FASTER AND MORE SENSITIVE MEASUREMENT OF LIFE
The calScreener® detection system is based on the principle of biocalorimetry using highly sensitive isothermal microcalorimetry technology. All living cells are metabolically active and continuously release heat as an intrinsic property of life. The calScreener detects this metabolic heat with exceptional sensitivity, opening up a wide range of capabilities across microbial testing and cell research applications.
The high sensitivity enables rapid, continuous and precise measurements and, because the technology is independent of optical properties, the system is inherently unaffected by sample opacity, shape, viscosity, or heterogeneity.
Sample handling is straightforward, with virtually any sample simply placed in measurement vials together with media and loaded into the analyzer — eliminating the need for reagents, filtration, enrichment, lysis, or other cumbersome and disruptive preparation steps.
NEXT GENERATION RAPID MICROBIAL METHODS
Traditional microbial testing methods are often slow, labor-intensive, and dependent on plating, optical detection, or disruptive sample preparation workflows. Many methods also struggle with complex sample matrices or generate false results from non-viable microorganisms.
In contrast, the calScreener systems enable rapid and reliable growth-based microbial analysis through simplified, accelerated, and automated testing workflows. Reduce spoilage, ensure product quality and safety during shelf life, and analyze intact biofilms and their response to antimicrobial treatments.
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Rapid detection of viable microorganisms within hours
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High sensitivity, even at very low contamination levels
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Automated real-time positive/negative detection
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Direct analysis of complex, opaque, and heterogeneous samples
- New insight into microbial activity, behavior, and interactions
METABOLIC CELL & TISSUE RESEARCH
Understanding how living systems grow, adapt, and respond to environmental changes is essential in modern biology and biotechnology. Conventional methods often rely on endpoint assays, manual cell counting, staining, or microscopy workflows that require extensive sample preparation.
The calScreener biocalorimeter enables continuous monitoring of metabolic activity by measuring the heat released from living cells and organisms. From mammalian cells and tissue biopsies to yeasts, fungi, algae, plants, and grains, researchers can analyze biological activity and metabolic responses in real time with minimal sample handling.
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Continuous real-time metabolic monitoring
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Label-free and non-destructive analysis
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Compatible with complex tissues and living samples
RAPID IN-HOUSE TESTING WITH AUTOMATED DETECTION
The calScreener automates and accelerates quality control (QC) and research testing, eliminating error-prone manual processes while dramatically reducing process steps and wait times. With the calScreener 32 samples can be tested at once, set up the test, and let the analyzer automatically monitor growth in real time. Decisive positive/negative results and high resolution data will be waiting for you.
STREAMLINED WORKFLOW
The systems are designed for simple and streamlined testing workflows. Measurements are performed with samples placed directly into test vials with standard growth media used to support growth and amplify the heat flow signal. There is no need for reagents, enrichment, filtration, lysis, or other disruptive sample preparation steps. This enables direct analysis of complex sample types including creams, powders, food samples, liquids, and solid materials while maintaining sample integrity.
The simplicity of the workflow not only makes testing easier for operators, but also matters for reliability and reproducibility. The easier an analysis method is, the fewer mistakes you make and the more accurate your results will be.
ENGINEERED FOR ACCURACY AND RELIABILITY
The instrument features 48 independent isothermal channels equipped with high-performance heat flow detectors. The detection system is intrinsically stable and contains no integrated moving parts, ensuring long-term reliability while minimizing the risk of downtime.
The sensors are extremely sensitive, capturing even the smallest amounts of metabolic heat from living microorganisms at single-CFU limits of detection. Unlike other growth-based testing systems that rely on multiple secondary optical measurements, the calScreener provides a more direct and rapid microbial detection method.
CALSCREENER+ FOR HIGHEST PERFORMANCE APPLICATIONS
The calScreener+ model is Symcel’s second-generation benchtop biocalorimeter ideal for applications that require the highest sensitivity, stability and flexibility. The system supports testing at temperatures from 20 to 40°C with superior thermal and signal stability,
It includes both a dedicated temperature control unit and an external thermostat for optimized thermal regulation and reliability.
ACCESSORIES & CONSUMABLES
The calScreener accessories and consumables are specifically developed for high-performance isothermal microcalorimetry applications. They support sensitive, rapid, and reproducible measurements across a wide range of microbial testing, materials research, and eukaryotic metabolic testing applications.
calView
The calView® software interface streamlines the entire workflow—from sample entry to result reporting. It allows real-time monitoring of all measurements and offers flexible data visualization, from full experiment overviews and data exports to individual sample curves.
For QC microbial testing applications it can se set up to provide automatic positive/negative results and analysis reports. The system supports 21 CFR Part 11 data integrity requirements with audit logs, user roles, and secure electronic documentation.
CALOTRACE
For applications requiring larger sample volumes and individual sample loading, the caloTrace® is Symcel’s most flexible, high-performance biocalorimetry platform, enabling up to 10 mL sample volume per test vial at temperatures between 20 °C and 40 °C across 30 independently loaded test positions.
SYMCEL SERVICE & SUPPORT
When selecting a Symcel system, your success is our priority. Our team of scientists and engineers provides comprehensive support to ensure your methods are optimized and your system delivers maximum value.
From initial feasibility studies and method development to installation, validation, service and training, we support you at every step.
Testing and studies are supported by our qualified laboratory on the Karolinska Institute premises in Stockholm, with broad capabilities in eukaryotic and microbiological testing, together with partner laboratories and analytical service providers.
