™
PX1
Instruction Manual
Catalog #181-4000
PCR Plate Sealer
Bio-Rad Technical Support
For help and technical advice, please contact the Bio-Rad Technical Support
department. In the United States, the Technical Support department is open
Monday–Friday, 5:00 AM–5:00 PM, Pacific time.
Phone: 1-800-424-6723
Fax: 1-510-741-58 02
Email: LSG_TechServ_US@bio-rad.com (for U.S. and international customers)
Online technical support and worldwide contact information are available at
www.consult.bio-rad.com.
Legal Notices
No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any
means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording, or any information
storage or retrieval system, without permission in writing from Bio-Rad Laboratories.
Bio-Rad reserves the right to modify its products and services at any time. This
instruction manual is subject to change without notice.
Although prepared to ensure accuracy, Bio-Rad assumes no liability for errors or for
any damages resulting from the application or use of this information.
Veriti, StepOne, and StepOnePlus are trademarks of the Applera Corporation.
Mastercycler is a trademark of Eppendorf AG. (Agilent) Mx series is a trademark of
the Stratagene Corporation. LightCycler is a trademark of Roche Diagnostics GmbH.
LightScanner is a trademark of Idaho Technology, Inc.
Copyright ©2012 Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. Reproduction in any form, either print or electronic, is prohibited
without written permission of Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. Excel is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
i
Bio-Rad Laboratories Resources
Table 1. Bio-Rad res ources and instructions on how to locate w hat you ne ed.
Resource How to Contact
Local Bio-Rad Laboratories Find local information and contacts on the Bio-Rad Laboratories website
representatives by selecting your country on the Home page (www.bio-rad.com).
Find the nearest international office listed on the back of this manual
Technical note s and literature Go to the Bio-Rad Laboratories website (www.bio-rad.com). Type a
Technical specialists Bio-Rad Laboratories Technical Support scientists provide our customers
term in the Search box and select Documents to find links to technical
notes, manuals, and other literature
with practical advice and expert solutions. To find local Technical Support
on the phone, contact your nearest Bio-Rad Laboratories office. For
Technical Support in the United States and Canada, call 1-800-4246723 (toll-free phone), and select the Technical Support option
Writing Conventions and Warning Labels
The writing conventions and warning labels used for the PX1™ PCR instrument and its instruction
manual are shown in Table 2. On the instrument, they are used to identify hazards or potentially
hazardous situations; in the manual, they point out impor tant information that the reader nee ds to know
or might find useful.
Table 2. Information identifiers for the instrument and manual.
Identifier Meaning
Tip: Provides helpful instructions, including information explained in further detail elsewhere in
Note: Provides important information, including information explained in further detail elsewhere in
WARN ING! Explains crucial information about a topic that may lead to injury to the user, instrument
Tou ch X Touch X using your finger. For example, touch the SEAL button means use your finger to
this manual.
this manual.
damage, data loss, or the prevention thereof.
touch the SEAL button on the screen.
Caution: See manual! — this icon is placed on or near instrument features that can be
hazardous if improperly handled. It indicates that the manual contains information pertaining
to the hazard and any actions necessary to avoid it. It also identifies warnings in the manual
regarding general hazards and any preventive actions necessary.
Caution: Shock Hazard! — this icon is placed near components or features of the instrument
that present an electrical shock hazard. It is also used in the manual to identify warnings
regarding shock hazards and any actions necessary to prevent harm.
Caution: Hot Surface! — this icon is placed on or near surfaces of the instrument that can
reach temperatures high enough to cause serious injury or damage. It is also used in this
manual to identify warnings regarding hot surface hazards and any preventive actions necessary.
Safety Considerations
Th e PX1™ PCR Plate Sealer has been designed as an easy-to-use instrument for sealing PCR plates.
This instrument applies heat and pressure to the sealing film and plate to create an effective seal that
retains its integrit y during thermal cycling. All users of this instrument are encouraged to read and follow
the safet y and operating instructions contained in this manual.
Table 3. Co nditi ons for safe use of the PX1 PCR plate sealer.
Usage Aspect Conditions for Safe Use
Rated input power 100–240 V AC, 50–60 Hz,
840 W max
Overvoltage category II
Environment Indoor use only
Temperature 18–31°C
Usage Aspect Conditions for Safe Use
Relative humidity Up to 80% (noncondensing)
Altitude Up to 2,000 meter s above
sea level
Pollution degree 2
Replacement fuses 8 A, 250 V, 5 x 20 mm,
Fast Blow (qt y 2)
ii
Only qualified laboratory personnel trained in the safe use of electrical equipment should operate this
instrument. Always ha ndle all components of the system with care and with clean, dry hands.
