A pipette is a laboratory tool used to accurately transfer or measure small amounts of liquid. The capacity of a pipette and the degree of precision with which the volume of a sample can be measured depend on its design. They are calibrated to ensure accuracy and to establish a known reference for measuring the volume of a sample. Although there are different types and sizes of pipettes, the principle of operation is the same, a small amount of liquid is aspirated into the top of the pipette and then exhaled into the bottom. Pipettes are calibrated regularly to ensure that they remain accurate.
Most pipettes require periodic calibration, which can be done by the manufacturer or a specialized laboratory. If calibration is performed in the laboratory, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that the pipette is calibrated correctly.