In November 2009, it was announced that Becton Dickinson & Company (BD) had acquired HandyLab. HandyLab was in the business of developing and manufacturing portable, low-cost nucleic acid and protein-based analysis systems. The patented, self-contained microfluidic systems are capable of integrating and automating multiple laboratory processes on a single chip. The company focuses on applications requiring a high degree of sensitivity, specificity and speed in testing capabilities. HandyLab's microfluidic systems use only nanoliters of reagents, making it a cost-effective alternative to traditional laboratory testing. In addition, the disposable, single-use cartridges can be manufactured inexpensively and used to perform a wide variety of bio-assays. Designed for point-of-service and field use, minimally-skilled personnel can perform tests and analysis on raw clinical specimens in a portable unit in less than 30 minutes. The firm has multiple collbaorations with major players.