Blue-Ray Biotech TurboQ TCRT-9614 User manual

TurboQ
Real-Time PCR System
TCRT-9614 / TCRT-9624
Operation Manual
Ver 1.0
Copyright © 2023 Blue-Ray Biotech Corp.
All Rights Reserved.

Table of Contents
1. Safety Precautions.................................................................................................................1
1.1Safety Label........................................................................................................................1
1.2 General Instrument Safety..................................................................................................1
1.3 Chemical Safety .................................................................................................................3
1.4 Chemical Waste Safety ......................................................................................................4
1.5 Electrical Safety..................................................................................................................4
2. General Description...............................................................................................................5
2.1 Features.............................................................................................................................5
2.2 Product Overview...............................................................................................................6
3. Getting Started.......................................................................................................................8
3.1 Unpacking..........................................................................................................................8
3.2 Environmental Requirements .............................................................................................8
3.3 Electric Power Requirements .............................................................................................9
3.4 Power On/Off......................................................................................................................9
3.5 Front Door (for Service Engineer Only)...............................................................................9
3.6 Tray In/Out .......................................................................................................................10
3.7 Loading the Reaction Vessel............................................................................................10
4. User Interface....................................................................................................................... 11
4.1 Starting the TurboQ Program ...........................................................................................11
4.2 Navigating the Program....................................................................................................11
4.3 View Selection..................................................................................................................12
4.4 Home View.......................................................................................................................12
4.5 Instrument Status .............................................................................................................13
5. Protocols.............................................................................................................................. 14
5.1 Creating a New Protocol...................................................................................................15
5.2 Protocol Properties...........................................................................................................16
5.3 Cycle Stage......................................................................................................................17
5.4 Melt Curve Stage..............................................................................................................20
5.5 Importing Protocols...........................................................................................................20
6. Plate Layout..........................................................................................................................21
6.1 Creating a Layout.............................................................................................................22
6.2 Sample Type....................................................................................................................23
6.3 Dilution Series..................................................................................................................24
6.4 Grouping Samples............................................................................................................24

6.5 Importing and Exporting Layouts......................................................................................24
7. Executing an Experiment ....................................................................................................25
7.1 Executing an Existing Experiment ....................................................................................25
8. Monitoring a Run..................................................................................................................26
8.1 Adding Reagents During a Run........................................................................................27
9. Analysis................................................................................................................................28
9.1 Run Log............................................................................................................................28
9.2 Adding Analyses...............................................................................................................29
9.3 Analyzing Sample Groups................................................................................................30
9.4 Exporting Analyses...........................................................................................................30
10. Ct and Absolute Quantification........................................................................................... 31
10.1 Adding an Absolute Quantification Analysis....................................................................32
10.2 Graphs ...........................................................................................................................32
10.3 Settings..........................................................................................................................33
10.4 Baseline .........................................................................................................................33
10.5 Threshold Ct...................................................................................................................34
10.6 Individual Ct....................................................................................................................35
10.7 Results...........................................................................................................................36
11. Relative Quantification ........................................................................................................37
11.1 Adding a Relative Quantification Analysis.......................................................................39
11.2 Amplification Efficiency...................................................................................................39
11.3 Settings..........................................................................................................................39
11.4 Results...........................................................................................................................40
12. Allelic Discrimination........................................................................................................... 41
12.1 Layout Creation for Allelic Discrimination........................................................................42
12.2 Adding an Allelic Discrimination Analysis........................................................................42
12.3 Settings..........................................................................................................................42
13. Melt Curve ............................................................................................................................ 43
13.1 Adding a Melt Curve Analysis.........................................................................................45
13.2 Settings..........................................................................................................................45
13.3 Results...........................................................................................................................45
14. High Resolution Melt Analysis............................................................................................ 46
14.1 Adding an HRM Analysis................................................................................................47
14.2 HRM Analysis and Results .............................................................................................47

