ImageXpress HCS.ai High-Content Screening System
A fast, intuitive and versatile system delivering deeper insights for every lab
Deeper insights for every lab
The ImageXpress® HCS.ai High‑Content Screening System is an automated high‑content imaging platform used to acquire and analyze cellular images in cell‑based assays. The system supports image‑based measurement of multiple cellular features by combining automated microscopy with AI‑assisted image analysis within high‑content screening workflows.
The ImageXpress HCS.ai system operates with MetaXpress® Acquire Software for automated image acquisition and integrates with IN Carta® Image Analysis Software for AI‑assisted image analysis. Available in four configurations (Widefield, Confocal, Advanced, and the latest innovation, Advanced Duo), its modular design supports a range of 2D and 3D cell‑based assays and allows the system configuration to be expanded as laboratory requirements evolve.
Modular and intuitive for optimal versatility
The ImageXpress HCS.ai system features a modular design with four configurations (Widefield, Confocal, Advanced, and the latest innovation, Advanced Duo) to meet diverse imaging needs, with available on-site upgrades to support evolving laboratory requirements. The MetaXpress® Acquire software offers an intuitive experience for users of all skill levels, providing direct access to reliable, insightful data within minutes.
Higher quality images and superior data analysis for deeper insights
Acquire high-quality images with 2x better signal-to-background* across a vast range of assay types, obtain exceptional image quality from your 3D samples, and unlock new discoveries with AI-powered IN Carta® Image Analysis Software.
Twice the acquisition speed for accelerated high-throughput workflows*
Boost lab productivity by imaging more plates in less time and simplifying the learning curve for new users. A new, automation friendly design enables you to integrate easily into automated workflows for faster, more reliable results.
Discover the ImageXpress HCS.ai High-Content Screening System
NEW CONFIGURATION
Introducing the ImageXpress HCS.ai Advanced Duo High-Content Screening System
The Advanced Duo system builds on the proven ImageXpress HCS.ai platform with dual-camera imaging designed to accelerate demanding screening workflows. Simultaneous two-channel acquisition improves imaging efficiency, while an expanded software workflow connects image acquisition and analysis with screen-level evaluation through IN Screen Software, powered by Genedata Screener®, helping researchers move from complex cellular data to prioritized screening results.
Designed to accelerate complex screening
Dual-camera architecture
Acquire two fluorescence channels simultaneously with dual sCMOS cameras.
Improved imaging efficiency
Reduce acquisition time across demanding multichannel and 3D screening workflows.
Enhanced brightfield imaging with TL Plus
Accelerate label-free image acquisition with advanced transmitted light imaging technology.
Performance you can put to work
1. Up to 50% higher imaging throughput
2. Over 50% reduction in brightfield acquisition time
3. Image a 96-well multiparameter plate in under 3 minutes
Explore Advanced Duo
See how advanced imaging and integrated software come together to support faster, more informed decisions across complex screening workflows.
Scalable by Design. Powerful by Choice.
The ImageXpress® HCS.ai system is built with a modular architecture that grows with your research. Whether you're starting with widefield imaging or advancing into confocal and deep tissue analysis, this system evolves with your needs—no full system replacement required. A broad range of configuration options and intuitive acquisition software make it easy to upgrade, adapt, and scale—future-proofing your investment and accelerating discovery.
Most enhancements can be installed on-site by our expert technicians, minimizing downtime and maximizing flexibility.
Features
Dual-camera acquisition
Enable simultaneous two-channel fluorescence acquisition with dual sCMOS cameras to improve imaging efficiency across complex, multichannel screening workflows.
*Exclusive to the Advanced Duo system configuration
IN Screen Software, powered by Genedata Screener
Extend high-content screening workflows with screen-level data evaluation, enabling researchers to assess compound responses, compare experimental conditions, and prioritize results.
Multiple imaging modes
The system offers brightfield label-free imaging, widefield and confocal fluorescent imaging.
Automated water immersion objective technology option
Offers greater image resolution and sensitivity with up to 4x increase in signal, which leads to lower exposure times.
Streamlined upgrade pathway
The modular design enables additional capabilities to be easily added to your system, allowing easy upgrades as your needs evolve.
Exclusive AgileOptix™ spinning disk technology
Provides increased sensitivity with specially designed optics, high-powered laser illumination, and sCMOS sensor. Swappable disk geometries provide flexibility between speed and resolution.
High-intensity laser light source option
The option of laser illumination enables you to capture images faster with shorter exposure times and multiplex your experiments with 7 lasers and 8 imaging channels.
Magnification changer option
Get access to 12 magnifications within a single configuration, including high NA (Numerical Aperture) and ELWD (Extra-Long Working Distance) options.
MetaXpress® Acquire Software
The MetaXpress® Acquire acquisition package streamlines complex workflows—new users can get started quickly, whereas advanced users can leverage its flexibility to create optimized protocols.
AI-powered IN Carta® image analysis software
Leverages machine-learning to improve the accuracy and robustness of high-content image analysis, delivering data insights that other technologies miss. Reduces the complexity of image analysis with intuitive guided workflows in a modern user interface.
What does the AI component of the ImageXpress HCS.ai system do?
The AI component of the ImageXpress HCS.ai High-Content Screening System supports image analysis by assisting with the identification and quantification of features within cellular images. It is used during post‑acquisition analysis to help process large image datasets and extract measurable parameters from cell‑based assays.
