Beckman Coulter Diagnostics announced today that its new DxC 500i Clinical Analyzer has received 510(k) clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. This integrated system combines clinical chemistry and immunoassay testing capabilities in a single platform, addressing the growing demands of modern healthcare laboratories.
The DxC 500i offers impressive throughput capabilities, processing up to 800 clinical chemistry tests and 100 immunoassay tests per hour. This high-capacity performance delivers the precise and reliable results necessary for timely clinical decision-making in laboratories of all sizes.
Meeting the Needs of Networked Laboratory Models
The analyzer's introduction comes at a strategic time as healthcare systems increasingly adopt networked laboratory operational models to improve efficiency and patient access. According to Beckman Coulter's internal data, approximately 45% of clinical laboratories in the United States—more than 11,000 labs—are now associated with Integrated Delivery Networks (IDNs).
"Innovations like the DxC 500i Clinical Analyzer enable Beckman Coulter to address the needs of networked laboratories with specific solutions for satellite or independent laboratories, as well as core laboratories," said Kathleen Orland, Chief Portfolio Officer for Beckman Coulter Diagnostics.
Orland emphasized that beyond appropriate throughput levels, the company's common reagents and consumables across its scalable portfolio enable standardized reference ranges, providing IDNs with strategic benefits in both patient care and inventory management.
Advanced Operational Features
The DxC 500i incorporates several technological advancements designed to optimize laboratory workflow. Its FlexMode operations prioritize immunoassay and chemistry testing according to each sample's urgency, ensuring critical results are delivered when needed most.
A key innovation is the dynamic sample handler, which manages repeats and re-runs without operator intervention. The system automatically pulls in a new sample rack as soon as the previous rack is offloaded, maximizing throughput efficiency while maintaining a compact footprint.
Laboratory staff will benefit from the analyzer's intuitive user interface, which supports even new users through proactive task indicators with step-by-step instructions. This design simplifies staff onboarding and training, addressing workforce challenges faced by many clinical laboratories.
Building on Established Technology
The DxC 500i builds upon Beckman Coulter's existing technology platform. Prior to this introduction, the company had unveiled the DxC 500 AU Chemistry Analyzer, which features onboard guided workflows, more than 120 assays, and standardized reagents for use across healthcare networks.
The new integrated system incorporates the DxC 500 AU technology within its clinical chemistry capabilities, including its Six Sigma performance standards for quality and reliability.
The DxC 500i Clinical Analyzer has been available in countries accepting CE mark since July 2024, with the FDA clearance now expanding its availability to the U.S. market.
Market Impact and Availability
This FDA clearance represents a significant milestone for Beckman Coulter in the competitive clinical diagnostics market. The company, with more than 90 years of experience in the field, continues to focus on elevating the diagnostic laboratory's role in improving patient health.
Beckman Coulter Diagnostics, headquartered in Brea, California, employs more than 11,000 team members globally and is part of Danaher (NYSE: DHR), a global science and technology leader. The company's diagnostic solutions are used in complex clinical testing environments including hospitals, reference laboratories, and physician office settings worldwide.
Product availability and regulatory status will vary by country, depending on applicable regulations and registration requirements.
