Endress+Hauser Analytik Jena Biometra TRobot II 96 G User manual

Operating manual
Biometra TRobot II
Automated thermal cycler

Biometra GmbH (Analytik Jena AG)
Rudolf-Wissell-Str. 30
37079 Göttingen Germany
Phone + 49 551 50 68 6-0
Fax + 49 551 50 68 6-66
Email [email protected]m
Biometra GmbH
Rudolf-Wissell-Str. 30
37079 Göttingen Germany
Phone + 49 551 50 68 6 -10, -12, 14 or -16
Fax + 49 551 50 68 6-66
Email [e-mail]
http://www.analytik-jena.com
This operating manual is valid from software version ME 2.00 –RE 2.00
For a proper and safe use of this product follow the instructions.
Keep the operation manual for future reference.
Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corp.
The identification with ® or TM is omitted in this operating manual.
34-4000-000-23
04.20e
Analytik Jena AG
© Copyright 2020 Analytik Jena AG
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Biometra TRobot II Contents
Version 04.20 3
Contents
1Basic information ....................................................................................................... 5
1.1 Notes on this operating manual....................................................................................... 5
1.2 Intended use...................................................................................................................... 6
2Safety instructions...................................................................................................... 7
2.1 General notes .................................................................................................................... 7
2.2 Safety markings on Biometra TRobot II ........................................................................... 7
2.3 Technical condition ........................................................................................................... 8
2.4 Requirements for the operating personnel...................................................................... 8
2.5 Safety instructions: transport and installation ................................................................. 8
2.6 Safety instructions –during operation ............................................................................. 9
2.6.1 Summary of safety instructions ........................................................................................ 9
2.6.2 Safety instructions: protection against explosion and fire............................................... 9
2.6.3 Safety instructions: electrical equipment ......................................................................... 9
2.6.4 Handling of samples, auxiliary and operating materials ............................................... 10
2.7 Safety instructions –maintenance and repair ............................................................... 10
2.8 Behavior during emergencies ......................................................................................... 11
3Function and setup................................................................................................... 12
3.1 Fields of application ........................................................................................................ 12
3.2 General description ......................................................................................................... 12
3.3 GLP compliance............................................................................................................... 13
3.4 Special features ............................................................................................................... 13
3.4.1 High speed thermoblock ................................................................................................. 13
3.4.2 Gradient function with function for linear gradients..................................................... 14
3.4.3 “Smart Tune Lid” motorized heated lid........................................................................... 14
3.4.4 Safety frame on the lid.................................................................................................... 15
3.4.5 Compact footprint ........................................................................................................... 15
3.4.6 Motorized plate lifters .................................................................................................... 16
3.4.7 Operation ........................................................................................................................ 16
3.4.8 Consumables −open system philosophy........................................................................ 16
3.4.9 Internal memory.............................................................................................................. 17
3.5 Order numbers ................................................................................................................ 17
4Device installation and commissioning.................................................................... 18
4.1 Scope of delivery ............................................................................................................. 18
4.2 Unpacking and inspection............................................................................................... 18
4.3 Commissioning................................................................................................................ 18
4.4 Setting the operating voltage ......................................................................................... 20
5Functional elements................................................................................................. 21
5.1 Biometra TRobot II PCR module front view ................................................................... 21
5.2 Biometra TRobot II PCR module rear view..................................................................... 22
5.3 Biometra TRobot II PCR controller front view................................................................ 22
5.4 Biometra TRobot II Controller rear view......................................................................... 23
5.5 Motorized lid with heating module −adjusting the contact pressure .......................... 23
6Operation via software............................................................................................. 25
6.1 Operation via Biometra TSuite software ........................................................................ 25
6.2 Operation via Biometra Library software ....................................................................... 25
7Adapting programs of other Biometra thermal cyclers ........................................... 26
8Hints and notes ........................................................................................................ 27
8.1 Forgetting of passwords ................................................................................................. 27
8.2 Slow heating and cooling................................................................................................ 27
8.3 Auto restart ..................................................................................................................... 27
8.4 Auto restart without an apparent cause......................................................................... 27
8.5 Mirroring of programs on several thermal cyclers ......................................................... 28