At a high level, AI‑assisted analysis may include:
- Automated detection of cellular features within acquired images
- Quantification of predefined image‑based parameters
- Support for consistent analysis across large image datasets
Where the ImageXpress HCS.ai High-Content Screening System fits in a typical experiment
The ImageXpress HCS.ai High-Content Screening System is used during the imaging and analysis stages of a cell‑based experiment. After samples are prepared according to the experimental protocol, the system is used to acquire cellular images and support downstream image analysis. The resulting analysis outputs can then be used as part of the broader experimental dataset.
At a high level, a typical workflow includes:
- Preparation of cell‑based samples using established experimental methods
- Image acquisition using the ImageXpress HCS.ai system
- Post‑acquisition image analysis using associated analysis software
- Generation of quantitative image‑derived data for further review or integration
See the Science. Capture the Complexity.
The ImageXpress HCS.ai system empowers you to perform a wide range of assays on more physiologically relevant cell models—enabling deeper insights and more impactful discoveries. Capture stunning, high-quality images from long-term live-cell experiments, 3D models, and multiplexed phenotypic screens using the intuitive MetaXpress® Acquire software. Then accelerate your analysis with AI-powered IN Carta® Image Analysis Software, designed to decode even the most complex biological questions with speed and precision.
HepG2 spheroid acquired at 10X magnification
Organoid image acquired at 20X magnification
Zebrafish embryo acquired at 10X magnification
Cell painting assay at 60X magnification
Spheroid mask in 3D viewer in IN Carta Image Analysis Software
Scalable walkaway automation: Flexible solutions for high-content screening with ImageXpress HCS.ai system
For laboratories beginning their automation journey, Molecular Devices offers flexible, scalable solutions that simplify the transition to automated high-content screening workflows. Starter automation options—such as walkaway automation for the ImageXpress® HCS.ai High-content Screening System—streamline plate handling and integrate advanced imaging with AI-powered analysis. With this system, you can image more plates in less time—processing 40 microtiter plates (96-well format) in just 2 hours, or 80 plates in 4 hours, all with complete hands-off operation. This approach boosts throughput, ensures high data quality, and minimizes manual steps. As your research evolves, these modular systems scale from basic plate handling to fully integrated, customized workcells—delivering consistent, reproducible results with optimized efficiency.
Key advantages of scalable lab automation
- Walkaway efficiency: Process hundreds of plates unattended—freeing up valuable lab time.
- Higher throughput, better reproducibility: Automated imaging ensures consistent, reliable results.
- Modular and scalable: Expand your system as your research grows.
- Seamless integration: Compatible with your preferred software and lab setup.
- Future-ready: Upgrade easily with new capabilities as they emerge.
FAQs
What is the ImageXpress HCS.ai High-Content Screening System used for?
The ImageXpress HCS.ai High-Content Screening System is used for automated acquisition and analysis of cellular images in cell-based assays as part of high-content screening workflows. It supports researchers who require quantitative, image-derived measurements of cellular features, enabling consistent image capture and post-acquisition analysis across a range of cell-based experimental designs.
How does AI assist image analysis in this system?
AI assists image analysis in the ImageXpress HCS.ai system by supporting the identification, classification, and quantification of features within acquired cellular images. AI‑assisted analysis is applied during post‑acquisition workflows using compatible IN Carta Image Analysis Software to help process large image datasets and generate measurable parameters based on assay‑specific analysis models.
What types of cell‑based assays can it support?
The ImageXpress HCS.ai system is used in a variety of cell‑based imaging workflows, with supported assay types depending on the system configuration and associated image analysis software. Commonly referenced assay categories in approved application materials include phenotypic profiling assays, cell migration and morphology studies, neurite outgrowth assays, and other image‑based cellular analyses.
What is the difference between the ImageXpress HCS.ai Advanced and Advanced Duo systems?
The ImageXpress HCS.ai Advanced Duo High-Content Screening System builds on the capabilities of the Advanced configuration with a dual-camera architecture featuring two high-sensitivity sCMOS cameras. Unlike the single-camera Advanced system, Advanced Duo enables simultaneous two-channel fluorescence acquisition, improving imaging efficiency and throughput across demanding multichannel and 3D screening workflows. Both configurations support high-content imaging with widefield and spinning disk confocal technologies.
What are the benefits of dual-camera imaging in high-content screening?
Dual-camera imaging enables the simultaneous acquisition of two fluorescence channels, reducing the time required for sequential image capture. In high-content screening (HCS), this approach improves imaging speed and throughput, particularly for complex, multiparametric assays and large-scale screening applications. The ImageXpress HCS.ai Advanced Duo system combines dual high-sensitivity sCMOS cameras with advanced imaging technologies to support efficient acquisition of high-quality cellular images.
How do MetaXpress Acquire, IN Carta, and IN Screen Software work together in high-content screening?
The Molecular Devices high-content screening workflow connects image acquisition, AI-powered image analysis, and screen-level data evaluation. MetaXpress® Acquire Software streamlines image acquisition and supports complex imaging protocols. IN Carta® Image Analysis Software uses machine learning and deep learning to analyze cellular images and extract quantitative data. IN Screen Software, powered by Genedata Screener®, extends the workflow with screen-level evaluation, helping researchers interpret assay results, assess compound responses, and prioritize findings for further investigation.
What applications can the ImageXpress HCS.ai Advanced Duo support?
The ImageXpress HCS.ai Advanced Duo High-Content Screening System supports a broad range of cell-based screening applications, including drug discovery, phenotypic screening, multiparametric fluorescence assays, and 3D cell imaging. Built upon proven AgileOptix™ technology, the system combines advanced imaging capabilities with a dual-camera architecture to support demanding imaging workflows and enable researchers to investigate complex cellular models. Combined with AI-powered image analysis, the system supports quantitative assessment of cellular phenotypes and compound responses.