Endress+Hauser Analytik Jena Biometra TRIO User manual

Operating Manual
Biometra TRIO
Multi-Block Thermal Cycler
Three PCR Devices in One

Biometra GmbH (Analytik Jena GmbH)
Rudolf-Wissell-Str. 30
37079 Göttingen Germany
Phone + 49 551 50 68 6-0
Fax + 49 551 50 68 6-66
Email [e-mail]
Biometra GmbH
Rudolf-Wissell-Str. 15
37079 Göttingen Germany
Phone + 49 3641 777407
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.
34-9990-113-23-e
B (11/2021)
Analytik Jena GmbH
© Copyright 2018, Analytik Jena GmbH
Manufacturer
Service
General Information
Documentation number
Edition
Technical documentation

Biometra TRIO 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 TRIO.......................................................................... 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 Field of Applications........................................................................................................ 16
3.2 General Description......................................................................................................... 16
3.3 Special features ............................................................................................................... 17
3.3.1 Thermal Block ................................................................................................................. 17
3.3.2 High Performance Smart Lid .......................................................................................... 18
3.3.3 Display ............................................................................................................................. 18
3.3.4 User-specific quick start function.................................................................................... 18
3.3.5 Easy programming .......................................................................................................... 18
3.3.6 Temperature Optimisation Step (TOS)........................................................................... 19
3.3.7 GLP compliance............................................................................................................... 19
3.3.8 Open system philosophy ................................................................................................. 19
3.4 Order numbers ................................................................................................................ 20
4Installation and commissioning ............................................................................... 21
4.1 Content of delivery .......................................................................................................... 21
4.2 Unpack and Check ........................................................................................................... 21
4.3 Operation Voltage ........................................................................................................... 21
4.4 InstallationConditions..................................................................................................... 22
4.4.1 General setup .................................................................................................................. 22
4.4.2 Installation when used in a network .............................................................................. 23
5Control elements ...................................................................................................... 24
5.1 The Biometra TRIO front view........................................................................................ 24
5.2 The Biometra TRIO rear view ......................................................................................... 24
5.3 High Performance Smart Lid (HPSL).............................................................................. 25
5.4 Loading samples.............................................................................................................. 25
5.5 The Biometra TRIO Software.......................................................................................... 26
5.5.1 Keyboard.......................................................................................................................... 26
5.5.2 Keypad............................................................................................................................. 27
5.5.3 Cursor keys ...................................................................................................................... 28
5.5.4 Confirm or Cancel............................................................................................................ 28
5.5.5 List of used commands and icons................................................................................... 28
6Operating.................................................................................................................. 34
6.1 Power On Self-Test ......................................................................................................... 34
6.2 Log in Screen ................................................................................................................... 34

