Spectro-UV SPECTROLINKER XL-1000 User manual

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OPERATOR’S MANUAL
Microprocessor-Controlled
UV Crosslinkers
9/20 AM05048-4
Printed in U.S.A.
XL-1000 and XL-1500
TM
™

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LAMP CONTAINS MERCURY
Manage in Accordance with
Disposal Laws
See: www.lamprecycle.org

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This manual illustrates instructions for all Spectroline microprocessor-
controlled UV crosslinkers: the Spectrolinker XL-1000 and XL-1500. When we
cite Spectrolinker in the text, it should be understood that we are referring to
both Spectrolinker models. Please read the instructions in this manual
carefully before using the Spectrolinker UV crosslinkers.
UNPACKING AND INSPECTION
1. Carefully unpack the Spectrolinker and inspect for damage. If any
damage is noted, do not attempt to operate the unit and immediately notify
the carrier and supplier.
2. We recommend that you save your carton and all packing materials to
safely pack and ship the Spectrolinker should it ever require service.
3. The tubes are protected during shipment by foam blocks. Remove them
from the chamber.
4. Connect the power cord provided to the rear panel of the unit.
5. Make sure the Spectrolinker operates correctly by putting it through each
of the OPERATING MODES on pages 5-7.
WARNING
The Spectrolinker was designed exclusively for the purposes described in
this manual. Never use this equipment in any manner not specified in
these instructions because the protection provided by the equipment may
be impaired.
The unit is factory calibrated at 254nm unless the customer specifies
otherwise when ordering. If the user wishes to change the Spectrolinker to
a different wavelength (i.e., 312nm or 365nm), the unit should be sent
back to Spectro-UV for recalibration.
The Spectrolinker chamber door is made of a special, transparent
UV-blocking material so that the user can safely observe the operation.
The door has a built-in safety interlock which automatically shuts off the
UV tubes when the door is not securely closed. Never use the Spectrolinker
with the safety interlock bypassed. Moreover, the door seals must be kept
clean, even from cleaner residue. Do not spill any liquid inside the
chamber. When loading samples, take care not to block the photo sensor
located inside the chamber at the rear.
Exposure to ultraviolet irradiation without proper protection can be
hazardous to the eyes and skin.

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SPECIFICATIONS
Irradiance Display Resolution: 5µW/cm2over the entire range
Voltage: All models available in 120V/60Hz, 230V/50Hz or 100V/50-60Hz
+
-
CONTROL PANEL DISPLAY DESCRIPTION
1. Power — ON/OFF switch. When ‘‘ON,’’ the Spectrolinker electronics are
in the WAKE state before receiving value or operational mode
instructions.
2. Optimal Crosslink — Sets energy dose to the optimal value of 120
µJ/cm2.
3. Time — Enter time up to 9,999 seconds. NOTE: The minimum interval for
value entry is 1 second.
4. Energy — Select energy dose up to 0.9999 J/cm2. NOTE: The
minimum interval for value entry is 100 µJ/cm2(0.1 mJ/cm2).
5. Intensity — Measures UV irradiance inside the chamber.
6. Start — Initiates the selected operation (i.e., ENERGY, TIME, OPTIMAL
CROSSLINK, or INTENSITY). This pad turns on the UV tubes after the
mode and value are entered.
7. Reset — Clears all previously entered instructions and returns the
Spectrolinker electronics to the WAKE state.
8. Numeral Pads — Selects desired time or energy level. This must be
done after mode selection.
9. X100µJ/cm2— Lit LED indicates ‘‘ENERGY’’ or ‘‘OPTIMAL
CROSSLINK’’ mode operation.
10. Seconds — Lit LED indicates ‘‘TIME’’ mode operation.
11. µW/cm2— Lit LED indicates ‘‘INTENSITY’’ mode operation.
12. Display — Displays selected values of time, energy, or intensity level as
well as the following useful prompts: ‘‘DOOR’’ for open door, ‘‘BULB’’ for
intensity level under 1,500 µW/cm2, and ‘‘END’’ for completed
operation.
XL-1000 XL-1500
UV Tubes (5) 8-watt 254nm (6) 15-watt 254nm
Overall Housing
Dimensions
(W x H x D)
19.5 x 10.5 x 9 in
(49.5 x 26.7 x 22.9 cm)
24 x 10.5 x 14 in
(61.0 x 26.7 x 35.6 cm)
Effective
Inner Chamber
Dimensions
(W x H x D)
13.5 x 7 x 7.5 in
(34.3 x 17.8 x 19.1 cm)
18.25 x 6.25 x 12.5 in
(46.4 x 15.9 x 31.8 cm)
Net Weight 17.5 lb (7.9 kg) 26 lb (11.8 kg)

