Vi-CELL BLU Cell Viability Analyzer Features
Published: August 26, 2026
Key Takeaways
- Faster cell analysis with reduced processing times, FAST mode, and 96-well plate compatibility.
- Optimized workflow through a smaller footprint, lower sample volume requirement (200 µL), and improved usability.
- Greater data integrity and consistency with enhanced software features, audit trails, and strong instrument-to-instrument correlation.
User-Inspired Design
When it was time to design the new Vi-CELL BLU cell viability analyzer, we started by talking to customers. The Vi-CELL BLU cell viability analyzer retains the functions and workflow of the Vi-CELL XR analyzer that users know and trust while improving speed, usability, and instrument footprint.
Users told us what they wanted:
- Faster analysis and processing times
- 96-well plate capability while retaining carousel flexibility
- Consistent results across multiple instruments
The Vi-CELL BLU cell viability analyzer delivers these improvements and more.
Key Features
Faster Processing
- FAST mode available
- 96-well plate compatibility
- Reduced processing times
Small Sample Volume
- Only 200 µL required
- Reduced cell depletion
- Supports valuable cultures
Instrument Consistency
- Strong instrument-to-instrument correlation
- Improved reproducibility
- Reliable measurements across laboratories
Regulatory Readiness
- Enhanced audit trails
- Data integrity improvements
- User role management
Small Sample Volume
Smaller sample volume means less cell depletion, letting you maintain your cell culture volume. Vi-CELL BLU cell viability analyzer requires a sample volume of only 200 µL, less than half the volume required by the previous Vi-CELL XR analyzer model and lower than our competitors’ instruments.
Faster Processing
The Vi-CELL BLU cell viability analyzer processes samples faster because images are captured while fluids are in motion.
Vi-CELL XR analyzer was already a fast automated cell counter. With the updated technology in Vi-CELL BLU cell viability analyzer, processing and analysis times are cut significantly.
Choose between Normal Mode, which includes full cleaning after processing, or FAST Mode when cleaning is not required.
When using the 96-well option, Vi-CELL BLU cell viability analyzer saves over 1 hour of processing time compared to the previous Vi-CELL XR instrument. Process in FAST mode and save nearly 2 hours.
Stronger Instrument-to-Instrument Correlation
Each Vi-CELL BLU cell viability analyzer is calibrated to support strong instrument-to-instrument comparability.
With instrument-to-instrument variation less than +/- 10%, you can trust that your measurements will be accurate, no matter which Vi-CELL BLU instrument you turn to in your lab.
Figure: Cell viability averages for three instruments across three replicate plate runs.
Vi-CELL BLU 2.0 Software: Supporting Compliance and Regulatory Readiness
Vi-CELL BLU 2.0 software builds on the trusted Vi-CELL BLU cell viability analyzer with enhanced automation, improved data integrity, and streamlined user experiences designed for modern bioprocessing environments.
The upgraded software delivers advanced image analysis and cell detection capabilities, configurable user roles and permissions, comprehensive audit trails, and secure data management features that support regulatory compliance.
Improved analytical flexibility, faster navigation, and disaster recovery options help laboratories increase productivity and maintain consistency across users and sites.
Designed for Ease of Use
Improved Reagent Pack
Users asked us to make loading the reagent easier. Now there’s no more handling tubes. With the Vi-CELL BLU cell viability analyzer, just slide in the reagent pak and go.
The design of the Vi-CELL BLU reagent pack is improved, too. Self-contained, with 310 reactions per kit, it includes an RFID chip to let you keep count of how many tests have been run, along with the lot number and expiration date.
Flexibility
The Vi-CELL BLU XR instrument offers flexibility, allowing you to easily switch between the 96-well plate and carousel. Simply remove the carousel to access the plate holder.
Load and Go
With Vi-CELL BLU, you can load your samples and walk away. With the instrument’s streamlined controls, your workflow remains the same:
- Load the sample
- Log in the sample
- Obtain your results
Single Use Control
The Vi-CELL BLU cell viability analyzer utilizes single use controls when calibrating. When changing cell sizes, drop the control in and run the calibration with:
- No mixing
- No pipetting
- No worrying about the last person to use the control
FAQ on Vi-CELL BLU Cell Viability Analyzer Features
How does the 96-well plate option improve laboratory productivity?
The 96-well plate format enables higher-throughput processing and can save more than one hour per run compared to previous-generation instruments, with even greater savings in FAST mode.
How does Vi-CELL BLU cell viability analyzer ensure consistent results across multiple instruments?
Each instrument is carefully calibrated to achieve instrument-to-instrument variation of less than ±10%, helping ensure reliable and comparable results across the laboratory.
What are the main advantages of Vi-CELL BLU analyzer compared to Vi-CELL XR analyzer?
Vi-CELL BLU analyzer offers faster processing, a smaller sample volume requirement (200 µL), a reduced instrument footprint, enhanced workflow flexibility, and improved instrument-to-instrument consistency.
What compliance-focused features are included in Vi-CELL BLU 2.0 software?
The software includes configurable user roles, audit trails, secure data management, enhanced image analysis, and disaster recovery capabilities that support data integrity and compliance requirements.
