Analytik Jena Biometra TAdvanced Series User manual

Operating Manual
Biometra TAdvanced
High-performance thermal cycler for
DNA amplification by PCR

Biometra GmbH (Analytik Jena GmbH)
Rudolf-Wissell-Str. 30
37079 Göttingen Germany
Phone + 49 551 50 68 60
Fax + 49 551 50 68 666
Email [e-mail]
Biometra GmbH
Rudolf-Wissell-Str. 15
37079 Göttingen Germany
Phone + 49 3641 77 7407
Email [e-mail]
http://www.analytik-jena.com
Operating manual valid from software version ME 1.70 – RE 1.46
Follow these instructions for proper and safe use. Keep for future reference.
34-3800-000-23-e
B (11/2021)
Analytik Jena GmbH
© Copyright 2021, Analytik Jena GmbH
Manufacturer
Service
General information
Documentation number
Edition
Implementation of the
Technical Documentation

Biometra TAdvanced Contents
3
Contents
1Basic information ....................................................................................................... 9
1.1 User manual notes ............................................................................................................ 9
1.2 Intended use.................................................................................................................... 10
2Safety instructions.................................................................................................... 11
2.1 General notes .................................................................................................................. 11
2.2 Safety markings on the Biometra TAdvanced................................................................ 11
2.3 Technical condition ......................................................................................................... 12
2.4 Requirements for the operating personnel.................................................................... 12
2.5 Safety instructions: transport and installation............................................................... 12
2.6 Safety instructions – operation....................................................................................... 13
2.6.1 General ............................................................................................................................ 13
2.6.2 Safety instructions: protection against explosion and fire............................................. 13
2.6.3 Safety instructions: electrical equipment ....................................................................... 13
2.6.4 Handling of samples, auxiliary and operating materials ............................................... 14
2.7 Safety instructions – maintenance and repair ............................................................... 14
2.8 Behavior during emergencies ......................................................................................... 15
3Function and setup................................................................................................... 16
3.1 High speed thermoblock ................................................................................................. 17
3.2 High Performance Smart Lid .......................................................................................... 18
3.3 Display ............................................................................................................................. 18
3.4 User-specific quick start of programs ............................................................................. 18
3.5 Easy programming .......................................................................................................... 19
3.6 Linear Gradient Tool ....................................................................................................... 19
3.7 GLP compliance............................................................................................................... 19
3.8 Open system philosophy................................................................................................. 20
3.9 Order numbers ................................................................................................................ 21
4Installation and commissioning ............................................................................... 22
4.1 Scope of delivery ............................................................................................................. 22
4.2 Unpacking and inspection............................................................................................... 22
4.3 Setting the operating voltage ......................................................................................... 22
4.4 Commissioning................................................................................................................ 23
4.4.1 General setup .................................................................................................................. 23
4.4.2 Installation when used in a network .............................................................................. 23
5Control elements ...................................................................................................... 25
5.1 Biometra TAdvanced front view..................................................................................... 25
5.2 Biometra TAdvanced rear view....................................................................................... 25
5.3 Quick block exchange...................................................................................................... 26
5.4 High Performance Smart Lid (HPSL).............................................................................. 26
5.4.1 Closing the lid.................................................................................................................. 26
5.4.2 Opening the lid................................................................................................................ 27
5.5 The Biometra TAdvanced software ................................................................................ 28
5.5.1 Keyboard.......................................................................................................................... 28
5.5.2 Keypad............................................................................................................................. 29
5.5.3 Cursor keys ...................................................................................................................... 29
5.5.4 Confirm or Cancel............................................................................................................ 29
5.5.5 List of commands and icons used................................................................................... 30
6Operation.................................................................................................................. 35
6.1 Power on self-test........................................................................................................... 35
6.2 Login screen .................................................................................................................... 35
6.3 Login................................................................................................................................ 36
6.4 Home screen.................................................................................................................... 37

