Beckman Coulter DXH 600 vs DXH 500: Key Differences Explained

In modern times, labs now operate in environments where precision, speed and reliability are the factors that define success. Among the many instruments that power these diagnostic operations, hematology analyzers are known to play a part in the most critical of roles.

In this landscape, the Beckman Coulter’s DXH series stands out for its engineering quality and consistent performance across a range of testing environments. The two most recognizable models, the Beckman Coulter DXH 600 and Beckman Coulter DXH 500 represent different ends of the same innovation spectrum.

Both analyzers share a common design philosophy. However, what they differ in is throughput, workflow efficiency and automation. Understanding these differences can help labs in choosing the models that best align with their operational demands and test volumes.

It’s important to note the key distinctions between the DXH 600 and DXH 500, based on verified specifications, refurbishment standards and performance data.

A Legacy of Reliability in Hematology

The Beckman Coulter’s DXH series has been a trusted name in hematology for years. They offer dependable results in clinical labs worldwide.

The analyzers are designed around the Coulter Principle. It’s an industry-standard technology for precise cell counting and sizing, combined with optical analysis for improved accuracy.

Refurbished systems available through certified programs such as the Down-To-Frame® Refurbishment process, undergo comprehensive restoration and performance validation.

Each unit is rebuilt, calibrated and tested to meet or exceed the original manufacturer’s operational standards. This ensures labs receive high-quality analyzers that deliver the same accuracy and dependability as new units but at a reduced cost.

Both the DXH 500 and DXH 600 reflect the focus on delivering technology that simplifies workflows without compromising precision.

Beckman Coulter DXH 500: Compact, Capable and Reliable

The Beckman Coulter DXH 500 is a compact 5-part differential hematology analyzer designed for low to mid-volume labs. Its footprint and design make it an excellent choice for facilities seeking reliable results within limited space.

The DXH 500 delivers up to 60 tests per hour, making it ideal for clinics, community hospitals and smaller diagnostic centers.

Despite the compact design, it provides detailed evaluations of neutrophils, lymphocytes, basophils and more.

This model operates primarily in open-vial mode. It allows flexibility for both venous and capillary samples.

The user interface is designed to be intuitive, simplifying operation for staff. Maintenance routines are straightforward, minimizing daily downtime. Additionally, the analyzer is optimized for cost efficiency.

Its reagent system is designed to deliver accurate results using only three reagents. These are formaldehyde, cyanide and azide-free. This contributes to safer practices and more sustainable operations.

The DXH 500 balances reliability and ease of use, along with the operating economy which makes it an appealing solution for labs that prioritizes efficiency without large-scale automation.

Beckman Coulter DXH 600: High Throughput for Demanding Workflows

For labs managing larger sample volumes, the Beckman Coulter DXH 600 is designed to meet the demands of high-throughput testing.

It performs up to 100 tests per hour, nearly twice the speed of the DXH 500. It also includes automation features that support continuous, hands-free operation.

Unlike its smaller counterpart, the DXH 600 is equipped with closed-tube sampling which improves safety by reducing the operator’s exposure to biological material. It also features an automatic multiple-tube loading mode that accommodates up to 50 samples per run.

This significantly reduces manual handling and increases productivity.

This analyzer offers a higher level of detail compared to the DXH 500’s 5-part differential. This additional feature makes the DXH 600 particularly suitable for mid to large-volume labs that require advanced diagnostic precision.

Its architecture supports consistent performance across large sample runs, allowing labs to handle busy testing schedules while maintaining result accuracy.

Comparing the Two Models

Throughput and Workflow Efficiency

Throughput remains one of the most significant differences between the two systems.

The DXH 600 can process up to 100 tests per hour, while the DXH 500 handles 60 tests per hour.

This defines their target environments:

• The DXH 500 is suitable for smaller or routine testing facilities
  
  
• The DXH 600 supports higher-volume labs that require faster turnaround times

For labs processing hundreds of samples daily, the DXH 600’s automated sample loading and higher capacity translate to increased efficiency and reduced operator workload.

