Omega Engineering 48, 20, 30, 25 manual Introduction, Safety and installation, Operator Safety

1. Introduction

The Cycler TCY provides the researcher with the means of accurately controlling the temperature profile of samples. It has many scientific applications, including DNA amplification and sequencing. The Cycler TCY can cycle samples between 4°C and 99°C.

The Cycler TCY is programmed by means of an integral keypad and LCD display. A program, which can be recalled from memory, consists of:

∙a series of specified temperatures in °C

∙the times for which each specified temperature will be held (Hold Times)

∙the desired heating or cooling rates, in °C/sec, between each specified temperature

∙optional instructions as to whether the times and/or the temperatures are to increase or decrease when a cycle is repeated.

The memory can store up to 80 programs.

Cycler TCY is the most economic personal thermal cycler. There are four types of blocks can be chosen for this model: 0.2ml X 25 and 0.5ml X 20 wells blocks which have less sample compartment but with higher ramping rate; 0.2 ml X 48 and 0.5ml X 60 wells blocks which have more wells but less ramping rate.

Before using the TCY units, make sure you have read this manual carefully. If there is any doubt relating to the proper use of this equipment contact Omega Flow Engineering for assistance.

2. Safety and installation

Operator Safety

Please read this manual carefully before using the thermal cycler. If the equipment is not used in the manner described in this manual the protection provided by the equipment might be impaired.

All Omega Engineering, Inc. instruments are designed to conform to international safety requirements and are fitted with an over-temperature cut-out. If a safety problem should be encountered then switch off the unit at the power source and remove the plug from the electricity supply.

Warning

HIGH TEMPERATURES ARE DANGEROUS as they can cause serious burns to operators and ignite combustible material. Users should be aware of the following potential hazards:

∙USE CARE AND WEAR PROTECTIVE GLOVES TO PROTECT HANDS

∙DO NOT use combustible substances near hot objects

∙DO NOT operate the instrument in the vicinity of inflammable liquids or gases

∙DO NOT place any liquid directly into the instrument, always use the appropriate plastic consumables

After heating samples, remember that parts of the instrument, namely the lid and block and any associated accessories may be very hot.

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