Contents Biometra TRIO
4
6.3 Log in ............................................................................................................................... 35
6.4 Home Screen.................................................................................................................... 36
6.5 Block status...................................................................................................................... 37
6.6 Quick start function ......................................................................................................... 38
6.7 Incubation Mode.............................................................................................................. 41
7Creating, editing and saving programs .................................................................... 43
7.1 Programming modes....................................................................................................... 43
7.2 Create a new program/Use program template .............................................................. 45
7.3 Assign program names.................................................................................................... 47
7.4 Set heated lid temperature ............................................................................................. 47
7.5 Set preheating mode ....................................................................................................... 48
7.6 Edit parameter or step..................................................................................................... 48
7.6.1 Set cycles.......................................................................................................................... 50
7.6.2 Set temperature increment............................................................................................. 51
7.6.3 Set time increment .......................................................................................................... 51
7.6.4 Adjust ramp rate.............................................................................................................. 51
7.6.5 Set Temperature Optimisation Step (TOS)..................................................................... 52
7.7 Insert step ........................................................................................................................ 52
7.8 Delete step....................................................................................................................... 53
7.9 Save program................................................................................................................... 53
8Starting, Copying and Deleting programs................................................................ 56
8.1 Start program................................................................................................................... 56
8.2 Copy program .................................................................................................................. 58
8.3 Copy all programs............................................................................................................ 59
8.4 Delete program................................................................................................................ 60
8.5 Delete all programs ......................................................................................................... 61
9Running, pausing, continuing and stopping programs............................................ 63
9.1 Display during run ........................................................................................................... 63
9.2 Pause Program ................................................................................................................ 64
9.3 Continue Program ........................................................................................................... 65
9.4 Skip Step .......................................................................................................................... 65
9.5 Stop Program................................................................................................................... 66
10 Protocol Wizard ........................................................................................................ 68
10.1 Select Polymerase............................................................................................................ 68
10.2 Enter New Polymerase or edit Polymerase..................................................................... 68
10.3 Delete Polymerase........................................................................................................... 70
10.4 Protocol Wizard parameter screen ................................................................................. 71
10.5 Primer Annealing Temperature Calculator..................................................................... 73
11 Tools ......................................................................................................................... 76
11.1 Settings............................................................................................................................ 76
11.1.1 Set Date and Time........................................................................................................... 77
11.1.2 Automatic user logout ..................................................................................................... 78
11.1.3 Config. Beeper ................................................................................................................. 79
11.1.4 Network ........................................................................................................................... 80
11.1.5 Display brightness ........................................................................................................... 82
11.1.6 Touch screen calibration ................................................................................................. 83
11.1.7 Factory settings ............................................................................................................... 83
11.2 User Management........................................................................................................... 84
11.2.1 Create user....................................................................................................................... 86
11.2.2 Edit user........................................................................................................................... 88
11.2.3 Delete user....................................................................................................................... 90
11.3 Documentation................................................................................................................ 90
11.3.1 Run-Logfile ...................................................................................................................... 91
11.3.2 Power-On-Logfile............................................................................................................ 93

Biometra TRIO Contents
5
11.3.3 Extended Self-Test-Logfile ............................................................................................. 94
11.3.4 Error-Logfile .................................................................................................................... 95
11.4 Extended Self-Test .......................................................................................................... 95
11.5 Service Info File (SINF).................................................................................................... 98
11.6 Backup ............................................................................................................................. 98
11.7 Cycler Info........................................................................................................................ 99
11.8 Contact........................................................................................................................... 100
12 Adaptation of programs ......................................................................................... 101
13 Short Manual.......................................................................................................... 102
14 Fault removal ......................................................................................................... 107
14.1 Forgotten password ...................................................................................................... 107
14.2 Slow heating and cooling..............................................................................................107
14.3 Auto restart ...................................................................................................................107
14.4 Auto restart due to unrecognized power failure ..........................................................107
14.5 Mirror programs to several thermal cyclers .................................................................108
14.6 Adapt protocols from other cyclers............................................................................... 108
14.7 Release wheel in case of blocked lid.............................................................................108
15 Maintenance and Repair ........................................................................................109
15.1 Factory calibration......................................................................................................... 109
15.2 Servicing and Repair...................................................................................................... 109
15.3 Cleaning......................................................................................................................... 109
15.4 Disinfecting the device ..................................................................................................110
15.5 Firmware update........................................................................................................... 110
15.6 Spare parts..................................................................................................................... 110
16 Service .................................................................................................................... 111
16.1 Instructions for returnshipment ................................................................................... 111
16.2 Packing of the Biometra TRIO Thermal Cycler .............................................................112
17 Disposal .................................................................................................................. 113
18 Technical specifications..........................................................................................114
19 Declaration of Conformity ...................................................................................... 116
20 Index.......................................................................................................................117