Contents Biometra TRobot II
4 Version 04.20
8.6 Adapting programs of other thermal cyclers..................................................................28
8.7 Recommendations for the use of 384-well sample blocks............................................ 28
8.8 Manually opening and closing the lid.............................................................................28
9Maintenance and care.............................................................................................. 31
9.1 Calibration .......................................................................................................................31
9.2 Maintenance and repair..................................................................................................31
9.3 Cleaning the device ......................................................................................................... 31
9.4 Disinfecting the device ....................................................................................................32
9.5 Firmware update ............................................................................................................. 32
9.6 Spare parts.......................................................................................................................33
10 Service ...................................................................................................................... 34
10.1 Returning a device........................................................................................................... 34
10.2 Packaging the Biometra TRobot II thermal cycler..........................................................35
10.2.1 Packing the PCR module .................................................................................................35
10.2.2 Packing the controller .....................................................................................................36
10.2.3 Shipping the PCR module and the controller together ..................................................37
11 Disposal .................................................................................................................... 38
12 Specifications............................................................................................................ 39
13 Declaration of conformity ........................................................................................ 42

Biometra TRobot II Basic information
Version 04.20 5
1Basic information
1.1 Notes on this operating manual
Biometra TRobot II is intended for operation by qualified specialist personnel observing
this operating manual and the operating manual for the Biometra TRobot II software.
There are three different Biometra TRobot II models available. In the text below these
devices are collectively referred to as Biometra TRobot II. Differences are explained in
the corresponding chapters.
This operating manual contains information about the design and operation of Bi-
ometra TRobot II and provides personnel familiar with PCR technology with the neces-
sary know-how for the safe handling of the device and its components. The operating
manual further includes notes on the maintenance and servicing of the device and po-
tential causes and remedies of any faults.
This operating manual applies to all Biometra TRobot II devices from software version
ME 2.00 –RE 2.00.
Furthermore, the terms protocol and program are used synonymously, with both de-
scribing one or more temperature steps programmed in succession with different or
identical hold 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 hazard are stated together with notes on preventing the hazard.
The elements of the control and analysis program are indicated as follows:
Program terms are identified with SMALL CAPS (e.g., Menu FILE).
Buttons are shown by square brackets (e.g., [OK] button)
Menu items are separated by arrows (e.g., FILE OPEN).
The operating manual uses the following symbols and signal words to indicate hazards
or instructions. 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.
Conventions
Symbols and signal words
used

Basic information Biometra TRobot II
6 Version 04.20
NOTE
Provides information on potential material or environmental damage.
1.2 Intended use
Biometra TRobot II is an automated end-point thermal cycler. Biometra TRobot II was
specially developed for integration into automation systems, e.g., in liquid handling sys-
tems. For space-saving integration on robotic decks, the thermal cycler is divided into a
block module and a separate controller. The block module is placed on or next to the ro-
botic platform, the controller, which is connected by cable, usually under the platform.
Biometra TRobot II can be operated from an automation platform software. For this
purpose, Biometra TRobot II comes with a software library (dll file) that can be inte-
grated into the automation software.
Alternatively, Biometra TRobot II can be controlled via the Biometra TSuite computer
software included in the scope of delivery.
To facilitate automatic work flows, the thermal cycler lid opens and closes automatically,
allowing a robot arm to place the sample plate on the block and remove it again after
the program has been completed. To ensure the plate can be removed smoothly, even
after many heating and cooling cycles which may have caused the PCR plate to shrink
slightly or become distorted, Biometrat TRobot II features a patent-pending plate lifting
mechanism: When the lid is opened, the plate is slightly lifted up by four small pins that
move out of the block, thus detaching it from the block. This allows a robot arm to easily
remove the plate from the block.
A status LED at the front of the block module indicates the respective status of the ther-
mal cycler by means of color and luminous frequency.
Like a typical thermal cycler, the Biometra TRobot II automated thermal cycler is also
primarily designed to amplify nucleic acids by repeated heating and cooling cycles using
DNA polymerases in a PCR reaction. Other incubation of liquid samples in PCR tubes or
plates is also possible.
The thermal cycler is developed for Research Use Only (RUO).

