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sequence of eight to 15 tests to be automatically heated, de-gassed, and dispensed into the vessels before the test. The system can also change the media types between tests, and its gravimetric delivery of the media ensures accurate and reproducible dispensing. It can also vary the volume of fills to different vessels, between 250 and 1,000 milliliters, which is helpful in conducting design- of-experiment studies. Media can likewise be replaced or added for two-stage dissolution testing. For tests that use the paddle apparatus, dosage forms are stored in a carousel atop each vessel (and are pro- tected from media vapors). The inlets in the carousels accept all types of dosage forms, including tablets and capsules with sinkers. Indeed, almost any magnetic sinker larger than 15 millimeters in its smallest dimension (including magnetic Japanese sinkers) can be used. Introduction of the dosage forms into test vessels is auto- mated and simultaneous. If testing requires baskets, a robotic arm attaches them—with dosage form inside—to their respective shafts. As testing progresses, cannulas automatically and simultaneously withdraw samples at the programmed time points. To ensure sampling accuracy and reproducibility on all channels and at each time point, six piston pumps transfer the filtered samples. In addition, an integrated fil- ter station automatically changes the 25-millimeter syringe filters on all six channels at each run, at each sam- pling point, or when the media are changed. Samples— collected and stored in tubes or closed vials—can be ana- lyzed by either a UV-Vis or liquid chromatography device online or offline. Cleaning is essential, of course, to prevent carry-over and cross-contamination between runs, and that process begins with removal of all baskets and sinkers (photo page 26). Next, a purging system empties all the vessels, which are then cleaned using cold and/or hot water and/or dissolution media. T&C Reference 1. Crist, G. B. Considerations for automating the dis- solution test. Dissolution Technologies, 20(2), 44-47, May 2013. Kevin Whitkanack is director of sales and marketing at Sotax, 2400 Computer Drive, Westborough, MA 01581. Tel. 508 417 1112. Website: www.sotax.com. 28 April 2014 Tablets & Capsules Write an article for Tablets & Capsules Our articles are written by technical professionals for technical professionals. Ask about the types of articles we're looking for, as well as tips on preparing an article for consideration. Contact: Matthew Knopp, Editor Tablets & Capsules Tel. +1 651 287 5618 Fax +1 651 287 5650 E-mail: mknopp@cscpub.com e-Whitkanackart_26-29_Masters 4/3/14 2:38 PM Page 28