Applied Biosystems SimpliAmp Thermal Cycler - Page 33

Decontaminate the sample wells
If the sample wells become contaminated with any biological agents, clean the wells
thoroughly with a coon swab soaked in 1:10 v/v dilution of 5.25% sodium
hypochlorite (Clorox
®
bleach).
IMPORTANT! Use bleach solution in moderation. We recommend the use of 10%
bleach solution for removing contamination from the SimpliAmp
™
instrument sample
block(s); excessive use of the solution, however, can corrode the sample block(s)
material. To prevent damage to the sample block(s):
·
Avoid applying excessive amounts of bleach solution. If possible, instead of using a
squeeze bole or soaked cloth, use an atomizer to deliver the solution to the wells
of the block(s).
·
After treating with bleach solution, rinse the sample block(s) thoroughly using
deionized water.
Note: Removing residual bleach from the surfaces of the instrument using water
minimizes the long-term eects of bleach treatments.
If the sample block(s) become contaminated with radioactivity, use a commercially
available decontaminant to remove the contamination. If the block(s) cannot be
decontaminated, the instrument cannot be returned for service.
Clean the heated cover
Clean the heated cover once a month or as needed.
CAUTION! During instrument operation, the temperature of the heated cover
can be as high as 110°C based on the touchscreen maximum cover set point
allowed, and the temperature of the sample block can be as high as 100°C.
Before performing the procedure, keep hands away until the heated cover and
sample block reach room temperature.
To clean the heated cover:
1.
Follow the steps in “Preparation“ on page 32.
2.
Open the heated cover.
3.
Soak a
coon swab or piece of clean cloth with isopropanol and gently wipe the
heated platen.
WARNING! CHEMICAL HAZARD. Isopropanol is a ammable liquid
and vapor. Exposure may cause eye, skin, and upper respiratory tract
irritation. Prolonged or repeated contact may dry skin and cause irritation.
Exposure may cause central nervous system eects such as drowsiness,
dizziness, and headache. Read the MSDS, and follow the handling
instructions.
4.
Remove any remaining isopropanol from the cover.
Note: If the platen becomes contaminated with amplied DNA, then raise the
heated cover to the cleaning position, wipe the platen with a cloth or coon swab
soaked in bleach, then rinse with water.
Chapter 4
Maintain the instrument
As-needed maintenance
4
SimpliAmp
™
Thermal Cycler User Guide 33