Boeco TC-PRO-96G User manual

THERMAL CYCLER
TC-PRO
Instruction Manual

Note:
The Boeckel + Co (GmbH + Co) KG reserves the right to
modify this manual at any time without notice.
Patent materials are included in this manual. All rights reserved. Any part of
this manual shall be forbidden to photocopy, reproduce, or translate into other
languages, without written permission from the Boeckel + Co (GmbH + Co)
KG
Document Number: BYQ60580100000RSM
Document Version: Mar, 2008, Version 1.0
Please read this manual carefully before the Thermal Cycler is first operated!

BOECO TC-PRO Thermal Cycler
1
Important Note
1CONVENTIONS
Note:
Because there is important information in this item, please read it carefully.
Failure to follow the advice here will possibly result in damage or malfunctioning
of the Thermal Cycler.
Warning!
This symbol means that you should be cautious to take an operation/procedure.
Failure to follow the requirements in this item will possibly result in personal
injury.
During the operation, maintenance, or repair of the BOECO TC-PRO Thermal Cycler, the
following safety measures should be taken. Otherwise, the guard provided by the Thermal
Cycler is likely to be damaged, while the rated safety level to be reduced, and the rated
operation conditions to be affected.
The Boeckel + Co (GmbH + Co) KG shall not be in any way responsible for the
consequences resulted from operators not following the requirements
Note:
The Thermal Cycler, complying with the National Standard GB4793.1, is a
general instrument of class Ⅱ , the protection degree is IP20. It is intended for
indoor use.
a) Grounding Considerations
A.C. power’s grounding should be grounded reliably for fear of an electric shock. The 3-pin
plug with the Thermal Cycler’s power line is a safety device that should be matched with a
grounded socket. Never let the third ground pin floating. If the 3-pin plug cannot be inserted,
it is recommended to ask an electrician to install an appropriate power socket.
b) Keep Away from Electric Circuits
The operator is not allowed to open the Thermal Cycler. To changing components or adjust
certain parameters inside the device must only be accomplished by the certificated
professional maintenance personnel. Do not change elements while the power is still on.
c) A.C. Power Considerations
Before turn on the power, always check if the mains voltage is within the required A.C.（±10%
difference is allowed.）and whether the current rating of the power socket meet the required
specification.
d) A.C. Power Line Considerations
As an accessory of the Thermal Cycler, the A.C. power line used should be a default one. If

BOECO TC-PRO Thermal Cycler
2
it is damaged, the A.C. power line may not be repaired, but could be replaced by a new one
with same model and specification. The power line should be free of heavy objects during
the Thermal Cycler’s operation. Keep the power line away from the place where people
gather regularly.
e) Connect the A.C. Power Line
While connect or disconnect the power line, you should hold the 3-pin plug with your hand.
Insert the plug thoroughly to ensure good contact between the plug and socket. Pull the plug,
but not the line, when you need to disconnect to the mains.
f) Requested Environments
The Thermal Cycler should be placed in a low-humidity, dust-free, and good-ventilation room
without caustic gas or powerful magnetic interference. In addition, water sources, such as
pools and water pipes, should be kept a distance from the Thermal Cycler.
Never cover or obstruct the openings of the Thermal Cycler, which are designed for
ventilation and prevent the device’s interior from being too hot. When a single device is
running, the shortest distance between its openings and the nearest object is 50cm; when
two or more devices are running at the same time, the shortest distance is 100 cm. Do not
place the device on a soft surface, for that will result in adverse ventilation near the device’s
bottom openings.
Too high temperature will lead to degraded performance or failure of the Thermal Cycler.
Therefore, the device should be protected against any kind of heat sources like sunlight,
ovens, or central heating equipment.
If the Thermal Cycler is set aside for a long time, it is recommended to disconnect the power
line to mains and cover the device with a piece of soft cloth or plastic to prevent dust from
entering.
Note:
Once one of the following events occurs, you are suggested to disconnect the
power line with mains, and contact the distributor or ask a certificated
maintenance personnel for help.
Liquid into the device;
The device sprinkled or drenched;
The device malfunctioning, giving off abnormal sound or odor;
The device falling onto the floor or its shell damaged;
Significant changes in the device’s performance.

