Whatman Biometra TProfessional 96 User manual

TProfessional
Thermocycler
User manual
070-901 TProfessional 96
070-801 TProfessional Gradient
070-902 TProfessional 384

TProfessional
User manual
February 2006
Order-No
070-901 TProfessional 96
070-801 TProfessional Gradient
070-902 TProfessional 384
Biometra
biomedizinische Analytik GmbH
Rudolf-Wissell-Str. 30, D-37079 Goettingen
Tel.: [phone]; Fax: [phone]
email:[e-mail]
www.biometra.com

Index___________________________________________________________________________ I
Introduction ...................................................................................................................................1
1.1 TProfessional Thermo block ...........................................................................................1
1.2 TProfessional Lid ............................................................................................................1
1.3 TProfessional User interface ...........................................................................................1
1.4 TProfessional Housing ....................................................................................................1
2Safety precautions .................................................................................................................2
3Installation .............................................................................................................................3
3.1 Content of delivery..........................................................................................................3
3.2 Operation Voltage ...........................................................................................................3
3.3 Setting up the TProfessional ...........................................................................................4
3.4 Initial self test (power on self test)..................................................................................4
4Getting familiar with the TProfessional..............................................................................5
4.1 TProfessional Thermocycler front view..........................................................................5
4.2 TPROFESSIONAL Thermocycler rear view .......................................................................5
4.3 Exchange of block module..............................................................................................6
4.4 The TProfessional control panel .....................................................................................6
4.5 High Performance Smart Lid (HPSL).............................................................................7
4.6 Releasing blocked lid wheel............................................................................................7
5The TProfessional User Interface ........................................................................................9
5.1 TProfessional Menu Buttons........................................................................................... 9
5.2 TProfessional Soft Keys..................................................................................................9
5.3 Log in Menu ..................................................................................................................10
5.4 Block Menu ...................................................................................................................10
5.5 System Menu.................................................................................................................11
5.6 Program Menu...............................................................................................................11
5.7 Navigation within software menus................................................................................12
6Login In ................................................................................................................................12
6.1 Log in existing User ......................................................................................................13
6.2 Create new user account................................................................................................14
6.3 Supervisor Log in .......................................................................................................... 15
6.4 Delete User....................................................................................................................16
7Create program ..................................................................................................................17
7.1 Set Block Type ..............................................................................................................17
7.2 Heated lid settings .........................................................................................................18
7.2.1 Set lid pre-heating mode .......................................................................................18
7.2.2 Set lid temperature ................................................................................................19
7.3 Enter step temperature and time....................................................................................19
7.4 Set loop..........................................................................................................................20
7.5 Cool below ambient temperature ..................................................................................21
7.6 Program Pause...............................................................................................................21
7.7 Save program.................................................................................................................21
8Set Gradient .........................................................................................................................24
9Edit programs......................................................................................................................25
9.1 Insert program step........................................................................................................25
9.2 Delete program step ......................................................................................................26
9.3 Copy program................................................................................................................28
9.4 Delete program..............................................................................................................29
9.5 Editing programs in the graphical mode .......................................................................30