Biometra TRobot II Safety instructions
Version 04.20 7
2Safety instructions
2.1 General notes
For your own safety and to ensure error-free and safe operation of Biometra TRobot II,
please read this chapter carefully before commissioning.
Besides the safety instructions in this operating manual and the local safety regulations
that apply to the operation of the device, the general applicable regulations regarding
accident prevention, occupational health and safety, and environmental protection have
to be observed and complied with.
References to potential hazards do not replace the work protection regulations which
must be observed.
2.2 Safety markings on Biometra TRobot II
Damaged or missing safety symbols can cause incorrect actions leading to personal in-
jury or material damage. Do not remove safety symbols! Replace damaged safety sym-
bols immediately!
The following safety symbols are attached to the inside of the heated lid and the rear of
the device:
Symbol
Meaning
Notes
Caution!
Hazard point
This symbol is located on the inside of the heated lid and on
the rear of the device.
Proceed with due care when handling samples and working
with Biometra TRobot II.
Caution!
Risk of burns
This symbol is located on the inside of the heated lid and on
the rear of the device.
There is a risk of burning at the heated lid, the thermal block,
the samples, and the rear of the device.
Ensure ventilation slots are
unobstructed
This sign is attached to the underside of the device.
Ensure that the ventilation slots on the underside and at the
rear of the device are unobstructed. Make sure that there are
no objects underneath the device (e.g., paper) that may be
sucked against the ventilation slot and thus interfere with
ventilation.
Biometra TRobot II must not be placed with the device feet
in recesses in higher base plates as it will cause ventilation
from the underside of the device to be restricted. Recesses
for the device feet as positioning aids on a platform may be
max. 1 mm deep.

Safety instructions Biometra TRobot II
8 Version 04.20
2.3 Technical condition
Biometra TRobot II has been built and certified according to safety standard EN 61010-
1. Do not modify the device in any way. Any modification made to 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
Biometra TRobot II must only be operated by qualified specialist personnel instructed in
the use of the device. The instruction also includes imparting the contents of this oper-
ating manual.
In addition to the safety at work instructions in this operating manual, the generally ap-
plicable safety and accident prevention regulations of the respective country of opera-
tion must be observed and adhered to. The operator must ascertain the latest version of
these regulations.
The operating manual must be accessible to the operating and service personnel at all
times.
2.5 Safety instructions: transport and installation
The following has to be observed:
Drain the sample block before transporting Biometra TRobot II. Make sure there are
no sample tubes in the block.
Only send Biometra TRobot II in its original packaging.
On receipt of Biometra TRobot II, please verify that the delivery is complete and
check for possible transport damage. In the event of a claim, please contact Analytik
Jena.
The Biometra TRobot II is designed for indoor use only and not for installation and
operation in a wet environment.

Biometra TRobot II Safety instructions
Version 04.20 9
2.6 Safety instructions –during operation
2.6.1 Summary of safety instructions
Before each commissioning, the operator of Biometra TRobot II must make sure that the
condition of the device including the safety equipment is sound.
The following has to be observed:
Free access to the main power switch on the rear panel of device must always be en-
sured during operation.
The ventilation fittings at the rear of the device must be unobstructed and opera-
tional. Covered ventilation grilles or slots 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.
Biometra TRobot II 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 wobbling), and whose lids seal tightly!
Modifications and extensions to the device may only be carried out after consultation
with Analytik Jena. Unauthorized changes can limit the operating safety and lead to
restrictions in warranty and access to customer service.
2.6.2 Safety instructions: protection against explosion and fire
Biometra TRobot II must not be operated in an explosive environment. Biometra TRobot
II must not be operated with flammable, explosive, or volatile substances.
2.6.3 Safety instructions: electrical equipment
Work on the electrical components of Biometra TRobot II 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 Biometra TRobot
II!
The following has to be observed:
Any work on the interior of the device may only be carried out by the Analytik Jena
AG service department and specially authorized technicians.

Safety instructions Biometra TRobot II
10 Version 04.20
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 main power switch and the
power plug must be disconnected from the power outlet!
Biometra TRobot II must be switched off immediately using the main power switch
(on the rear panel of the controller) and the power 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 (e.g., a
non-shielded, deliberately operated high frequency source), as these may affect
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 hazardous substances. For details contact the
safety officer responsible for your location. When handling hazardous 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 to be treated, two (empty) tubes of the same height must
additionally be placed in the corner positions 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 consider the potential risk of infection of the examined
biological material.
2.7 Safety instructions –maintenance and repair
Biometra TRobot II is usually repaired by the Biometra GmbH/Analytik Jena AG service
department or by authorized and trained specialist personnel. Unauthorized repairs can
damage the device. Therefore, the operator may generally only carry out the tasks listed
in chapter "Maintenance and care" p. 31.
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.
Any maintenance on the device may usually only be carried out in the switched-off
condition (unless stated otherwise).
Use only original spare parts or consumables. Only these parts are tested and guar-
antee safe operation.

