Why the Picus 2 Electronic Pipette from Sartorius makes long pipetting days easier

Reviewed: ad hoc news Accessory & Components desk. Edited and checked on 2026-06-18, 01:03. Details in the imprint.

With the Picus 2 Electronic Pipette from Sartorius, lab staff hold a slim white handle that hums softly instead of clicking loudly through endless pipette strokes. The small color display lights up, the motor takes over, and thumb strain suddenly becomes a lot less dominant.

What the Picus 2 changes

The Picus 2 is a motorized, single- and multichannel electronic pipette line with volume ranges from 0.2 µl up to 1200 µl, covering classic PCR setups through to cell culture work. The compact housing keeps weight low to reduce wrist fatigue during long series.

An integrated color display on the top shows mode, volume and remaining steps clearly, so users do not need to twist their neck over every plate. Navigation happens via a small keypad beneath the display, with arrows and an OK key that give quick tactile feedback.

Modes for repetitive routines

Beyond basic pipetting, Picus 2 adds modes for multi-dispensing, reverse pipetting and mixing, so technicians can save favorite workflows as programs. Once stored, a recurring ELISA or qPCR protocol becomes a matter of a few button presses instead of constant reconfiguration.

Speed levels can be adjusted to match delicate assays or fast liquid transfers, a quiet but important detail when working with foaming reagents or viscous buffers. The motor moves the plunger consistently, which helps improve repeatability compared to manual thumb-driven pipettes in long runs.

Ergonomics at the bench

In the hand, the Picus 2 has a narrow neck and a curved handle that encourages a relaxed grip rather than a cramped claw. The low actuation force for the operating button reduces strain, especially in high-throughput labs where thousands of pipetting steps pile up per day.

A wide finger hook lets the pipette hang loosely between steps instead of being clenched constantly, which feels surprisingly relieving once you notice it. The lightweight design matters most during 96-well plate work, where repetitive reach movements multiply any ergonomic flaw.

Connectivity and compliance

With selected Picus 2 models, Sartorius offers Bluetooth connectivity to integrate the pipette into digital lab workflows, such as data capture systems or software-assisted protocols. This can reduce manual recording errors and supports traceability requirements in regulated environments.

Electronic calibration reminders and password protection functions help labs align the device with their quality management systems. For GxP settings, that combination of digital logs and controlled access is more than a convenience - it becomes part of the audit trail.

Where it still demands discipline

Despite the motor assistance, the Picus 2 still depends on clean technique: consistent immersion depth, correct tip type and regular maintenance. Electronic pipettes can give a deceptive feeling of security, so training remains crucial, especially for new staff.

The higher price compared to a basic manual pipette may slow upgrades in budget-sensitive academic labs. However, in labs where repetitive strain injuries and error costs are a concern, the added upfront cost can be easier to justify over time.

Company context and the share

Sartorius Stedim Biotech positions products like Picus 2 alongside bioreactors, filtration systems and digital services as part of a full bioprocess toolkit for pharma and biotech customers. Shares of Sartorius Stedim Biotech (FR0013154002) trade on Euronext Paris in euros.

This article was AI-assisted and editorially reviewed. Product information without guarantee; prices and availability may change at short notice. No investment advice, no buy or sell recommendation. Stock-market transactions involve risks up to total loss.