WARNING! The use of this instrument in a manner contrary to the instructions provided, or for
purposes other than those for which it is intended, may impair the safety protections afforded
by the equipment. Additionally, changes or modif ications to this instrument by anyone other
than Bio-Rad Laboratories or an authorized agent may cause its safety protection features to
malfunction. Bio-Rad Laboratories is not responsible for any injury or damage caused by such
use or modification of the instrument.
WARNING! Do not attempt to repair the PX1 PCR plate sealer or remove its outer case.
There are no user ser viceable components or adjustments inside the instrument. Opening the
instrument voids all warrantie s. Contact Bio-Rad Laboratories if you feel your instrument needs
service or repair.
WARNING! Use only power cords, accessories, and consumables authorized by Bio-Rad
Laboratories for use with this instrument. The use of nonapproved power cords, accessories, or
consumables may void the instrument warranty and can create a hazardous situation. Contact
Bio-Rad Laboratories for information on authorized power cords, accessories, consumables,
and their replacement.
WARNING! The surfaces inside the instrument drawer are ex tremely hot when the instrument is
operating and will stay hot for up to one hour after the instrument is turned off. Do not put your
hand or other body par ts inside the unit while it is hot. Do not put any unauthorized objects in
the instrument drawer.
WARNING! Know your materials. The PX1 PCR Plate Sealer uses heat and pressure to seal the
plate and sealing film together. Some sample materials may be inappropriate for a heat sealing
proces s. For example, materials that are highly volatile or have low flash points may be at risk of
exploding or igniting during the sealing process.
WARNING! Risk of splashing. Always wear appropriate protection against splashing. The
PX1 PCR Plate Sealer uses heat to fuse the plate and sealing film together. Expansion of air and
materials sealed in the sample plate could cause the seal or sealing film to rupture, dispersing
the sample material in and around the instrument. This is especially true if the plate is jammed,
stuck, or left in the sealing bay for an extended time.
WARNING! The plate, sealing film, plate support block, and sealing frame may be hot after
a sealing cycle or if left in the instrument for an extended period of time. A llow the plate and
accessories to cool before handling.
WARNING! The display panel is made of glass and contains a liquid crystal substance. If the
display is damaged, the glass can break into shards and the liquid crystal substance may leak
out. The glass shards are sharp and can cut skin or other soft materials. The liquid crystal
substance is toxic. Do not allow glass shards or liquid crystal substance to get in your mouth or
eyes. If the substance comes in contact with your skin or clothe s, wash it off thoroughly using
soap and water. Contact Bio-Rad Laboratories for further instructions and to arrange to have
your instrument repaired.
Regulatory Compliance
This instrument has been tested and found to be in compliance with all applicable requirements of the
following safety standards:
n
IEC 61010 -1 Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory
use — Part 1: General requirements
n
IEC 61010-2-010 Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory
use — Part 2-010: Particular requirements for laboratory equipment for the heating of material
n
CAN/CSA- C22 .2 NO. 61010-1- 04 Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement,
Control, and Laboratory Use — Part 1: General Requirements
n
CAN/CSA-C22.2 NO. 61010-2-010-04 Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for
Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use — Part 2-010: Particular Requirements for Laboratory
Equipment for the Heating of Materials
n
EN 61010 -1:2001 Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and
laboratory use — Part 1: General requirements
iii
n
EN 61010 -1:2011 Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and
laboratory use — Part 1: General requirements
n
EN 61010-2-010:2003 Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and
laboratory use — Part 2-010: Particular requirements for laboratory equipment for the heating of material
n
UL 61010 -1:2004 (R200 8) Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control,
and Laboratory Use — Part 1: General Requirements
n
UL 61010 A-2-010 :20 02 Standard for Electrical Equipment for Laboratory Use — Part 2: Particular
Requirements for Laboratory Equipment for the Heating of Material
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)
This instrument has been tested and found to be in compliance with all applicable requirements of the
following electromagnetic compatibility standards:
n
IEC 61326-1:2005 Electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use — EMC
Requirements, Class A
n
EN 61326-1:2006 Electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use — EMC
Requirements, Class A
n
FCC Part 15, Subpart B, Sections 15.107 and 15.109 as a Class A digital device
EMC Notices
n
Warning: Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by Bio-Rad Laboratories
could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
n
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 radiofrequency 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 inter ference at his own expense.
n
Note regarding FCC EMC compliance: Although this instrument has been tested and found to
comply with Part 15, Subpart B of the FCC Rules for a Class A digital device, please note that this
compliance is voluntary, as the instrument qualifies as an “exempted device” under 47 CFR 15.103(c),
in regard to the cited FCC regulations in effect at the time of manufacture.
n
Note regarding Canadian EMC compliance: Le present appareil numerique n’emet pas de bruits
radioelectrique depassant les limites applicables aux appareils numeriques de class A prescrites dans le
reglement sur le brouillage radioelectrique edicte par le Ministère des Communications du Canada.
