Gilson Pipettes: Complete Guide to the PIPETMAN Range

Gilson PIPETMAN is one of the most trusted pipette ranges in Australian laboratories. With models spanning manual single-channel, electronic multichannel, and positive displacement configurations, the PIPETMAN range covers virtually every liquid handling application from microvolume genomics work to high-throughput pharmaceutical screening.

This guide explains the differences between PIPETMAN L, G, M, Classic, and Microman E models, helps you choose the right configuration for your application, and covers starter kits, calibration, and maintenance. John Morris Group is an authorised Gilson supplier in Australia and New Zealand, with NATA-accredited pipette calibration services (Accreditation No. 4283).

PIPETMAN Series: Which One Do You Need?

Gilson offers several PIPETMAN series, each designed for different priorities. The most common question we hear from Australian labs is "what is the difference between PIPETMAN L, G, and M?" Here is the breakdown:

For most Australian research and QC labs, the PIPETMAN L is the standard recommendation. Its patented volume locking system prevents accidental changes during use, the 2D barcode supports full traceability for GLP compliance, and the lower parts are fully autoclavable. If your priority is pipetting comfort over long sessions, choose the PIPETMAN G. If you need electronic consistency across multiple operators, choose the PIPETMAN M.

Single-Channel PIPETMAN Models

Single-channel PIPETMAN models cover the full volume range from 0.2 µL to 10 mL. Each model designation indicates its maximum volume:

The P200 and P1000 are the two most commonly used pipettes in any laboratory. Together they cover the 20 to 1000 µL range that accounts for the majority of daily liquid handling tasks. If you are setting up a new lab, start with these two models and expand as needed.

Video: Gilson PIPETMAN range overview

Gilson Multichannel Pipettes

Multichannel pipettes increase throughput by dispensing into multiple wells simultaneously. Gilson offers 8-channel and 12-channel configurations across the PIPETMAN L, G, and M series:

• PIPETMAN L 8-channel (P8x200L): Manual 8-channel covering 20 to 200 µL. The most popular multichannel model for microplate work.
• PIPETMAN M 8-channel (P8x1200M): Electronic 8-channel covering 50 to 1200 µL. Motor-driven for consistent results across all channels.
• PIPETMAN G 12-channel (P12x200G): Manual 12-channel covering 20 to 200 µL for higher-density microplate work.

For labs requiring even higher throughput, the Gilson PLATEMASTER provides manual 96-channel pipetting for full-plate transfers. For automated workflows, the Gilson PIPETMAX uses PIPETMAN technology in a programmable station with 4-channel and 8-channel head options.

If you need a 24-channel pipette, the Eppendorf Research Plus 24-channel (1 to 20 µL) is available through John Morris Group for molecular biology and analytical applications.

Gilson Positive Displacement Pipettes

Standard air displacement pipettes struggle with viscous, volatile, or contaminated liquids because the air cushion between the piston and the liquid introduces errors. Gilson's positive displacement pipettes eliminate this problem by using a disposable capillary piston (CP) system where the piston directly contacts the liquid with no air gap.

Microman E: Six single-channel models covering 1 to 1000 µL. Delivers specifications 3 to 4 times better than standard air displacement pipettes when handling viscous or volatile liquids. The disposable CP system ensures no contact between the sample and the pipette body, providing contamination protection for hazardous, radioactive, or high-value samples. Common in PCR, forensic science, petrochemistry, and food testing labs.

DISTRIMAN Repetitive Pipette: The only continuously adjustable mechanical repeater on the market with a direct read-out, eliminating volume conversion errors. Works with DISTRITIPS syringes to deliver aliquots from 1 µL to 1.25 mL, with a single syringe capable of up to 125 aliquots at minimum volume. Ideal for serial dilutions, plate filling, and repetitive dispensing tasks.

Gilson Pipette Starter Kits

Starter kits are the most cost-effective way to equip a new lab or replace an ageing pipette set. Each kit includes matched pipettes, DIAMOND tips, single pipette holders, and a maintenance guide.