Figures Biometra TRIO
6
Figures
Fig. 1 Biometra TRIO Thermal Cycler ..........................................................................17
Fig. 2 Biometra TRIO front view..................................................................................24
Fig. 3 Biometra TRIO rear view ...................................................................................24
Fig. 4 Biometra TRIO lid open button .........................................................................25
Fig. 5 Biometra TRIO keyboard....................................................................................26
Fig. 6 Biometra TRIO keypad .......................................................................................27
Fig. 7 Biometra TRIO start screen ...............................................................................34
Fig. 8 Biometra TRIO log in screen..............................................................................35
Fig. 9 Biometra TRIO select user screen......................................................................35
Fig. 10 Biometra TRIO enter password screen..............................................................36
Fig. 11 Biometra TRIO home screen..............................................................................37
Fig. 12 Biometra TRIO block status/quick start button ................................................38
Fig. 13 Biometra TRIO quick start screen......................................................................39
Fig. 14 Biometra TRIO multiblock selection query........................................................40
Fig. 15 Biometra TRIO incubation mode screen ...........................................................42
Fig. 16 Biometra TRIO spreadsheet programming .......................................................43
Fig. 17 Biometra TRIO graphical programming screen ................................................44
Fig. 18 Biometra TRIO program overview screen .........................................................45
Fig. 19 Biometra TRIO program template “Blank”. .......................................................46
Fig. 20 Biometra TRIO program template screen .........................................................46
Fig. 21 Biometra TRIO lid temperature setting screen .................................................47
Fig. 22 Biometra TRIO edit step screen.........................................................................49
Fig. 23 PCR program with loop......................................................................................50
Fig. 24 Biometra TRIO Temperature Optimisation Step screen...................................52
Fig. 25 Program overview screen ..................................................................................54
Fig. 26 Quick selection screen........................................................................................55
Fig. 27 Biometra TRIO program overview screen .........................................................56
Fig. 28 Biometra TRIO program overview screen with program preview....................57
Fig. 29 Biometra TRIO multiblock selection query........................................................57
Fig. 30 Biometra TRIO program overview screen .........................................................59
Fig. 31 Biometra TRIO program overview screen .........................................................60
Fig. 32 Biometra TRIO security query............................................................................61
Fig. 33 Biometra TRIO security query............................................................................62
Fig. 34 Biometra TRIO run screen in graphical view.....................................................63
Fig. 35 Biometra TRIO run screen in spreadsheet view................................................64
Fig. 36 Biometra TRIO run screen during program pause............................................65
Fig. 37 Biometra TRIO query for multiblock selection ..................................................66
Fig. 38 Biometra TRIO security query............................................................................67
Fig. 39 Biometra TRIO polymerase selection screen.....................................................68
Fig. 40 Biometra TRIO screen for editing program templates for polymerases ..........69
Fig. 41 Biometra TRIO for saving program templates for polymerases.......................70
Fig. 42 Biometra TRIO security query............................................................................70
Fig. 43 Biometra TRIO protocol wizard parameter screen ...........................................71
Fig. 44 Biometra TRIO protocol wizard view parameter screen...................................72
Fig. 45 Biometra TRIO security query............................................................................72
Fig. 46 Biometra TRIO primer annealing temperature calculator screen ....................73
Fig. 47 Biometra TRIO screen for primer concentration adjustment...........................74
Fig. 48 Biometra TRIO tools screen...............................................................................76
Fig. 49 Biometra TRIO settings screen ..........................................................................77

