We evaluated the Olympus Demand as a cost-saving measure, as a back up to a Technicon SMAC I, and to be the primary instrument for enzyme analysis. In general, it wasfound to be precise, reliable, easy to operate, but with only average turn-around time capabilities. Technically there were several limitations: (1) significant bilirubin interference in the analysis of serum bicarbonate and creatinine; (2) instability ofthe ion selective electrodes; (3) lengthy routine maintenance requiredfor the ion selective electrode module; (4) serum phosphorus and uric acid methods required blanking due to interferencefrom bilirubin, hemolysis, or lipemia; and (5) serum triglyceride analysis included measurement offree glycerol.