Techne Touchgene Gradient User manual

T o u c h g e n e G r a d i e n t O P E R A T O R ’ S M A N U A L
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CONTENTS
Touchgene Gradient Operator’s Manual
page
SAFETY AND INSTALLATION
Declaration of conformity 3
English 4
Français 5
Deutsch 6
Español 7
THE TOUCHGENE GRADIENT 8
Warning 8
Unpacking 8
Typical specification at an ambient of 20°C9
Working conditions 10
Uses of the Touchgene 10
Tubes or reaction vessel 10
Cleaning your Touchgene Gradient 11
Block removal 11
The heated lid 12
The memory card 13
Adjusting the light intensity of the screen 13
Before switching on 14
Symbols on the screen 14
POWER UP SCREENS 15
System user main menu 16
Program defaults 16
Numerical input screen 17
PROGRAMS 18
New program screen 18
Template program screens 19
Existing program screen 21
Editing programs 22
The Gradient 26
Increment or decrement temperature or time 28
‘Save’ before ‘Run’ 29
RUNNING A PROGRAM 30
While running programs 31
Data logs 32
Printing Data logs 32
Using “Gensoft” 34
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 35
Interchangeable blocks 36
Accessories 37
Replacement parts 37

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T o u c h g e n e G r a d i e n t O P E R A T O R ’ S M A N U A L
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Techne (Cambridge) Ltd
Duxford
Cambridge
CB2 4PZ
Declaration of Conformity
Techne Unit Touchgene Gradient has been designed to comply with the following European
Standards:
EN 61326:1998 Electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use.
EMC requirements.
EN 61010-1:1993 Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control
and laboratory use.
EN 61010-2-010:1995 Particular requirements for laboratory equipment for the heating
of materials.
I have made all reasonable enquiries regarding the unit stated and its conformance to the
following EU directives:
Low Voltage directive, 73/23/EEC and amendment 93/68/EEC, and
EMC Directive 89/336/EEC and amendments 91/263/EEC 92/31/EEC and 93/68/EEC.
To the best of my knowledge and belief these units conform to these directives.
This Declaration is controlled under an ISO 9001:1994 system certificated by BSI Quality
Assurance, certificate number FM13585.
Signature
Name B C Coombes
Position Quality Manager
Issue 2 27/09/2000
ISO
9001
CERTIFIED

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Introduction
Please read all the information in this booklet before using the
unit.
Warning
HIGH TEMPERATURES ARE DANGEROUS: they
can cause serious burns to operators and ignite
combustible material.
Techne have taken great care in the design of these
units to protect operators from hazards, but users should pay
attention to the following points:
• USE CARE AND WEAR PROTECTIVE GLOVES TO
PROTECT HANDS;
• DO NOT put hot objects on or near combustible objects;
• DO NOT operate the unit close to inflammable liquids or
gases;
• DO NOT place any liquid directly in your unit;
• At all times USE COMMON SENSE.
Operator Safety
All users of Techne equipment must have available the relevant
literature needed to ensure their safety.
It is important that only suitably trained personnel operate this
equipment, in accordance with the instructions contained in this
manual and with general safety standards and procedures. If the
equipment is used in a manner not specified by Techne the
protection provided by the equipment to the user may be
impaired.
All Techne units have been designed to conform to international
safety requirements and are fitted with an overtemperature cut-
out. On some models, the cut-out is adjustable and should be set
to suit the application. On all other models the cut-out is preset
to protect the unit.
If a safety problem should be encountered, switch off at the mains
socket and remove the plug from the supply.
Installation
1. All Techne units are supplied with a power cable. This may
be integral or plug-in.
2. Before connecting the mains supply, check the voltage
against the rating plate. Connect the mains cable to a
suitable plug according to the table below. Note that the
unit must be earthed to ensure proper electrical safety.
Connections 220/240V 110/120V
Live Brown Black
Neutral Blue White
Earth Green/yellow Green
The fused plug supplied with the mains lead for use in the
UK is fitted with the following value fuse to protect the
cable:
230V UK 10 AMP
The fuse in the unit protects the unit and the operator.
Note that units marked 230V on the rating plate work at
220V; units marked 120V work at 110V. In both cases,
however, the heating rate will degrade by approximately 8%.
The rating plate is on the rear of the unit.
3. Plug the mains cable into the socket on the rear of the unit.
4. Place the unit on a suitable bench or flat workspace, or in a
fume cupboard if required, ensuring that the air inlet vents
on the underside are free from obstruction.
5. Symbols on or near the power switch of the unit have the
following meanings:
I : mains switch On
O : mains switch Off
After use
When you have finished heating samples, remember that parts of
the unit – the tubes, blocks and associated accessories – may be
very hot. Take the precautions listed earlier.
Guarantee
The unit is guaranteed against any defect in material or
workmanship for the period specified on the enclosed guarantee
card. This period is from the date of purchase, and within this
period all defective parts will be replaced free of charge provided
that the defect is not the result of misuse, accident or negligence.
Servicing under this guarantee should be obtained from the
supplier.
Notwithstanding the description and specification(s) of the units
contained in the Operator’s Manual, Techne (Cambridge) Limited
hereby reserves the right to make such changes as it sees fit to the
units or to any component of the units.
This Manual has been prepared solely for the convenience of
Techne (Cambridge) Limited customers and nothing in this
Instruction Book shall be taken as a warranty, condition or
representation concerning the description, merchantability, fitness
for purpose or otherwise of the units or components.
User maintenance
NOTE THAT THIS EQUIMENT SHOULD ONLY BE
DISMANTALED BY PROPERLY TRAINED PERSONNEL.
REMOVING THE SIDE, FRONT OR REAR PANELS EXPOSES
POTENTIALLY LETHAL MAINS VOLTAGES.
THERE ARE NO USER MAINTAINABLE PARTS WITHIN
THE EQUIPMENT.
In the unlikely event that you experience any problems with your
unit which cannot easily be remedied, you should contact your
supplier and return the unit if necessary. Please include any
details of the fault observed and remember to return the unit in its
original packing. Techne accept no responsibilty for damage to
units which are not properly packed for shipping: if in doubt,
contact your supplier. See the De-contamination Certificate
supplied with your unit.
1. Cleaning
Before cleaning your unit ALWAYS disconnect from the
power supply and allow to cool below 50° C.
Your unit can be cleaned by wiping with a damp soapy
cloth. Care should be exercised to prevent water from
running inside the unit. Do not use abrasive cleaners.
2. Fuses
Your unit is protected by one or two fuses. These should
only be changed by suitably qualified personnel.
If the fuses blow persistently, a serious fault is indicated and
you may need to return the unit to your supplier for repair.
Contact Information
For technical, sales or servicing information, contact your local
Techne dealer or,
Techne (Cambridge) Limited, Duxford,
CAMBRIDGE, CB2 4PZ, United Kingdom.
Telephone: [phone]
Telefax: [phone]
Service: [phone] hour answer machine
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.techneuk.co.uk
or,
Techne Incorporated, University Park Plaza,
743 Alexander Road, Princeton, New Jersey,
08540-6328, USA.
Telephone: [phone]
Toll free: 1-800-225-9243
Telefax: [phone]
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.techneusa.com

