This chapter explains the technology and chemistry behind the IMMULITE^® 1000 random-access analyzer for the quantitative determination of a broad range of analytes. The system includes an analyzer, a proprietary test unit, reagent packs and generic reagents. Samples may be loaded at any time and urgent requests can be run in Stat mode. The immunoassays are based on a unique spin wash concept, with alkaline phosphatase enzyme and adamantly dioxetane phosphate substrate. Assay designs may be competitive or immunometric. The features of the system are listed, and the design and principles explained. There are also sections on calibration, antibodies, separation, signal generation and detection, and data processing, including interfacing to laboratory information systems.

This chapter was originally written by Arthur L. Babson, previously Chief Scientist at DPC Cirrus Inc., New Jersey, USA. It was revised for the fourth edition of The Immunoassay Handbook by Mark R. Smith, previously a Senior Manager in Global Marketing, Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics, and checked at the proof stage by Susan Bertuccelli, current Solutions Marketing for ADVIA Centaur CP and IMMULITE systems at Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics, Tarrytown, New York, USA.

IMMULITE^®, alkaline phosphatase, adamantly dioxetane phosphate, enzyme immunoassay, bead, chemiluminescence, random access, competitive, immunometric, calibration, antibodies, separation, signal generation, signal detection, Stat test.