Bio-Rad Thermal Cycler T100

Fuses on the T100 Thermal Cycler are designed to blow in case of severe power surges or other causes of electrical short. This process protects both the user and the instrument from excessive electrical charge.

Fuses on the T100 Thermal Cycler rarely need to be replaced. However, some institutions prefer to replace fuses on a regular basis to maintain uninterrupted operation.

If the thermal cycler does not turn on, first check that the power cord is plugged into a functioning power source. Also, check that the power cord and power source are within the specifications for this instrument.

To replace a power cord, contact Bio-Rad Technical Support.

Finally, check that the fuses are intact. The T100 Thermal Cycler runs with two fuses (Figure 29). To remove and check the fuses, follow these steps:

WARNING!: To prevent electrical shock, always turn off the instrument and unplug it from the electrical outlet before checking the fuses.

1. Use a small coin to unscrew the fuse drawer.

2. Pull out the fuse drawer and remove each fuse.

3. If a fuse is damaged, replace it with the correct fuse and close the drawer. A bad fuse shows a break or burned spot in the metal. A good fuse has intact metal.;

The T100 Thermal Cycler exterior should be cleaned on a regular schedule to remove any debris or dirt that might interfere with proper function.

To clean the exterior of the thermal cycler, follow these instructions and pay careful attention to the warnings:

Clean the air vents. Remove dust with a soft brush, damp cloth, or vacuum cleaner. Remove any heavy dust that is deep in the vents with a vacuum cleaner. Cleaning the vents allows sufficient airflow for precise thermal control during a run

Clean the touch screen. Remove debris on the control panel with a soft cloth and any commercial touch screen cleaning fluid or mild soap solution

WARNING!: Do not use abrasive detergents or rough material; they will scratch the display.

Clean the outside case and lid of the thermal cycler. Use a damp cloth or tissue to clean spills off the outside case. If needed, use a mild soap solution, and remove the residue completely. Cleaning the outside case prevents corrosion

Clean the inner heated lid. Use a soft cloth and water to remove debris and solutions from the inner lid surface. Never use abrasive detergents or rough material that can scratch the surface. Cleaning the inner lid improves precise sample heating and cooling;

Warning: Follow these instructions carefully to prevent damage to the T100 Thermal Cycler.

Are there spills inside the wells?

Select the cleaning solution used

Warning: Always rinse the wells with water several times to remove all traces of ethanol, bleach, or soap.

Warning: If oil is used, the wells must be cleaned thoroughly and often.

Warning: Never clean the block with strong alkaline solutions (strong soap, ammonia, or high-concentration bleach).

Warning: Never heat the block after adding a cleaning solution.

Warning: Never pour water or other solutions in the sample block.

WARNING! If misused or abused, the battery may explode or leak, causing injury to personnel and/or damage to the unit. Do not attempt to revive or recharge a used T100 battery by any means. Do not expose the battery to flames, high temperatures, moisture, or direct sunlight. Do not open, dismantle, modify, or short-circuit the battery.

Unit turned over and green access panel removed

Orientation of the old battery noted

Old battery removed and placed on a nonconductive surface

New battery installed with the correct orientation

Access panel replaced and unit turned right side up

Old battery protected from shorts and disposed of in accordance with local rules and regulations

Warning: This test requires trained personnel with PPE!

Is the T100 Thermal Cycler set up in its intended location?

Is the local environment adjusted for typical conditions?

Is all nearby equipment turned on?

Are all thermal cyclers in the area running a protocol?

Did the PCR protocol run for 30 minutes?

Is an empty microplate or empty tubes included?

Enter the air temperature at the air intake vents of the thermal cycler