Biometra TRobot II Safety instructions
Version 04.20 11
2.8 Behavior during emergencies
During hazardous situations, Biometra TRobot II must be switched off immediately by
operating the main power switch at the rear left of the controller. Disconnect the power
plug from the power supply!

Function and setup Biometra TRobot II
12 Version 04.20
3Function and setup
3.1 Fields of application
Developed in 1983 by Kary Mullis, PCR (polymerase chain reaction) is a common and
indispensable technique used in medical and biological research laboratories for a broad
variety of applications. Biometra TRobot II is an end-point thermal cycler designed to
amplify nucleic acids by repeated heating and cooling cycles using DNA polymerases in a
PCR reaction. Due to the high heating and cooling rates, the thermal cycler is suitable for
fast PCR applications, thereby helping to reduce program runtimes. Biometra TRobot II
is also ideally suited for the creation of DNA libraries for next generation sequencing
(NGS) applications in automated systems. In general, incubation of liquid samples in
PCR tubes or plates is possible. All three models include a gradient function that can be
used to easily determine the optimal annealing temperature of the respective PCR when
introducing new protocols.
The device was developed with the objective of combining the latest technology with a
device design optimized for integration into an automation system and an integration-
friendly software control.
3.2 General description
The Biometra TRobot II thermal cycler is available in three models:
Biometra TRobot II 96 G, with a 96-well aluminum block for 0.2 ml tubes, plates or
strips
Biometra TRobot II 96 SG, with a 96-well silver block for 0.2 ml tubes, plates or
strips
Biometra TRobot II 384 G, with a 384-well aluminum block for 384-well plates
All three models include a temperature gradient function.
If the control is integrated via the Biometra TRobot II software library (dll file), the ther-
mal cycler is completely controlled by the automation software. Alternatively, Biometra
TRobot II can be controlled via the Biometra TSuite computer software included in the
scope of delivery, independent of the automation system's scheduler software. This is
particularly useful for the optimization of protocols, e.g., using the gradient function, or
if the cycler has not yet been integrated in the automation system.
PCR programs, run log files and other files generated by the thermal cycler can usually
be stored in the internal memory of the controller or on the computer or server of the
control software. Details can be found in the software description section.
In addition to operating the thermal cycler, the Biometra TSuite application software can
also be used to exchange PCR programs between different Biometra thermal cyclers in
the same network. The Biometra TSuite software can also be used to save run log or ser-
vice information files.

Biometra TRobot II Function and setup
Version 04.20 13
Fig. 1 The Biometra TRobot II thermal cycler: Controller and block module
The Biometra TRobot II thermal cycler has an automatic restart feature following a
power failure. If a power failure occurs during the run, the device will continue the run
as soon as power is restored. In the event of a longer-term power failure (longer than
30 minutes), the device will maintain the sample block temperature at 4 °C (freeze step)
after power is applied, allowing the user to decide to repeat the run with the same sam-
ples or to discard them.
3.3 GLP compliance
Three different user levels are available by default: administrators, users with general
rights, and users with restricted rights. In a convenient menu, the administrator can con-
figure the settings for each user individually by activating or deactivating individual
rights. In combination with the password protection for user accounts, access to the de-
vice can be restricted to authorized persons and unwanted changes to the system set-
tings and PCR protocols can be prevented.
With each system start, Biometra TRobot II performs an initial self-test. The software
also offers an extended self-test that can be initiated by the user. The results of the ex-
tended self-test are summarized in a protocol and stored by the device. In addition to
the self-test functions, the device creates and stores log files for each single run. For
long-term storage, the log files and extended self-test protocols can be exported as a
proprietary file format.
3.4 Special features
3.4.1 High speed thermoblock
The Biometra TRobot II thermal cycler is available with different block formats. The two
96-well models can be used with standard 0.2 ml PCR tubes, plates, or strips. The 384-
well block for high-throughput applications is compatible with 384-well PCR plates.
A special seal on the heated lid forms an encapsulated space around the sample block as
soon as the lid is closed. The closed space is used to improve temperature uniformity

