Analytik Jena Biometra TPersonal 20 User manual

Instruction Manual
Ver. 09/10
Model Order No.
TPersonal 20 050-550
TPersonal 48 050-551
TPersonal Combi 050-552
•
Please read these instructions carefully before using this
apparatus!
•
Biometra GmbH
Rudolf-Wissell-Str. 30
D-37079 Göttingen
Tel.: ++49 (0)551-50 68 6-0
Fax: ++49 (0)551-50 68 6-66
email: [email protected]
Internet: http://www.biometra.com
Service Department
Rudolf-Wissell-Strasse 14-16
D-37079 Göttingen
Tel.: ++49 (0)551-50 68 6-10 or -12
Fax: ++49 (0)551-50 68 6-11
email: [email protected]

2 Instruction Manual TPersonal 10/2009
This document describes the state at the time of publishing. It needs not necessarily agree with
future versions.
Subject to change!

Instruction Manual TPersonal 10/2009 3
Contents
1Introduction......................................................................................................................... 6
1.1 Field of Applications ..................................................................................................... 6
1.2 Special features............................................................................................................ 6
1.2.1 TPersonal block modules ..................................................................................... 6
1.2.2 TPersonal heating and cooling rates.................................................................... 6
1.2.3 TPersonal operating software............................................................................... 6
1.3 Technical specifications TPersonal Thermocycler........................................................ 7
1.4 Legal Notes .................................................................................................................. 8
1.4.1 PCR License – Legal Disclaimer.......................................................................... 8
1.4.2 Copyright .............................................................................................................. 8
1.4.3 Liability.................................................................................................................. 8
1.4.4 Meaning of the Instructions................................................................................... 8
2Safety and Warning Notices.............................................................................................. 9
2.1 Definition of Symbols.................................................................................................... 9
2.2 General Safety Instructions .......................................................................................... 9
3Installation......................................................................................................................... 12
3.1 Content of delivery...................................................................................................... 12
3.2 Unpack and Check ..................................................................................................... 12
3.3 Installation Conditions ................................................................................................ 12
3.4 Operation Voltage....................................................................................................... 13
3.5 Initial self test.............................................................................................................. 14
4Operating elements.......................................................................................................... 15
4.1 The TPersonal front view............................................................................................ 15
4.2 The TPersonal rear view ............................................................................................ 16
4.3 The TPersonal control panel ...................................................................................... 17
4.4 High Performance Smart Lid (HPSL).......................................................................... 18
5Operating........................................................................................................................... 19
5.1 The TPersonal display................................................................................................ 19
5.2 Navigation within the TPersonal software................................................................... 19
5.3 Create program .......................................................................................................... 19
5.3.1 Select directory................................................................................................... 19
5.3.2 Select program store .......................................................................................... 20
5.3.3 Enter program name........................................................................................... 21
5.3.4 Enter lid temperature.......................................................................................... 22
5.3.5 Select / deselect lid pre-heating.......................................................................... 22
5.3.6 Enter temperature and time settings................................................................... 23
5.3.7 Set loop............................................................................................................... 24
5.3.8 Cool below ambient temperature........................................................................ 25
5.3.9 Save program..................................................................................................... 25
5.4 Edit programs ............................................................................................................. 26

4 Instruction Manual TPersonal 10/2009
5.4.1 Delete program steps..........................................................................................26
5.4.2 Insert program steps ...........................................................................................27
5.4.3 Copy program......................................................................................................28
5.4.4 Delete program....................................................................................................30
5.5 Further programming options......................................................................................31
5.5.1 Program time increments ....................................................................................31
5.5.2 Program touch down ...........................................................................................32
5.5.3 Adjust heating and cooling rates .........................................................................32
5.6 Run program ...............................................................................................................32
5.6.1 Select and start program.....................................................................................32
5.6.2 View program prior to start..................................................................................33
5.6.3 Display during operation......................................................................................34
5.6.4 View remaining run time......................................................................................34
5.6.5 Pause / stop program..........................................................................................34
5.7 System settings...........................................................................................................35
5.7.1 System info..........................................................................................................35
5.7.2 Switch beep on/off...............................................................................................36
5.7.3 Select language...................................................................................................36
5.7.4 Display contrast...................................................................................................36
5.7.5 Diagnostics..........................................................................................................37
6Short manual.....................................................................................................................38
7Trouble shooting...............................................................................................................42
7.1 Slow heating and cooling ............................................................................................42
7.2 Restart due to unrecognised power failure..................................................................42
7.3 Adaptation of protocols from other cyclers..................................................................42
7.4 Lid can not be opened.................................................................................................42
7.5 Releasing wheel in case of blocked lid........................................................................42
8Maintenance and repair....................................................................................................44
8.1 Cleaning and Maintenance..........................................................................................44
8.2 Servicing and repair ....................................................................................................44
8.3 Firmware update .........................................................................................................44
8.4 Replacement of Spare Parts.......................................................................................44
9Accessories.......................................................................................................................45
9.1 Plasticware..................................................................................................................45
10 Service ...............................................................................................................................46
10.1 Instructions for return shipment...................................................................................46
10.2 Packing of the Thermocycler.......................................................................................47
11 Equipment Decontamination Certificate.........................................................................48
12 Note for the disposal of electric / electronic waste. ......................................................50
13 Declaration of Conformity................................................................................................51