BOECO TC-PRO Thermal Cycler
3
3LABEL
a）Tablet
Name: Thermal Cycler
Model: TC-PRO
Power: ~100-240V
50/60Hz 600W
Fuse: 250V 8A Φ5×20
Sort: class ⅡIP20
SN: *******-***
Date: ****.**
Boeckel + Co(GmbH+ Co)KG
Hamburg,Germany
b）Warning Sign
Warning!
There are two warning signs read ‘HOT SURFACE!’ During the program
execution and in the short period after the program execution, the metal part
near those signs (on the block and hot lid) is not allowed to be touched by
any part of the body for fear of the body burn!
4 MAINTENANCE
The conical holes over the block should be cleaned regularly with soaked cotton swab in
order to ensure sufficient contact and thus good heat conduction between each conical hole
and the tube inside it.
Name: BLOCK 96G
Model: B-96G
SN: *******-*** Date:****.**

BOECO TC-PRO Thermal Cycler
4
Warning!
When cleaning, the instrument should be off.
Corrosive scour is not allowed to clean the surface of the instrument.
5 WARRANTY AND SERVICE INFORMATION
Please refer to the Warranty Card for the detailed information.
Note:
Once it is opened, the package should be checked according to the packing
list. If the buyer finds any items to be missing or damaged, do not hesitate to
contact the distributor.
After the acceptance check is passed, the buyer should fill out the check form
and send its photocopy (or fax it) to the distributor. The Boeckel + Co (GmbH +
Co) KG establishes the archives and maintenance records with the returned
form.
Please store the package and packing materials in a safe place in case of
future device maintenance. The above warranty does not extend to goods
damaged as the result of cheesy package.

BOECO TC-PRO Thermal Cycler Contents
Contents
Chapter One Introduction........................................................................................................... 1
1. Brief Introduction of PCR Technique ..................................................................................... 1
2. PCR Applications ................................................................................................................... 1
3. Features of BOECO TC-PRO................................................................................................ 2
4. Operations of BOECO TC-PRO ............................................................................................ 3
Chapter Two Specifications ....................................................................................................... 5
1. Normal Working Conditions ................................................................................................... 5
2. Conditions for Transportation and Storage............................................................................ 5
3. Basic Parameters................................................................................................................... 5
4. Performances......................................................................................................................... 6
5. Software Functions ................................................................................................................ 6
Chapter Three Preparations ...................................................................................................... 8
1. Structure Description ............................................................................................................. 8
2. Keyboard Diagram ................................................................................................................. 9
3. Keyboard Instructions ............................................................................................................ 9
4. Installation of Block Unit....................................................................................................... 10
4.1 Installation steps ......................................................................................................... 10
4.2 Dismantlement Steps .................................................................................................11
5. Inspections before Power-on ............................................................................................... 12
6. Power-on.............................................................................................................................. 12
Chapter Four Operation Guide ................................................................................................ 13
1. Block..................................................................................................................................... 13
2. How to run a single-block PCR program ............................................................................. 14
2.1. How to edit PCR programs........................................................................................ 16
2.2 How to set system parameters ................................................................................... 20
3. How to run a double- block PCR program........................................................................... 22
3.1 How to edit a PCR program........................................................................................ 23
3.2 How to set system parameters ................................................................................... 26
4. How to run a gradient block PCR program.......................................................................... 27

BOECO TC-PRO Thermal Cycler Contents
4.1 How to edit a PCR program........................................................................................ 28
4.2 How to set system parameters ................................................................................... 31
4.3 Characteristics of Temperature Distributing of Gradient Block.................................. 31
5 How to Input and Output the PCR Program ......................................................................... 32
5.1 Connect Usb Flash Memory ....................................................................................... 32
5.2 Input file from usb flash memory ................................................................................ 33
5.3 Export file to usb flash memory .................................................................................. 34
Chapter Five Connection of Computer .................................................................................... 36
1. Software installation ............................................................................................................. 36
2. Online setup ......................................................................................................................... 36
3. Software installation ............................................................................................................. 36
4. Configure your equipment.................................................................................................... 38
4.1 Network Connection ................................................................................................... 38
4.2 Network Enable Adminastrator................................................................................... 39
4.3 Configure .................................................................................................................... 40
5. Main interface....................................................................................................................... 44
6. Toolbar .................................................................................................................................45
7. Basic manipulation ............................................................................................................... 45
8. User manual......................................................................................................................... 48
9. File menu ............................................................................................................................. 50
10. Tool menu .......................................................................................................................... 55
Chapter Six Firmware Upgrade ............................................................................................... 58
1.Configure your equipment..................................................................................................... 58
2. How to Upgrade the Software.............................................................................................. 58
Chapter Seven Failure Analysis and Troubleshooting.......................................................... 66
1. Failure Analysis and Troubleshooting.................................................................................. 66
2. Spare Parts list..................................................................................................................... 68
Appendix 1 Wiring Diagram................................................................................................... 69
Appendix 2 Parameter Value & Meaning ............................................................................ 70

