How to use long AND short tips on your Gilson Pipetman P2 and P10 (also P2N and P10N)

 The newer versions of the Gilson Pipetman P2 and P10 Both Pipetman P and Neo (NOTE: Neos have been given the suffix-letter "N" to indicate the model difference as well as lighter plunger force, overall lighter weight, a wider volume range in some models, and a color ring on the outside of the plunger) have a feature you may not be aware of, OR you may think your Pipetman can't properly eject or accept certain sized tips.  

Well this instructable may clear up any confusion!  You see, Gilson has redesigned the P2 and P10 with a "Dual position Adapter" on these two models which allows you to use long and short tips!  

Read on weary lab bench warrior!

Step 1 The Gilson P2 and P10 (or P2N and P10N)

 Both P2 and P10 models are very similar in terms of outward appearance. Look at the handles, no difference.  Pipetman Neo's are given the suffix letter "N" to their original Pipetman model names.  The very end of the (shaft) tip ejector is slightly different, however.  P2 is more pointed than the P10. 

Comments

[isacco]

congratulations for this clear Instructable addressed the people working in a scientific lab.
I have experience with Gilson, Eppendorf, and Finpipette (Thermo). My Gilson tools are quite old. They are very robust and accept all the tips, but with time the metal tip ejector rusts and tends to fall down. Gilson calibration can be done only by the Gilson assistance. I prefer Eppendorf for use comfort, light force and precision, but they not for left-hand users. Eppendor pipettes can be re-calibrated in the lab. On the cons, Eppendorf pipettes are very stringent for tip brand.

[xrobevansx]

 Isacco, Gilson can be calibrated easily in the lab.  In fact, they are known to be the easiest pipette to service! The reason the Gilsons take "universal" tips is: they set the standard!   Many other pipettes seem to be "clones" of the Gilson Pipetman which has been in labs for some 35 years.  As you said, your Gilson are quite old...you never see 10, 20, 30 year old other makes.  Thank you for the kind words. 

[isacco]

Hi xrobevansx,
To my knowledge calibration of Gilson pipettes is not routinely carried out in the lab, but I am glad to know that I am wrong. The Epperdorf Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) clearly explains how to calibrate and a specific plastic tools is provided to adjust the piston screw. On the contrary, the SOP of my Gilsons explains how to test the volume precision but does not consider calibration. However, it may be due to the age of my Gilson tools. Honestly I have never used a recent Gilson.
If you know a easy way to calibrate a P series Gilson of any age, please explain me or create a new Instructable. It would be welcome
isacco

[lemonie]

Super. I liked the Gilsons over other air-displacement pipettes I've used.

L

[ChrysN]

Yes, and they last too.  Our lab bought some other brand and it broke after a year.