Instruction Manual TPersonal 10/2009 5
14 Warranty............................................................................................................................ 52
15 Subject Index.................................................................................................................... 53

6 Instruction Manual TPersonal 10/2009
1 Introduction
1.1 Field of Applications
Today thermocycling is a standard technique in all molecular biology labs. The new Biometra
TPersonal Thermocycler is licensed for PCR applications (research use only) and intended to
be used for performing polymerase chain reactions. The instrument accounts for the increased
demand for flexibility and prevents bottlenecks whenever a limited number of samples have to
be amplified with different protocols. Due to a new memory structure the programming of the
TPersonal Thermocycler is now even easier and delivers highest ease of use to the customer.
1.2 Special features
1.2.1 TPersonal block modules
The TPersonal Thermocycler is available with three different block formats. For standard
applications a 48 well block for 0.2 ml single tubes, strips of 8 tubes or 48 well microplates is
offered. For large volumes a 20 well block for 0.5 ml tubes is available. The combi block offers
maximal flexibility for the use of different sized tubes. The combi block has a capacity for up to
48 x 0.2 ml tubes, strips or plates or 18 x 0.5 ml tubes. When using "small cap tubes" the
capacity increases to 35 x 0.5 ml tubes for the combi block.
1.2.2 TPersonal heating and cooling rates
The TPersonal was developed to meet highest demands. The result is a thermal cycler that
reaches the highest heating and cooling rates in the class of personal thermal cyclers and
excellent temperature uniformity. The high heating and cooling rates ensure specific reaction
conditions and the superior temperature uniformity guarantees that the reaction conditions are
identical in every position of the block.
1.2.3 TPersonal operating software
The TPersonal operating software has been redesigned to ensure easy user management and
clear menu guidance. At the same time the instrument was equipped with a new front panel for
faster navigation through the user menu. The clear user interface in conjunction with the large
screen makes TPersonal Thermocycler an intuitive to operate system.

Instruction Manual TPersonal 10/2009 7
1.3 Technical specifications TPersonal Thermocycler
Order number 050-550 050-551 050-552
Model TPersonal 20 TPersonal 48 TPersonal combi
Block capacity 20 x 0,5 ml-
tubes
48 x 0,2 ml-tubes,
stripes,
48 well-microplates
18 x 0,5 ml-tubes,**
48 x 0,2 ml-tubes,
stripes,
48 well-microplates
Max. heating rate*3°C/sec.
Max. cooling rate*3°C/sec.
Block material Aluminium
Temperature range 3°C – 99°C
Lid temperature range 30°C – 99°C
Control accuracy +0,1°C
Temperature uniformity +0,5°C after 15 sec.
Display High brightness CFL backlight graphical LC Display,
viewing area 124 mm x 34 mm, resolution 256 x 64 dots
Heated lid High Precision Smart Lid for optimum lid pressure and excellent
temperature uniformity, temperature range 30.0 - 99.0 °C
Noise emission very low
Ports serial: RS232 (bi-directional data transfer),
port for in tube-sensor
Memory Total capacity: 1500 steps in 10 directories with maximum 100
programs each, max. 99 steps/program, max. 99 cycles
Software Program steps are easily entered in a spread sheet
Options: time increment, temperature increment, set ramping rate
Autorestart function yes
Cool samples at 4°C yes
Line voltage 100 Volt, 115 Volt or 230 Volt
Frequency 50-60 Hz
Power consumption max. 260 Watt
Fuses see label on the back of the instrument
Dimensions (WxDxH) 21,7 x 30,7 x 14,9 cm
Storage conditions 5°C –35°C
Operating conditions 5°C – 35°C, max. 70% humidity, max. 2000 m NN
Weight 6,7 kg
*measured inside the block
** Capacity increases to 35 x 0.5 ml tubes by use of small cap tubes