BOECO TC-PRO Thermal Cycler Chapter One Introduction
—1 —
Chapter One Introduction
This chapter briefly introduces PCR technique and its applications, PCR thermal cyclers,
and the characteristics of BOECO TC-PRO Thermal Cycler.
1. Brief Introduction of PCR Technique
PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction), or cell-free molecule cloning, is a technique for
amplifying nucleic acids in vitro, emulating natural DNA replication process. The PCR
technique, using two DNA strands to be amplified as template, and a pair of synthetic
oligonucleotides as primers, rapidly reproduces the specific DNA pieces under the catalysis
of a thermostable DNA polymerase. Because of its simplicity, rapidity, specificity, and
sensitivity, PCR has been widely applied to all fields of life sciences since its invention by
Mullis in 1983 and the discovery of the thermostable DNA polymerase by Erlich in 1989.
Great achievements have been obtained in PCR’s applications in such areas as cytology,
virology, oncology, genetics, forensics, and immunology. PCR technology is a milestone in
the history of modern molecular biology.
2. PCR Applications
Research Areas
Gene cloning, DNA sequencing, mutation analysis, gene recombination
and mutagenesis, identification and adjustment of DNA sequence of
protein structure, detection of gene extension, construction of synthetic
genes, construction of cloning and expression carrier, detection of
polymorphism of a gene’s inscribed enzyme;
Clinical
Diagnoses
Bacteria (spirochaeta, rickettsia, diphtheria bacillus, colon bacillus,
dysentery bacillus, and clostridium); Virus (HTLV, HIV, HBV, HCV,
HPVS, EV, CMV, EBV, HSV, measles virus, rotiform virus, B19 virus,
and Lhasa virus); Parasite (malaria); Human hereditary diseases
(Lesh-Nyhan syndrome, hemophilia, BMD, and DMD);
Immunology
HLA locus typing, qualitative analysis of T-cell receptor or antibody
diversification, immune body gene mapping, quantitative analysis of
lymph genes;
Human Genome
Project
Identification of DNA markers using discrete repetitive;Sequence,
construction of a genetic linkage map (detection of DNA, polymorphism,
or semen mapping); Construction of a physical map, sequencing, and
map expression;

BOECO TC-PRO Thermal Cycler Chapter One Introduction
—2 —
Forensics
Specimen analysis in the venue, and HLA-DQαlocus typing;
Oncology
Pancreas cancer, rectum cancer, lung cancer, thyroid gland cancer,
melanin cancer, and leukemia;
Social and
Colony Biology
Genetic species research, evolution research, animal protection
research, ecology, environmental sciences, and experimental genetics;
Paleontology
Specimen analysis in archeology and museum;
Biology
Diagnosis of animal hereditary diseases and detection of plant
pathogeny.
3. Features of BOECO TC-PRO
BOECO TC-PRO Thermal Cycler is a PCR detection system with multiple functions. It has
features and characteristics as followings:
Provide five kinds of interchangeable block units to meet various PCR experiments’
requirements;
Adopting American ITI advanced thermoelectric cooling technology and thermoelectric
cooling components manufactured under Japanese quality controlling mode, BOECO
TC-PRO Thermal Cycler possess the stable and reliable performance;
With speedy temperature ramping rate at the maximum of 4/S, BOECO TC-PRO can
adjust ramping rate according to different experimental requirements;
With multiple temperature-control modes, the instrument has much stronger
compatibility;
The central processor of BOECO TC-PRO Thermal Cycler can automatically distinguish
block units, as well as run other relevant programs;
With colourful extra large screen LCD and human-oriented operating interface, its
operation becomes simple and clear
It has the function of auto power off protection, and continues to complete the
unfinished program after the power supply is resumed;
Height and pressure of hot lid is adjustable so as to fit different reacting tubes on the
basis of practical operating situations, in order to prevent reagents from the evaporation
and pollution;
RJ45 standard interface can be connected with normal computers, thus to achieve easy
software upgrading.