The PIPETMAN L 4-Pack Starter Kit is our most popular kit for Australian labs. It covers the full 0.2 to 1000 µL range with four matched pipettes at a significant saving compared to buying individually.

Gilson Pipette Pricing in Australia

Pricing varies by series, channel count, and whether the model is manual or electronic. Here are typical price ranges for Gilson pipettes in Australia (inc. GST):

Gilson Pipette Calibration in Australia

Pipette accuracy drifts over time with regular use. For NATA-accredited laboratories and those operating under ISO 17025 or GLP, regular calibration is essential to maintain measurement traceability and pass compliance audits.

John Morris Group operates a NATA-accredited calibration laboratory (Accreditation No. 4283) with ILAC MRA recognition. Our calibration services cover all Gilson PIPETMAN models as well as pipettes from other manufacturers. We offer both in-house calibration at our service centres (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Auckland) and onsite calibration to minimise laboratory downtime.

For labs that perform interim checks between scheduled calibrations, the Gilson Calibration Tool for PIPETMAN L allows quick in-house verification of pipette performance.

Recommended calibration frequency is every 3 to 6 months depending on usage intensity and regulatory requirements.

How to Choose the Right Gilson Pipette

1. Define your volume range. What volumes do you pipette most often? Start with the P200 and P1000 for general lab work. Add a P20 or P2 for microvolume applications.

2. Identify your liquid type. Standard aqueous solutions work with air displacement (PIPETMAN L/G/M). Viscous, volatile, or hazardous liquids require positive displacement (Microman E).

3. Consider throughput. Single-channel for individual tubes. 8 or 12-channel for microplate work. 96-channel (PLATEMASTER) for full-plate transfers.

4. Manual or electronic? Manual (L or G) for routine work and budget efficiency. Electronic (M) for high-throughput, repetitive dispensing, or when consistency across multiple operators matters.

5. Compliance requirements. For NATA-accredited labs, the PIPETMAN L with its 2D barcode traceability and volume lock is the standard recommendation. For audit trail requirements, consider the PIPETMAN M Connected with Bluetooth tracking.

6. Budget for calibration. Factor in regular calibration costs (every 3 to 6 months) alongside the purchase price. Our NATA-accredited calibration service covers all brands and models.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between PIPETMAN L and PIPETMAN G?
PIPETMAN L features a patented volume locking system and 2D barcode traceability for GLP-regulated environments. PIPETMAN G is designed for maximum pipetting comfort with the lowest pipetting force on the market. Both are manual air displacement pipettes with the same volume ranges.

What is a positive displacement pipette used for?
Positive displacement pipettes like the Gilson Microman E are designed for viscous, volatile, or contaminated liquids that cannot be accurately pipetted with standard air displacement models. They use a capillary piston system with no air cushion, delivering 3 to 4 times better accuracy than air displacement pipettes on challenging liquids.

How often should pipettes be calibrated?
Every 3 to 6 months is the general recommendation, depending on usage frequency and regulatory requirements. NATA-accredited labs and those under ISO 17025 must demonstrate traceable calibration. John Morris Group provides NATA-accredited pipette calibration across Australia and New Zealand.

What is the best Gilson pipette starter kit?
The PIPETMAN L 4-Pack Starter Kit (P2L + P20L + P200L + P1000L) covers 0.2 to 1000 µL and includes DIAMOND tips and holders. It is the most popular kit for equipping new Australian labs or replacing ageing pipette sets.

Where can I buy Gilson pipettes in Australia?
John Morris Group is an authorised Gilson supplier in Australia and New Zealand. We supply the full PIPETMAN range, Microman E positive displacement pipettes, DISTRIMAN repetitive pipettes, starter kits, tips, and accessories. We also provide NATA-accredited calibration and servicing. Call 1300 501 555 or browse our Gilson range online.