Contents Biometra TAdvanced
4
6.5 Block status...................................................................................................................... 38
6.6 Quick start function......................................................................................................... 39
6.7 Incubation mode ............................................................................................................. 42
7Creating, editing and saving programs.................................................................... 47
7.1 Programming modes....................................................................................................... 47
7.2 Creating a new program/using a program template ..................................................... 49
7.3 Assigning program names .............................................................................................. 51
7.4 Setting the heated lid temperature ................................................................................ 51
7.5 Preheating the heated lid ............................................................................................... 52
7.6 Editing steps .................................................................................................................... 52
7.6.1 Editing all parameters of a step...................................................................................... 53
7.6.1.1 Programming loops......................................................................................................... 54
7.6.1.2 Programming a temperature increment......................................................................... 55
7.6.1.3 Programming a time increment...................................................................................... 55
7.6.1.4 Adjusting the ramp rate.................................................................................................. 56
7.6.1.5 Programming a gradient step......................................................................................... 56
7.6.2 Direct programming of program parameters for a step................................................. 61
7.7 Inserting a step................................................................................................................ 64
7.8 Deleting a step................................................................................................................. 64
7.9 Saving the program......................................................................................................... 64
8Starting, coping and deleting programs .................................................................. 67
8.1 Starting a program .......................................................................................................... 67
8.2 Copying a program .......................................................................................................... 69
8.3 Copying all programs....................................................................................................... 70
8.4 Deleting a program ......................................................................................................... 71
8.5 Deleting all programs...................................................................................................... 72
9Running, pausing, continuing and stopping programs ........................................... 74
9.1 Display during a run ........................................................................................................ 74
9.2 Pausing a program .......................................................................................................... 77
9.3 Continuing the program.................................................................................................. 80
9.4 Skipping a step ................................................................................................................ 80
9.5 Stopping the program ..................................................................................................... 80
10 Protocol Wizard ........................................................................................................ 82
10.1 Select Polymerase............................................................................................................ 82
10.2 Enter a new polymerase or edit a polymerase ............................................................... 83
10.3 Delete a polymerase........................................................................................................ 84
10.4 Protocol Wizard parameter screen ................................................................................. 85
10.5 Primer Annealing Temperature Calculator..................................................................... 87
11 Tools ......................................................................................................................... 91
11.1 Configuration................................................................................................................... 91
11.1.1 Setting the date and time ............................................................................................... 92
11.1.2 Automatic user logout..................................................................................................... 93
11.1.3 Configuring the beeper ................................................................................................... 94
11.1.4 Network ........................................................................................................................... 95
11.1.5 Display brightness ........................................................................................................... 97
11.1.6 Screen calibration............................................................................................................ 98
11.1.7 Factory settings ............................................................................................................... 98
11.2 User management........................................................................................................... 99
11.2.1 Creating a user...............................................................................................................101
11.2.2 Editing user settings......................................................................................................102
11.2.3 Delete user.....................................................................................................................105
11.3 Documentation..............................................................................................................105
11.3.1 Run log file.....................................................................................................................106
11.3.2 Power On Logfile...........................................................................................................109

Biometra TAdvanced Contents
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11.3.3 Extended self-test log file .............................................................................................109
11.3.4 Error log file...................................................................................................................110
11.4 Extended self-test .........................................................................................................111
11.5 Service info file (SINF) ..................................................................................................114
11.6 Backup ...........................................................................................................................114
11.7 Cycler Information.........................................................................................................115
11.8 Contact........................................................................................................................... 116
12 Adaptation of programs ......................................................................................... 117
13 Quick reference guide.............................................................................................118
14 Fault removal ......................................................................................................... 123
14.1 Administrator password forgotten ...............................................................................123
14.2 Slow heating and cooling..............................................................................................123
14.3 Auto restart ................................................................................................................... 123
14.4 Auto restart without an apparent cause.......................................................................123
14.5 Adaptation of programs from other thermal cyclers ...................................................124
14.6 Loosening the lid wheel in case of blockage ................................................................124
14.7 Recommendations for the use of 384 well sample blocks ..........................................124
15 Maintenance and care............................................................................................ 126
15.1 Cleaning the housing ....................................................................................................126
15.2 Disinfecting the device ..................................................................................................127
15.3 Firmware update...........................................................................................................127
16 Transport ................................................................................................................ 128
16.1 Device return information............................................................................................. 128
16.2 Packing the Biometra TAdvanced................................................................................. 129
17 Disposal .................................................................................................................. 130
18 Specifications.......................................................................................................... 131
18.1 Model specific data ....................................................................................................... 131
18.2 Specifications for all models .........................................................................................137
19 Declaration of conformity ......................................................................................138
20 Index.......................................................................................................................139
Figures
Fig. 1 The Biometra TAdvanced Thermal Cycler...................................................................... 17
Fig. 2 Voltage selector switch on the underside of the device................................................. 22
Fig. 3 Front view of the Biometra TAdvanced.......................................................................... 25
Fig. 4 Rear view of the Biometra TAdvanced........................................................................... 25
Fig. 5 Quick block exchange...................................................................................................... 26
Fig. 6 Placement of sample tubes in different block systems.................................................. 27
Fig. 7 Keyboard.......................................................................................................................... 28
Fig. 8 Keypad............................................................................................................................. 29
Fig. 9 Start screen...................................................................................................................... 35
Fig. 10 Login screen .................................................................................................................... 36
Fig. 11 Select user screen............................................................................................................ 36
Fig. 12 Enter password screen .................................................................................................... 37
Fig. 13 Home screen.................................................................................................................... 37
Fig. 14 Block status/quick start button....................................................................................... 38
Fig. 15 Program quick start screen (Biometra TAdvanced Mono) ............................................ 40
Fig. 16 Program quick start screen (Biometra TAdvanced Twin).............................................. 41
Fig. 17 Multiblock selection query .............................................................................................. 42