8 Instruction Manual TPersonal 10/2009
1.4 Legal Notes
1.4.1 PCR License – Legal Disclaimer
Purchase of a Biometra Thermocycler conveys a limited non-transferable immunity from suit for
the purchaser’s own internal research and development and applied fields other than human in
vitro diagnostics under one or more of US Patents Nos. 5,038,852, 5,656,493, 5,333,675,
5,475,610, and 6,703,236, or corresponding claims in their non-US counterparts, owned by
Applera Corporation.
No right is conveyed expressly, by implication or by estoppel under any patent claim, reagents,
kits, or methods such as 5´ nuclease methods, or under any other apparatus or system claim,
including but not limited to US Patent No. 6,814,934 and its non-US counterparts, which
describe and claim thermal cyclers capable of real-time detection.
Further information on purchasing licenses may be obtained by contacting the Director of
Licensing, Applied Biosystems, 850 Lincoln Centre Drive, Foster City, California 94404, USA.
Biometra biomedizinische Analytik GmbH
Rudolf Wissell Str. 30
37079 Goettingen, Germany
1.4.2 Copyright
All rights reserved. It is not allowed to copy and publish the manual or parts of it in any form as
copies, micro film or other methods without a written authorisation from Biometra.
Biometra is pointing out that applied company and brand names are usually protected trade
marks.
1.4.3 Liability
Biometra is not liable for damages and injuries caused by use not considering these operating
instructions in parts or completely.
1.4.4 Meaning of the Instructions
Biometra recommends that you first read these instructions carefully. This operation instruction
is part of the product and should be kept over the full life-time of the instrument. It should also
be forwarded to subsequent owners and users. Make sure that additions and updates are
inserted into the operation instructions.

Instruction Manual TPersonal 10/2009 9
2 Safety and Warning Notices
2.1 Definition of Symbols
Symbol Definition
Caution! Refer to instruction manual!
Danger! High voltage!
Fragile!
Danger! Hot surface!
2.2 General Safety Instructions
Please read this manual carefully before starting operation of the TPersonal Thermocycler. The
TPersonal Thermocycler is intended for sample incubation at varying temperatures.
•General safety precautions for laboratory work must be observed when working with the
TPersonal Thermocycler.
•The TPersonal does not produce a sound power level that could be hazardous for the user.
The thermoblock and the heated lid will reach high temperatures
during operation. Both thermoblock and heated lid can burn you.
Rapid heating of the thermoblock can cause liquids to boil
explosively. Always wear safety goggles during operation. Close the
lid before starting a program.
Do not heat samples without having the lid locked securely.
Be aware that samples are reaching high temperatures. Do not touch
or open hot tubes or microplates, because hot liquid may quickly spill
out.
Do not touch the heated lid.
Use only suited plastic ware in the TPersonal thermocycler. Tubes
and plates must show good fit when placed in the thermoblock. Only
use tubes that are suited for high temperatures (tight lids).

