When choosing a QCM-D instrument, there are several aspects to take into consideration. If you have identified automation and reproducibility as critical factors for your needs, both the QSense Omni and QSense Pro excel in these areas. Even though there are similarities, the two products are tailored to different needs and have their respective unique strengths. This guide aims to help you decide which instrument best suits your requirements by providing a detailed comparison of their features and capabilities.
Both QSense Pro and QSense Omni were designed with high throughput, low sample volume, and high reproducibility in mind. In addition to that, however, the two products have their unique niche.
The QSense Pro platform is ideal for large-scale QCM-D analysis, enabling real-time study of molecular interactions at surfaces and interfaces. The platform is designed for automation, it enhances productivity and reproducibility compared to manual instruments. This fully automated system is engineered to maximize efficiency, making it the optimal choice for comprehensive and precise QCM-D analysis.
QSense Omni is the newest member of the QSense family, representing a significant advancement in QCM-D technology. It delivers exceptional performance and data quality, allowing for high-quality and reliable QCM-D data generation. This 4th generation modular and upgradeable instrument suite is designed to simplify and enhance the research process, making it easier for scientists to obtain precise and trustworthy results. In a nutshell, QSense Omni combines automation with flexibility. It also gives you the sharpest QCM-D data and instrument ease of use.
With that said, some differences stand out when comparing the two systems
Feature |
QSense Pro |
QSense Omni, 4 channels |
7-harmonic QCM-D |
Yes |
Yes |
Volume (minimum required in flow mode) |
50 µl
|
90 µl
|
Throughput (measurement channels) |
2x4 |
4 |
Automated liquid management |
Yes |
Yes |
Automated sample pre-mixing |
Yes |
No |
Live script editing |
No |
Yes |
Direct injection |
No |
Yes |
Guiding software |
No |
Yes |
Independent channels (Temperature and flow) |
No |
Yes |
Probe-based liquid handling |
Yes |
No |
Footprint (cm) |
67 x 57 |
43 x 36 |
Number of consecutive samples |
Up to 96 (96-well plate) |
8 |
Both the QSense Omni and QSense Pro are automated instruments, each designed to meet specific research needs with distinct strengths. The Pro is ideal for large-scale, high-throughput analysis, while the Omni combines automation with flexibility and excels in providing the sharpest data.
Get the instrument specifications below for a more detailed comparison of the two instruments
The quartz crystal microbalance, QCM, measures changes in resonance frequency and provides insights into thin film deposition and material properties
Read about how QSense QCM-D was used to study adsorption and assess enzymatic activity of cellulase
Generating QCM-D data is straightforward, but analysis can be tricky. Here are some tips and tricks from four seasoned QCM-D users
QCM-D is a powerful tool in the analysis of lipid-based systems
Explore the key factors influencing QCM baseline stability and get advice on management strategies
Learn more about how dissipation can be measured in QCM:s and the pros and cons of the different methods.
Read about how QSense QCM-D was used to study antibody fouling on steel surfaces.
Read about what determines the sensing depth of the QCM-D technology and get examples of typical values
Jennie is Global Technical Product Manager for QSense at Biolin Scientific. She has a Master of Science in Bioengineering from Chalmers University of Technology and spent the first years after graduation focusing on membrane proteins and how to identify and characterize these in the best way. At Biolin Scientific, she has also worked as an Application Specialist for QSense, In-House Sales Manager, and Academy Manager.