Figures Biometra TAdvanced
6
Fig. 18 Incubation mode screen (Biometra TAdvanced Mono)................................................. 43
Fig. 19 Incubation mode screen (Biometra TAdvanced Twin)................................................... 44
Fig. 20 Multiblock selection query (1) ........................................................................................ 45
Fig. 21 Multiblock selection query (2) ........................................................................................ 46
Fig. 22 Spreadsheet programming ............................................................................................. 47
Fig. 23 Graphical programming .................................................................................................. 48
Fig. 24 Program overview screen................................................................................................ 49
Fig. 25 Blank program template ................................................................................................. 50
Fig. 26 Program template screen................................................................................................ 51
Fig. 27 Heated lid temperature setting screen ........................................................................... 52
Fig. 28 Program step editing screen ........................................................................................... 54
Fig. 29 PCR program with a loop ................................................................................................ 55
Fig. 30 Temperature gradient on a 96 well sample block.......................................................... 57
Fig. 31 Linear Gradient Tool screen (Biometra TAdvanced Mono)........................................... 58
Fig. 32 Standard gradient programming screen (Biometra TAdvanced Mono)........................ 58
Fig. 33 Temperature gradient on a 48 well sample block.......................................................... 59
Fig. 34 Linear Gradient Tool screen (Biometra TAdvanced Twin) ............................................ 60
Fig. 35 Standard gradient programming screen (Biometra TAdvanced Twin) ......................... 60
Fig. 36 Temperature gradient query........................................................................................... 61
Fig. 37 Spreadsheet program view ............................................................................................. 61
Fig. 38 Graphical program view .................................................................................................. 62
Fig. 39 Individual program parameter editing............................................................................ 63
Fig. 40 Gradient view (Biometra TAdvanced Twin) ................................................................... 63
Fig. 41 Program overview screen................................................................................................ 65
Fig. 42 Quick selection screen ..................................................................................................... 66
Fig. 43 Program overview screen................................................................................................ 67
Fig. 44 Program overview screen with preview.......................................................................... 68
Fig. 45 Twinblock selection query............................................................................................... 68
Fig. 46 Program overview screen................................................................................................ 70
Fig. 47 Program overview screen................................................................................................ 71
Fig. 48 Confirmation prompt....................................................................................................... 72
Fig. 49Confirmation prompt....................................................................................................... 73
Fig. 50 Graphical view ................................................................................................................. 74
Fig. 51 Spreadsheet view ............................................................................................................ 75
Fig. 52 Display during the run in a graphical, spreadsheet and gradient view ......................... 75
Fig. 53 Graphical view ................................................................................................................. 76
Fig. 54 Spreadsheet view ............................................................................................................ 76
Fig. 55 Display during the run in a graphical, spreadsheet and gradient view ......................... 77
Fig. 56 Spreadsheet view ............................................................................................................ 78
Fig. 57 Display screen during a program pause (graphical view) .............................................. 78
Fig. 58 Spreadsheet view ............................................................................................................ 79
Fig. 59 Display screen during a program pause (graphical view) .............................................. 79
Fig. 60 Confirmation prompt....................................................................................................... 81
Fig. 61Twinblock selection query............................................................................................... 81
Fig. 62 Confirmation prompt....................................................................................................... 81
Fig. 63 Select polymerase screen ................................................................................................ 82
Fig. 64 Edit polymerase screen ................................................................................................... 83
Fig. 65 Select polymerase screen ................................................................................................ 84
Fig. 66 Security query .................................................................................................................. 84
Fig. 67 Protocol wizard parameter screen.................................................................................. 86
Fig. 68 Protocol wizard view parameter screen.......................................................................... 86
Fig. 69 Security query .................................................................................................................. 87
Fig. 70 Primer annealing temperature calculator screen........................................................... 88
Fig. 71 Edit primer concentration screen.................................................................................... 89
Fig. 72 Tools screen..................................................................................................................... 91
Fig. 73 Settings screen ................................................................................................................ 92
Fig. 74 Date and time entry screen............................................................................................. 93