For smaller labs, the DXH 500’s simplicity provides cost-effective and dependable results without any unnecessary complexity.

Sampling Modes and Safety

Safety and convenience are at the core of the DXH series design philosophy.

• The DXH 500 uses an open-vial mode which allows for direct sample access and flexibility in handling various specimen types
  
  
• In contrast, the DXH 600 employs a closed-tube mode, minimizing biohazard exposure and maintaining a cleaner environment which is considered important in larger, high-throughput labs

This difference highlights how each system is tailored to specific workflows and risk management preferences.

Differential Capability

The DXH 500 provides a 5-part differential, which covers the core components of a complete blood count.

This meets the diagnostic needs of most routine clinical environments.

The DXH 600 extends that capability to a 6-part differential. This delivers an additional parameter that enhances diagnostic depth.

It enables labs to detect and analyze more detailed hematologic variations, making it ideal for facilities handling research-oriented work.

Automation and Usability

Automation is another area where the difference is most evident.

The DXH 500 focuses on streamlined manual operation with simplified workflows and easy reagent management. It’s designed for consistency and ease, ensuring clinical staff can perform tests efficiently without extensive automation.

The DXH 600 incorporates automated multiple-sample loading and closed-tube processing. This minimises manual steps and enhances throughput.

Its automation reduces potential handling errors and ensures that large workloads can be processed continuously.

This provides an essential advantage in busy clinical environments.

Footprint and Operational Fit

In terms of physical design, the DXH 500 offers a smaller, space-efficient footprint suited for labs where bench space is limited. It integrates easily into compact lab setups without sacrificing performance.

The DXH 600, though larger, compensates with its automation capabilities and higher capacity. Its design fits labs where workflow volume and productivity are prioritized over compactness.

Both systems are engineered with long-term reliability in mind, using robust components and proven analytical technologies.

Refurbishment and Quality Standards

Certified refurbishment programs play a vital role in extending the life of high-performance analyzers like the DXH 500 and DXH 600.

These programs involve complete restoration, including recalibration and validation to ensure every analyzer meets its original performance specifications.

This process, often described as a “Down-to-Frame®” refurbishment, ensures that each system is rebuilt from the ground up with worn or outdated components replaced, softwares updated and performance verified against manufacturer standards.

The result is a fully functional analyzer that operates as if new, backed by quality assurance testing and technical certification.

For labs that are seeking cost-effective yet dependable solutions, refurbished DXH analyzers offer substantial savings while preserving analytical accuracy and reliability.

Choosing Between the DXH 500 and DXH 600

Deciding between the Beckman Coulter DXH 500 and DXH 600 ultimately depends on a lab’s workload, available space and automation needs.

• The DXH 500 is suitable for labs that handle a moderate volume of tests, value a compact footprint and prioritize operational simplicity and cost efficiency. It’s the practical choice for smaller hospitals and others.
  
  
• Selecting the DXH 600 depends on whether facilities can process a high volume of samples daily and requires rapid turnaround times with minimal intervention. Its automation, higher throughput and 6-part differential make it ideal for hospital labs, research facilities and more.

Both analyzers share a high commitment to accuracy, durability and ease of maintenance. This ensures consistent and high-quality performance in any setting.

Conclusion

The Beckman Coulter DXH 500 and DXH 600 represent two solutions within the same trusted family of hematology analyzers.

Each model serves a distinct lab profile with one prioritizing simplicity and compact efficiency while the other delivering speed, automation and advanced diagnostic capacity.

When restored through certified refurbishment programs, both analyzers perform at their full potential. Thus, labs are offered access to dependable, manufacturer-grade technology without the cost of brand-new systems.

In today’s demanding healthcare environment, accuracy and efficiency are what drive patient outcomes. Choosing the right hematology analyzer helps to make all the difference.

Whether a lab’s focus is routine blood analysis or high-volume diagnostic operations, the DXH 500 and DXH 600 continue to set the standards for reliability, performance and long-term value.