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Introduction
Veuillez lire attentivement toutes les instructions de ce document
avant d’utiliser l’appareil.
Avertissement
DANGER DE TEMPERATURES ELEVEES : les
opérateurs peuvent subir de graves brûlures et les
matériaux combustibles risquent de prendre feu.
Techne a apporté un soin tout particulier à la
conception de ces appareils de façon à assurer une protection
maximale des opérateurs, mais il est recommandé aux utilisateurs
de porter une attention spéciale aux points suivants:
• PROCEDER AVEC SOIN ET PORTER DES GANTS POUR
SE PROTEGER LES MAINS.
• NE PAS poser d’objets chauds sur ou près de matériaux
combustibles.
• NE PAS utiliser l’appareil à proximité de liquides ou de gaz
inflammables.
• NE PAS verser de liquide directement dans l’appareil.
• FAIRE TOUJOURS PREUVE DE BON SENS.
Sécurité de l’opérateur
Tous les utilisateurs de produits Techne doivent avoir pris
connaissance des manuels et instructions nécessaires à la garantie
de leur sécurité.
Important : cet appareil doit impérativement être manipulé par un
personnel qualifié et utilisé selon les instructions données dans ce
document, en accord avec les normes et procédures de sécurité
générales. Dans le cas où cet appareil ne serait pas utilisé selon
les consignes précisées par Techne, la protection pour l’utilisateur
ne serait alors plus garantie.
Tous les appareils Techne sont conçus pour répondre aux normes
de sécurité internationales et sont dotés d’un coupe-circuit en cas
d’excès de température. Sur certains modèles, ce coupe-circuit est
réglable pour s’adapter à l’application désirée. Sur d’autres
modèles, il est pré-réglée en usine pour assurer la protection de
l’appareil.
Dans le cas d’un problème de sécurité, coupez l’alimentation
électrique au niveau de la prise murale et enlevez la prise
connectée à l’appareil.
Installation
1. Tous les appareils Techne sont livrés avec un câble
d’alimentation qui peut être intégré à l’appareil ou à
raccorder.
2. Avant de brancher l’appareil, vérifiez la tension requise
indiquée sur la plaque d’identification. Raccordez le câble
électrique à la prise appropriée en vous reportant au tableau
ci-dessous. Il est important que l’appareil soit relié à la
terre pour assurer la protection électrique requise.
Connexions 220/240 V 110/120 V
Phase Marron Noir
Neutre Blue Blanc
Terre Vert/juane Vert
Le fusible à l’intérieur de l’appareil est destiné à assurer la
protection de l’appareil et de l’opérateur.
Remarque : les appareils dont la plaque indique 230 V
peuvent fonctionner sur 220 V, et ceux dont la plaque
indique 120 V peuvent fonctionner sur 110 V. Dans les deux
cas cependant, le capacité de chauffage diminuera d’environ
8 %. La plaque d’identification se trouve à l’arrière de
l’appareil.
3. Raccordez le câble d’alimentation à la prise située à l’arrière
de l’appareil.
4. Placez l’appareil sur un plan de travail ou surface plane, ou
le cas échéant, dans une hotte d’aspiration, en s’assurant que
les trous d’aération situés sous l’appareil ne sont pas
obstrués.
5. Les symboles situés sur ou à côté de l’interrupteur de
l’appareil ont la signification suivante :
I: arrêt
O: marche
Après utilisation
Lorsque vous avez fini de chauffer les échantillons, n’oubliez pas
que certaines parties de l’appareil - les éprouvettes, leurs supports
et autres accessoires - risquent d’être très chaudes. Il est donc
recommandé de toujours prendre les précautions citées plus haut.
Garantie
L’appareil est garanti contre tout défaut ou vice de fabrication
pour la durée figurant sur la carte de garantie, à compter de la date
d’achat de l’appareil. Au cours de cette période, toutes les pièces
défectueuses seront remplacées gratuitement, dans la mesure où la
défaillance n’est pas due à une mauvaise utilisation, un accident
ou une négligence. Toute réparation sous garantie sera effectuée
par le fournisseur.
Malgré la description et les spécifications de l’appareil données
dans le manuel de l’utilisateur, Techne (Cambridge) Limited se
réserve le droit d’effectuer les changements nécessaires à
l’appareil ou à tout élément qui entre dans sa composition.
Ce manuel a été exclusivement rédigé à l’attention des clients de
Techne (Cambridge) Limited, et aucun élément de ce guide
d’instructions ne peut être utilisé comme garantie, condition ou
représentation concernant la description, commercialisation,
adaptation aux conditions d’utilisation ou autre des appareils ou
de leurs composants.
Entretien utilisateur
IMPORTANT : CET APPAREIL NE PEUT ETRE DEMONTE
QUE PAR DU PERSONNEL QUALIFIE.
LORSQUE LES PANNEAUX AVANT, ARRIERE ET
LATERAUX SONT DEMONTES, L’OPERATEUR EST
EXPOSE A DES TENSIONS QUI PEUVENT ETRE
MORTELLES.
CET APPAREIL NE CONTIENT AUCUN ELEMENT QUI
DEMANDE UN ENTRETIEN DE LA PART DE
L’UTILISATEUR.
Dans le cas peu probable où votre appareil présente un défaut de
fonctionnement auquel il est difficile de remédier, il est alors
préférable de contacter votre fournisseur et, le cas échéant, de
renvoyer le matériel. Veuillez inclure une description détaillée du
problème constaté et retourner l’appareil dans son emballage
d’origine. Techne ne sera pas tenu responsable des dommages
subis par tout appareil dont l’emballage est inadéquat pour le
transport. Pour plus de sûreté, contactez votre fournisseur. Voir le
certificat de décontamination livré avec le produit.
1. Nettoyage
Avant de nettoyer l’appareil, assurez-vous TOUJOURS que
le câble d’alimentation est déconnecté et laissez la
température redescendre en dessous de 50 °C.
Utilisez un chiffon imprégné d’eau savonneuse pour nettoyer
l’appareil. Veillez à ne pas introduire d’eau dans l’appareil.
N’utilisez pas de produits abrasifs.
2. Fusibles
La protection de l’appareil est assurée par un ou deux
fusibles dont le remplacement ne peut être effectué que par
un personnel qualifié.
Si les fusibles sautent sans arrêt, il s’agit d’un problème
sérieux. Nous vous conseillons dans ce cas de prendre
contact avec votre fournisseur pour réparation.

