Automated specimen transfer system and method

A continuous sample processing system, comprising:

• a sample input adapted to receive at least one sample container holder manually provided by a user;
• a consumable input adapted to receive one or more unused consumable supplies manually provided by a user;
• a waste output adapted to receive used consumable supplies;
• an automated processing apparatus, comprising:
• a decapper adapted to remove a lid from at least one sample container provided in the at least one sample container holder, the at least one sample container having contents comprising a specimen,
• at least one agitator adapted to agitate the at least one sample container and homogenize the contents,
• a sample collector adapted to remove the specimen from the at least one sample container and transfer the specimen to at least one output carrier, and
• a capper adapted to replace the lid on the at least one sample container;
• and
• a sample output adapted to
• receive the at least one output carrier, and
• present the at least one output carrier to a user for manual removal.