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1. Energy Mode — When the Spectrolinker is in the ENERGY mode, the
X100 µJ/cm2LED lights. The value displayed or to be entered is in
microjoules per unit area. Energy dosage may be set using the number
pad to a maximum of 0.9999 J/cm2. The minimum interval for value entry
is 100 µJ/cm2. A built-in UV integrator computes the energy dosage
delivered, thereby automatically compensating for the decline in UV
intensity output of the tubes as they age.
The user can operate the Spectrolinker in any of the four modes mentioned
in this section. An audible beep confirms each key entry to avoid errors or
accidental entries. Press ‘‘RESET’’ at any time to abort any operation or to
correct an error. The function must be selected before the value is entered. If
the value is entered first, it will have to be re-entered after the function is
selected.
NOTE: We recommend a five-minute warm-up period, from a cold start,
before using the unit. This allows the UV tubes to stabilize for more
accurate operation. We recommend an intensity check each day before
using the Spectrolinker to ensure that it operates at proper intensity.
The UV tubes must be replaced periodically since their
intensity output declines with use. If unit displays “BULB,” refer to 3.
Intensity Mode.
OPERATING MODES
USEFUL CONVERSIONS
Energy per unit area (µJ/cm2) =Intensity (µW/cm2) x Time (seconds)
1mJ (millijoule) =1000µJ (microjoules)

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The desired dosage should be entered on the number pad after pressing
the ‘‘ENERGY’’ pad. Press ‘‘START’’ to begin operation. After the dosage
is delivered, the Spectrolinker beeps four times and the display flashes
‘‘END.’’ Open the door at this point, and the display will oscillate between
‘‘DOOR’’ and ‘‘0.’’
The Spectrolinker is designed to make repetitive operations easy. So,
when the door is closed after an operation, the Spectrolinker remains in
the ENERGY mode and displays the last energy dosage entered. To
repeat the previous dosage, just press ‘‘START.’’
To alter a previously entered dosage, press ‘‘RESET,’’ enter the new value
and then press ‘‘START’’ to begin the operation.
When the chamber door is opened during an operation, the display will
oscillate between ‘‘DOOR’’ and the energy dose remaining. To resume the
operation, close the door and press ‘‘START.’’ Otherwise, press ‘‘RESET’’
to return the electronics to the WAKE state.
2. Optimal Crosslink Mode — When this is selected, the unit is
pre-programmed to deliver an energy dosage of 120 millijoules per unit
area (120,000µJ/cm2) and ‘‘1200’’ appears on the display. This is consid-
ered the optimal dosage for most membranes [1]. All the number keys are
deactivated in this mode. Press ‘‘START’’ to begin operation. After the
dosage is delivered, the Spectrolinker beeps four times and the display
flashes ‘‘END.’’ Open the door and the display will oscillate between
‘‘DOOR’’ and ‘‘0.’’
To repeat the previous operation, just press ‘‘START’’ after you close the
door. The Spectrolinker remains in the OPTIMAL CROSSLINK mode and
displays ‘‘1200,’’ i.e., 120mJ/cm2. Otherwise, press ‘‘RESET’’ to return the
electronics to the WAKE state.
When the chamber door is open during the operation, the display
oscillates between ‘‘DOOR’’ and the energy dose remaining. To resume the
operation, close the door and press ‘‘START.’’ Otherwise, press ‘‘RESET’’
to return the electronics to the WAKE state.
3. Intensity Mode — To initiate this mode, press ‘‘INTENSITY’’ and then
‘‘START.’’ The value displayed is the irradiance level at the center of the
chamber. The unit remains on until ‘‘RESET’’ is pressed, returning the
electronics back to the WAKE state. When the Spectrolinker is in the
INTENSITY mode, the µW/cm2LED lights. All the number keys are
deactivated in this mode.
In this mode, the unit displays ‘‘BULB’’ when the intensity level falls below
1,500 µW/cm2, indicating that the UV tubes need replacement. When the
chamber door is opened during the operation, the display oscillates
between ‘‘DOOR’’ and ‘‘0.’’ Then, if the door is closed, the Spectrolinker will
remain in the INTENSITY mode. Press ‘‘START’’ to resume operatioor
‘‘RESET’’ to return the electronics to the WAKE state.

