An integrated fluid delivery and analysis system and components thereof for preparing and/or analyzing samples. The components may include a transport module, a fluidics module, and an analysis module, among others. The system comprises a detection device (1201) configured to detect light from a sample at an examination site, a sample delivery axis extending substantially vertically from the examination site (1604); and at least one material exchange station (1600) along the sample delivery axis above the examination site. Typically, there are: a fluidics head assembly including a dispensing device; a drive mechanism connected to the head assembly for moving the head assembly along a substantially vertical sample delivery axis; and at least two material exchange stations (1600,1602) located along the sample delivery axis, the head assembly being moveable to each material exchange station (1600,1602) to pick up or deposit materials used to conduct an assay.