Beckman AU5820 vs AU5810: What’s the Difference?

Since the clinical environment, especially diagnostics, is ever evolving, labs have been made to balance speed, accuracy and other aspects while managing growing workloads.

As testing volumes rise and turnaround times shorten, the need for dependable, scalable chemistry systems has become increasingly critical.

This is where the most suitable clinical chemistry analyzers can make a measurable difference in how efficiently a lab can deliver results.

Among the leading systems in this space are the Beckman AU5820 and Beckman AU5810 Chemistry Analyzers. Both stand out for their dependability and scalable performance.

Although the two analyzers share a similar foundation, their differences in throughput, scalability and resource requirements shape how effectively they integrate into different lab settings.

This comparison highlights how the AU5810 and AU5820 support labs at different stages of growth. This can range from mid-sized clinical facilities to high-volume diagnostic centers.

Understanding the Beckman AU Series

The Beckman AU series represents systems in the more advanced lines of chemistry analyzers.

They are designed for mid to high-volumelabs that require dependable automation and continuous operation.

Each model, which includes the Beckman AU5810, AU5820, AU5830 and AU5840, shares a modular structure that allows labs to scale up as testing needs grow. This means the capacity can be expanded through the addition of analytical modules.

A feature that makes the Beckman AU line both flexible and cost-efficient over time.

This modular design simplifies servicing, standardizes reagent handling and supports long-term usability.

Both analyzers are refurbished under a Down-to-Frame® process which comprises a comprehensive teardown and restoration of systems in accordance with their original manufacturer performance specifications.

Within this, the AU5810 serves as the single-module configuration, while the AU5820 combines two analytical modules to double its performance and capacity.

Beckman AU5810: Reliable Precision for Mid-Volume Labs

The Beckman AU5810 Chemistry Analyzer is a compact, single-module system designed for medium to high testing volumes.

It offers a throughput of up to 2000 tests per hour. These factors make it an ideal system for hospital labs and clinical centers that require dependable operation without the footprint of a larger system.

The AU5810 includes random access and STAT sample capabilities. This allows for urgent samples to be processed immediately without ongoing test interruptions. This is a crucial feature for time-sensitive environments.

The system’s reagent tray supports cooled reagents with up to 54 reagent positions, while the sample input capacity reaches 400 positions. The analyzer also maintains a moderate water consumption rate of around 62 liters per hour, balancing performance with resource efficiency.

Every refurbished analyzer like the Beckman AU5810 undergoes a Down-to-Frame® restoration method.

This six-step process involves:

Disassembly
Aesthetics
Refurbishment
Diagnostics
Validation
Final Packaging

The goal of these steps is to ensure performance that is comparable to new systems, backed by quality assurance testing.

For labs that seek dependable analyzers which deliver high analytical precision and cost-effective operation, the AU5810 serves as a trusted option.

Beckman AU5820: High-Throughput Power for Expanding Labs

The Beckman AU5820 Chemistry Analyzer builds upon the AU5810’s design with an expanded dual-module configuration which effectively doubles the system’s capacity.

This analyzer is capable of up to 4000 tests per hour. This is a significant increase that's suited to regional labs and high-volume diagnostic facilities.

The reagent tray is doubled as well, offering up to 108 reagent positions while maintaining a capacity of400 samples similar to the AU5810. With an increase in throughput, comes a higher requirement for resources.

This includes 124 liters of deionized water per hour which labs have to account for when planning the infrastructure.

The AU5820’s dual-module structure also supports a more smoother workflow distribution. Having two modules could inherently provide flexibility during maintenance cycles or when managing varied testing loads.

Like its smaller counterpart, the AU5820 undergoes the Down-to-Frame® refurbishment process. It ensures a complete mechanical and electronic revalidation.

Refurbished units are also eligible for a vendor’s service and maintenance program. These can range from a variety of services such as, field technician support, preventive maintenance and emergency repairs.

This combination of throughput, support and validated refurbishment makes the AU5820 a reliable choice for labs that deal with increasing test volumes and multi-department workflows.

Technical Comparison in Context

Both systems share Beckman Coulter’s software, reagent compatibility and optical systems. However, the difference lies mainly in the scale and operational capacity.