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Einleitung
Bitte lesen Sie diese Bedienungsanleitung komplett bevor Sie
dieses Gerät benutzen.
Warnung
HOHE TEMPERATUREN SIND GEFÄHRLICH: sie
können dem Bediener ernsthafte Verletzungen
zufügen und brennbare Materialien können sich leicht
entzünden.
Techne hat bei der Konstruktion dieses Gerätes sehr
darauf geachtet, daß der Bediener vor Gefahren geschützt ist.
Dennoch sollten Sie auf die folgenden Punkte achten:
· SEIEN SIE VORSICHTIG UND TRAGEN SIE
SCHUTZHANDSCHUHE
· Legen Sie heiße Gegenstände NICHT auf oder in die Nähe
von leicht brennbaren Materialien; vermeiden Sie Arbeiten
in der Nähe von leicht entzündbaren Flüssigkeiten oder
Gasen.
· Bringen sie KEINE Flüssigkeiten direkt in Ihr Gerät.
· Benutzen Sie immer den normalen Menschenverstand
Sicherheit des Anwenders
Alle Benutzer von Techne Geräten müssen Zugang zu der
entsprechenden Literatur haben, um ihre Sicherheit zu gewähren.
Es ist wichtig, daß diese Geräte nur von entsprechend geschultem
Personal betrieben werden, das die in dieser Gebrauchsanweisung
enthaltenen Maßnahmen und allgemeine
Sicherheitsbestimmungen und -vorkehrungen beachtet. Wenn das
Gerät anders eingesetzt wird als vom Hersteller empfohlen, kann
dies die persönliche Sicherheit des Anwenders beeinträchtigen.
Die Geräte von Techne entsprechen den internationalen
Sicherheitsbestimmungen und sind mit einem automatischen
Übertemperaturabschalter ausgestattet. Bei einigen Modellen ist
der Übertemperaturabschalter verstellbar und sollte je nach
Anwendung entsprechend eingestellt werden. Bei allen anderen
Modellen ist der Temperaturschutz voreingestellt um Schäden am
Gerät zu vermeiden. Wenn ein Sicherheitsproblem auftreten
sollte, muß das Gerät ausgeschaltet und vom Stromnetz getrennt
werden.
Installation
1. Alle Techne Geräte werden mit einem Stromanschlußkabel
geliefert. Dieses ist entweder fest mit dem Gerät verbunden
oder zum Einstecken.
2. Vergleichen Sie, ob die Spannung Ihrer Stromversorgung mit
den Angaben auf dem Typenschild des Geräte
übereinstimmen. Verbinden Sie das Stromanschlußkabel mit
einer geeigneten Stromversorgung gemäß der nächstehenden
Tabelle. Achtung: Das Gerät muß geerdet sein, um die
elektrische Sicherheit zu gewährleisten!
Verbindungen 220/240V 110/120V
Stromführend Braun Schwarz
Neutral Blau Weiß
Erde Grün/Gelb Grün
Geräte, die für 230 Volt ausgelegt sind, können auch bei 220
Volt arbeiten, Geräte für 120 Volt auch bei 110 Volt. In
beiden Fällen verringert sich die Aufheizrate um ca. 8%. Das
Typenschild befindet sich hinten am Gerät.
3. Stecken Sie das Stromkabel in die vorgesehene Buchse
hinten am Gerät.
4. Stellen Sie das Gerät auf eine ebene Arbeitsfläche bzw. (falls
erforderlich) unter einen Laborabzug. Beachten Sie, daß die
Entlüftungsrippen an der Geräteunterseite immer frei
zugänglich sind.
5. Die Symbole auf oder neben dem EIN/AUS-Schalter an der
Geräterückseite bedeuten:
I:An
O:Aus
Nach dem Gebrauch
Vergessen Sie nicht, daß Teile des Gerätes (die Gefäße, die
Blöcke und andere Zubehörteile) nach dem Erhitzen von Proben
noch sehr heiß sein können. Bitte beachten Sie die oben
genannten Vorsichtsmaßnahmen.
Garantie
Die Garantiedauer des Gerätes ist auf der beiliegenden
Garantiekarte angegeben und schließt Fehler im Material oder
der Verarbeitung ein. Die Garantiedauer beginnt am Tag des
Einkaufs. Sämtliche defekte Teile werden innerhalb dieses
Zeitraumes kostenlos ersetzt unter der Voraussetzung, daß dem
Defekt keine unsachgemäße Handhabung, Fahrlässigkeit oder ein
Unfall zugrundeliegt. Der unter diese Garantie fallende Service
wird vom Lieferanten geleistet.
Ungeachtet der in dieser Gebrauchsanweisung enthaltenen
Beschreibungen und Spezifikationen, behält sich Techne
(Cambridge) Limited hiermit das Recht vor, Änderungen an den
Geräten bzw. an einzelnen Geräteteilen durchzuführen.
Diese Gebrauchsanleitung wurde ausschließlich dazu erstellt, um
Kunden die Handhabung der Techne-Geräte zu erleichtern.
Nichts in dieser Gebrauchsanleitung darf als Garantie, Bedingung
oder Voraussetzung verstanden werden, sei es die Beschreibung,
Marktgängigkeit, Zweckdienlichkeit oder sonstiges bezüglich der
Geräte oder deren Bestandteile.
Wartung durch den Bediener
BEACHTEN SIE, DASS DIESES GERÄT NUR VON
TECHNISCHEN FACHKRÄFTEN GEÖFFNET UND
DEMONTIERT WERDEN DARF.
DURCH ENTFERNEN DES GEHÄUSES ODER
GEHÄUSETEILEN SIND BAUTEILE MIT
LEBENGEFÄHRLICHEN SPANNUNGEN FREI
ZUGÄNGLICH.
IM INNERN DES GERÄTES BEFINDEN SICH KEINE TEILE,
DIE VOM ANWENDER GEWARTET WERDEN MÜSSEN.
Falls Ihr Gerät nicht ordnungsgemäß arbeitet, wenden Sie sich an
Ihren Lieferanten oder senden Sie das Gerät wenn nötig zurück.
Fügen Sie eine genaue Beschreibung des Defektes bei.
Verpacken Sie das Gerät möglichst im Originalkarton. Bitte
beachten Sie, daß Techne und thermo-DUX keine Haftung bei
Transportschäden aufgrund unzureichender Verpackung
übernnehmen. Setzen Sie sich im Zweifelsfall mit Ihrem
Lieferanten in Verbindung. Bitte beachten Sie die
Entgiftungsbescheinigung, die Sie mit dem Gerät erhalten haben.
1. Reinigen
Bevor Sie Ihr Gerät reinigen, sollten Sie
• zuerst den Netzstecker ziehen
• das Gerät unter 50°C abkühlen lassen.
Ein feuchtes Tuch mit Seifenlösung reinigt Ihr Gerät am
besten. Achten Sie darauf, daß kein Wasser in das Gerät
gelangt. Verwenden Sie keine Scheuermittel.
2. Sicherungen
Die Stromzuleitung ist durch ein oder zwei Sicherungen
geschützt. Diese sollten nur durch qualifiziertes
Fachpersonal ausgetauscht werden. Wenn die Sicherung
wiederholt durchbrennt, liegt ein größerer Defekt vor. Das
Gerät muß zur Reparatur an Ihren Lieferanten eingesandt
werden.

