minipcr bio mini8X User manual

©2023 Amplyus LLC.
miniPCR bioTM and the miniPCR bio logo
are trademarks of Amplyus LLC miniPCR user’s guide [e-mail]
miniPCR®thermal cyclers
User’s guide
mini8X and mini16X models
QP-1000-08, QP-1000-16

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miniPCR user’s guide
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Quick start
Warranty
Overview
Features
Technical specifications
What’s included
Components
Optional accessories
Getting started
Download
Connect
Software operation
Creating and saving protocols
Protocol options
Running and monitoring protocols
Hardware operation
Loading your samples
Quick guide to LED interface
Troubleshooting and maintenance
Troubleshooting
Care & maintenance
Operating conditions
03
10
12
05
05
06
07
07
15
15
09
16
16
20
16
18
18
19
29
20
21
22
INDEX

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Download software from minipcr.com/downloads
Connect miniPCR to your device using USB or Bluetooth®> Devices tab
Create a PCR, heat block, linear ramp or FLEX program > Library tab
Run by clicking “Save and run” or the the play symbol to upload and start the
program
View status > Monitor tab
QUICK START
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QUICK START
Tip: If desired, you may unplug the USB cable or disconnect Bluetooth®once the protocol
has started. Even if disconnected from your computer or mobile device, the protocol will
continue to completion. The red, green and yellow LEDs will stay on when the program
has completed. You may reconnect to the miniPCR®at any time to monitor progress.
Reconnecting will not affect the protocol that is running.

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MANUFACTURER
INTENDED USE OF THE EQUIPMENT
TECHNICAL SUPPORT
Amplyus LLC, dba miniPCR bioTM. 1770 Massachusets Avenue, Suite 167, Cambridge,
Massachusetts, 02140, United States of America.
This device is intended for heating and cooling of biological samples.
The miniPCR bio technical support department is open Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to
5:00 PM, Eastern Time. Contact us by phone at [phone] or by email at
[e-mail].
TECHNICAL INFORMATION

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TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
MINI16X
QP-1016-16
SAMPLE CAPACITY 2 X 8 X 0.2 ML PCR TUBES (STRIP COMPATIBLE)
MAX HEATING RAMP RATE 4 °C / SEC
MAX COOLING RAMP RATE 2 °C / SEC
TEMPERATURE RANGE AMBIENT – 99 °C
TEMPERATURE ACCURACY +- 0.5 °C
HEATED LID INDEPENDENT LID HEATER UP TO 120 °C
SELF-ADJUSTING LID COMPATIBLE WITH FLAT OR DOMED CAPS
THERMAL ELEMENTS RESISTIVE HEATING; ASSISTED COOLING
THERMAL CONTROL EMBEDDED THERMISTORS, PID ALGORITHM
PROGRAMMING MODES HEAT BLOCK, PCR, LINEAR RAMP AND FLEX
PROGRAM SHARING AND BACKUP UNLIMITED LIBRARIES, .PLF FILE
INTERFACE WINDOWS, MAC, iOS, ANDROID, CHROME,
AMAZON FIRE, LINUX COMPATIBLE
COMMUNICATION BLUETOOTH LOW ENERGY AND USB-C
INTERNAL MEMORY LAST UPLOADED PROGRAM AT POWER ON
DIMENSIONS 5.9” x 3.4” x 4.1” (15 cm x 8.5 cm x 10.5 cm)
WEIGHT 0.84 LB (380 G)
POWER SUPPLY AC 100-240 V, 50-60 HZ, 72 W
BATTERY POWER OPTIONAL LI-ION 20000 mAh MINIPCR®
POWER PACK
TECHNICAL INFORMATION