Biometra TAdvanced Figures
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Fig. 75 Automatic user logout screen ......................................................................................... 94
Fig. 76 Beeper configuration screen........................................................................................... 95
Fig. 77 Network settings screen, IP settings via static ............................................................... 96
Fig. 78 Network settings screen, IP settings via DHCP .............................................................. 96
Fig. 79 Display brightness adjustment screen............................................................................ 97
Fig. 80 Calibration screen............................................................................................................ 98
Fig. 81Confirmation prompt ...................................................................................................... 99
Fig. 82 User management screen ............................................................................................. 100
Fig. 83 Configure user management screen............................................................................. 100
Fig. 84 Create new user screen................................................................................................. 102
Fig. 85 User data screen............................................................................................................ 103
Fig. 86 User properties screen .................................................................................................. 104
Fig. 87 Confirmation prompt .................................................................................................... 105
Fig. 88 Documentation screen .................................................................................................. 106
Fig. 89 Run log file overview screen ......................................................................................... 106
Fig. 90 Run log file screen......................................................................................................... 107
Fig. 91 Program view screen..................................................................................................... 108
Fig. 92 Power on log file screen................................................................................................ 109
Fig. 93 Extended self-test log file screen.................................................................................. 110
Fig. 94 Error log file screen ....................................................................................................... 110
Fig. 95 Sample block loaded with plasticware for the extended self-test...............................112
Fig. 96 Extended self-test screen.............................................................................................. 112
Fig. 97 Extended self-test overview screen (Biometra TAdvanced Mono) .............................113
Fig. 98 Extended self-test overview screen (Biometra TAdvanced Twin)...............................113
Fig. 99 Service info file creation screen ....................................................................................114
Fig. 100 Backup file screen ......................................................................................................... 115
Fig. 101 Cycler Info screen .......................................................................................................... 116
Fig. 102 Service department contact details screen...................................................................116

Figures Biometra TAdvanced
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Biometra TAdvanced Basic information
9
1Basic information
1.1 User manual notes
The Biometra TAdvanced is intended for operation by qualified specialist personnel ob-
serving this operating manual.
For the Biometra TAdvanced, there are 12 different models available. In the text below
these devices are collectively called Biometra TAdvanced. Differences are explained in
the corresponding sections.
The operating manual contains information about the design and operation of the Bi-
ometra TAdvanced and provides personnel familiar with PCR technology with the neces-
sary know-how for the safe handling of the equipment and its components. The operat-
ing manual further includes notes on the maintenance and service of the device and po-
tential causes and remedies of any faults.
These operating instructions apply to all Biometra TAdvanced as of software version ME
1.70 - VRE 1.46 (see "Cycler Information" p.115)
Furthermore, sometimes the terms protocol and program are used synonymously, these
are one or more programmed temperature steps with different or the same holding
times and cycles.
Instructions for actions which occur in chronological order are numbered and combined
in action units.
Safety instructions are indicated by pictographs and signal words. The type and source
of the danger are stated together with notes on preventing the danger.
The elements of the control and analysis program are indicated as bolt.
The operating manual uses the following symbols and signal words to indicate hazards
or instructions. The safety instructions are always placed before an action.
WARNING
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which might cause fatal or very serious inju-
ries (deformities).
CAUTION
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which might cause light or minor
injuries.
NOTICE
Provides indications of potential material and environmental damage.
Conventions
Symbols and signal words