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Introducción
Le rogamos lea cuidadosamente la información contenida en este
folleto antes de manipular el aparato.
Aviso LAS TEMPERATURAS ELEVADAS SON
PELIGROSAS: pueden causarle graves quemaduras y
provocar fuego en materiales combustibles.
Techne ha puesto gran cuidado en el diseño de estos
aparatos para proteger al usuario de cualquier peligro; aún así se
deberá prestar atención a los siguientes puntos:
• EXTREME LAS PRECAUCIONES Y UTILICE GUANTES
PARA PROTEGERSE LAS MANOS;
• NO coloque objetos calientes encima o cerca de objetos
combustibles;
• NO maneje el aparato cerca de líquidos inflamables o gases;
• NO introduzca ningún líquido directamente en el aparato;
• UTILICE EL SENTIDO COMUN en todo momento.
Seguridad del usuario
Todos los usuarios de equipos Techne deben disponer de la
información necesaria para asegurar su seguridad.
De acuerdo con las instrucciones contenidas en este manual y con
las normas y procedimientos generales de seguridad, es muy
importante que sólo personal debidamente capacitado opere estos
aparatos. De no ser así, la protección que el equipo le
proporciona al usuario puede verse reducida.
Todos los equipos Techne han sido diseñados para cumplir con
los requisitos internacionales de seguridad y traen incorporados
un sistema de desconexión en caso de sobretemperatura. En
algunos modelos el sistema de desconexión es variable, lo que le
permite elegir la temperatura según sus necesidades. En otros, el
sistema de desconexión viene ya ajustado para evitar daños en el
equipo.
En caso de que surgiera un problema de seguridad, desconecte el
equipo de la red.
Instalación
1. Todos los aparatos Techne se suministran con un cable de
alimentación. Puede ser fijo o independiente del aparato.
2. Antes de conectarlo, compruebe que el voltaje corresponde
al de la placa indicadora. Conecte el cable de alimentación a
un enchufe adecuado según la tabla expuesta a
continuación. El equipo debe estar conectado a tierra para
garantizar la seguridad eléctrica.
Conexiones 220/240V 110/120V
Linea Marrón Negro
Neutro Azul Blanco
Tierra Verde/amarillo Verde
El enchufe suministrado con el cable de alimentación viene
equipado con un fusible del siguiente valor para proteger el
cable:
230V Reino Unido 10AMP
El fusible una vez instalado protege tanto al equipo como al
usuario.
Asegúrese de que los equipos marcados 230V en la placa
indicadora funcionan a 220V y de que los equipos marcados
120V funcionan a 110V. No obstante, en ambos casos la
velocidad de calentamiento se verá reducida en un 8%
aproximadamente. La placa indicadora está situada en la
parte posterior del equipo.
3. Conecte el cable a la toma de tensión en la parte posterior
del equipo.
4. Sitúe el aparato en un lugar apropiado tal como una
superficie de trabajo plana, o si fuera necesario incluso en
una campana con extractor de humos, asegurándose de que
las entradas de aire en la parte inferior no queden
obstruidas.
5. Los símbolos que se encuentran en o cerca del interruptor de
alimentación tienen los siguientes significados:
I : Interruptor principal encendido
O : Interruptor principal apagado
Después de su uso
Cuando haya finalizado el calentamiento de muestras, recuerde
que las piezas del equipo, tales como tubos, bloques y demás
accesorios, pueden estar muy calientes. Tome las precauciones
mencionadas anteriormente.
Garantía
Este aparato está garantizado contra cualquier defecto material o
de fabricación durante el periodo especificado en la tarjeta de
garantía adjunta. Este plazo inicia a partir de la fecha de compra,
y dentro de este periodo todas las piezas defectuosas serán
reemplazadas gratuitamente siempre que el defecto no sea
resultado de un uso incorrecto, accidente o negligencia. Mientras
se encuentre bajo garantía las revisiones las debe llevar a cabo el
proveedor.
A pesar de la descripción y las especificaciones de los aparatos
contenidas en el Manual del Usuario, Techne (Cambridge)
Limited se reserva por medio de este documento el derecho a
efectuar los cambios que estime oportunos tanto en los aparatos
como en cualquier componente de los mismos.
Este manual ha sido preparado exclusivamente para los clientes
de Techne (Cambridge) Limited y nada de lo especificado en este
folleto de instrucciones se tomará como una garantía, condición o
aseveración de la descripción, comerciabilidad o adecuación para
cualquier fin específico de los aparatos o sus componentes.
Mantenimiento
ESTE APARATO DEBE SER DESMONTADO SOLO Y
EXCLUSIVAMENTE POR PERSONAL DEBIDAMENTE
CAPACITADO.
EL RETIRAR LOS PANELES LATERALES, FRONTALES O
TRASEROS SUPONE DEJAR AL DESCUBIERTO TENSION
DE LA RED PELIGROSA.
EL EQUIPO NO CONSTA DE NINGUNA PIEZA DE CUYO
MANTENIMIENTO SE PUEDA ENCARGAR EL USUARIO.
En el caso improbable de que experimentara algún problema con
su aparato que no pudiera resolver con facilidad, debería ponerse
en contacto con su proveedor y devolverlo si fuera necesario.
Indique de forma detallada todos los defectos que haya notado y
devuelva el equipo en su embalaje original. Techne no aceptará
responsabilidad alguna por daños causados en equipos que no
estuvieran debidamente embalados para su envío; si tuviera
alguna duda, póngase en contacto con su proveedor. Sírvase
consultar el Certificado de Descontaminación suministrado con su
aparato.
1. Limpieza
Antes de limpiar su aparato, desconéctelo SIEMPRE de la
fuente de alimentación y permita que se enfríe por debajo de
los 50°C.
Este aparato se puede limpiar pasándole un paño húmedo
enjabonado. Hágalo con cuidado parae evitar que caiga agua
dentro del mismo. No utilice limpiadores abrasivos.
2. Fusibles
Su aparato está protegido por uno o dos fusibles. Sólo deben
cambiarlos personal debidamente capacitado.
Si los fusibles se fundieran repetidamente, esto indicaría una
avería grave y puede que tuviera que devolverle el aparato a
su proveedor para su reparación.