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MINI8X
QP-1000-08
SAMPLE CAPACITY 8 X 0.2 ML PCR TUBES (STRIP COMPATIBLE)
MAX HEATING RAMP RATE 3.5 °C / SEC
MAX COOLING RAMP RATE 2.5 °C / SEC
TEMPERATURE RANGE AMBIENT – 99 °C
TEMPERATURE ACCURACY +- 0.5 °C
HEATED LID INDEPENDENT LID HEATER UP TO 120° C
SELF-ADJUSTING LID COMPATIBLE WITH FLAT OR DOMED CAPS
THERMAL ELEMENTS RESISTIVE HEATING; ASSISTED COOLING
THERMAL CONTROL EMBEDDED THERMISTORS, PID ALGORITHM
PROGRAMMING MODES HEAT BLOCK, PCR, LINEAR RAMP AND FLEX
PROGRAM SHARING AND BACKUP UNLIMITED LIBRARIES, .PLF FILE
INTERFACE WINDOWS, MAC, iOS, ANDROID, CHROME,
AMAZON FIRE, LINUX COMPATIBLE
COMMUNICATION BLUETOOTH LOW ENERGY AND USB-C
INTERNAL MEMORY RUNS LAST UPLOADED PROGRAM AT POWER
ON
DIMENSIONS 5.9” x 3.4” x 4.1” (15 cm x 8.5 cm x 10.5 cm)
WEIGHT 0.84 LB (380 G)
POWER SUPPLY AC 100-240 V, 50-60 HZ, 72 W
BATTERY POWER OPTIONAL LI-ION 20000 mAh MINIPCR™
POWER PACK
TECHNICAL INFORMATION

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SAFETY AND COMPLIANCE
Warning Labels
Warning labels posted on the miniPCR thermal cycler and in this manual inform you of
sources of potential injury or harm.
Icon Meaning
The miniPCR thermal cyclers operate at
temperatures high enough to cause serious
burns. Always allow the sample block to return
to room temperature before opening the lid
and removing samples. Even after the sample
block has cooled, the surrounding areas as
well as the heated lid can remain hot for quite
several minutes.
In situations when there is not sufficient time
to allow the instrument to cool, the use of
protective equipment such as thermal gloves
is recommended.
HOT SURFACE
DO NOT TOUCH
CAUTION
Surface may be hot
COMPLIANCE
ELECTROMAGNETIC COMPATIBILITY (EMC)
The miniPCR thermal cycler has been tested and found to be in compliance with all applicable
requirements of the following safety standards:
EN 61010-1:2010/A1: 2019/AC: 2019, Safety Requirements for electrical equipment for
measurement, control, and laboratory use – Part 1: General requirements.
The miniPCR thermal cycler has been tested and found to be in compliance with all applicable
requirements of the following safety standards:
EN 61326-1: 2013, Electrical Equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use –
EMC requirements – Part 1: General requirements. Tested as a class A device.
ICES-003, Issue 7 (October 15, 2020), Information Technology Equipment (Including
Digital Apparatus) — Limits and Methods of Measurement. Tested as a class A device.
FCC Part 15, Subpart B. Tested as a class A device.
SAFETY

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Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A
digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a
commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency
energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential
area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct
the interference at their own expense.
Note regarding cables: This instrument was tested for EMC compliance with the USB cables
supplied with the instrument. These cables must be used with the instrument to ensure
continued compliance with the EMC emissions limits.
HAZARDS
The miniPCR thermal cycler is designed to operate safely when used in the manner
specified by Amplyus LLC. If the thermal cycler or any of its associated components
is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer, the inherent protection provided
by the instrument may be impaired. Amplyus LLC is not liable for any injury or damage
caused by the use of this equipment in any unspecified manner, or by modifications to
the instrument not performed by Amplyus LLC or an authorized agent.
No consumable materials are used in the equipment and no poisonous or injurious
subtances are liberated.
No uncommon electrical hazard is posed to operators if installed and operated properly
without physical modification and connected to a power source of proper specification.
If biohazardous samples are used, Biosafety Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratory
(BMBL) practices published by the Centers for Disease Control should be followed.
SAFETY

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OPERATING CONDITIONS
Environment Indoor use only
Operating temperature 12-32 °C (54-90 °F)
Transport and storage temperature -10-50 °C (14-122 °F)
Max. relative humidity 60%
Power supply Input AC 100-240 V, 50-60 Hz, 72 W
Power supply Output 19 V, 4.74 A
EQUIPMENT INSTALLATION
CLEANING AND DECONTAMINATION
EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
Equipment shall be installed on a level, dry and flat surface that will support its weight and
dimensions. At least 9 inches of unobstructed space around the unit are required for
appropriate ventilation.
Note: the safety of any system incorporating the equipment is the responsibility of the
assembler of the system.
miniPCR®thermal cyclers can be cleaned using a cloth paper towel moist with water. The
equipment should not come into contact with organic solvents or corrosive solutions. Ensure
that no liquid enters the device. The device must be disconnected from the power supply
before cleaning.
miniPCR®thermal cyclers do not require regular maintenance. Contact the manufacturer if
any problems are encountered during use.
SAFETY