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APPLICATIONS
CROSSLINKING OF DNA/RNA
The Spectrolinker can be used to covalently bind nucleic acids to
membranes after Northern, Southern, slot or dot blotting, and colony or
plaque lifts. Studies [1,2,3] indicate that 120 mJ/cm2is an optimal dosage
for attachment of DNA or RNA in any of these procedures to nylon or
nitrocellulose membranes. In order to obtain the best results following the
DNA or RNA transfer step, the membrane should be placed inside the
Spectrolinker chamber after the membrane is dried. Place the membrane with
the side to which the nucleic acids are attached facing upwards (i.e. towards
the light source) so that the nucleic acids are directly irradiated. Select an
energy value or press ‘‘OPTIMAL CROSSLINK’’ followed by ‘‘START’’ to
initiate the desired function.
NICKING DNA
The Spectrolinker can be used to nick the ethidium-bromide-stained DNA in
agarose gels in place of a depurination wash [4].
GENE MAPPING
The Spectrolinker can be used to create thymine dimers prior to treatment
with a restriction enzyme. The formation of dimers at or near the recognition
site inhibits cleavage [5].
4. Time Mode — When this mode is selected, the SECONDS LED lights to
indicate that the value displayed or to be entered represents seconds.
Enter the exposure time desired to a maximum of 9,999 seconds (2 hours,
46 minutes and 39 seconds). The minimum value that can be entered is
one second.
The desired time should be entered on the number pad after the ‘‘TIME’’
pad is pressed. Press ‘‘START’’ to begin operation. After the time has
expired, the Spectrolinker beeps four times and the display flashes ‘‘END.’’
Open the door at this point and the display will oscillate between ‘‘DOOR’’
and ‘‘0.’’
If you want to repeat the previous operation, just close the door and press
‘‘START.’’ The Spectrolinker remains in the TIME mode and displays the
last time entered.
To alter a previously entered time, press ‘‘RESET,’’ enter the new value
and then press ‘‘START’’ to begin the operation.
When the chamber door is opened during an operation, the display will
oscillate between ‘‘DOOR’’ and the time remaining. To resume the
operation, close the door and press ‘‘START.’’ Otherwise, press ‘‘RESET’’
to return to the WAKE state.

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*The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) process is covered by patents issued to Hoffman
La Roche.
1. If the display does not light:
a. Make certain that the power cord is properly plugged into the wall
outlet and the back of the unit.
b. Check the fuse inside the line-filter housing. The fuse can be accessed
from the back of the unit. If blown, unplug the unit and replace with a 2A
F fuse in the XL-1000 models and a 5A F fuse in the XL-1500 model.
See ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS.
2. If the display does not count after ‘‘START’’ is pressed:
Mode (ENERGY, TIME or INTENSITY) and/or value have not been
selected. OPTIMAL CROSSLINK, however, automatically selects the
ENERGY mode.
3. If the countdown is slower than normal:
a. Be sure that the UV sensor is not blocked during operation.
b. Look through the window in the chamber door during unit operation to
TROUBLESHOOTING
Immediately clean all spilled materials from the Spectrolinker and wipe dry. If
necessary, moisten a cloth with soap and water and clean the unit. Do not use
any harsh chemical cleaners. Do not attempt to clean the unit while it is
plugged into a power source.
CLEANING PROCEDURE
TESTING AND SCREENING RecA
The Spectrolinker can be used for testing and screening RecA mutation which
can prevent repair of UV-induced damage on cells, thereby retarding their
growth [6].
UV STERILIZATION
When the Spectrolinker is equipped with short wave (254nm) tubes, various
sterilization processes can be undertaken for laboratory purposes [7,8,9].
ELIMINATING PCR* CONTAMINANTS
The Spectrolinker can be used to eliminate contaminants that may occur
during PCR tests [10,11,12].
MISCELLANEOUS USES
The Spectrolinker can also be used whenever a metered UV dosage is
required. Either short wave (254nm), medium wave (312nm), or long wave
(365nm) UV tubes may be used for such applications. In the INTENSITY
mode, the unit may also be used to monitor intensity inside the chamber. In
this mode, however, the lamps remain on until either the ‘‘RESET’’ button is
pressed or the power is turned off.

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see if all the tubes are lit. And, in the INTENSITY mode, make sure the
irradiance is greater than 1,500 µW/cm2.
Should ‘‘BULB’’ be displayed, the UV tubes need to be replaced.
c. If, after changing bulbs, the unit countdown continues to be slower
than normal or “BULB” is displayed, then the Spectrolinker should be
sent back to Spectro-UV for recalibration.
NOTE: Over time the output of the tubes will degrade and the countdown will
become slower.
TUBE REPLACEMENT
If a tube fails to operate or its UV intensity does not meet desired levels and
tube replacement is necessary, take the following steps:
1. Unplug the Spectrolinker from the power source and allow the tubes to
cool.
2. Grasp the tube by the metal bases located at each end. Applying even
pressure, gently rotate the tube a quarter turn until it loosens. The tube
may now be easily removed from its sockets.
3. Install the new tube by reversing the above procedure.
MAINTENANCE
The Spectroline microprocessor-controlled UV crosslinkers are factory
calibrated for monitoring the intensity inside the chamber to provide years of
trouble-free operation. However, should problems eventually develop with
regard to intensity measurements (as may occur with all light meters), the unit
should be returned to Spectro-UV for recalibration. Be sure to contact the
Customer Service Department at Spectro-UV for shipping instructions. Do
not attempt to service the unit.
The chamber door is made of a special, transparent UV-blocking material to
facilitate the viewing of all of the tubes when the unit is on. The user can
replace one or more tubes should they fail to light. Replacement tubes
(254nm, 312nm or 365nm) can be purchased from Spectro-UV (see Ordering
Information on page 11).
If the chamber output falls below 1,500 µW/cm2with all tubes lit, it is
recommended that you replace the complete set of tubes.
NOTE: The Spectroline UV crosslinkers are factory calibrated at 254nm
unless specified otherwise by the customer when ordering. If the user
wishes to change the tubes to 312nm or 365nm, the unit should be sent back
to Spectro-UV for recalibration at the selected wavelength.