BOECO TC-PRO Thermal Cycler Chapter One Introduction
—3 —
4. Operations of BOECO TC-PRO
Adopting many advanced techniques, blocks of BOECO TC-PRO Thermal Cycler can meet
different PCR experiments’’ requirements. It holds a leading position in the field of similar
products.
BOECO TC-PRO Thermal Cycler Adaptation Carrier:
BLOCK 96G：96×0.2ml (Gradient block)
+
BLOCK 3048：30×0.5ml+48×0.2ml
BLOCK 384G：384-well plate (Gradient block)
Standard Centrifuge
Tube 0.2ml
Standard Centrifuge Tube 0.2ml
+Standard Centrifuge Tube 0.5ml
384-well plate
BLOCK 48D：48×0.2ml+48×0.2ml
+

BOECO TC-PRO Thermal Cycler Chapter One Introduction
—4 —
BLOCK 4I：4pcs. In Situ plate
In Situ plate
Standard Centrifuge Tube 0.2ml×2

BOECO TC-PRO Thermal Cycler Chapter Two Specifications
—5 —
Chapter Two Specifications
This chapter describes the Thermal Cycler’s operation, transportation and storage conditions,
basic parameters, performance and functions.
1. Normal Working Conditions
Ambient Temp.: 10℃～30℃
Relative Humidity: ≤70%
Power Supply : ～100-240V 600W 50/60Hz
Note:
Before power-on, please check whether the above working conditions are
satisfied. Pay special attention to the power line’s reliable grounding.
2. Conditions for Transportation and Storage
Ambient Temp.: -20℃～+55℃
Relative Humidity: ≤80%
3. Basic Parameters
Model
TC-PRO-96G
TC- PRO -3048
TC- PRO
-384G
TC- PRO -48D
TC-
PRO -4I
Model of
Main Body
TC-E
Model of
Block
B-96G
B-3048
B-384G
B-48D
B-4I
Sample
Capacity
96×0.2ml
96micro plate
12x8 strip
tube
8x12strip
tube
48×0.2ml+30×0.5
ml
8 Strip tube
384-well Plate
48×0.2ml+48×0.2
ml
4pcs. of
In Situ
plate
Temp.
Range
4℃∼99℃
Heating
Rate(max)
≥4.0℃
≥2.8℃
≥2.8℃
≥4.0℃
≥1.8℃
Cooling
Rate(max)
≥4.0℃
≥2.8℃
≥2.8℃
≥4.0℃
≥1.8℃

BOECO TC-PRO Thermal Cycler Chapter Two Specifications
—6 —
≤±0.4℃（95℃）
≤±0.3℃（72℃）
Temp.
Uniformity
≤±0.3℃（55℃）
Temp.
Accuracy
≤±0.3℃
Max.
Gradient
30℃
╱
30℃
╱
╱
Min.
Gradient
1℃

1


Set temp.
range of
hotlid
30 ∼110
Dimension
470mm×340mm×260mm（L×W×H）
Weight（kg）
10
Fuse
250V 8A Ф5×20
PC Interface
RJ45
Note:
When temperature set value of hot-lid is lower than that of block, the
temperature of hot-lid showed in the display would be higher than the set
value.
4. Performances
Maximum number of cycles：99
Maximum number of sections: 5
Maximum procedures within a cycle：16
Number of programs：99
Noise：59dB （Background Noise：below 40dB testing on 1m dead ahead）
5. Software Functions
File editing and saving
File accessing, modifying and deleting
Adjusting the heating/cooling rate automatically
Automatic temperature &time increments/decrements during cycling program execution
Displaying the data at each phase of program execution instantly

BOECO TC-PRO Thermal Cycler Chapter Two Specifications
—7 —
Pause of program running
Stop of program running
Auto-restart in case of power failure
Soft upgrading via RJ45 interface
Sound alarm
Estimating total program execution time and remaining program running time
Date and time (year, month, day, hour, minute, second) display and calibration
Failure protection and alarming
Note:
The above software functions are for reference only. The Boeckel + Co
(GmbH + Co) KG reserves the right to modify the software functions without
notice.

