Sample preparation system and cartridge

A sample preparation cartridge 1 for use with a sample preparation device, the cartridge comprising a housing defining plural separate segments 31, 32 containing analytes and/or beads in use, and a moveable pipette positioned above the segments wherein the pipette is arranged to transfer analytes and/or beads from one segment to another in order to prepare a sample for analysis. The pipette comprises a reservoir section 14 capable of supporting fluids and a nozzle section 6 capable of dispensing and aspirating fluids from the segments wherein the segments are arranged around a central axis of the housing and the pipette is arranged to rotate around the axis and lower towards, or raise from a desired segment when it has been rotated to be positioned above the desired segment. The cartridge further comprises a central shaft 5 with passageway 16 that connects with the pipette, the shaft is arranged to rotate with respect to the housing and connect with a drive member 4 of the device. Ideally, the segments comprises a fixed pipette section 8 which engages with the pipette nozzle. Each segments may comprise a fluid seal and the pipette comprises a piercing component to break the seal.