10 Instruction Manual TPersonal 10/2009
The TPersonal Thermocycler contains no user serviceable parts. Do
not open the housing instrument. Service and repair may only be
carried out by the Biometra Service department or otherwise
qualified technical personal.
Do not use the instrument when damages of the housing, block,
cable or other parts are visible.
Prior to connecting the unit to the power source please ensure that
the voltage selector at the bottom of the instrument is set to the
required voltage.
Make sure that the main supply voltage is in accordance with the
label above the power connection (see section 4.2)
Unplug the power cable before you open the TPersonal
Thermocycler. Danger of electric shock!
Make sure that the appliance connector and the plug of the supply
cord are accessible, so you can separate the instrument from the
mains.
Connect the TPersonal Thermocycler to a grounded socket.
When only few samples are put in the block place additional tubes in
the four corner positions. This is to evenly distribute the lid pressure
and prevents single tubes from excessive pressure. Use of few tubes
may result in damage of the tubes by excessive pressure.
Appropriate safety regulations must be observed when working with
infectious, pathogenic or radioactive material. Ask the responsible
local safety inspector for details.
The TPersonal Thermocycler must not be used with explosive,
flammable or volatile liquids.
Do not place fingers between lid and housing when opening or
closing the lid.
Before opening of the lid, release lid pressure
It is not necessary to apply oil into the opening of the block in order
to improve the heat transfer between the block and the sample
tubes.
If you still decide to use oil, do not use silicon oil. Mineral oil may be
used.
Ensure that both the rear and bottom ventilation slits not clogged by
dust or other material. Danger of overheating!
Let equilibrate the TPersonal Thermocycler to room temperature
before starting operation.
There must be sufficient distance between the ventilation slots on the
rear side of the Thermocycler and a wall or another instrument (min
10 cm). Danger of overheating!

Instruction Manual TPersonal 10/2009 11
This instrument is designed and certified to meet EN 61010-1 safety
standards. It should not be modified or altered in any way. Alteration
of this instrument will void the warranty, void the EN61010-1
certification, and create a potential safety hazard.
Place the TPersonal Thermocycler on a stable, non flammable
surface in a dry, safe environment. For details see working
conditions in table “Technical specifications” (see chapter 1.3).
Do not use alcohol (e.g. methanol, ethanol), organic solvents or
abrasives to clean the instrument.
For transports always use the original Biometra box.

12 Instruction Manual TPersonal 10/2009
3 Installation
3.1 Content of delivery
1) Thermocycler
2) Mains connector
3) Manual
4) Short Manual
Please keep the original packaging material for return shipment in case of servicing. The
TPersonal shipping box provides a specially developed system for contact-free transport of this
electronic device.
3.2 Unpack and Check
Unpack and carefully examine the instrument. Report any damage to Biometra. Do not attempt
to operate this device if physical damage is present.
Please keep the original packing material for return shipment in case of service issues
!! Attention !!
Please fill out and send back the warranty registration card. This is important for you to
claim full warranty.
3.3 Installation Conditions
•Place the TPersonal Thermocycler on a stable surface in a dry, safe environment. For
details see working conditions in table “Technical specifications” (see chapter 1.3).
•Let equilibrate the TPersonal Thermocycler to room temperature before starting operation (1
to 6h).
•Make sure that the appliance connector and the plug of the supply cord are accessible, so
you can separate the instrument from the mains.
•Make sure that the ventilation slots on the bottom and the rear are not obstructed. Make
sure that there is no object underneath the thermocycler that may block the ventilation slots
at the bottom (e.g. a piece of paper etc.)
•There must be sufficient distance between the ventilation slots on the rear side of the
Thermocycler and a wall or another instrument (min 10 cm).
Ensure that both the rear and bottom ventilation slits of the
rear and bottom of the instrument are unobstructed.
Insufficient ventilation can cause overheating of the
instrument.

Instruction Manual TPersonal 10/2009 13
•Make sure that the main supply voltage is in accordance with the label above the power
connection (see section 3.4)
•Connect the TPersonal Thermocycler to a grounded socket.
Prior to connecting the unit to the power source please ensure that the
voltage selector at the back side of the instrument is set to the required
voltage.
Danger of electric shock! Unplug the power cable before you open the
TPersonal Thermocycler.
•The display contrast can be adjusted to local light conditions (5.7.4)
3.4 Operation Voltage
The TPersonal Thermocycler can operate at 100, 115 or 230 Volt.
Important: Prior to connecting the TPersonal to the mains, make sure that the setting of the
Voltage selector at the bottom of the instrument is in accordance with your mains Voltage and
that it is equipped with the correct fuses.
1. To change the operation Voltage settings switch off the instrument and disconnect the mains
plug.
2. Use a coin or another round shape item to turn the adjustment slot of the Voltage selector at
the bottom side of the instrument (see picture 1) to the new Voltage setting.
3. Pull out the fuse holder at the backside of the TPersonal (see picture 2). Load the fuse holder
with two fuses corresponding to the designated operation Voltage. At an operation Voltage of
230V use two slow-blow fuses of 2 Ampere (2x 2ATT), at an operation Voltage of 100 or 115
Volt use two slow-blow fuses of 4 Ampere (2x 4ATT).
4. Reinsert the fuse holder.
5. Switch on the instrument.