15. Settings................................................................................................................................. 48
15.1 Default Path....................................................................................................................48
15.2 Language.......................................................................................................................49
15.3 Lid Pre-Heat...................................................................................................................49
Appendix A: Technical Specifications ...................................................................................... 50
Appendix B: CE Declaration....................................................................................................... 52
Appendix C: Order Information.................................................................................................. 53

1. Safety Precautions
1
1. Safety Precautions
The TurboQ Real-Time PCR System is intended for use in research laboratories by professional
personnel.
This manual covers the use of TurboQ Software in conjunction with the TurboQ Real-Time PCR
System. It has been designed to give you the information you need:
⚫Install TurboQ Real-Time PCR System
⚫Operate the software
⚫Adjust the software settings
⚫Analyze the data
Read the manual in its entirety before using the system. Keep the manual for future reference. The
manual is an important part of the system and should be readily available.
For the latest information on products and services, visit our website at:
https://www.blue-raybio.com/
In our efforts to produce useful and appropriate documentation, we would appreciate any comments
you might make about this user manual to our local representative.
1.1 Safety Label
High Temperature Label for Halogen Lamp: The halogen lamp can become very hot after
operation. Please be aware of this fact.
Warning Label: Please be aware of the danger of electric shock or other accident.
1.2 General Instrument Safety
PHYSICAL INJURY HAZARD. Use of the instrument in a manner, or for purposes not specified by
Blue-Ray Biotech, may result in personal injury or damage to the instrument.
1.2.1 Transportation and Storage
This instrument should be transported or stored in an environment with a temperature of -10~ 60 °C,
relative humidity less than 85%.

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1.2.2 Installation and Operation
1. Do not use the device in a potentially explosive environment or with potentially explosive
chemicals.
2. Install the device in a location free of excessive dust.
3. Avoid placing the device in direct sunlight.
4. Choose a flat, stable surface capable of bearing the weight of the device.
5. Install the device in a place where the temperature range is 15 ~ 30°C and the relative humidity
is 20 ~ 80%.
6. MAKE SURE the air vents are unobstructed.
7. Keep the front and rear of the device at least 10 cm from a wall or other equipment.
8. Make sure the power source conforms to the required power supply specifications.
9. To avoid electric shock, make sure the device is plugged into a grounded electrical outlet.
10. Do not allow water or any foreign matter to enter the various openings of the device.
1.2.3 Cleaning, Decontamination and Service of the Instrument
Before using a cleaning or decontamination method other than recommended by the manufacturer,
check with the manufacturer to ensure that the proposed method is safe for use with the equipment.
Switch off the mains and unplug the device before cleaning, servicing, or replacing the fuses.
Repairs should be carried out by authorized service personnel only.
1.2.4 Instructions for Disposal
Do not dispose of this product as unsorted municipal waste. Follow local municipal waste
ordinances for proper disposal provisions to reduce the environmental impact of waste electrical and
electronic equipment (WEEE).
European Union customers:
Call your local Blue-Ray Biotech Customer Service office for equipment pick-up and recycling.

1. Safety Precautions
3
1.3 Chemical Safety
1.3.1 Chemical Hazard Warning
CHEMICAL HAZARD. Before handling any chemicals, refer to the Material Safety Data Sheet
(MSDS) provided by the manufacturer, and observe all the relevant precautions.
1.3.2 About MSDSs
Chemical manufacturers supply current Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) with shipments of
hazardous chemicals to new customers. They also provide MSDSs with the first shipment of a
hazardous chemical to a customer after an MSDS has been updated. MSDSs provide all the safety
information you need about the storage, handling, transport, and safe disposal of chemicals.
Each time you receive a new MSDS packaged with a hazardous chemical, be sure to replace the
appropriate MSDS in your files.
1.3.3 Chemical Safety Guidelines
To minimize the hazards of chemicals:
⚫Read and understand the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) provided by the chemical
manufacturer before you store, handle, or work with any chemicals or hazardous materials. (See
“About MSDSs” in Section 1.4.2)
⚫Minimize contact with chemicals. Use the appropriate personal protection when handling
chemicals (for example, safety glasses, gloves, or protective clothing). For additional safety
guidelines, consult the MSDS.
⚫Minimize the inhalation of chemical vapor. Do not leave chemical containers open. Use only with
adequate ventilation (for example, inside a fume hood). For additional safety guidelines, consult
the MSDS.
⚫Check regularly for chemical leaks or spills. If a leak or spill should occur, follow the
manufacturer’s cleanup procedures as recommended in the MSDS.
⚫Comply with all local, state/provincial, or national laws and regulations for chemical storage,
handling, and disposal.