Biometra TRIO Figures
7
Fig. 50 Biometra TRIO date and time screen ............................................................... 78
Fig. 51 Biometra TRIO automatic user logout screen .................................................. 79
Fig. 52 Biometra TRIO beeper configuration screen .................................................... 80
Fig. 53 Network settings screen, IP settings via static ................................................. 81
Fig. 54 Network settings screen, IP settings via DHCP................................................. 81
Fig. 55 Biometra TRIO display brightness settings screen........................................... 82
Fig. 56 Biometra TRIO touch screen calibration screen ............................................... 83
Fig. 57 Biometra TRIO security query ........................................................................... 84
Fig. 58 Biometra TRIO user management screen ........................................................ 85
Fig. 59 Biometra TRIO config. user management screen ............................................ 85
Fig. 60 Biometra TRIO create user screen .................................................................... 87
Fig. 61 Biometra TRIO user data screen ....................................................................... 88
Fig. 62 Biometra TRIO user properties screen.............................................................. 89
Fig. 63 Biometra TRIO security query ........................................................................... 90
Fig. 64 Biometra TRIO documentation screen ............................................................. 91
Fig. 65 Biometra TRIO Run-Logfile overview screen ................................................... 91
Fig. 66 Biometra TRIO Run-Logfile screen................................................................... 92
Fig. 67 Biometra TRIO View program screen ............................................................... 93
Fig. 68 Biometra TRIO Power-On-Logfile screen......................................................... 94
Fig. 69 Biometra TRIO Extended Self-Test-Logfile screen .......................................... 94
Fig. 70 Biometra TRIO Error-Logfile screen ................................................................. 95
Fig. 71 How to load plastic ware for Extended Self-Test ............................................. 96
Fig. 72 Biometra TRIO Extended Self-Test screen ....................................................... 97
Fig. 73 Biometra TRIO Extended Self-Test progress overview screen ........................ 97
Fig. 74 Biometra TRIO create Service Info File screen ................................................. 98
Fig. 75 Biometra TRIO backup file screen..................................................................... 99
Fig. 76 Biometra TRIO cycler info screen....................................................................100
Fig. 77 Biometra TRIO contact details screen.............................................................100

Figures Biometra TRIO
8

Biometra TRIO Basic Information
9
1Basic Information
1.1 User manual notes
The Biometra TRIO is intended for operation by qualified specialist personnel observing
this operating manual.
For the Biometra TRIO, there are 3 different models available. In the text below these
devices are collectively called Biometra TRIO. Differences are explained in the corre-
sponding sections.
The operating manual contains information about the design and operation of the Bi-
ometra TRIO and provides personnel familiar with PCR technology with the necessary
know-how for the safe handling of the equipment and its components. The operating
manual further includes notes on the maintenance and service of the device and poten-
tial causes and remedies of any faults.
These operating instructions apply to all Biometra TRIO as of software version ME 1.70
- RE 1.46 (see "Cycler Info" p. 99).
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 TRIO
10
1.2 Intended use
The Biometra TRIO 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 reaction.
The thermal cycler is developed as product for general laboratory use.
The Biometra TRIO combines modern design with user-friendly software. The user in-
terface 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 key-
board, information and program parameters can be entered directly on the screen. Due
to the high ramp rates, the Biometra TRIO thermal cycler is suitable for fast PCR applica-
tions, thereby helping to shorten program run times.

Biometra TRIO Safety instructions
11
2Safety instructions
2.1 General notes
For your own safety and to ensure error-free and safe operation of the Biometra TRIO,
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 TRIO
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 TRIO
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 TRIO 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 TRIO must only be operated by qualified specialist personnel instructed in
the use of the device. The instructions also include imparting the contents of this man-
ual.
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 TRIO. Make sure there are
no sample tubes in the block.
Only ship the Biometra TRIO in its original packaging.
Please verify that the delivery is complete on receipt of the Biometra TRIO and check
for possible transport damage. In case of claims please contact Biometra GmbH.

Biometra TRIO Safety instructions
13
2.6 Safety instructions – operation
2.6.1 General
The operator of the Biometra TRIO 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 TRIO 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 TRIO must not be operated in an explosive environment. The Biometra
TRIO 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 TRIO may only be performed by a
qualified electrical technician in accordance with the applicable electrical engineering
rules. Life-threatening electrical voltages may occur in the interior of the Biometra TRIO!
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 TRIO
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 TRIO must be switched off immediately using the power switch (on
the equipment back plate) and the mains plug disconnected from the power supply 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 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 TRIO is usually repaired by the service department of Biometra GmbH or
its authorized and trained specialist personnel. Unauthorized repairs can damage the
device. Therefore, the operator may generally only carry out the tasks listed in section
"Maintenance and Repair" p. 109.
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).