T o u c h g e n e G r a d i e n t O P E R A T O R ’ S M A N U A L
PAGE 8
THE TOUCHGENE GRADIENT
Before using the Touchgene Gradient make sure you have read this manual carefully.
If there is any doubt relating to the proper use of this equipment, the staff at Techne or your supplier will
be pleased to assist you.
The Touchgene Gradient provides the researcher with the means of accurately controlling
the temperature profile of samples. It has many scientific applications, including DNA amplification and
sequencing. The Touchgene Gradient can cycle samples between 4°C (39°F) and 99°C (210°F).
The Touchgene Gradient is programmed by means of a touch sensitive LCD graphics
screen. Operator input temperatures are temperatures which you require the sample to achieve.
Displayed temperatures can be the temperatures measured by the block probe or the calculated sample
temperature or both. Profile data is saved in plug in memory cards, the program information is
duplicated with the profile data log, and so the original programs are not required during analysis. A
limited number of programs and all system settings are stored in nonvolatile memory within the
Touchgene Gradient. Additional programs may be stored in the nonvolatile memory cards, which are
plugged into a slot under the cover above the screen.
A programme, which can be recalled from memory, consists of:
• a series of specified temperatures in °C
• the times for which each specified temperature will be held (Hold Times)
• the desired heating or cooling rates, in °C/min, between each specified temperature
• whether the times and/or the temperatures are to increase or decrease when a programme is repeated.
The memory card can store up to 500 three segment programs; the number of programs is
reduced as the number of segments in each program is increased. The maximum is one program of 1500
segments.
Warning !
Please note that the touch screen on the Touchgene Gradient is easily damaged by sharp
objects such as pens, pencils and fingernails. Damage of this sort will be considered as misuse and will
invalidate the guarantee on this component.
Unpacking
When unpacking the unit, check that the following have been removed from the packing:
• The Touchgene Gradient unit with memory card in place • Mains cable
• Guarantee card • Decontamination Certificate
• The Touchgene Gradient Operator’s Manual
Make sure you keep the original packing, in case you ever need to return it for service or repair. Techne
accepts no responsibility for damage incurred unless the unit is correctly packed and transported in its
original packing.