BOECO TC-PRO Thermal Cycler Chapter Three Preparations
—8 —
Chapter Three Preparations
This chapter introduces the BOECO TC-PRO Thermal Cycler’s mechanical structure, the
keyboard and each button’s functions, and some preparations before power-on. Before any
operation, please read this chapter carefully and make sure you are familiar with the steps
introduced.
1. Structure Description
①Block
②LCD Display
③Logo
④Keyboard
⑤Ventilating Hole
⑥USB interface
⑦Sticker of Main body
⑧RJ45 interface
⑨Switch
⑩Sticker of Block
⑪Power Socket
⑫Fuse Socket
①
②
④
⑤
⑥
③
⑧
⑾
⑨

⑩
⑦

BOECO TC-PRO Thermal Cycler Chapter Three Preparations
—9 —
Notes:
The fuse specifications are as follows: 250V 8A, Φ5×20mm. The fuse should be
replaced by one that meets those specifications. If you need certificated fuses,
please contact the distributor or manufacturer.
2. Keyboard Diagram
3. Keyboard Instructions
“Digit & Letter”, select
the letter by pressing in
succession.

BOECO TC-PRO Thermal Cycler Chapter Three Preparations
—10 —
“Shift”，shift from one block to another
“Function”，change “+, -” when editing process temperature
and modifying time
“Right/Left”，moving the cursor one position to the left or right
when pressing during file parameter setting.
“Up/Down”，moving the cursor one position to the up or down
when pressing during file parameter setting.
“Enter”，press it to accept the present parameters setting
displayed on the screen when setting documents.
“Menu”, press any button to accept the current items displayed
above the button..
4. Installation of Block Unit
The main unit must link with the block unit so as to work normally. Please install or dismantle the
block unit according to the following steps:
4.1 Installation steps
a) Put the block onto the slot of main body, uplift the locking handle, and push the block slowly
until the locking handle is in the right place.
b) Press the locking handle downwards, thus the block will move forwards automatically. The
sound “kaka” means that the block is installed in the right place.
c) Power-on and the instrument can run normally.

BOECO TC-PRO Thermal Cycler Chapter Three Preparations
—11 —
Main Body
Main Unit Connecting Plug
 Locating set
 Block
Unlocking Device
Rotator
 Locking Handle
Note：
1. Make sure to switch off the power supply before installing block.
2. When install block, please pay close attention to push the block slowly;
Otherwise , the main unit connecting plug may be damaged.
3. When uninstall block, please draw the block from the slot gently. It’s forbidden
to lean the block for fear of snap of connection wire.
4. After installation, the block unit will be recognized by the main body
automatically, and will be ready for work without any other operation.
4.2 Dismantlement Steps
a) Power off firstly, make sure to dismantle or replace the block.
b) Uplift the locking handle, it will sound “kaka”, and the block will move backwards
simultaneously.
c) Take out the block through the locking handle. The dismantlement is finished.
⑦
②
①
③
⑤
⑥
④

BOECO TC-PRO Thermal Cycler Chapter Three Preparations
—12 —
5. Inspections before Power-on
Before switch the power on, please ensure that:
1) Supply voltage falls within the specified limits (refer to Chapter Two);
2) The plug has been inserted into the power socket reliably;
3) The grounding of the power line is reliable.
6. Power-on
Turn on the power (i.e. turn the power switch to position “–“), the BOECO TC-PRO Thermal
Cycler will beep twice, and the fan start to running, which means the instrument is power-on.
At this time, he LCD will display “Self testing ••••••”, which means the instrument is under
self-testing. It will last for about 1-2 minutes. Please wait patiently. After the self-testing, the main
menu will be displayed, and the instrument is ready for operations such as editing, accessing,
modifying, or deleting a PCR amplification file.