The Fisher Scientific Isotemp Hybridization Incubators are designed for processing nucleic and protein blots in hybridization procedures. These incubators offer precise temperature control, maintaining chamber temperatures between slightly above ambient and 85°C. The temperature is easily set via front panel controls, and a large, bright display shows the actual temperature during operation. Keypad protection is a useful feature that prevents accidental changes to the set temperature, particularly when the unit is operating unattended.
Function Description:
The primary function of the hybridization incubator is to provide a controlled temperature environment for hybridization processes. The unit utilizes a rotisserie or an optional rocker to agitate samples, ensuring uniform membrane coverage. The rotisserie's rotation speed is adjustable via a front panel knob, and a jog control allows for step-by-step rotation to facilitate tube insertion and removal. The incubator features a glass door for sample observation during processing and an interior made of stainless steel for durability and easy maintenance.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Power Requirements:
- 100 VAC ±10%, 50/60 Hz
- 120 VAC ±10%, 60 Hz
- 230 VAC ±10%, 50/60 Hz
- Current (Small/Medium Unit): 3.4 A @ 120 VAC, 1.8 A @ 230 VAC
- Current (Dual Unit): 6.8 A @ 120 VAC, 3.6 A @ 230 VAC
- Ambient Conditions: +16 to 40°C, up to 90% RH, non-condensing
- Temperature Range: Ambient +7 to 85°C
- Average Uniformity: ±0.5°C at 55°C within the chamber; ±0.25°C at 55°C sample to sample
- Heat-up Time: 20 minutes from ambient to 65°C
- Rotisserie Speed: 5-15 rpm
- Maximum Altitude: 2000 m
- Over-voltage Category: I (IEC 664)
- Pollution Degree: 2 (IEC 664)
- Exterior Dimensions (W x L x H):
- Small: 18 x 16.5 x 17 inches (46 x 42 x 44 cm)
- Medium: 18 x 20 x 20.5 inches (46 x 51 x 53 cm)
- Dual: 18 x 20 x 41 inches (46 x 51 x 104 cm)
- Weight:
- Small: 45 lbs (21 kg)
- Medium: 55 lbs (25 kg)
- Dual: 105 lbs (48 kg)
Usage Features:
- Temperature Control: Users can set the desired temperature between 0.0 and 85.0°C using arrow keys. A brief press displays the set temperature, while holding the keys adjusts it.
- Offset Temperature: An offset temperature can be programmed to compensate for the actual temperature inside a typical sample tube, allowing for recalibration to achieve higher accuracy at specific temperatures or to match sample temperature.
- Keypad Protection: This feature disables the arrow keys, preventing unintended changes to the set temperature, which is beneficial for unattended processing programs.
- Temperature Deviation Monitoring: The incubator can monitor and store the maximum deviation of the actual temperature from the set temperature. This deviation can be recalled and reset.
- Safety Thermostat: A separate safety thermostat limits the incubator temperature to approximately 95°C in case of a temperature controller failure, indicated by an ALARM light on the front panel.
- Rotisserie System:
- Capacity:
- Small unit: 4 x 35x300 mm tubes or 8 x 35x150 mm tubes (supplied); optional 2 x 70x300 mm tubes.
- Medium unit: 10 x 35x300 mm tubes or 20 x 35x150 mm tubes (supplied); optional 4 x 70x300 mm tubes.
- Dual unit: Two rotisseries, identical to the medium unit.
- Variable Axis Motion: For lower sample volumes, the rotisserie can be adjusted for variable axis motion, angling the sample tubes to assist in hybridization.
- Loading/Unloading: Sample tubes are pressed into clips on the rotisserie. The rotisserie motor switch's jog position allows for precise positioning during loading and unloading.
- Rocker Option: An alternative to the rotisserie, the rocker is available for medium and dual units for agitating samples. It replaces the rotisserie and has a maximum sample weight capacity of 7 lbs (3.2 kg), which should be evenly distributed.
- Stackability: Small and medium units are stackable with an optional stacking plate.
- Mounting: The small incubator can be mounted under a cabinet or counter with an optional mounting bracket. Dual models require securing to a wall with an included bracket for stability.
Maintenance Features:
- Cleaning: The interior chamber walls are stainless steel and should be cleaned regularly to prevent corrosion. The exterior is painted metal and plastic, cleanable with warm water or a mild cleaning solution.
- Drip Tray: A drip tray is installed inside the incubator chamber and should be removed for cleaning.
- Cleaning Precautions: Unplug the unit and allow it to cool before cleaning. Do not use steel wool on stainless steel surfaces to avoid rust. Use a stainless steel cleaner for heavy residue or corrosion. Rinse with clean water and air dry.
- Fuse Replacement: Two fuses are located in the power entry module on the rear of most units. Replacement involves turning off power, removing the power cord, sliding out the fuse holder with a thin blade screwdriver, replacing fuses, and snapping the holder back into place. Double pole neutral fusing is used.
- Belt Tension Adjustment: For specific models, instructions are provided to tighten loose belt tension by accessing the motor bracket from the bottom (small units) or rear (medium/dual units) of the chassis. This involves turning off power, removing the power cord, disassembling part of the chassis, loosening nuts, sliding the motor to tighten the belt, and reassembling.