T o u c h g e n e G r a d i e n t O P E R A T O R ’ S M A N U A L
PAGE 9
Typical Specification at an ambient of 20°C
For a detailed specification please contact Techne Sales
Temperature
Gradient Range 20°C to 70°C
Maximum gradient 30°C
Number of temperature probes 4
Block temperature range 4°C to 99°C
Typical heat up rate 3.0°C/sec
Typical Cool down rate 1.3°C/sec
Block uniformity (without gradient) < ±0.4°C
Column uniformity with a 10°C gradient < ±0.3°C
Control accuracy < ±0.3°C
Gradient accuracy < ±0.3°C
Temperature set point adjustment ±0.1°C
Integral Heated Lid
The heated lid only comes on if the block temperature is set above 30°C
Selectable heated lid temperature 100°C to 115°C
Heated lid enable/disable Yes
Warm up time from ambient to 105°C 4 min
Over temperature cutout Yes
Regulated lid pressure Yes
Programs
Password protected Yes
Incremental/decremental Segment Hold Time -99 to +99sec, 1sec intervals
Incremental/decremental Temperature -5.5°C to +5.6°C in 0.1°C intervals
Variable programmable ramp rate steps ±0.1°C/sec
Programmable ramp rate resolution 0.1°C
Gradient calculator Yes
Maximum programs internal memory 50 (dependant upon program complexity)
Maximum programs memory card 500 x 3 segment
Program naming capacity Alpha/numeric
Program interface screen Touch sensitive
Pause facility Yes
End of program alarm (can be disabled) Yes
Auto restart on power failure Yes
Run end time calculation Yes
Miscellaneous
Height x Width x Length 260 mm x 220 mm x 420 mm
Weight 12.5 kg
Power consumption 620W total including the heated lid
Parallel port Yes
Serial Port RS232/RS485 adaptable Yes
Connection to PC control program Yes

T o u c h g e n e G r a d i e n t O P E R A T O R ’ S M A N U A L
PAGE 10
Voltage
The units marked 100V will work at any voltage between 90V and 110V.
The units set to 120V will work at any voltage between 110V and 130V.
The units set to 230V will work at any voltage between 210V and 260V.
(See page 14 for setting the voltage.)
However, the performance may not meet the above specification at the extremes of voltage.
Working conditions
The Touchgene Gradient is designed to work safely under the following conditions:
Ambient temperature range 5°C to 40°C
Humidity Up to 95% relative humidity, non-condensing
Note: The control specifications are quoted at an ambient temperature of 20°C. The specification
may deteriorate outside an ambient temperature range of 10°C to 30°C.
Radio frequency interference tested and passed to EN50081-1.
Immunity Tested and passed to EN50082-1
Uses of the Touchgene Gradient
The Touchgene Gradient has many scientific laboratory applications, including DNA
sequencing and PCR. Aspects of the PCR process are claimed in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,683,195,
4,683,202, and 4,965,188. Use of the Touchgene Gradient in such processes does not convey a licence
to practice the processes themselves.
Tubes or Reaction Vessel
Techne does not recommend any specific tube or reaction vessel other than those described
in this Manual. We recommend using reaction volumes between 10 and 50µl. The tubes must
withstand a pressure of 1 atmosphere at 100°C.
To test your tubes, put 25µl of water in each of 5 tubes and subject them to a typical
thermal cycling protocol. At the end of the cycle, measure the volume remaining, using a micropipet.
A loss of more than 1 or 2µl indicates a vapour leak.
The amount of volume loss you observe and the change in reactant concentrations you can
tolerate determine the minimum volume that can be used. Typical volume losses of 1µl in 30 cycles
allow the use of samples of 10µl or less.
During the final cooldown, a ring of condensation may form above the liquid level but
below the top of the sample block. This is not usually a cause for concern, as the condensation does not
form during cycling.

T o u c h g e n e G r a d i e n t O P E R A T O R ’ S M A N U A L
PAGE 11
Cleaning your Touchgene Gradient
Disconnect your unit from the power supply and allow it to cool to below 50°C before
cleaning it.
The heat/cool block, including wells and flat surfaces, should be cleaned regularly to ensure
optimum heat transfer to the samples. Always clean the block if there has been a spillage. Use a cloth or
cotton buds dipped in a fresh, 50:50 water/isopropanol solution, and make sure that no deposits are left
in the wells.
In the case of radioactive spillages, Techne recommend that you use a proprietary cleaning
agent. Carefully follow the cleaning agent manufacturer’s instructions. The heat/cool block is made of
aluminium. Therefore, an agent such as Neutracon (from Decon Laboratories Ltd.), suitable for
nonferrous metals should be used but remember other parts of the unit are made of ferrous materials and
may be damaged by spillage onto them.
You can clean the case or the screen of the Touchgene Gradient with a cloth dipped in
water or ethanol (methanol or formaldehyde can also be used). No part of the case or cover should be
immersed in the solvents. Do not use aggressive solvents such as acetone, or abrasive cleaners.
Block removal
The blocks can be removed for a more detailed cleaning.
Ensure that the unit is disconnected from the mains for
removal of block.
Slide the quick release handles in the direction shown
above and lift the assembly out of the unit. Never lift or
carry the block by one quick release handle, always use
both handles or support the block underneath. When
refitting the block, slide the quick release handles in the
opposite direction to the above arrows to lock the block
assembly into the unit.