Function and setup Biometra TRobot II
14 Version 04.20
and avoids the formation of condensed water at the final PCR cooling step. Furthermore
all blocks are perfectly sealed to prevent condensed water from penetrating into the Pel-
tier elements underneath the sample block and other parts of the electronics. The seal-
ing protects the Peltier elements and prolongs the lifetime of the device.
One of the two 96-well blocks and the 384-well block are made of aluminum and offer
high heating and cooling rates for fast protocol runtimes. In addition, to achieve ulti-
mate performance, a 96-well block made of silver is available. Due to its excellent heat
conductivity, silver equilibrates extremely quickly, thus providing maximum speed and
temperature uniformity. To protect the valuable silver block against corrosion, the block
surface is gold plated.
3.4.2 Gradient function with function for linear gradients
For optimizing new primer pairs in a single run, all Biometra TRobot II models are
equipped with a gradient function. Finding the best primer annealing temperature is
crucial for the specificity and efficiency of PCR reactions. Often the optimization of ex-
periments is conducted to a limited extent only, which can lead to unspecific byproducts
or reduced PCR sensitivity. By using the gradient function, new primer pairs with un-
known annealing temperatures can be tested quickly and optimized in a very short time.
There are two ways to set a temperature gradient over the long side of the block:
When using standard gradient programming, enter two temperatures for the first and
last lane of the block. The thermal cycler automatically calculates the effective tempera-
tures of all other lanes in between.
The "Linear Gradient Function" can be used for results that are particularly easy to evalu-
ate: After the entry of the assumed annealing temperature in the middle lane of the
block and the entry of a desired temperature difference between the lanes, the thermal
cycler creates a gradient which is as linear as possible over the block.
Fig. 2 Temperature gradient on a 96-well sample block. In a specific lane all wells have the same temper-
ature but the temperature differs from lane to lane. The temperature gradient can be applied in
both directions; the highest temperature can be either in lane 1 or lane 12.
3.4.3 “Smart Tune Lid” motorized heated lid
The Biometra TRobot II's heated lid has been designed so that it heats up particularly
quickly and thus helps to reduce protocol runtimes. Moreover the heated lid fulfills two
other important functions: It prevents the formation of condensation at the reaction

Biometra TRobot II Function and setup
Version 04.20 15
tube portion located above the block surface level and it ensures reliable contact be-
tween the reaction tubes and the thermoblock by applying constant pressure.
The contact pressure can be set individually via software in a range from approx. 4 to
12 kg. During the closing process, the device ensures that the lid presses on the plastic-
ware with the preset contact pressure, independent of the height of the respective plas-
ticware. As a result, a reproducible and uniform pressure is always exerted on the
reaction tubes. The combination of the heated lid shape and the reliable contact pres-
sure ensures even temperature distribution between samples, thus significantly improv-
ing temperature uniformity across the block.
The heated lid is closed automatically and opened automatically at the end of the proto-
col. The lid first lifts vertically and then curves back until the block is completely accessi-
ble so that a robot arm can remove the sample plate. The sample block is freely
accessible from three sides when the lid is open.
The lid is designed in such a way that there is no risk of injury when it is opened or
closed. This is ensured by both the safety frame (see section 3.4.4) and appropriately
designed distances and slot sizes, e.g., in the opening mechanism.
Fig. 3 Side view of Biometra TRobot II, completely open
3.4.4 Safety frame on the lid
The thermal cycler's lid is closed automatically. The safety frame integrated in the lid
(see section 5.1, figure 7, point 6) ensures that users cannot be crushed if they uninten-
tionally still have their fingers in the lid's movement path, for example. If the safety
frame encounters a resistance during the closing process, the closing process is stopped
immediately and the lid moves back a little. The lid is then completely opened once be-
fore the lid is closed again.
3.4.5 Compact footprint
For space-saving integration on robotic decks, the thermal cycler is divided into a block
module and a separate controller. The block module is placed on or next to the robotic
platform, the controller, which is connected by cable, usually under the platform.