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1.4 Chemical Waste Safety
1.4.1 Chemical Waste Hazard
HAZARDOUS WASTE. Refer to Material Safety Data Sheets and local regulations for handling and
disposal.
1.5 Electrical Safety
ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD. Severe electrical shock can result from operating the TurboQ
without its instrument panels in place. Do not remove the instrument panels. High-voltage contacts
are exposed when the instrument panels are not in place.
1.5.1 Fuses
FIRE HAZARD. Improper fuses or a high-voltage can damage the instrument wiring system and
even cause a fire. Before turning on the instrument, verify that the fuses are properly installed and
that the instrument voltage matches the mains power supply in your laboratory.
FIRE HAZARD. The use of fuses of the wrong type or rating presents a risk of fire. Replace fuses
only with those of the type and rating specified for the instrument.
1.5.2 Power
ELECTRICAL HAZARD. Grounding circuit continuity is vital for the safe operation of equipment.
Never operate a device that is not properly grounded. Use a correctly configured and approved line
cord suitable for the mains voltage supply in your facility. Plug the system into a properly grounded
receptacle with adequate current capacity.

2. General Description
5
2. General Description
The TurboQ Real-TimePCR System is a gene quantification and genotyping platform with a 96-well
block format. TurboQ system software is applicable to absolute quantification, relative quantification,
melt curve analysis, high resolution melt curve, and allelic discrimination.
2.1 Features
⚫Four-channel optics enable multiplex detection of up to 4 targets per well.
⚫The CCD based detection system is fast and results are uniform.
⚫The motorized sample plate transportation system is convenient and easy to use.
⚫Design is robust and modern.
⚫Adjustable and excellent ramping rate.
⚫The system software is user friendly and straight-forward.
⚫The complete analysis functions include absolute quantification, relative quantification, allelic
discrimination, melting curve analysis, and high-resolution melt curve.

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2.2 Product Overview
Figure 1. Front view
Table 1. Detailed description -- front view
Item
Description
1. Vents
Cooling air intake
2. Front Door
For lamp replacement (service only)
3. Status
Indicator
Indicates the status of the instrument:
➢Yellow: Warming (flashes during power-on self-test)
➢Green: Ready/In use (turns on after self-test / flashes while running)
➢Red: Error (flashes when error has occurred)
4. Power Button
Power On/Off button
5. Tray Button
Tray In/Out button
6. Tray Door
Sample plate tray door
Figure 2. Rear view
1. Vents
2. Front Door
3. Status Indicator
4. Power Button
5. Tray Button
6. Tray Door
1. Service Port
5. Top Vent
6. Bottom Vent
2. USB Port
3. Product Label
4. Power Cable Socket

2. General Description
7
Table 2. Detailed description -- rear view
Item
Description
1. Service Port
Reserved for service
2. USB Port
For connection to PC
3. Product Label
Model name, serial number, power specification, and other
important information.
4. Power Cable Socket
Power cable socket and fuse compartment.
5. Top Vent
Air outlet.
6. Bottom Vent
Air intake.