14 Instruction Manual TPersonal 10/2009
3.5 Initial self test
After switching on the TPersonal the serial number of the instrument and the software version is
displayed.
T Personal
Serial number
Block type
Vers. (c) biometra 2008
The TPersonal then checks all programs in all subdirectories (so called RAM check).
T Personal
Serial number
Block type
Checking directory 7 program 4

Instruction Manual TPersonal 10/2009 15
4 Operating elements
4.1 The TPersonal front view
Power switch
Dis
p
la
y
Context sensitive
menu buttons
Lid wheel for
adjustment of lid
pressure
Lid pressure
lock
Keypad

16 Instruction Manual TPersonal 10/2009
4.2 The TPersonal rear view
Easy to clean
operating surface
Power cord plug
Fuse holder for 2 fuses, for
specification of fuses see
type label on the instruments
backside

Instruction Manual TPersonal 10/2009 17
4.3 The TPersonal control panel
Power switch Context sensitive
menu buttons Cursor keys
Display
Easy to clean
operating surface
Keypad

18 Instruction Manual TPersonal 10/2009
4.4 High Performance Smart Lid (HPSL)
To achieve optimum pressure on the tubes the TPersonal is equipped with a height adjustable
heated lid.
Close the lid:
After the samples have been placed in the block close the lid. Turn the wheel clockwise until
you hear a clicking noise. In this mode the pressure will not increase further, even when you
keep on turning the wheel.
Note: The pressure of the lid has been optimized for a fully loaded block. If only very few tubes
are loaded to the block you should place dummy tubes in the four corner positions to avoid
damage of tubes by excessive pressure.
Open the lid:
First: Release pressure by turning the wheel counter clockwise. As soon as there is no more
resistance the pressure has been released.
Then: Open the lid.
Important: The lid should not be opened under pressure because this leads to damage of the
locking mechanism.

Instruction Manual TPersonal 10/2009 19
5 Operating
5.1 The TPersonal display
The TPersonal display provides information about the instrument and about the status of the
active program.
Prog
Temp
Deckel
23.9°C
24.0°C
Info System Start/Stop Edit
The function of the four soft keys beneath the display is context sensitive. The respective
function is shown in the display (see also chapter 4.3). The function of each key can differ from
screen to screen.
5.2 Navigation within the TPersonal software
The TPersonal provides spread sheet programming. This means that all program parameters
are entered into a simple central spreadsheet.
Four navigation keys provide easy navigation within the software. The back and the forward key
have additional functions as described below:
The right cursor key moves the cursor to the next field.
This cursor can also be used to complete data entry. By pressing the right
cursor settings will be saved and the cursor moves to the next field.
In the file directory, this key moves to cursor forward to the next (lower) level.
The left cursor key moves the cursor back to the previous field.
In most screens this cursor is equivalent to the ”back” softkey.
In the file directory, this key moves the cursor back to the higher level.
5.3 Create program
Prior to writing a new program, a program store has to be chosen. The TPersonal provides 10
directories of which each can store up to 99 different programs. For easy identification of the
selected storage place, the directories can be named (see section 5.3.3). The total memory
capacity is 1.500 program steps.
5.3.1 Select directory
Start with the main screen.

20 Instruction Manual TPersonal 10/2009
Prog
Temp
Lid
23.9°C
24.0°C
Info System Start/Stop Edit
Press [Edit] to enter the edit mode.
- 0:
- 1:
- 2:
- 3:
- 4:
Edit program
Page ÇÈ Name Back Enter
You are now in the directory structure of the edit mode.
Use cursor keys to select a subdirectory.
- 0:
- 1:
- 2:
- 3:
- 4:
Edit program
Page ÇÈ Name Back Enter
Press [Enter] to enter highlighted subdirectory. The program storages are displayed.
- 3: ------------ 0: empty
1: empty
Edit program 2: empty
3: empty
4: empty
Page ÇPage ÈCopy/Del. Edit
5.3.2 Select program store
Use cursor keys to select a program store.
4 5 6
.0-
78 9
1 2 3
Tip: Use numeric keypad to directly enter program number.
For numbers smaller than 10 enter “0” plus number.