Function and setup Biometra TRobot II
16 Version 04.20
3.4.6 Motorized plate lifters
Removing the sample plate from a thermal cycler block without disruption can be a chal-
lenge because the sample plate is firmly seated on the sample block and air escapes be-
tween the sample block and the plate as a result of the heating and cooling cycles. In
addition, less stable plates tend to change their shape slightly.
To reliably avoid disruptions in the work flow caused by plates getting stuck, Biometra
TRobot II is equipped with four small, motor-controlled lifters at the edge of the block.
With this patent-pending lifting system, four round pins automatically extend slightly
from the block surface when the lid is opened so that they reach under the edge of the
skirted microplate and lift the plate a few millimeters. After this release operation, the
pins retract completely back into the block leaving the plate sitting loosely on the block
surface. As soon as the lid is fully open, the plate can be easily removed by a robot arm.
Fig. 4 Extended lifting pins lifting the sample plate with the lid already slightly open
For the use of semi-skirted microplates there is an optionally available adapter frame
which is placed over the thermal cycler block. The pins of the lifting system underneath
lift the adapter frame together with the semi-skirted plate.
3.4.7 Operation
All of the Biometra TRobot II's functions are operated by external software. Three con-
nection options are available for communication with the thermal cycler: a serial RS232
interface, USB2.0 via an RS232 to USB adapter or Ethernet.
The operation of the automated thermal cycler is usually integrated into the robot soft-
ware of an automation system via a software library (dll file). The driver file is created
accordingly to ensure easy integration into other software environments. Alternatively,
Biometra TRobot II can also be operated via the Biometra TSuite computer software in-
cluded in the scope of delivery.
Details on how to integrate the dll file or how to use the Biometra TSuite computer soft-
ware can be found in the corresponding software operating manual.
3.4.8 Consumables −open system philosophy
Biometra TRobot II is an open system regarding consumables and reagents.
Depending on the sample block, the system can be used with single tubes, strips or
plates. PCR plates can have a standard profile or "low profile" and they can be skirted,
Plastic tubes/plates

Biometra TRobot II Function and setup
Version 04.20 17
half-skirted or non-skirted. Biometra TRobot II can handle all of these types of plates.
Since Biometra TRobot II has been designed for automated operation, users will, in the
majority of cases, use PCR plates that are particularly suitable for robotic operation. This
includes properties such as good plate stability with a firm frame (usually with a skirted
edge) so that the plate can be gripped and positioned securely by the robot arm.
When semi-skirted plates are used, the corresponding Biometra TRobot II adapter frame
must be used to ensure full functionality of the plate lifting mechanism. Non-skirted plates,
which however are rarely used in automated applications, cannot be removed from the block
with the plate lifting mechanism.
For optimum sample temperature control, it makes sense for the sample plates, especially
the wells themselves, to fit particularly well into the thermal cycler blocks and to fit closely to
the well recesses in the thermal cycler block. Since there are no global specifications for the
design of PCR sample plates, it may happen that some plates are not optimally suited for the
Biometra thermal cycler blocks in terms of their fit.
In order to avoid evaporation during the application, it is generally important that the plates
are well coordinated with the sealing material. The plasticware can be sealed with domed or
flat lids, sealing foil or other technologies. The use of sealing mats suitable for robots is also
possible. For individual tailored solutions, please contact our application support team at
https://www.analytik-jena.com/service-support/application-support/.
Regardless of the sealing method used, thanks to the software-controlled adjustable lid con-
tact pressure, the same pressure is always applied to the consumables, creating absolutely
reproducible conditions.
The Biometra TRobot II thermal cycler is not limited to reagents from a specific manufacturer
and can be used with any kind of polymerase. Regardless of whether isothermal, hot start or
non-hot start polymerases are used, Biometra TRobot II will produce reliable results. By pro-
gramming a pause step for the initial denaturation, for example, the system can be used for
manual hot start applications. After inserting the samples into the heating block, the PCR
protocol can be started.
3.4.9 Internal memory
Biometra TRobot II has an internal memory organized into 10 subfolders. Programs can ei-
ther be started directly from this memory. Alternatively, programs can be copied from other
thermal cyclers or from an external storage location (end device) to the thermal cycler and
started.
3.5 Order numbers
Model
Block material
Order number
Biometra TRobot II 96 G
Aluminum
846-x-070-901
Biometra TRobot II 96 SG
Silver
846-x-070-902
Biometra TRobot II 384 G
Aluminum
846-x-070-903
Abbreviations:
x = 2 for 230 V, 4 for 115 V, 5 for 100 V
Sealing systems
Reagents