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WARRANTY
This Limited Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship for a period of 36
months from the date of purchase under the following conditions:
Amplyus will repair or replace any defective items upon factory inspection of the item claimed.
Amplyus will cover shipping charges if the claim is initiated within 30 days from purchase.
After 30 days from the date of purchase, end users of the Product will be responsible for
shipping charges to and from the Amplyus facility for assessment and repair under the terms
of this Limited Warranty.
This Limited Warranty does not cover wear and tear to components resulting from normal
use of the Product, nor does it cover failures caused by incorrect use, negligence, alterations,
or damage caused by intentional or accidental misuse of equipment. This Limited Warranty
also excludes damage caused during any shipment/transport/movement of the product
following its initial receipt by the customer.
Amplyus’ sole liability, under this Limited Warranty, for failure to repair miniPCR thermal
cyclers after a reasonable number of attempts, is limited to the replacement of the Product
or, at Amplyus’ sole discretion, the refund of the original purchase price of the Product.
This 36-month warranty is valid from the date of purchase of miniPCR model X thermal
cyclers (the “Product”).
This Limited Warranty covers the original purchaser of the Product and shall not
extend in its validity to third parties without the written agreement of Amplyus LLC
(“Amplyus”).
This Limited Warranty covers only the Product and any original accessories provided
with it. It excludes software, documentation, consumables, or related items.
This Limited Warranty will maintain its validity only as long as the Product is operated
in the manner, conditions, and with the care described in its User’s Guide.
This Limited Warranty will be voided by improper or unauthorized maintenance of
the Product, or by improper attachment of electrical adapters and power supplies not
supplied by Amplyus or its authorized representatives.
This Limited Warranty will be voided by any failure to meet requirements for the
operation of a thermal cycler in laboratory conditions as described in the User’s Guide.
WARRANTY

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miniPCR®thermal cycler
Universal voltage power adapter
US-style AC cord
6 ft USB-C cable
Drawstring travel pouch
WHAT’S INCLUDED
CONTENTS

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OVERVIEW
Heated lid
Sample block
Air intake vents
Air exhaust vents
Power jack
USB-C connector
Power button
Safety latch
LED status indicators
BACK VIEW
OVERVIEW

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LOADING YOUR SAMPLES
REMOVING YOUR SAMPLES
HARDWARE OPERATION
HARDWARE OPERATION
123
567
4
Reverse steps above to remove your samples.
Use caution, samples and instrument may be hot.

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Connected
Program complete
Block cooling
Block heating
No power
Error. Contact support
LED STATUS
Standby
LED INTERFACE
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GETTING STARTED
miniPCR App v3.0 or higher is required to run miniPCR X models.
Visit www.minipcr.com/downloads and select your platform of choice (Windows, Mac,
iOS, Android, Amazon Fire, Chromebook). Minimum system requirements are listed on
the website.
iOS users: visit Apple app store.
Windows 10 users: unzip the file and run the miniPCR installer.
Mac OS users: Double click and move App to the folder of your choice. If the operating
system will not let you open the software “miniPCR can’t be opened because it was not
downloaded from the Mac App Store”, you will need to authorize installation in Security
and Privacy setting in your system preferences.
Android users: visit the Android Play Store.
Amazon Fire users: click on ‘Get app’ from the Amazon web store.
Chromebook users: visit the Google Play store (available through Google Play only).
Open the App by double-clicking or tapping on the miniPCR icon .
DOWNLOAD THE miniPCR®APP
(FREE DOWNLOAD)
GETTING STARTED
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SOFTWARE OPERATION
CREATING AND SAVING PROTOCOLS
SOFTWARE OPERATION
miniPCR App v3.0 or higher is required to run miniPCR X models.
Open the miniPCR App in your device.
Click on the button on the top right corner.
Select the protocol type from the menu on the top of the right pane (Win/Mac/
Chromebook) or screen (Android / iOS / Amazon Fire).
• PCR: for thermal cycling reactions
• Heat Block: for incubations
• Linear Ramp: for heating or cooling reactions at a steady rate
• Flex: for touchdown PCR and any combination of the above
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You can program miniPCR in four different modes: PCR, heat block, linear ramp and Flex
(includes touchdown PCR).
Enter a protocol name; for example “GeneX PCR”. The name can be up to 24 characters
long.
Enter the protocol parameters. Read below for details on programming the different
modes.
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Protocol selection dialog
Win / Mac Mobile / iOS / Amazon Fire