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3. Getting Started
3.1 Unpacking
Open the TurboQ package and confirm that all the items below are included.
⚫TurboQ instrument (1 unit)
⚫Operation manual (x1 pc)
⚫Plate carrier (x1 pc)
⚫Tungsten-halogen lamp, 75W/12V (spare part, x1 pc)
⚫USB cable (x1 pc)
⚫Power cord (x1 pc)
⚫TurboQ application USB flash drive (x1 pc)
⚫Fuse 5TT10, 10A/125V (spare part, x1 pc)
If there are any items missing, damaged, or any incorrect items in the package, please contact your
distributor or sales representative immediately.
3.2 Environmental Requirements
When setting up your TurboQ Real-Time PCR System, avoid a dusty location, and locations with
vibrations, strong magnetic fields, direct sunlight, high humidity, or large temperature fluctuations.
Please refer to table 3 below for the clearance and weight tolerance required for TurboQ installation.
Please ensure that there is enough space for the control laptop PC.
Table 3. Clearance and weight tolerance
Description
Specification
Clearance and tolerance
Width
354 mm
600 mm
Depth
455 mm
600 mm
Height
567 mm
800 mm
Weight
35 kg
40 kg
Instrument performance will be optimal and highly reliable within the environmental ranges shown in
Table 4. However, avoiding the extremes will ensure long-term performance and life span.
Table 4. Operating and storage conditions
Environmental condition
Operation
Storage
Ambient temperature
+15 ~ +30°C
-10 ~ +60°C
Ambient relative humidity
below 85%
below 85%

3. Getting Started
9
3.3 Electric Power Requirements
110/230V, 50/60Hz, 1500W
3.4 Power On/Off
When the Power On/Off button on the TurboQ is pressed, the blue LED indicator on the power
button will light up and the three status indicators will flash once. The TurboQ will then start a power
on self-test. During the self-test, the yellow warm up LED indicator will flash continuously. The self-
test takes 30 seconds after which there will be two beeps, the yellow warm up LED indicator will go
off and the green ready/in use indicator will light up.
To power off the TurboQ system, press and hold the Power On/Off button for 3 seconds.
3.5 Front Door (for Service Engineer Only)
Figure 3. Front door unlock hole
To unlock and open the front door, insert a 2 mm Allen wrench, small screw driver or other similar
tool into the small hole on the right side of the front door and push it in until the latch releases and
the door pops open. Remove the tool.
Close the door by pushing it until the latch locks.

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3.6 Tray In/Out
Figure 4. Tray in/out button
Press the Tray In/Out button (Figure 4) to eject and retrieve the plate carrier tray. Please note: the
tray can only be ejected when the system is in ready or paused status. You can also eject the tray
from the connected PC using the TurboQ software.
3.7 Loading the Reaction Vessel
Figure 5. Alignment key on the plate carrier
The TurboQ system is compatible with 100/200 µl regular profile skirted or non-skirted PCR plates.
The plate, on a plate carrier, is placed on the plate carrier tray
Note
There are two alignment keys underneath the plate carrier. Make sure that the keys are on the
left, upper and lower corners, when placing the plate carrier on the tray, see Figure 5.

5. Protocols
11
4. User Interface
4.1 Starting the TurboQ Program
Launching TurboQ from the Start menu:
Start > All Programs > TurboQ Folder > TurboQ software, or double-click the desktop icon .
The TurboQ program can be run in the laptop PC with limited function without connection to the
device. To enable allfunctions and perform analyses, connect the PC to the device with a USB cable.
4.2 Navigating the Program
Launching TurboQ opens the main application window in Home view.
Figure 6. Main application window
The main application window contains the following elements:
1. Action panel
The specific function buttons.
2. Default folder
Displays the experiments template in the default folder. Double click to open an experiment
template.
3. Recent experiments
The user defined list of recently used experiments. Double-click a name to load and
activate an experimental record in experiment to load it and make it active. To keep an
experiment on the list, click the pin icon to the right of the name.
1
2
3
4
5

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4. Navigation bar
Tabs for selecting the view. Only the currently selectable tabs are shown.
5. Instrument status
Display the connection status of the TurboQ instrument.
When the TurboQ program starts up only the Home view is displayed. After you create a new
experiment or re-open an existing experiment, the specific Experiment views are available. The
window contents depend on the selected view. Buttons and controls are active only when they can
be used.
4.3 View Selection
To view and active an opened experiment, select the desired experiment tab with the navigation bars
at the bottom of the main window.
4.4 Home View
The Home view opens when you launch TurboQ software. In the Home view, you can create new
experiments, open existing experiments, and save newly created and modified experiments.
When you open TurboQ software without active experiments, only the Home view is available with
the Experiment and System action panels.
Figure 7. Experiment and system action panels
Table 5. Home view action buttons
Icon
Function
Description
New
Create a new experiment.
Open
Open an existing experiment.
Save
Save the current experiment.
Save as
Save the current experiment with a new name.
Tray In/Out
Move the plate holder tray in/out.
Run/Resume/Pause
Start, Resume or Pause the current experiment.
Stop
Stop the running experiment.
Setting
Open TurboQ Software settings.