Biometra TRIO Safety instructions
15
Only use original spare parts, wear parts and consumables. These have been tested
and guarantee safe operation.
2.8 Behavior during emergencies
In case of danger or accidents, immediately switch off the Biometra TRIO using the main
switch on the equipment back plate. Disconnect the mains plug from the power supply!

Function and setup Biometra TRIO
16
3Function and setup
3.1 Field of Applications
Developed in 1983 by Kary Mullis PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) is now a common
and often indispensable technique used in medical and biological research labs for a va-
riety of applications. The Biometra TRIO is an end-point Thermal Cycler and intended to
amplify nucleic acids by repeated cycles of heating and cooling using DNA-Polymerases
in a PCR reaction. The development of the instrument had the goal to combine latest
technology with stylish design and user-friendly software. The user interface consists of
a touchscreen with a graphical or tabular display that shows the time, status, and tem-
perature profile for each run. A touchscreen keypad allows you to enter information into
fields on the screen. The Biometra TRIO can run three independent PCR reactions simul-
taneously and is especially helpful when versatile samples are to be incubated using dif-
ferent PCR programs.
3.2 General Description
There are three models of the Biometra TRIO Thermal Cycler:
Biometra TRIO 48 for 0.2 ml tubes, plates or strips
Biometra TRIO 30 for 0.5 ml tubes
Biometra TRIO combi for 0.2 ml tubes, plates or strips or 0.5 mltubes
The instrument is controlled by a 7’’ touchscreen display and easy to use interface. PCR
protocols and Run-Logfiles can be saved to a connected USB drive. By using the USB
functions PCR protocols can be exchanged easily between instruments and Run-Logfiles
can be stored for documentation reasons on PC.

Biometra TRIO Function and setup
17
Fig. 1 Biometra TRIO Thermal Cycler
The Biometra TRIO Thermal Cycler features an automatic restart. If a power failure oc-
curs during the run the instrument will continue the run when the power returns. In case
of long- term power failure (longer than 30 minutes) the instrument keeps the sample
block at 4°C(freeze step) and the user can decide to repeat the run with the same sam-
ples or to discard them.
This instruction manual provides information on how to use all models of the Biometra
TRIO Thermal Cycler most effectively.
3.3 Special features
3.3.1 Thermal Block
The Biometra TRIO Thermal Cycler is available with different block formats. The 48 well
version can be used with standard 0.2 ml tubes, strips or plates. With 30 well blocks the
Biometra TRIO can be used with 0.5 ml tubes and the combi block version offers the
flexibility to incubate 0.2 ml tubes, strips or plates or 0.5 ml tubes. With a sample capac-
ity of up to 144 samples in parallel the Biometra TRIO 48 can also be used for high
throughput applications.
By the rubber sealing at the lid an encapsulated space is formed when the lid is closed.
The closed room serves to improve the temperature uniformity of the sample block and
avoids formation of condensed water at the final PCR cooling step. Furthermore all
blocks are perfectly sealed to prevent condensed water from penetrating the Peltier ele-
ments underneath the sample block and other parts of the electronics. By the perfect
sealing the Peltier elements are protected and the instruments life time is expanded.