II____________________________________________________________________________
10 Change program options.................................................................................................... 32
10.1 Heating and cooling rate ............................................................................................... 32
10.2 Time increment ÆΔt(s) ............................................................................................... 33
10.3 Temperature increment or decrement ÆΔT(°C) ......................................................... 33
11 Run program ....................................................................................................................... 35
11.1 Select program for start from User directories.............................................................. 35
11.2 Quick start programs from the block Menue ................................................................ 35
11.2.1 View program prior to start................................................................................... 36
11.3 Display during operation............................................................................................... 37
11.4 Pause Program duringt run............................................................................................ 38
11.5 Continue program ......................................................................................................... 38
12 Stop program....................................................................................................................... 39
12.1 Stop Program from a pause........................................................................................... 39
13 System settings..................................................................................................................... 40
13.1 User configuration......................................................................................................... 40
13.1.1 Set language .......................................................................................................... 40
13.1.2 Change individual PIN.......................................................................................... 40
13.1.3 Delete Account...................................................................................................... 41
13.2 System configuration .................................................................................................... 41
13.2.1 Configure beep...................................................................................................... 42
13.2.2 Configure Contrast................................................................................................ 42
13.2.3 Set time and date................................................................................................... 43
13.3 System info ................................................................................................................... 43
13.3.1 System info ........................................................................................................... 43
13.3.2 View Log files of the last five runs....................................................................... 44
13.4 Service........................................................................................................................... 45
13.4.1 View log files of Power on self test ...................................................................... 45
13.4.2 Execute extended self test..................................................................................... 45
13.4.3 View log files from extended self test .................................................................. 46
13.4.4 View Error log files............................................................................................... 46
13.4.5 Create Info file for Biometra Service Department................................................ 46
13.5 How to contact Biometra .............................................................................................. 46
14 Maintenance ........................................................................................................................ 47
14.1 Cleaning and Decontamination..................................................................................... 47
14.2 Trouble shooting ........................................................................................................... 47
14.2.1 Slow heating and cooling...................................................................................... 47
14.2.2 Restart due to unrecognised power failure............................................................ 47
14.2.3 Adaptation of protocols from other cyclers .......................................................... 47
14.2.4 Releasing wheel in case of blocked lid ................................................................. 47
14.3 Service and repair.......................................................................................................... 48
14.4 Firmware update ........................................................................................................... 48
15 Instructions for return shipment....................................................................................... 49
16 Equipment Decontamination Certificate.......................................................................... 50
17 Technical specification........................................................................................................ 51
18 Warranty.............................................................................................................................. 52
19 Declaration of Conformity ................................................................................................. 53

Manual TProfessional _____________________________________________________________ 1
Introduction
The Biometra TProfessional Thermocycler is inspired by the wish to simplify molecular biology
research. To reach this goal the instrument housing, lid and block were totally redesigned,
providing so far unrealised speed and temperature uniformity. Innovative user software was
developed, driven by Biometras 15 years experience in interface design.
The result is an easy to use Thermocycler with excellent technical specifications.
1.1 TProfessional Thermo block
The TProfessional Thermocycler offers three different block modules. To achieve ultimate
performance the 96 well modules are made of Silver. Due to its excellent heat conductivity
Silver equilibrates extremely quickly, thus providing maximum speed and temperature
uniformity. To protect the valuable silver blocks against corrosion, the block surfaces are Gold
plated.
The 96 well silver block is designed for daily routine work and can be used with 0.2 ml tubes,
strips or microplates. For rapid optimisation of new protocols, a 96 well Gradient version is
available. The third block module is designed for use with 384 well plates. All block modules
can be easily exchanged in less than 10 seconds.
1.2 TProfessional Lid
The TProfessional lid has been optimised to achieve two essential requirements: prevention of
condensation and reliable contact between samples and thermoblock. The lid is powered by
Biometras well know smart lid technology which automatically limits lid pressure to save tubes
from damage. In addition, the new design of the High Performance Lid ensures an even
temperature distribution between samples thus significantly improving temperature uniformity.
With one press on the front button, the lid gently swings open and arrests in its end position.
1.3 TProfessional User interface
The TProfessional user interface incorporates Biometras proven spreadsheet-programming
philosophy. Avoiding endless serial program windows, all steps of a program are entered in a
single screen. This makes the creation of new or editing existing programs fast and easy. One
touch leads from the spreadsheet to an alternative graphical programming mode. The
TProfessional manages up to 30 individual users (all password protected) and provides for a
large program store.
1.4 TProfessional Housing
The elegant TProfessional housing is designed for heavy use. Due to an optimised air stream
design even higher efficiency and better temperature uniformity is achieved. The instrument
works quietly and consumes little power, which in turn leads to low heat emission. The compact
footprint saves valuable bench space. Keyboard and display have been set to an angle that
ensures reflection-free viewing and ergonomic programming. To facilitate servicing the
TProfessional housing can be completely removed from the chassis.

