Patent ID: 7855077

Claim:
A method of preparing samples for analysis, using an automated analyzer including a transfer station, a sample presentation unit coupled to the transfer station and configured to receive a plurality of primary sample containers, and a sample storage unit and an analytic unit coupled to the transfer station and configured to receive a plurality of sample retention vessels, wherein the analytic unit is configured to receive and analyze samples, the method comprising: a) loading the plurality of primary sample containers into a presentation section of the sample presentation unit, each of the plurality of primary sample containers containing a sample, and then transferring the plurality of primary sample containers to the transfer station from the presentation section; b) transferring a first primary sample container of the plurality of primary sample containers at the transfer station into the sample storage unit or the analytic unit, and if the first primary sample container is transferred to the sample storage unit, then the first primary sample container is thereafter transferred to the analytic unit; c) aliquoting the sample from a second primary sample container of the plurality of primary sample containers at the transfer station into at least one of the plurality of sample retention vessels in the sample storage unit or the analytic unit, and if the sample is aliquoted into the at least one of the plurality of sample retention vessels in the sample storage unit, the at least one of the plurality of sample retention vessels is thereafter sent to the analytic unit; and d) processing the sample in the first primary sample container and the sample aliquoted from the second primary sample container.