Pressure to the pipette is controlled precisely through a multi-turn regulator, and is reported digitally for reproducibility. Injection time is set using an optically encoded circuit which permits fine and coarse settings from a single knob.

The system timer can be controlled in three ways, front panel push button, foot switch, and external trigger input BNC. Whether you need to do large injections into capillaries or very small injections into mammalian nuclei, the PLI-100A is up for the task.

Pressure Capabilities
The PLI-100A features two negative and three positive pressure pneumatic capabilities. The negative or vacuum functions allow the user to:
Unique Features
The PLI-100A's important 'Balance', 'Hold' and 'Clear' functions are features not found on other microinjection units.

Balance
In addition to the ejection pressure, the Pico-Injector offers a secondary balance pressure. This adjustable pressure keeps a positive pressure on the injection pipette before and after injections. This eliminates dilution caused by capillary action and aids in the prevention of clogging. Wasteful continuous injection, which often occurs when no separate balance pressure is offered by an injection device, is avoided.

Fill/Hold
There are two built-in vacuum generators to fill a micropipette from the tip and to hold suspended cells. Filling the pipette from the tip is easier than back filling. The PLI-100A features a Fill Vacuum adjustment on the front panel. Suspended cells can be held with a second (holding) pipette. The holding vacuum's range accommodates most cell types.

Clear
A high-pressure pulse can be used for clearing a pipette, should it happen to clog. This is particularly useful when working with pipettes sized for smaller volumes.

Electrical Connectors
BNC type connectors are available at the front panel to ease integrating the Pico-Injector with other equipment. Synchronization of injections to other stimulations or recordings is therefore possible.

Selection Guideline
The PLI-100A is available in three packages: Basic, Plus, and Deluxe. The Basic unit is supplied with an input hose, output hose, holding hose, and input hose adapter. The Plus unit also includes a foot switch, pipette holder, and input hose adapter. The Deluxe unit includes all the accessories included with the Plus and an additional foot switch and pipette holder.