassette |
| 190017 | Pippin Prep Accessory Kit |
| 190039 | Pippin Electrophoresis Buffer, 60ml |
| TPE0100 | Pippin Cassette Tape, 100 sets (large and small) |
| TPE0050 | Pippin Elution Tape, 50/pk |
| 190022 | Sample Loading Solution |
HMW DNA and Protein Selection
Pulsed-Field Power for Long-Read Applications
The BluePippin expands on standard Pippin capabilities by incorporating pulsed-field electrophoresis. This allows for the precise collection of high molecular weight (HMW) DNA up to 50kb, essential for long-read sequencing technologies. Beyond DNA, the system can also utilize SDS-agarose gel cassettes to collect specific protein sizes, making it a versatile tool for both genomics and proteomics research.
| Parameter | Specification |
| Capacity | 5 samples per gel cassette |
| Size Selection Range | 100 bp – 50 kb |
| Detection Capabilities | Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis and fluorescence-based target collection |
| Monitor Requirement | Resolution 1366x768 (VGA connection) |
| Item Number | Description |
| BLU0001 | BluePippin Instrument |
| BLUD001 | BluePippin Instrument with complete accessory pack (monitor not included) |
| BCF0001 | Optical Calibration fixture for BluePippin |
| 720040 | BluePippin and Pippin Prep Rinse Cassette |
| 190058 | BluePippin Accessory Kit |
| 190039 | Pippin Electrophoresis Buffer, 60ml |
| TPE0100 | Pippin Cassette Tape, 100 sets (large and small) |
| TPE0050 | Pippin Elution Tape, 50/pk |
| 190022 | Sample Loading Solution |
High-Throughput DNA Size Selection
Efficient Automation for Large-Scale Sequencing
The PippinHT scales up the proven sizing technology of the Pippin line to accommodate 24 samples per run. Designed for busy sequencing hubs and core facilities, it offers half the run time and lower sample costs compared to lower-throughput models. The system maintains high reproducibility and recovery rates while utilizing an SBS-footprint cassette compatible with robotic workflows.
| Parameter | Specification |
| Capacity | Up to 24 samples (12 samples per cassette, 2 cassettes per run) |
| Size Selection Range | 100 bp – 40 kb (including High-Pass modes) |
| Optical System | Integrated LED excitation and optical calibration |
| Monitor Requirement | Resolution 1366x768 (VGA connection) |
| Item Number | Description |
| HTP0001 | PippinHT Instrument |
| HTD0001 | PippinHT Instrument with complete accessory pack (monitor not included) |
| HCF0001 | Optical Calibration fixture for PippinHT |
| 190117 | PippinHT Rinse Cassette |
| 190116 | PippinHT Accessory Kit |
| 720125 | PippinHT Elution Tape, 50/pk |
| HTPE0050 | PippinHT Top Cover Tape, 50/pk |
| HTPE0100 | PippinHT Top Cover Tape, 100/pk |
| 190022 | Sample Loading Solution |
Pulsed-Field Electrophoresis Power Supply
MegaPulse™ Zero-Integrated-Field Electrophoresis System
The MegaPulse™ (P/N MGP0200) is a specialized pulsed-field electrophoresis power supply developed by Sage Science to extend resolution of high molecular weight (HMW) DNA up to 1.6 Mb using standard agarose midi gel boxes. Operating in both Field-Inversion Gel Electrophoresis (FIGE) and Zero-Integrated-Field Electrophoresis (ZIFE) modes, it provides resolution across 0.5 kb to 1.6 Mb. The unit features seven pre-validated protocols and an advanced interface for custom waveform development. It operates via a Windows control application and can drive up to two gel boxes simultaneously.
| Parameter | Specification |
| Size Resolution Range | 0.5 kb – 1.6 Mb |
| Electrophoresis Modes | Field-Inversion (FIGE) & Zero-Integrated-Field (ZIFE) |
| Pre-set Protocols | 7 pre-validated protocols (0.5–15 kb, 10–48 kb, 5–80 kb, 5–150 kb, 5–430 kb, 15–1,000 kb, 15–1,600 kb) |
| Power Output | ±150 V / 100 mA |
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 10 x 25 x 25 cm |
| Control Software | Windows software application (touchscreen Mini-PC available) |
| Gel Box Compatibility | Drives 1 or 2 Sage Pulse Midi Gel Boxes (PGB1000) simultaneously |
| Item Number | Description |
| MGP0200 | MegaPulse Electrophoresis Power Supply |
| MEGA1 | Bundle 1: MegaPulse, 2X Gel Boxes, MiniPC, and KBB Buffer |
| MEGA2 | Bundle 2: MegaPulse, 1X Gel Box, MiniPC, and KBB Buffer |
| MEGA3 | Bundle 3: MegaPulse, 2X Gel Boxes, and KBB Buffer |
| MEGA4 | Bundle 4: MegaPulse, 1X Gel Box, and KBB Buffer |
| PGB1000 | Sage Pulse Midi-Gel Box with Reinforced Electrodes |
| MPC0001 | Touch Screen MiniPC Configured for MegaPulse |
| KBB1001 | 10X KBB Electrophoresis Buffer, 1L |
- Precision DNA fragment collection
- Automated electrophoresis workflow
- High reproducibility for NGS
- Optimized for long-read sequencing
- Bench-top sizing technology
- Precision DNA fragment collection
- Automated electrophoresis workflow
- High reproducibility for NGS
- Optimized for long-read sequencing
- Bench-top sizing technology
Common Questions Regarding Automated Size Selection
Essential information for integrating Pippin technology into laboratory workflows.
Automation ensures precise and narrow fragment distributions, which maximizes the efficiency of sequencer flow cells by preventing the loading of unwanted artifacts like adapter-dimers or overly long fragments.
No, internal markers and software protocols are instrument-specific. While the technology is similar, users must select cassette kits specifically validated for their respective instrument model.
Yes, unused lanes can be reserved for future use. For the PippinHT, lane pairs can be resealed with PCR tape and run at a later time, provided it is within the cassette's expiration date.
Users generally observe an intrinsic yield of 50% to 80% of the DNA within the targeted size range. Yield can be optimized by broadening the selection range or using specific elution rinsing techniques.
Gel cassettes should be stored at room temperature, while liquid reagents such as markers and buffers should be refrigerated at 4°C. Most components have a shelf life of approximately 18 months.
DNA collected from dye-free cassettes is typically ready for immediate use in NGS workflows. Samples from cassettes containing ethidium bromide will require a standard cleanup step before proceeding.