Evaluationof a New MultichannelAnalyzer, “Astra-8”

We evaluated a new multiple-channel chemistry analyzer, the Beckman “Astra-8, ” which is controlled by a micro-processor with 52K bytes of memory. The instrument we tested performed the following tests: Na, K, GO2,chloride, urea nitrogen, glucose, and creatinine. We compared the Astra-8 to a continuous-flow (SMA 6/60) and a discrete (Du Pont aca, urea nitrogen only) analyzer. The Astra-8 dem-onstrated excellent precision, linearity, accuracy, analytical recovery, lack of interference, ease of operation, and satisfactory comparison to values obtained by the com-parison methods. AdditionalKeyphrases: analytical syst ems #{149} continuous-flow analysis Du Pont ace interinstrument compari-son discrete analysis The “Astra 8 ” (Automated Stat/Routine Analyzer; Beck