Basic information Biometra TAdvanced
10
1.2 Intended use
The Biometra TAdvanced is an end-point thermal cycler. It is designed to amplify nucleic
acids by repeated cycles of heating and cooling using DNA polymerases in a PCR reac-
tion.
The thermal cycler is developed as product for general laboratory use.
The Biometra TAdvanced combines modern design with user-friendly software. The user
interface consists of a touchscreen with a graphical or spreadsheet display that shows
the time, the status and the temperature program for each run. Using the touchscreen
keyboard, information and program parameters can be entered directly on the screen.
Due to the high ramp rates, the Biometra TAdvanced thermal cycler is suitable for fast
PCR applications, thereby helping to shorten program run times.

Biometra TAdvanced Safety instructions
11
2Safety instructions
2.1 General notes
For your own safety and to ensure error-free and safe operation of the Biometra TAd-
vanced, please read this section carefully before commissioning.
Besides the safety instructions in this user manual and the local safety regulations that
apply to the operation of the device, the general applicable regulations regarding acci-
dent prevention, occupational health and safety and environmental protection have to
be observed and complied with.
References to potential dangers do not replace the work protection regulations which
must be observed.
2.2 Safety markings on the Biometra TAdvanced
Warning and instruction signs are attached to the device, the meaning of which must be
observed.
Damaged or missing warning and instruction signs can lead to incorrect actions with
personal injury and material damage. The signs must not be removed. Damaged warn-
ing and instruction signs must be replaced immediately!
The following warning and instruction signs are attached to the device:
Warning signs Meaning Notice
Warning of danger place Proceed with due care when handling sam-
ples and working with the Biometra TAd-
vanced.
Warning against hot
surface
There is a risk of burning at the heated lid,
the thermal block, the samples, and the rear
of the device.
Instruction signs Meaning Notice
Disposal marking accord-
ing to WEEE directive
Do not dispose of the device in household
waste.
CE marking
Only for People's Republic
of China
The device contains regulated substances.
Biometra guarantees that the substances
will not leak out during the next 25 years if
used as intended.

Safety instructions Biometra TAdvanced
12
Keep ventilation slits clear Keep the ventilation slits on the underside
and at the rear of the device clear. Make
sure that there are no objects underneath
the device (e.g., paper) that may be sucked
against the ventilation slot and thus inter-
fere with ventilation.
2.3 Technical condition
The Biometra TAdvanced has been built and certified according to safety standard
EN 61010-1. Do not modify the device in any way. Any modification of the device will
lead to a loss of warranty and the EN 61010-1 certificate and poses a potential risk.
The following has to be observed:
The operator must only operate the device in a sound and operationally safe condi-
tion. The technical condition must always comply with the legal requirements and
regulations.
Prior to every use the device must be checked for damage and sound condition.
Any changes in the device affecting its safety must be reported by the operating per-
sonnel to the operator without delay.
2.4 Requirements for the operating personnel
The Biometra TAdvanced must only be operated by qualified specialist personnel in-
structed in the use of the device. The instructions also include imparting the contents of
this manual.
In addition to the safety at work instructions in this operating manual the generally ap-
plicable safety and accident prevention regulations of the respective country of opera-
tion must be observed and adhered to. The operator must ascertain the latest version of
these regulations.
The operating manual must be accessible to the operating and service personnel at all
times.
2.5 Safety instructions: transport and installation
The following has to be observed:
Drain the sample block before transporting the Biometra TAdvanced. Make sure
there are no sample tubes in the block.
Only ship the Biometra TAdvanced in its original packaging with the transport lock
installed.
Please verify that the delivery is complete on receipt of the Biometra TAdvanced and
check for possible transport damage. In case of claims please contact Biometra
GmbH.

