The Next Generation in Automated Sample Processing for the BDProbeTec™ ET System

BD Diagnostic Systems, Sparks, MD announces the immediate availability of the BD Viper™ Sample Processor, for use with the BDProbeTec™ System - a groundbreaking clinical instrument for molecular in vitro diagnostic applications.

An important workflow advancement for the BDProbeTec™ System, the BD Viper™ Sample Processor automates the sample handling associated with high-volume testing. An industrial-grade robot achieves maximum reliability by performing pipetting transfers without the use of syringe pumps and tubing. Minimal routine maintenance is required as a result of the BD Viper™ Sample Processor's simple, reliable design. Technicians benefit with the reduction of repetitive motions. And at the same time the accuracy of pipetting is enhanced, compared to manual pipetting where fatigue and distraction can cause errors. Overall, the BD Viper™ Sample Processor improves laboratory efficiency by reducing labor, while at the same time assuring high throughput accuracy.

The BD Viper™ Sample Processor is currently available for use with the BDProbeTec™ ET System's DNA amplified assays for Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The BDProbeTec™ ET System reader offers simultaneous amplification and detection in a real time, one-hour format. When combined with the BD Viper™ Sample Processor, the user gains real efficiency at the most labor-intensive steps for amplified systems - sample handling and amplification/detection.

The BDProbeTec™ ET System, first marketed in 1999, is the only real-time DNA amplification assay cleared by the FDA for the detection of Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Simple workflow, minimal labor and high throughput have combined to create testing efficiency for laboratories throughout the world. Up to 564 samples for Chlamydia trachomatis alone or 552 samples for Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae combined can be completed in a single eight-hour shift using the BD Viper™ Sample Processor with the BDProbeTec™ ET System reader.

The BDProbeTec™ ET System's assays feature homogeneous amplification and real-time detection technology, combining the power of BD proprietary strand displacement amplification (SDA), with an energy transfer (ET) detection method. SDA is a patented isothermal amplification technology capable of generating billions of copies of target molecules from a single DNA or RNA template in just minutes.

For further information contact a BD Diagnostic Systems Sales Professional or call toll-free 1-800-553-3470.

BD, BDprobeTec and Viper are trademarks of Becton, Dickinson and Company.
© 2002 Becton, Dickinson and Company July 2002

This press release may contain certain forward-looking statements (as defined under Federal securities laws) regarding BD's performance, including future revenues, products and income, or events or developments that BD expects to occur or anticipates occurring in the future. All such statements are based upon current expectations of BD and involve a number of business risks and uncertainties. Actual results could vary materially from anticipated results described, implied or projected in any forward-looking statement. Factors that could cause actual results to vary materially from any forward-looking statement include, but are not limited to: competitive factors; pricing and market share pressures; changes in interest or foreign currency exchange rates; difficulties inherent in product development and delays in product introductions; changes in regional, national or foreign economic conditions; increases in energy costs; fluctuations in costs and availability of raw materials and in BD's ability to maintain favorable supplier arrangements and relationships; and changes in healthcare or other governmental regulation; issuance of new or revised accounting standards, as well as other factors discussed in this press release and in BD's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We do not intend to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof except as required by applicable laws or regulations.