T o u c h g e n e G r a d i e n t O P E R A T O R ’ S M A N U A L
PAGE 12
The Heated Lid
The heated lid is an integral part of the Touchgene Gradient. It can be switched “On” or
“Off”, see ‘Program Defaults’ or ‘Editing screen’.
To open the lid lift the back of the handle as shown and use it to lift the lid. To close the lid
lower the lid onto the block with the samples in and press the handle shut.
To adjust the pressure on the
samples: Adjust the red rotating knob
anticlockwise to give minimal pressure, shut
the lid and latch it. Gently rotate the knob
clockwise until you can just feel pressure
beginning to be applied. Rotate the knob a
further quarter of a turn and this will give
the correct pressure. Do not over-tighten
the knob as this will cause deformation of
the silicone rubber membrane and reduce
the effectiveness of the lid. Once the
pressure has been set it does not need to be
adjusted unless a different block, and hence
a different type of sample holder, is used.

T o u c h g e n e G r a d i e n t O P E R A T O R ’ S M A N U A L
PAGE 13
The Memory Card
The Memory Card is inserted
into the slot under the cover at the front of
the unit. Lift the cover and push the
Memory Card into the slot until the button
at the left-hand end of the slot rises. Ensure
that the Memory Card is inserted correctly
by positioning the card so that the ‘front’
label is facing you.
The Memory Card can be used
for storing the programs and data logs of
program runs. The memory card slot also
allows upgrades of the control software.
Either via copying software from a new unit
and transferring it to an older unit, or by
obtaining a copy of the new software from
Techne This is a relatively easy process,
see the “System Administration” card, and
means that you can keep your unit up to
date with the latest software.
Adjusting the Light Intensity of the Screen
The light intensity of the screen can be adjusted to suit various environmental conditions.
Lift the front cover and you will see a small black knob on the left-hand side of the cavity. Rotating this
knob clockwise will make the screen lighter and rotating it anticlockwise will make the screen darker.
Adjust the screen to suit your light conditions.
Adjusting Knob

T o u c h g e n e G r a d i e n t O P E R A T O R ’ S M A N U A L
PAGE 14
230V 115V
∼
∼
Before Switching On
Ensure that the voltage selector
switch is set to the appropriate
voltage for your supply.
To set the unit to the correct
voltage:
Remove the block.
From the back of the unit, look
into the space where the block
was and you will see a label as
shown.
In the centre of the label is a switch. When the unit leaves the factory the switch is set to 230V to avoid
accidental damage.
Ensure that the appropriate fuses are fitted for your supply.
For 230V set the voltage selector switch set to 230V and fit T2.5A fuses.
For 115V set the switch to 115V and fit T4A fuses.
For 100V units the switch will be set to 115V T4A fuses will be fitted, do not change either of these.
Symbols on the Screen
is the symbol for setting the gradient

T o u c h g e n e G r a d i e n t O P E R A T O R ’ S M A N U A L
PAGE 15
T echne
Touchgene Gradient
Serial number GPxxxx/xx
Software version v.vv
Hardware version h.hh
Block ID Grad 96 x 0.2ml
Last system test dd/mm/yyyy
Comms address 01
Copyright protected 2000
System System
User Admi n
T echne
T ouch gene Gradient
Serial number GPxxxx/xx
Software version v.vv
Hardware version h.hh
Block ID Grad 96 x 0.2ml
Last system test dd/mm/yyyy
Copyright protected 2000
Performing self tests
123
Techne
Touchgene Gradient
System
User
POWER UP SCREENS
The screen is a touch sensitive
LCD graphics screen. Operator
input temperatures are
temperatures which you require
the sample to achieve.
Displayed temperatures are
either the temperatures
measured by the block probe,
the calculated sample
temperature or both.
The screen shown is displayed
when the unit is powered on
and will remain displayed
while the unit performs it’s self
tests.
After the self-tests this screen
is displayed unless the unit is
powered up by auto-restart see
a later section.
Fields with full corners are dialogue windows and have
no effect when touched. For example:
Fields with cutaway corners are touch sensitive and give
the user some sort of action when touched. For
example:
System Admin button
This selects administration
functions and is dealt with in
the system administration
section.
System User button
This selects normal user
functions as shown on the next
screen.

T o u c h g e n e G r a d i e n t O P E R A T O R ’ S M A N U A L
PAGE 16
System User Main Menu
Programs
By touching this button you
can access all the programs
stored either internally or in the
memory module, see page 18.
Program defaults
By touching this button you
can set up the program defaults
for a number of programs. See
below.
Data Logs
By touching this button you
can access the data logs stored
in the plug in memory module.
See a later section of this
manual, pages 32 and 33.
Gradient Calculator
See page 26.
Exit
By touching this button you can return to the previous screen.
Program Defaults
When you touch this button you can set up default settings for the programs you are about to put into the
unit.
If you touch the button for a field where there is either ON or OFF then the field will toggle between the
two. For example:
Pause before program Off One touch gives: Pause before program On
A second touch will return the
field to the first example.
If you touch a button where
there is a numerical input it
will transfer you to an input
screen. An example is given
on the following pages.
If you touch the ’&’ down
arrow button the screen will
toggle down to a maximum of
four more fields as shown on
the next screen. You can then
toggle back using the ’%’up
arrow button.
T echne
Touchgene Gradient
Programs Program
defaults
Data Gradient Exit
Logs Calculator
Set program Defaults
Heated Lid Off
Heated Lid before program Off
Pause before program Off
Initial denaturation 05m00s 94.0°c
Hot Start 94.0°c
%&
Exit

T o u c h g e n e G r a d i e n t O P E R A T O R ’ S M A N U A L
PAGE 17
Edit initial denaturation settings
Initial denaturation 95.0°C 05m00s
h789 ←→
m 4 5 6 Disable
s 1 2 3 Cancel
0 . BS OK
Set program Defaults
Initial denaturation 05m00s 94.0°c
Hot Start 94.0°c
Final extension 05m00s 72.0°c
Final hold 10.0°c
%&
Exit
either
or
Once you have set the defaults
to those required, you return to
the “System User Main Menu”
screen by touching the Exit
button.
Numerical Input Screen
An example only is shown. All the screens where a numerical input is required are similar. The ‘h’, ‘m’
and ‘s’ will only appear where the field requires hours, minutes or seconds.
The ’← →← →
← →← →
← →’arrow buttons only operate where you need to change fields.
The ‘Disable’ button puts ‘xxxxx’ in the fields. The button itself will change to ‘Enable’. If the
segment was previously “Disabled” the reverse will happen and you will be able to put numerical values
in the field.
The ‘Cancel’ button takes you back to the previous screen without any changes.
The ‘BS’ button is a back space, if you are at the beginning of a field it will delete the whole field: if you
are in the middle of a field it will delete the previous digit.
Type in the program information; with the units of time where appropriate. The order of the time is not
important, for example if you type in 5s2m the unit will convert it to 02m05s.
Touch ‘OK’ when you have
entered the your program
information.
You will return to the
“Program” screen.