5. Protocols
13
4.5 Instrument Status
Each icon indicates the current instrument status. See the following table for the detail.
Table 6. Instrument status
Icon
Status
Description
Connected
The TurboQ instrument is connected and ready
Disconnected
The TurboQ instrument is not connected
Running
The experiment is running
Paused
The running experiment is paused
Tray in
The tray is retracting
Tray out
The tray is ejecting
Error: XXX
Error(s) detected
Help
Open TurboQ Software help.
About
Display TurboQ software information.

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5. Protocols
A protocol is a sequence of thermal cycling and data collection instructions given to a connected
instrument. In the Protocol view, you can create and edit the protocol of the current experiment.
Figure 8. Protocol view
The Protocol view contains the following main fields:
1. Protocol view
Display protocol editing view.
2. Action panel
Action buttons for adding, removing, and reordering steps, importing protocols, and running
the experiment.
3. Protocol steps
Step sequence tree is for viewing and selecting steps to edit. Click a step to view and edit
its properties.
4. Step properties
Properties of the selected protocol step.
5. Protocol graph
Protocol temperature profile shows relative temperature of each step and time for data
collection.
1
2
3
4
5

5. Protocols
15
5.1 Creating a New Protocol
You can create a new protocol by editing the default protocol template or the protocol of an existing
experiment. To open an existing protocol for editing, import a protocol by clicking the Import button
in the Protocol view (Figure 9.).
Figure 9. Import button
Edit the protocol by selecting a protocol step and then using the buttons in the Add Stages, Add
Steps and Edit action panels.
Table 7. Protocol editing commands
Icon
Function
Description
Cycle
Add a cycle stage, which can include temperature and data
collection steps. Select the cycle stage and click the Temp or
Collect Data button to add them to the cycle.
Melting Curve
Add a melting curve stage, which you can set the start and end
temperatures, and advanced properties.
Temperature
Add a temperature step, which you can define the temperature
and time, as well as hold and define advanced properties.
Collect Data
Add a data collection step to a stage.
Move Up/Down
Move the selected stage/step upwards or downwards within the
protocol.
Remove
Remove the selected stage/step from the protocol.
Click the Cycle or Melt Curve button to add the corresponding stage to the protocol. The new stage
is added below the selected stage.
Click the Temp, Collect Data button to add the temperature step or data collection to the stage. The
new step is added below the selected step in the stage. If you select the stage header, the new step
is added as the first step. The melting curve step contains data collection by default.
The protocol is executed as a sequence from top to bottom, that is, the first step is at the top and the
last is at the bottom. You can change the execution order of the stages/steps in a protocol by
selecting a stage/step and clicking the Move Up or Move Down buttons.
Delete stages/steps from the protocol by highlighting them and clicking the Remove button.

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5.2 Protocol Properties
Select the Protocol header in the protocol sequence to view the Protocol Properties (Figure 10.)
and define the Fluorophores and Reaction Volume used.
Figure 10. Protocol properties
5.2.1 Fluorophores
All fluorophores are selected by default in a new experiment. Click a fluorophore to disable or enable
it. You can define the colors used to designate the fluorophores in Settings > Fluorophores.
We recommend that you select only the fluorophores that are required for the experiment.
Note
Only the selected fluorophores and corresponding channels are measured and available in the
layout. Unmeasured channels cannot be added after an experiment has been run.
5.2.2 Reaction volume
Enter the reaction volume, the range of which is 10–100 μl. After entering the volume, please press
Enter to confirm the input.
5.2.3 Heated Lid
Select On to enable or Off to disable the lid heater.