Throughput and Testing Volume

Beckman AU5810: Up to 2000 photometric tests per hour
Beckman AU5820: Up to 4000 photometric tests per hour

These figures indicate that the AU5820 effectively doubles the throughput for labs that handle higher daily testing volumes.

Reagent and Sample Capacity

Both systems share a capacity of400 samples.

The AU5820, however, doubles the reagent tray capacity from 54 to 108 cooled reagents. This allows for broader assay menus and fewer changeovers during high-volume runs.

Water Consumption and Utilities

According to specifications regarding the systems:

AU5810: Approx. 62 L/hour
AU5820: Approx. 124 L/hour

This shows that the AU5820 requires a greater source for water and power. This might necessitate a need for stronger deionized water systems and adequate infrastructure for labs.

Service and Maintenance

Both systems are qualifiers for field service and maintenance programs.

These include:

Preventive maintenance
On-site technical support
Calibration and validation services

Due to a shared platform design, the maintenance protocols and spare parts between the AU5810 and AU5820 remain consistent.

This helps reduce the operational complexity and retraining needs for technicians.

Infrastructure and Workflow Considerations

When deciding between the Beckman AU5820 vs AU5810, lab managers should evaluate the readinessof infrastructure as much as testing demand.

The AU5820 offers higher capacity. However, more water is consumed in the process. The system also requires more space and involves additional power, along with cooling considerations.

It’s ideal for labs that operate large-scale systems or plan for significant expansion.

In contrast, the AU5810 has a smaller footprint and lower operating cost. This makes it better suited for mid-volume facilities or institutions upgrading from smaller benchtop analyzers.

The system’s simple installation and lower utility consumption makes it practical where resources or space are constrained.

Both analyzers integrate into standard laboratory information systems (LIS), helping ensure workflow consistency across sites using different AU models.

Refurbishment and Support From Vendors

One of the key advantages of sourcing either analyzer through certain vendors is the assurance of quality refurbishment and long-term service support.

Using the Down-to-Frame® refurbishmentprocess, each system is:

Fully disassembled and inspected
Restored using OEM parts or equivalent components
Calibrated, validated and tested for operational compliance

This ensures that every refurbished unit meets manufacturer performance standards while offering substantial cost savings compared to new systems.

In addition, vendors can also provide:

Field service programs (preventive maintenance, repairs and emergency visits)
Technical support for software, calibration and component replacements
Reagent and consumable compatibility with the Beckman AU series systems

This support framework allows labs to maintain uptime and confidence in performance. This goes with refurbished instruments as well.

Which System Fits Labs Best?

The decision between the Beckman AU5820 vs AU5810 ultimately depends on the size, workflow and capacity of a lab.

When to Choose the AU5810

Ideal for mid-volume labs processing up to 2000 tests per hour
Lower water and power usage with a smaller footprint
Suitable for facilities prioritizing cost control and simplified maintenance
A smart entry point for labs planning to scale later

When to Choose the AU5820

Designed for high-volume testing environments that exceed 2000 tests per hour
Offers broader assay capacity and higher throughput
Suitable for multi-department or labs with heavy workloads
Requires readiness for higher resource demands and larger infrastructure

Both analyzers maintain shared serviceability and reagent compatibility.

Choosing one over the other does not compromise long-term workflow consistency.

Choosing the Right Analyzer for Long-Term Efficiency

The comparison between the Beckman AU5820 vs AU5810 is made in regards to their strategic fit.

Both analyzers share accuracy, durability and reliability, while their differences define how they serve different lab scales.

The Beckman AU5810 provides dependable performance with manageable operating costs. This is perfect for mid-sized facilities that value simplicity and efficiency.

The Beckman AU5820 differs by offering high throughput and scalability for growing laboratories. This system is built for expansion and sustained volume.

By sourcing through the use of certain vendors, labs can gain confidence for refurbished precision, comprehensive service coverage and validated system reliability. Whether the priority lies in compact efficiency or large-scale performance, both the Beckman AU5820 and AU5810 represent quality in modern chemistry testing.

As diagnostic automation gets more competitive everyday, the choice for the right analyzer can help to determine the speed at which labs operate and how smoothly it grows.