2 ____________________________________________________________________________
2 Safety precautions
Please read this manual carefully before starting operation of the TProfessional Thermocycler.
The TProfessional Thermocycler is intended for sample incubation at varying temperatures.
• General safety precautions for laboratory work must be observed when working with the
TProfessional thermocycler.
• Be aware that samples are reaching high temperatures. Do not touch or open hot tubes or
microplates, because hot liquid may quickly spill out.
• Do not heat samples without having the lid locked securely.
• Before opening of the lid, release lid pressure (see section 4.5)
• Do not place fingers between lid and housing when opening or closing the lid.
• Do not touch the heated lid.
• When only few samples are put in the block place additional tubes in the four corner
positions. This is to evenly distribute the lid pressure and prevents single tubes from
excessive pressure. Use of few tubes may result in damage of the tubes by excessive
pressure.
• Use only suited plastic ware in the TProfessional thermocycler. Tubes and plates must show
good fit when placed in the thermoblock. Only use tubes that are suited for high
temperatures (tight lids).
• The TProfessional Thermocycler contains no user serviceable parts. Do not open the housing
instrument. Service and repair may only be carried out by the Biometra Service department
or otherwise qualified technical personal.
• Do not use the instrument when damages of the housing, block, cable or other parts are
visible.
• The TProfessional Thermocycler must not be used with explosive, flammable or volatile
liquids.
• Appropriate safety regulations must be observed when working with infectious or pathogenic
material.
• The Tprofessional does not produce a sound power level that could be hazardous for the
user.
The thermoblock and the heated lid will reach high temperatures
during operation. Both thermoblock and heated lid can burn you.
Rapid heating of the thermoblock can cause liquids to boil
explosively. Always wear safety goggles during operation. Close the
lid before starting a program.
It is not necessary to apply oil into the opening of the block in order
to improve the heat transfer between the block and the sample tubes.
If you still decide to use oil, do not use silicon oil. Mineral oil may
be used.

Manual TProfessional _____________________________________________________________ 3
3 Installation
3.1 Content of delivery
1) Thermocycler with exchangeable block module
2) Mains connector
3) Manual
4) Short Manual
Please keep the original packaging material for return shipment in case of servicing. The
TProfessional shipping box provides a specially developed system for contact-free transport of
this electronic device.
3.2 Operation Voltage
Important: Prior to connecting the TProfessional to the mains, make sure that the setting of the
Voltage selector is in accordance with your mains Voltage.
The TProfessional Thermocycler can operate at 100, 115 or 230 Volt. The operation Voltage is
shown on the Voltage selector which is located at the instrument bottom.
To change operation Voltage of the TProfessional, switch off the instrument and disconnect the
mains plug.
STEP 1 Use a coin or another round shape item to turn the adjustment slot of the Voltage
selector to the new Voltage.
Fuses
Mains plug
Fuses
Power switch
Voltage
indicator
Adjustment
slot
110
115
230
Instrument bottom Instrument backside
12
Important: After changing the operation Voltage, the instrument fuses have to be replaced. Fuse
specifications for each Voltage are shown on the type label on the instrument backside.
STEP 2: Insert Fuses according to selected Voltage at the backside of the instrument.

4 ____________________________________________________________________________
3.3 Setting up the TProfessional
• Place the TProfessional Thermocycler on a stable surface in a dry environment.
• Let equilibrate the TProfessional Thermocycler to room temperature before starting
operation (1 to 6h).
• Make sure that the appliance connector and the plug of the supply cord are accessible, so you
can separate the instrument from the mains.
• Make sure that the ventilation slots on the bottom and the rear are not obstructed (see section
4.2). Make sure that there is no object underneath the thermocycler that may block the
ventilation slots at the bottom (e.g. a piece of paper etc.)
• There must be sufficient distance between the ventilation slots on the rear side of the
Thermocycler and a wall or another instrument (min 10 cm).
Ensure that both the rear and bottom ventilation slits of the
rear and bottom of the instrument are unobstructed.
Insufficient ventilation can cause overheating of the
instrument.
• Make sure that the main supply voltage is in accordance with the label above the power
connection (see section 4.2)
• Connect the TProfessional Thermocycler to a grounded socket.
Prior to connecting the unit to the power source please ensure that the
voltage selector at the back side of the instrument is set to the required
voltage.
Danger of electric shock! Unplug the power cable before you open the
TProfessional Thermocycler.
• The display contrast can be adjusted to local lightning conditions (13.2.2)
3.4 Initial self test (power on self test)
After switching on the TProfessional serial number of the instrument and the software version is
displayed.
A log file of the power on self test is stored in the Thermocycler memory (see section 13.4.1).