Biometra TAdvanced Safety instructions
13
2.6 Safety instructions – operation
2.6.1 General
The operator of the Biometra TAdvanced must make sure before each commissioning
that the condition of the device including the safety equipment is sound.
The following has to be observed:
Free access to the power switch on the back of the enclosure has to be ensured dur-
ing operation.
The ventilation fittings at the rear of the device must be unobstructed and opera-
tional. Covered ventilation grilles or slits etc. may cause the device to break down or
may cause damage to it.
The use of oil between the samples and the sample block is not necessary to achieve
an improved heat exchange. However, if you still want to use oil, you should use
mineral oil. Do not use silicone oil.
Be careful to avoid crushing or pinching injuries when closing the device.
The Biometra TAdvanced may cause burns. The following has to be observed:
The thermal block, the samples and the heated lid reach high temperatures. There is
a risk of burns during contact.
Ensure that the lid is securely closed before starting the program! Do not touch the
heated lid!
The rapid heating of the thermal block can cause liquids to boil explosively. Always
wear safety goggles during operation!
Do not touch hot sample tubes or plates and do not open them or boiling liquid may
escape!
Only use plates and tubes that are suitable for high temperatures (up to 100°C), fit
well into the thermal block (no shaking) and whose lids seal tightly!
2.6.2 Safety instructions: protection against explosion and fire
The Biometra TAdvanced must not be operated in an explosive environment.
The Biometra TAdvanced must not be operated with flammable, explosive or volatile
substances.
2.6.3 Safety instructions: electrical equipment
Work on the electrical components of the Biometra TAdvanced may only be performed
by a qualified electrical technician in accordance with the applicable electrical engineer-
ing rules. Life-threatening electrical voltages may occur in the interior of the Biometra
TAdvanced!
The following has to be observed:
Any work on the interior of the device may only be carried out by the customer ser-
vice of Biometra GmbH and specially authorized technicians.

Safety instructions Biometra TAdvanced
14
The electrical components must be checked regularly by a qualified electrician. Any
defects, such as loose connections, faulty or damaged cables, must be repaired with-
out delay.
Before opening the device it must be switched off at the power switch and the mains
plug must be disconnected from the mains outlet!
The Biometra TAdvanced must be switched off immediately using the power switch
(on the equipment back plate) and the mains plug disconnected from the power sup-
ply if any faults occur in the electric components.
Do not operate the device near sources of strong electromagnetic radiation (for ex-
ample, an unshielded, deliberately operated high frequency source), as these may af-
fect proper operation of the device.
2.6.4 Handling of samples, auxiliary and operating materials
The operator is responsible for the selection of substances used in the process as well as
for their safe handling. This is particularly important for radioactive, pathogenic, infec-
tious, poisonous, corrosive or otherwise dangerous substances. For details contact the
safety officer responsible for your location. When handling dangerous substances local
safety codes and guidelines must be observed. The following general notes do not re-
place the specific local regulations or the regulations in the EC safety data sheets of the
manufacturers for the auxiliary and operating materials.
The following has to be observed:
Protective goggles and rubber gloves have to be worn when handing reagents.
If only a few samples are treated, an (empty) tube of the same height must addition-
ally be placed at each corner position of the block. If the number of samples in the
block is too low, there is a risk of the tubes being damaged and sample liquid leaking
out.
For your own safety, please observe the potential infectious qualities of the exam-
ined biological material.
2.7 Safety instructions – maintenance and repair
The Biometra TAdvanced is usually repaired by the service department of Biometra
GmbH or its authorized and trained specialist personnel. Unauthorized repairs can dam-
age the device. Therefore, the operator may generally only carry out the tasks listed in
section "Maintenance and care" p. 126.
The following has to be observed:
The exterior of the device may only be cleaned with a damp, not dripping, cloth after
the device has been switched off.
Do not use alcohol (e.g., methanol or ethanol), organic solvents or abrasives to clean
the device.
Any maintenance on the device may usually only be carried out in the switched-off
condition (unless stated otherwise).
Only use original spare parts, wear parts and consumables. These have been tested
and guarantee safe operation.

Biometra TAdvanced Safety instructions
15
2.8 Behavior during emergencies
In case of danger or accidents, immediately switch off the Biometra TAdvanced using
the main switch on the equipment back plate. Disconnect the mains plug from the
power supply!