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MODEL VOLTS HZ AMPS FUSE
XL-1000 Series 120 60 1.0 2.0A F
XL-1000/F Series 230 50 1.0 2.0A F
XL-1000/J Series 100 50-60 1.0 2.0A F
XL-1500 Series 120 60 3.0 5.0A F
XL-1500/F Series 230 50 3.0 5.0A F
XL-1500/J Series 100 50-60 3.0 5.0A F
WARRANTY
The warranty policy for the Spectrolinker XL-1000 and XL-1500 is provided on
the Certificate of Limited Warranty enclosed separately with each unit.
NOTE: For assistance of any kind, including help with a unit under
warranty, contact the Customer Service Department at Spectro-UV. Call
toll-free 1-866-230-7305. Give full details of the difficulty and include the
model and serial numbers of the unit and the date of purchase. Spectro-UV
will make available, on request, circuit diagrams and component parts lists for
any model unit.
Different wavelengths may be specified when ordering. Series models
without a letter are 254nm (UV-C). Series models with the letter A are 365nm
(UV-A), and Series models with the letter B are 312nm (UV-B).
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
The Spectroline UV crosslinkers are designed to be safe under the
following conditions.
• Indoor use;
• Altitude up to 2,000 m (6,562 ft);
• Temperature 5°C to 40°C (41°F to 104°F);
• Maximum relative humidity 80% for temperatures up to 31°C (88°F)
decreasing linearly to 50% relative humidity at 40°C (104°F);
• Mains supply voltage fluctuations not to exceed ±10% of the nominal
voltage;
• Installation Category II;
• Pollution Degree 2.
ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS

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ORDERING INFORMATION
Description Part No.
TUBE, Replacement, 8 Watt, 254nm ................ BLE-8T254
TUBE, Replacement, 8 Watt, 312nm ................ BLE-8T312
TUBE, Replacement, 8 Watt, 365nm ................ BLE-8T365
TUBE, Replacement, 15 Watt, 254nm ............... BLE-1T155
TUBE, Replacement, 15 Watt, 312nm ............... BLE-1T158
TUBE, Replacement, 15 Watt, 365nm ............... BLE-1T151
If return of the Spectrolinker to the factory is deemed necessary,
shipping instructions will be provided. If an estimate of charges for
nonwarranty work or other service work is required, a quote will be
furnished upon evaluation of the unit. Out-of-warranty service work will not be
performed without customer approval.
REFERENCES
1. G.M. Church, W. Gilbert, Proc. Nat’l Acad. Sci., 81: 1991-1995, 1984.
2. E.W. Khandjian, Biotechnology, 5: 165-167, 1987.
3. E.W. Khandjian, Mol. Bio. Rep., 11: 107-115, 1986.
4. D. Vollrath, R.W. Davis, Nucl. Acid Res., 15: 7865-7876, l987.
5. P.A. Whittaker, E.M. Southern, Gene, 41: 129-134, 1986.
6. J. Sambrook, E.F. Fritsch, T. Maniatis, Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory
Manual, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, 2nd Edition, 1989.
7. R.R. Reich, H.D. Anderson, ‘‘Sterilization of Membrane Filters with Ultraviolet
Irradiation,’’ Pharmaceutical Manufacturing, 12-15, 1986.
8. R.R. Reich, H.D. Anderson, ‘‘Laboratory Applications of Ultraviolet Irradiation,’’
MD & DI, 52-58, 1985.
9. L.R. Koller, Ultraviolet Radiation, 236-245, John Wiley & Sons, 1965.
10. G. Sarkar, S.S. Somer, Nature, 343: 27, 1990.
11. G.D. Cimino, K. Metchette, S.T. Isaacs, Y.S. Zhu, Nature, 345: 773, 1990.
12. C. Ou, J.L. Moore, G. Schochetman, Biotechniques, 10: 442-445, 1991.

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