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Click “Save” or “Save and Run” to store your new protocol in the Library.
• Clicking “Save and Run” will save the protocol to the Library and immediately
start the run. To view or edit your protocol, switch to the Library window.
• Tip: The end of a run will be signaled by the green, yellow and red LEDs staying
ON.
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Tip: You may unplug the USB cable or disconnect Bluetooth® once the protocol has
started. Even if disconnected from your computer or mobile device, the protocol will
continue to completion. You may reconnect to the miniPCR®at any time to monitor
progress. Reconnecting will not affect the protocol that is running.
SOFTWARE OPERATION
PCR mode
Input temperatures up to 99 °C, step times up to 9999 seconds and cycles up to 99. The heated
lid option is turned on by default. This setting mantains the lid at approximately 105 °C to
prevent condensation on the caps of the tubes, and can be turned off by toggling the slider.
Win / Mac Mobile / iOS / Amazon Fire
Heat block mode
Input temperatures up to 99 °C and time up to 160 hours.
Select from preset temperatures (37 °C, 42 °C, 55 °C, 65 °C, 72 °C, 95 °C) or use the dialog
box to enter any temperature between 27 °C and 99 °C.
Use the slider to select times between 1 and 180 minutes or the dialog box to input any
number between 1 and 9999 minutes (mobile), or 160 hours, 59 minutes and 59 seconds.
Heated lid is turned on by default. This setting mantains the lid at approx. 10 degrees above
the target temperature to prevent condensation on the caps of the tubes, and can be turned
off by togggling the slider.
CREATING AND SAVING PROTOCOLS (cont.)

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CREATING AND SAVING PROTOCOLS (cont.)
Win / Mac Mobile / iOS / Amazon Fire
SOFTWARE OPERATION
Linear ramp mode
Select the initial and final temperatures and the ramp time between the two. A heating or
cooling ramp can be programmed. Heated lid is turned on by default. This setting mantains
the lid at approximately 10 degrees above the current temperature, and can be turned off by
toggling the slider.
The minimum time a linear ramp can be set to is 10 minutes, and temperatures can be set to
a minimum of 27 °C and a maximum of 99 °C.
Win / Mac Mobile / iOS / Amazon Fire

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SOFTWARE OPERATION
CREATING AND SAVING PROTOCOLS (cont.)
Flex Mode
Use Flex mode to create a program containing any combination of PCR, heat block, linear
ramp and touchdown PCR steps. Heated lid is turned on by default, and can be turned off
by toggling the slider.
PCR, heat block and linear ramp protocols have a cool down step that brings the block to
37 °C. When creating a Flex program, the final cooling step can be toggled on and off.
Win / Mac Mobile / iOS / Amazon Fire

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PROTOCOL OPTIONS
Click or tap on the desired protocol from your Library to show available options:
Run , View/Edit , Copy , Delete . Click View/Edit.
Editing protocols
Update protocol parameters (e.g. change the number of cycles, temperature, etc.)
Click “Save Only” to store the updated protocol parameters or “Save and Run” to store
changes and start the protocol.
You can create a copy of an existing protocol by clicking “Copy”. A new protocol will
be created (“Protocol Name (2)”). The original protocol will be preserved.
Press the icon to delete the protocol.
Copying protocols
Deleting protocols
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SOFTWARE OPERATION
Win / Mac Mobile / iOS / Amazon Fire
Warning: this action cannot be undone.