Function and setup Biometra TAdvanced
16
3Function and setup
The Biometra TAdvanced thermal cycler is available in the following models:
Model
Biometra TAdvanced 96 with aluminum block
Biometra TAdvanced 96 G with aluminum block with gradient function
Biometra TAdvanced 96 S with silver block
Biometra TAdvanced 96 SG with silver block with gradient function
Biometra TAdvanced 60 with aluminum block
Biometra TAdvanced 60 G with aluminum block with gradient function
Biometra TAdvanced 384 with aluminum block
Biometra TAdvanced 384 G with aluminum block with gradient function
Biometra TAdvanced Twin 48 with aluminum twinblock
Biometra TAdvanced Twin 48 G with aluminum twinblock with gradient function
Biometra TAdvanced Twin 30 with aluminum twinblock
Biometra TAdvanced Twin combi with aluminum twinblock
The device is controlled by a 7'' touchscreen display and an easy-to-use user interface.
PCR protocols and run log files can be saved to a connected USB stick. By using the USB
functions, PCR protocols can be exchanged easily between devices and run log files can
be stored for documentation reasons on a PC.

Biometra TAdvanced Function and setup
17
Fig. 1 The Biometra TAdvanced Thermal Cycler
The Biometra TAdvanced thermal cycler features an automatic restart. If a power failure
occurs during the run, the device will continue the run as soon as power is restored. In
case of long-term power failure (longer than 30 minutes), the device will keep the sam-
ple block at 4 °C (freeze step) and the user can decide to repeat the run with the same
samples or to discard them.
The block with gradient function can optionally be used for the optimization of new pri-
mer pairs. The Linear Gradient Tool allows the programming of gradients with a defined
temperature difference between the rows or columns of the sample block.
This manual provides information on how to use all models of the Biometra TAdvanced
Thermal Cycler most effectively. Functions that are only available for certain versions are
indicated accordingly, for example, "This function is only available for gradient-enabled
thermal cyclers".
3.1 High speed thermoblock
The Biometra TAdvanced Thermal Cycler is available with different block formats and
with quick block exchange technology that allows easy exchange of block modules in a
few seconds. Most blocks are made of aluminum and offer high ramp rates for fast pro-
tocol running times. Additionally, to achieve ultimate performance, a 96 well block
made of silver is available. Due to its excellent heat conductivity silver equilibrates ex-
tremely quickly, thus providing maximum speed and temperature uniformity. To protect
the valuable silver blocks against corrosion, the block surfaces are gold plated.

Function and setup Biometra TAdvanced
18
A rubber seal on the heated lid forms an encapsulated space around the sample block as
soon as the lid is closed. The closed space serves to improve the temperature uniformity
of the sample block and avoids the formation of condensed water at the final PCR cool-
ing step. Furthermore all blocks are perfectly sealed to prevent condensed water from
penetrating into the Peltier elements underneath the sample block and other parts of
the electronics. The sealing protects the Peltier elements and prolongs the lifetime of
the device.
3.2 High Performance Smart Lid
The Biometra TAdvanced heated lid has been optimized to heat twice as fast as with
older models and thus helps to shorten protocol run times. Moreover the heated lid ful-
fills two other important functions: It prevents the formation of condensation at the re-
action tube portion located above the block surface level and it ensures reliable contact
between the reaction tubes and the thermoblock by applying constant pressure. Thanks
to the integrated clutch mechanism, the pressure applied to the reaction tubes is always
the same, regardless of the plasticware height. The combination of the heated lid shape
and the reliable contact pressure ensures even temperature distribution between sam-
ples, thus significantly improving temperature uniformity.
With one press on the front button, the heated lid gently swings open and locks in its
end position. This mechanism ensures that the lid cannot fall down and the heated lid is
out of the radius of action while the user inserts PCR tubes or plates. This prevents any
risk of injury from crushing or hot surfaces.
3.3 Display
The Biometra TAdvanced thermal cycler features a 7" state-of-the-art color touchscreen
user interface. The touchscreen is built-in at a flat angle to ensure reflection-free view-
ing and ergonomic programming. For programming PCR protocols the software incorpo-
rates Biometra's proven spreadsheet philosophy and alternatively offers graphical pro-
gramming. One touch of a button leads from the spreadsheet to the alternative graph-
ical programming mode. This makes the creation of new programs or editing existing
programs fast and easy.
3.4 User-specific quick start of programs
Many other thermal cyclers offer a so-called "List of latest programs used". In the list of
latest programs used a certain number of PCR programs is collected and offered for
quick start. The list is typically ordered only by date and the user has to search for the
desired program. In contrast the Biometra TAdvanced software creates a user-specific
list and only the latest programs started by the currently logged-in user are offered for
quick start. Even if a lab member does not use the device for a longer time, the infor-
mation on the latest programs started by this user will not get lost.
For maximum convenience the Biometra TAdvanced software additionally features a
program preview. Before the start of a program the protocol steps are summarized in a
clearly arranged table by the program preview tool. The preview therefore provides a