Device installation and commissioning Biometra TRobot II
18 Version 04.20
4Device installation and commissioning
4.1 Scope of delivery
Thermal cycler:
PCR module + controller
Power cable
1 supply cable and 1 signal cable, fixed
to the controller
1 RS232 cable
Screwdriver for opening the lid
manually in the event of a power failure
Biometra TRobot II setup instructions
(print)
Biometra TRobot II operating manual,
Biometra TSuite software operating
manual, BiometraLibrary manual (elec-
tronic, on Biometra TRobot II USB stick)
Biometra TSuite computer software (on
Biometra TRobot II USB stick)
Biometra TSuite single license as USB
copy protection key
4.2 Unpacking and inspection
Unpack the device and check that it is complete and undamaged. Immediately report any
damage to Analytik Jena/Biometra.
WARNING
Do not commission the device if there are any signs of damage.
Keep the original packaging for return transport in the event that servicing is required.
The shipping box for the Biometra TRobot II thermal cycler contains specially developed
molded parts for the safe transport of high quality electronic devices.
4.3 Commissioning
Place the Biometra TRobot II thermal cycler on a solid, non-flammable surface in a
secure and dry environment. The ambient conditions can be found in the technical
data ("Specifications" p. 39).
Allow the Biometra TRobot II thermal cycler to equilibrate to room temperature be-
fore switching it on.
Ensure adequate ventilation around the device, otherwise the device's performance
may be impaired. A minimum distance of 20 cm should be maintained behind the
thermal cycler between the rear of the device and a wall or other objects.
If several thermal cyclers stand next to each other and are operated simultaneously,
we recommend a lateral distance of at least 10 cm between the devices.
Make sure that the power switch on the controller and the power cable are easily ac-
cessible. This is important if the device needs to be disconnected from the power
supply.

Biometra TRobot II Device installation and commissioning
Version 04.20 19
Make sure that the ventilation slots at the sides and the bottom of the device are un-
obstructed.
Fig. 5 PCR module rear view
Fig. 6 Controller rear view
Make sure that there are no objects underneath the device (e.g., paper) that may be
sucked against the ventilation slot and thus interfere with ventilation.
Insufficient ventilation may cause the de-
vice to overheat.
Biometra TRobot II must not be placed with the device feet in recesses in higher base
plates as it will cause ventilation from the underside of the device to be restricted.
Recesses for the device feet as positioning aids on a platform may be max. 1 mm
deep.
Before switching on the device, make sure that the power supply corresponds to the
device setting (see section "Setting the operating voltage" p. 20).
Connect the Biometra TRobot II thermal cycler controller to a grounded power outlet
using the power cable supplied. The cable must not be replaced by an inadequately
dimensioned power cable.
Connect the supply cable (DSub 25) and the signal cable (DSub 24W7), which are
fixed to the controller, to the connectors on the rear of the PCR module. Both cables
are 3 m long. It is not possible to mix up the connectors inadvertently, as the two
connectors are different.

Device installation and commissioning Biometra TRobot II
20 Version 04.20
Fig. 7 Cables and connectors for connecting the PCR module to the controller.
Left: DSub 24W7 signal cable, right: DSub 12 supply cable (cable colors may vary)
Connect the controller directly to the computer if you want to use the RS232 connec-
tion. If your computer does not have an RS232 interface, you can use a USB-to-
RS232 adapter together with the enclosed RS232 cable. As this connection is a
point-to-point connection, it is very insensitive to interference.
Alternatively, you can also connect the controller to a computer via your home net-
work. An Ethernet cable is required for this (for minimum requirements, see tech-
nical data).
An Ethernet cable and a USB-to-R232 adapter are available as optional accessories.
Check the operating voltage before switching on the device!
4.4 Setting the operating voltage
WARNING
Danger of electric shock! Before commissioning the device, make sure that the voltage
selector setting on the underside of the device corresponds to the power supply in your
laboratory.
The Biometra TRobot II thermal cycler can be operated at 100, 115 or 230 volts. The
current setting is indicated on the voltage selector switch on the underside of the con-
troller.
To change the operating voltage, switch off the device and unplug the power plug.
Use a coin or other round object to rotate the voltage selector switch slot and adjust
the new operating voltage.