Overview

The FlowStar² LB 514 represents the latest advancement in nearly 50 years of radio flow monitoring for liquid chromatography. Developed by Berthold Technologies, this next-generation detector combines an optimized detector and electronics design for ultimate sensitivity with modern touch-screen technology for quick and intuitive operation.

The system can be operated directly via its built-in touch screen, through the RadioStar radio HPLC software on a PC, or fully integrated into an existing HPLC system's chromatography data system. With support for both single and dual isotope measurements, the FlowStar² is a versatile solution for laboratories conducting metabolism studies, radiochemical development, PET research, environmental analysis, and plant research.

Applications

The FlowStar² LB 514 is widely used across pharmaceutical, environmental, and nuclear medicine research, including:

Key Features

• Ultra-sensitive detection via low-noise photomultipliers with optimized coincidence circuitry and luminescence subtraction
• Automatic cell detection via chip-equipped mounting frame ensures correct cell insertion
• Extensive isotope library with preset energy windows for 3H, 14C, 32P, 33P, 35S, 125I, 111In, and 99mTc
• Integrated scanning feature optimizes detector setup for selected isotopes
• Single and dual isotope labelled sample measurement capability
• Multiple control options — touch screen, RadioStar software, or HPLC system software
• User access control with security password to prevent unauthorized modifications
• Analog and digital interfaces for seamless integration into any HPLC system
• Automatic performance control (QC) with scheduled self-check routines
• Compact benchtop design for space-efficient laboratory integration

Detection Technology

At the heart of the FlowStar² LB 514 is a pair of ultra-sensitive photomultiplier tubes (PMTs) operated in optimized coincidence mode with luminescence subtraction. This random coincidence approach effectively eliminates background noise while maximizing detection efficiency for low-energy beta and gamma isotopes.

The system supports a wide range of cell types to match diverse application needs, including admixture cells for liquid scintillation (Z type), solid scintillant cells (YG type), microbore extensions (M type), and preparative configurations. Cell volumes range from 10 µL to 6000 µL.

Operation & Control

Touch-Screen Interface

The FlowStar² features a built-in touch-screen display for direct, stand-alone operation. All measurement parameters, isotope selection, and system settings can be configured quickly without requiring an external PC.

PC Software Control

For laboratories requiring full digital data acquisition and advanced evaluation, the FlowStar² connects via USB to a PC running RadioStar radio HPLC software. The software provides comprehensive control over all instrument functions alongside sophisticated chromatographic data processing.

HPLC System Integration

With both analog outputs and digital interfaces, the FlowStar² integrates seamlessly into virtually any existing HPLC system. The analog signal can be fed directly into the HPLC data system, while digital communication enables bidirectional instrument control.

RadioStar Software

RadioStar is the dedicated PC software platform for the FlowStar², combining sophisticated measurement capabilities with a user-friendly interface. The software is 21 CFR Part 11 compliant, making it suitable for regulated environments.

• Simultaneous recording of 4 channels — 2 isotopic and 2 non-isotopic signals
• Peak integration with automatic baseline correction
• Half-life correction for accurate quantification
• Quench correction to account for sample matrix effects
• Automated report generation with customizable templates
• Data export in ANDI format and other standard formats
• User management with audit trail and electronic signatures
• Automatic performance control scheduling for GLP compliance

Accessories

• Liquid Scintillant Pump — Double-piston design providing pulsation-free operation; flow rate range 0.001–10 mL/min; physically separated from the detector to prevent damage from leakages; fully controlled by the detector or PC software
• Static Mixer — Available with 50 µL or 150 µL cartridges for efficient mixing of eluent and scintillant
• Splitters — Direct only a portion of the eluate to the scintillant mixer and detector, preserving the remainder for further investigations
• Waste Valve — Diverts only radioactive fractions into a designated waste container, reducing hazardous waste volume

Technical Specifications