Function and setup Biometra TRIO
18
3.3.2 High Performance Smart Lid
The Biometra TRIO 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 serves for
two additional essential functions: It prevents the formation of condensed water at the
reaction tube portion located above the block surface level and it ensures reliable con-
tact between samples and thermal block by applying constant pressure. By the inte-
grated clutch mechanism the pressure applied to the reaction tubes is always same re-
gardless of the plastic ware height. The combination of the heated lid shape and the re-
liable contact pressure ensure an even temperature distribution between samples thus
significantly improves the temperature uniformity.
With one press on the front button, the lid gently swings open and arrests in its end po-
sition. By this mechanism the lid cannot fall down and the heated lid is out of the radius
of action when the user is inserting tubes or plates. Thus the risk of injury by violent
pressure or the risk of burn by hot surfaces is prevented.
3.3.3 Display
The Biometra TRIO 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 viewing and
ergonomic programming. For programming PCR protocols the software incorporates Bi-
ometra's proven spreadsheet philosophy and alternatively offers graphical programming.
One touch of a button leads from the spreadsheet to the alternative graphical program-
ming mode. This makes the creation of new programs or editing existing programs fast
and easy.
3.3.4 User-specific quick start function
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 TRIO 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 information on
the latest programs started by this user will not get lost.
For maximum convenience the Biometra TRIO software additionally features a program
preview. Before the start of a program the protocol steps are summarized in a clearly ar-
ranged table by the program preview tool. The preview therefore provides a comprehen-
sive overview of the protocol structure without the need to access programming screens.
The program preview is also available before the quick start of programs.
3.3.5 Easy programming
Creating new PCR programs takes much time if for each single step all parameters are
set manually. The Biometra TRIO offers two options for easy protocol creation:
1. Pre-installed program templates
2. Protocol wizard

Biometra TRIO Function and setup
19
The Biometra TRIO 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 TRIO
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 pro-
grams can be created by the software. Furthermore the protocol wizard includes a pri-
mer annealing temperature calculator and the calculated Ta value can be used for proto-
colcreation.
3.3.6 Temperature Optimisation Step (TOS)
Finding the best primer annealing temperature is crucial for the specificity and efficiency
of PCR reactions. Often optimization of experiments is conducted only limited leading to
unspecific byproducts or reduced PCR sensitivity. By using the Biometra TRIO Tempera-
ture Optimisation Step (TOS) function new primer pairs with unknown annealing tem-
peratures can be tested quickly and optimized in very short time.
The Temperature Optimisation Step (TOS) function makes use of the three sample
blocks and provides three different temperatures for a selected program step. Just set
the temperature for sample block 2 and define the temperature difference (temperature
increment) for block 1 and 3. Since the Biometra TRIO samples blocks work independent
of each other the maximum programmable temperature difference between the sample
blocks is at ±47.5 °C.
3.3.7 GLP compliance
The software can manage up to 90 user accounts. By default three different user-levels
are available: Administrator, user with generic rights and user with limited rights. How-
ever, in a comfortable menu the administrator can config. the settings for each user in-
dividually by activating or inactivating single rights. By the user administration tool in
combination with the password protection of user accounts access to the instrument can
be limited to authorized persons and unwanted modifications to the system settings and
PCR protocols prevented.
With each system start the Biometra TRIO 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 becomes are summarized in a protocol and are stored by the in-
strument. Additionally to the self-test functions the instruments creates and stores run-
logfiles for each single run. For long-term storage run-logfiles and extended self-test
protocols can be exported as proprietary file format.
3.3.8 Open system philosophy
The Biometra TRIO is an open system regarding consumables and reagents. Depending
upon 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 skirted, semi-skirted or
non-skirted. The Biometra TRIO can handle all kind of plates and the plastic ware be
sealed with domed caps, flat caps, sealing foil or other technologies. Regardless of the

Function and setup Biometra TRIO
20
used sealing method thanks to the HPSL technology (see section 3.3.2) always the same
pressure is applied to the consumables serving for absolutely reproducible conditions.
The Biometra TRIO Thermal Cycler is not limited to reagents from a specific vendor and
can be used with any kind of polymerase. Regardless if isothermal-, hot start- or non-
hot start polymerases are used, the Biometra TRIO will produce reliable results. E.g. by
programming a pause step for the initial denaturation the system can be used for man-
ual hot start applications. After inserting samples into the hot block the PCR protocol
can be started just by pressing “continue”.
3.4 Order numbers
Model Block type Order No.
Biometra TRIO 30 Aluminum 846-x-070-720
Biometra TRIO 48 Aluminum 846-x-070-723
Biometra TRIO combi Aluminum 846-x-070-724
Abbrevations:
x = 2 for 230 V, 4 for 115 V, 5 for 100 V