T o u c h g e n e G r a d i e n t O P E R A T O R ’ S M A N U A L
PAGE 18
Editing “Your Own”
Initial denaturation 05m00s 94.0 ° c
Hot start Disabled
Next step
Final extension 05m00s 72.0 ° c
Final hold 10.0 °c
%&
Ins Del Edit
PWord Save As Save Exit
Select program
xxxxxx bytes of memory free
b 2 STEP PCR TEMPLATE
b 3 STEP PCR TEMPLATE
b ICE BUCKET
b LIGATION 15 DEGREES
i Bill
%&
New Exit
either
or
PROGRAMS
Touch the ‘Programs’ button
in “System User Main Menu”
and you will go into the “Select
Program” screen.
How to use “New” programs is
explained below.
An “Existing” program with:
a “b” prefix is a ‘basic’
program or “Template” (how
to use these is explained on
page 20);
an “i” prefix means the
program is stored ‘internally’;
an “r” prefix means the
program is stored on the
memory card or ‘remotely’
(how to edit and use existing programs are explained on page 21).
Use the, ‘&’or ‘%’, down arrow or up arrow key to toggle through the programs. Select any one by
touching the appropriate field.
If you touch ‘Exit’ you will return to the System User Main Menu.
New Program Screen
If you choose ‘New’ then you will go into an input screen to give the program a name. Once you have
entered the name, you will go into the ‘Editing’ screen.
Touch the ‘&’ down arrow button to toggle more parts of the program. You can then toggle back using
the ‘%’ up arrow button.
‘Del(ete)’ will only be effective
for saved programs.
‘Ins(ert)’ will only be effective
if there is no “Next step” field.
‘Save As’ will give the
program a different name.
‘Save’ will save the program.
‘Edit’ will put you into the
“Edit program function”
screen.
‘Exit’ will return you to the
“Program” screen.
‘PWord’ will allow you to
give the program a password so
that other people cannot edit
your program, see page 22

T o u c h g e n e G r a d i e n t O P E R A T O R ’ S M A N U A L
PAGE 19
Program 2 STEP PCR TEMPLATE
Last Modified 01/00/2000 00:00:00
Heated Lid 105.0 ° c
Heated Lid before program On
Pause before program Off
Initial denaturation 05m00s 94.0 ° c
Hot Start Disabled
Number Cycles 30
%&
Copy Delete Edit
Run Print Exit
Program 2 STEP PCR TEMPLATE
Initial denaturation 05m00s 94.0 ° c
Hot Start Disabled
Number Cycles 30
Seg MAX ° c/m 00m30s 92.0 ° c
Seg MAX ° c/m 01m00s 68.0 ° c
Final extension 05m00s 72.0 ° c
Final Hold 10.0 ° c
%&
Copy Delete Edit
Run Print Exit
Template Program Screens
Any template program can be
copied and given a new name.
From “Select Program” screen
if you touch “2 step PCR
template” you will come to this
screen.
Touch ‘Copy’ and you will go
into the title screen. Type in
your name for the program and
touch ‘Enter’.
If you try to ‘Edit’ any of these
programs you will find that you
can only “Save as” when you
finish. The ‘Save’ key will not
be on the screen.
If you touch ‘Delete’ you will
be asked if you are sure you
want to delete the program.
Select ‘Yes’ or ‘No’.
Before you touch ‘Print’ make
sure that you have a printer
connected to the Touchgene. If
you touch ‘Print’, and you have
a printer connected, it will print
out the program.
If you touch ‘Run’ the unit will
start to run the selected
program. See a later section on
page 30.
The other keys work as for any
other screen.
Touch the ‘&’ down arrow
button to toggle more parts of
the program.
You can then toggle back using
the ‘%’ up arrow button.

T o u c h g e n e G r a d i e n t O P E R A T O R ’ S M A N U A L
PAGE 20
The 3 step PCR template has
the seg(ments) shown here.
Other settings are as for the 2
step template.
The “Ice Bucket” template has
all fields set to ‘off’ or
‘disabled’ except the final hold
temperature which is set to
4.0°C.
The “Ligation 15 degrees”
template has all fields set to
‘off’ or ‘disabled’ except the
final hold temperature which is
set to 15.0°C.
Program 3 STEP PCR TEMPLATE
Hot Start Disabled
Number Cycles 30
Seg MAX ° c/m 00m30s 92.0 ° c
Seg MAX ° c/m 00m30s 55.0 ° c
Seg MAX ° c/m 00m30s 72.0 ° c
Final extension 05m00s 72.0 ° c
Final Hold 10.0 ° c
%&
Copy Delete Edit
Run Print Exit
Program ICE BUCKET
Heated Lid Disabled
Heated Lid before program Off
Pause before program Off
Initial denaturation Disabled
Hot Start Disabled
Final extension Disabled
Final hold 4.0 ° c
%&
Program LIGATION 15 DEGREES
Heated Lid Disabled
Heated Lid before program Off
Pause before program Off
Initial denaturation Disabled
Hot Start Disabled
Final extension Disabled
Final hold 15.0 ° c
%&