MAKUHARI MESSE, Japan (JAIMA Expo) – Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE: A) today introduced the 7696 Sample Prep Workbench, a new instrument for automated preparation of analytical samples.

The 7696 Sample Prep Workbench offers customers increased productivity through automation as well as easy-to-use of software and hardware. In addition, the 7696 reduces the cost per sample because it consumes smaller amounts of chemicals and solvents, produces less waste, and does not require glassware other than sample vials. Finally, the 7696 reduces laboratory workers’ exposure to chemicals, providing potential safety benefits in the workplace.

“The 7696 Sample Prep Workbench is the next step in Agilent’s goal of providing a comprehensive workflow solution for chromatography,” said Shanya Kane, vice president and general manager, Gas Chromatography Systems and Workflow. “Sample preparation is fundamental to any analytical laboratory, and over half of the work is still done manually. Agilent is especially well-suited to address the needs of analytical labs because of our expertise in every aspect of the workflow.”

The 7696 supports sample preparation for liquid chromatography and gas chromatography techniques used in a wide range of industries, including pharmaceuticals, petrochemical, food safety and consumer products, forensics and environmental analysis.

The Agilent 7696 Sample Prep Workbench will be available to order Nov. 1.

About Agilent Technologies

Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE: A) is the world’s premier measurement company and a technology leader in chemical analysis, life sciences, electronics and communications. The company’s 18,500 employees serve customers in more than 100 countries. Agilent had net revenues of $4.5 billion in fiscal 2009. Information about Agilent is available on the Web at www.agilent.com