Ascent Instrument
Lab-scale automation for hands-free EV isolation
The Ascent automates size-exclusion chromatography, run up to 8 columns in parallel and walk away. Load your samples, press run, and collect reproducible EV fractions without touching the bench.
- Run 1–8 SEC columns in parallel, up to 12 fractions each
- Programmable fraction-collection sequences for any column type
- Open platform: Apex, 3rd-party and home-packed columns
- Column Saver keeps resin hydrated for true walk-away runs
1–8
SEC columns in parallel
12
Fractions per column
Open
Flexible and configurable
Walk away
Just add sample
Programmable fraction collection
Tune every run to your application
Optimize fraction collection for your application right on the on-board touchscreen. Adjust the values to work with different column types, between 1 and 8 columns, wash volumes, the number of fractions to collect, and the fraction volume.
- Set column type and number of columns (1–8)
- Dial in wash volume, fraction count and fraction volume
- Adjust discard volume before collection to remove void fractions
See it in action
Watch the Ascent run, step by step
Load columns and samples, then walk away. Ascent pre-washes and fractionates every sample in parallel, hands-free: up to 12 reproducible fractions per column. These five short clips show a full run, start to finish.
Step 1 of 5 — Set run parameters
Compatible columns
Runs the full Apex column range
Match the resin and format to your sample: from high-yield 6B to high-purity MM, including low-volume mini columns for precious samples.
MM
4B
6B
MM mini
4B mini
6B mini
Also compatible: other third-party SEC column brands and home-packed columns using the Apex empty-column kit.
EV elution profile
Reproducibility
Apex column reproducibility
The Apex SEC columns are optimized for a consistent drip speed, resulting in a reproducible EV elution profile.
Pairing the Apex columns with the Ascent and Summit instruments further minimizes variability in EV elution across columns.
Built for precise, walk-away isolation
Parallel processing
Run 1 to 8 columns: up to 96 fractions per session for discovery or routine workflows.
Optical drop detection
The system waits for the final drop, monitors flow and adjusts automatically: no guesswork.
Robust to vibration
High-precision liquid handling collects accurate fractions on any lab bench, even with nearby equipment running.
Column Saver
Keeps columns hydrated if you step away, protecting resin and precious samples from drying out.
Open platform
Compatible with Everest’s Apex columns as well as third-party columns and home-packed SEC columns.
Programmable runs
Set discard volumes, fraction volumes and collection sequences to match your sample and assay.
Compare instruments
Need higher throughput and concentration?
The Ascent is ideal for flexible, column-based prep. For large cohorts and integrated concentration, see how the Summit compares.
Ascent vs Summit
| Ascent | Summit | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Flexible sample prep | Large cohorts & standardized workflows |
| Throughput focus | Moderate | High |
| SEC format | Columns | Plates or columns |
| Sample capacity | 1–8 | 4–48 |
| Automation level | Manual sample loading | Fully automated |
| Fraction collection | 1–12 per sample | 1–3 per sample |
| Concentration | Performed externally | Integrated capability |
| Footprint | Compact benchtop | Larger, built for scale |
One workflow
Pairs with Apex columns and Atlas ELISA
Run Apex 4B, 6B or MM columns on the Ascent for reproducible isolation, then quantify the eluted fractions with the Atlas EV ELISA, isolation to readout, all from Everest.
Technical information
Ascent specifications
An automated, high-throughput fraction collector for EV isolation with SEC columns: up to 8 columns at once, compatible with Apex and other brands.
| Specification | Ascent |
|---|---|
| SEC columns in parallel | 1–8 |
| Fractions per column | Up to 12 |
| Apex column capability | Apex 4B, 6B and MM, plus mini, or pack your own |
| Third-party columns | Compatible with other third-party column brands |
| Fraction collection | Programmable discard and fraction volume |
| Accuracy | High-precision liquid handling with optical drop detection; vibration-robust |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 397 × 364 × 331 mm (15-5/8 × 14-5/8 × 13 in) |
| Weight | 13.6 kg (30.0 lb) |
| Input power | 100–240 VAC (50–60 Hz) |
| Power supply unit | 24 Vdc, 2.1 A, 50 W |
| Bottle capacity | 1000 mL |
| Connectivity | USB-C (for software updates) |
| Operating conditions | 10–24 °C, 30–80% RH |
| Chemical compatibility | PBS, DI water, 70% ethanol, dilute bleach, sodium hydroxide (NaOH) |
Application notes
Latest Ascent application notes
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
How many fractions can I collect per sample?
Up to 12 fractions per column in a single run. The discard and fraction volumes are fully programmable, so you can tune collection to your input sample volume and downstream assay.
How long does a run take?
Running 1 or 8 columns takes a little over an hour. Because columns run in parallel, the time is similar for any number. Columns are first washed (~1 hour) to remove storage buffer, then fractions are collected (~5–15 minutes depending on how many). Apex 4B and 6B have the same run time.
Can the Ascent run columns from other suppliers?
Yes. Besides Apex columns, it runs other third-party SEC column brands, and an Apex empty-column kit also lets you pack your own. Contact us for support with additional columns.
Can the fraction collection sequence be customized?
Yes, it is fully programmable. Set the discard volume and fraction volume to match your input sample volume and assay.
What is Column Saver?
Column Saver automatically keeps columns hydrated, preventing them from drying out if you are away when a wash or collection finishes. It slowly drips buffer into the columns while the Ascent waits for your next action.
How does it collect accurate fraction volumes?
A high-precision liquid-handling system paired with optical drop detection collects fractions precisely. The approach is robust to vibration and can be used on any lab bench.
Contact us
Automate your EV workflow
Tell us about your samples and throughput needs, and our scientists will help you configure an Ascent workflow and arrange a virtual demo.