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Biometra TGRADIENT 48 User Manual

Biometra TGRADIENT 48
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TGRADIENT Manual ___________________________________________________________ 1
Manual
Software Version 4.20
May 2003
Order-No.
050-800 TGradient 48
050-801 TGradient 96
Biometra
biomedizinische Analytik GmbH
Rudolf-Wissell-Str. 30, D-37079 Goettingen
Tel.: 0551/50 686-0; Fax: 0551/50 686-66
email:
info@biometra.co.uk
http://www.biometra.com

Table of Contents

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Biometra TGRADIENT 48 Specifications

General IconGeneral
CategoryThermal Cycler
Temperature Range4-99°C
Block Format48-well
Heating Rate3°C/s
Cooling Rate2°C/s
Block TypeAluminum
Power Supply230 V, 50/60 Hz
Power Consumption600 W
Temperature Uniformity±0.3 °C (at 55 °C)

Summary

Introduction to the TGRADIENT Thermocycler

Before You Start: Safety and Warnings

Essential Safety Warnings

Critical safety instructions for electrical hazards and proper usage, including voltage selector checks.

Understanding Warning Symbols

Explanation of symbols indicating high temperatures, explosive boiling, and ventilation requirements.

TGRADIENT Thermocycler Overview

Front View and Control Panel

Identification of front panel components including display, keypad, power switch, and lid release.

Rear Panel Connectivity

Details of rear ports like RS-232, parallel printer, and fuse holder.

Detailed Control Panel Functions

Explanation of the graphical display, function keys, and cursor navigation for operation.

Initial Self Test Procedure

The instrument's self-test sequence upon startup, displaying serial number and software version.

Understanding the TGRADIENT Display

Information conveyed by the instrument's operational display regarding program status.

Heated Lid Operation and Adjustment

Procedures for closing, opening, and adjusting the heated lid for optimal pressure.

Releasing a Blocked Heated Lid

Step-by-step guide to unlock the lid mechanism if it becomes stuck or arrested.

Creating and Managing PCR Programs

Selecting Program Directories

Choosing storage locations for PCR programs, including main and subdirectories.

Storing PCR Programs

Options for saving programs in the main directory or individual subdirectories.

Naming Subdirectories

Process for assigning descriptive names to program storage subdirectories.

Naming PCR Programs

Assigning descriptive names to individual PCR programs for easier retrieval.

Setting Heated Lid Temperature

Configuring the temperature for the instrument's heated lid, recommended 10°C above denaturation.

Lid Pre-heating Options

Enabling or disabling the lid pre-heating function to prevent condensation.

Setting Temperature and Time Parameters

Inputting temperature, time, gradient, and optimization values for each PCR step.

Configuring Temperature Gradients

Setting up temperature variations across the block for reaction optimization.

Viewing Gradient Temperatures

Checking the actual temperatures across block rows during gradient use.

Setting Cycle Numbers and Loops

Defining the total number of cycles and backloop repetitions for a program.

Sub-Ambient Cooling Settings

Programming temperatures below ambient conditions for specific applications.

Saving PCR Programs

Finalizing and storing created PCR programs in the instrument's permanent memory.

View/Edit Program Data

Deleting and Inserting Program Steps

Modifying individual steps within a PCR program by deleting or inserting new steps.

Copying Programs to Memory

Duplicating existing programs to different storage locations or directories.

Deleting PCR Programs

Removing unwanted programs from the instrument's memory.

Further Programming Options

Program Time Increments

Adjusting time per cycle to compensate for enzyme activity loss.

Program Touch Down Feature

Gradually decreasing annealing temperature across cycles for optimization.

Adjusting Heating and Cooling Ramps

Modifying the speed of temperature changes between steps for compatibility.

Run Program

Selecting and Starting a Program

Procedure for choosing and initiating a PCR run from stored programs.

Display During Program Execution

Information conveyed by the instrument's operational display during a run.

Viewing Remaining Run Time

Checking the estimated time left for the current program execution.

Monitoring Gradient Temperatures

Real-time view of temperatures across the block during gradient runs.

Pausing and Stopping Programs

How to temporarily halt or permanently stop an active program.

Special Functions

Printing PCR Protocols

Options for printing program data, graphic protocols, and all programs.

Beep Signal On/Off

Enabling or disabling audible signals for program events like pause or finish.

Selecting Display Language

Switching the instrument's interface language between English and German.

RS232 Communication Control

Information on PC control via RS232 interface using Tcontrol iT software.

Setting Block Type

Configuring the instrument for different block module types (e.g., 48-well, 96-well).

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Instrument Maintenance

Guidelines for cleaning and maintaining the instrument's housing.

Exchanging Instrument Modules

Instructions for removing and installing different block modules using hexagonal keys.

Troubleshooting Slow Heating and Cooling

Diagnosing and resolving issues with slow temperature ramps due to fan inlet blockage.

Restart After Power Failure

Handling restarts due to power interruptions or fluctuations and avoiding shared power sources.

Appendix and Support Information

Technical Specifications

Detailed technical data and specifications of the TGRADIENT 96.

Ordering Information

Part numbers and details for ordering the cycler and compatible modules.

Instructions for Return Shipment

Procedures for safely returning the instrument for service, including decontamination.

Product Warranty Information

Terms and conditions of the instrument's warranty coverage.

Equipment Decontamination Certificate

Form required for certifying equipment decontamination before handling or repair.