Biometra TAdvanced Function and setup
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comprehensive overview of the protocol structure without the need to access program-
ming screens. The program preview is also available before the quick start of programs.
3.5 Easy programming
Creating new PCR programs takes a lot of time if for each single step all parameters
have to be set manually. The Biometra TAdvanced offers two options for easy protocol
creation:
Pre-installed program templates
Protocol wizard
The Biometra TAdvanced software offers several pre-installed program templates for
different applications. The program templates provide a general protocol structure and
can be easily adapted for the current experiment.
The protocol wizard offers the comfort to create specific PCR programs by just a few in-
puts. The protocol wizard is based on program templates for specific polymerases. For
up to eight different polymerases program templates can be saved in the Biometra TAd-
vanced software and just the annealing temperature, cycle number and product length
has to be filled in to create a specific PCR program. Optionally two-step or three-step
PCR programs can be created by the software. Furthermore the protocol wizard includes
a primer annealing temperature calculator and the calculated annealing temperature Ta
value can be used for protocol creation.
3.6 Linear Gradient Tool
For optimizing new primer pairs in a single run the Biometra TAdvanced can optionally
be equipped with a gradient function. Finding the best primer annealing temperature is
crucial for the specificity and efficiency of PCR reactions. Often the optimization of ex-
periments is conducted to a limited extent only leading to unspecific byproducts or re-
duced PCR sensitivity. By using the gradient function, new primer pairs with unknown
annealing temperatures can be tested quickly and optimized in a very short time.
For maximum convenience the Biometra TAdvanced offers the Linear Gradient Tool. For
most other devices the temperature difference from row to row or from column to col-
umn in a gradient step varies across the sample block. The Biometra TAdvanced Linear
Gradient Tool enables the programming of gradient steps with a defined temperature
increment between the columns or rows. The Linear Gradient Tool option allows the
comfortable creation of gradient steps and thus the best annealing temperature can be
easily transformed to a non-gradient protocol.
3.7 GLP compliance
The software can manage up to 90 user accounts. With each system start the Biometra
TAdvanced performs an initial self-test and additionally the software offers an extended
self-test that can be initiated by the user. The results of the extended self-test are sum-
marized in a protocol and stored by the device. In addition to the self-test functions, the

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20
device creates and stores log files for each single run. For long-term storage, the log files
and extended self-test protocols can be exported as a proprietary file format.
3.8 Open system philosophy
The Biometra TAdvanced is an open system regarding consumables and reagents. De-
pending on the sample block, the system can be used with single tubes, strips or plates.
PCR plates can be standard profile or low profile and they can be full-skirted, half/semi-
skirted or non-skirted. The Biometra TAdvanced can handle all kinds of plates and the
plasticware be sealed with domed lids, flat lids, sealing foil or other technologies. Re-
gardless of the sealing method used, thanks to the HPSL technology (see section "High
Performance Smart Lid" p. 18) the same pressure is always applied to the consumables
for absolutely reproducible conditions.
The Biometra TAdvanced thermal cycler is not limited to reagents from a specific vendor
and can be used with any kind of polymerase. Regardless of whether isothermal, hot
start or non-hot start polymerases are used, the Biometra TAdvanced will produce relia-
ble results. By programming a pause step for the initial denaturation, for example, the
system can be used for manual hot start applications. After inserting the samples into
the heating block, the PCR protocol can be started just by pressing "continue".