Smaller and less expensive versions of popular laboratory instruments are increasingly coming to market. One of the latest is Corning’s Epic BT—based on the firm’s Epic label-free detection system. It’s not only compact and more affordable, it offers improved cell-based and biochemical assay capabilities. The system includes simple data collection software and provides whole microplate analysis in three seconds using charged-couple device detection of wavelength shift, instead of spectrometers. It is also compatible with the brand’s 96- and 384-well microplate formats, and can be placed in any non-humidified laboratory incubator, where it can operate at 37°C. Corning Life Sciences