Warranty
The PX1 PCR plate sealer and associated accessories are covered by a standard Bio-Rad warranty.
Contact your local Bio-Rad Laboratories office for details of the warranty.
iv
Table of Contents
Bio-Rad Laboratories Resources .......................................................................ii
Writing Conventions and Warning Labels ...........................................................ii
Safety Considerations ........................................................................................ii
Regulatory Compliance ..................................................................................... iii
Warranty ..........................................................................................................iv
Chapter 1: Introduction ....................................................................................... 2
Unpacking the PX1
Instrument Overview ......................................................................................... 2
Setting Up the System ...................................................................................... 3
Chapter 2: Using the PX1 PCR Plate Sealer ...................................................... 4
Home Screen Overview .................................................................................... 4
Basic Sealing Instructions .................................................................................4
Optimizing Heat Sealing .................................................................................... 6
Storing and Using Sealing Protocols ................................................................. 7
Set Auto Shutdown ........................................................................................... 7
Chapter 3: PX1 PCR Plate Sealer Maintenance ................................................ 8
Cleaning Outer Instrument Parts ....................................................................... 8
Cleaning the Platen ...........................................................................................8
Cleaning the Drawer ..........................................................................................9
Removing the Drawer ........................................................................................ 9
Replacing the Drawer ........................................................................................ 9
™
.......................................................................................... 2
Chapter 4: Error Messages and Replacing Fuses .......................................... 10
Error Messages ............................................................................................... 10
Replacing Fuses .............................................................................................. 12
Chapter 5: Compatible PCR Plastics and Heat Seals .................................... 13
Heat Sealing Film Comparison Chart .............................................................. 13
Sealing Guidelines for Heat Seals ................................................................... 13
Selection Guide for Compatible PCR Plastics ................................................. 14
Ordering Information ......................................................................................... 16
1
Chapter 1 — Introduction
1
Introduction
The Bio-Rad® PX1™ PCR plate sealer is designed to deliver consistent and reliable
microplate sealing that withstands the stresses of thermal cycling. The PX1 virtually
eliminates sample evaporation from the PCR experimental workflow.
Unpacking the PX1
The PX1 PCR plate sealer includes the following components:
n
PX1 PCR plate sealer instrument
n
Plate support block
n
Sealing frame
n
PX1 instruction manual
n
Power cord
Remove all packing materials and store them for future use. If any items are missing
or damaged, contact your local Bio-Rad office.
Instrument Overview
Front panel (Figure 1) — the front panel
of the PX1 PCR plate sealer includes the
following components:
n
Touch screen user interface — consisting
of a full color screen for complete control of
LED status
light
Touch screen
Motorized
drawer
PX1 functions
n
Motorized drawer — used to insert the
plate and seal
n
LED light — indicates instrument status.
Fig. 1. Front panel.
Green indicates the instrument is either
actively heating or maintaining a set
temperature. Orange indicates the
instrument has automatically shut down
after a user-programmable amount of time
Back panel (Figure 2) — the back panel of
the PX1 PCR plate sealer includes the
following components:
n
Ventilation slots
n
Fuse drawer
n
Power switch
n
Power connection
2
Fig. 2. Back panel.
Ventilation
slots
Fuse drawer
Power switch
Power
connection
Chapter 1 — Introduction
Platen (Figure 3) — the metal platen is precisely
heated to the programmed temperature. During
sealing, the platen is lowered to efficiently seal a
plate using heat and pressure.
PX1 accessories
n
Plate support block (Figure 4) — reversible
96/384-well plate support block
n
Sealing frame (Figure 5) — helps hold seals in
place during sealing
If desired, a stylus (not included) can be used for
Fig. 3. Platen .
touch screen control. Use only styluses with a
tip radius 0.8 mm or larger that are made from
a material no harder than an HB (#2) pencil lead.
Fig. 4. Plate support block.
Setting Up the System
WARNING! Before operating the PX1, be
sure to read the safety specifications and
Fig. 5. Sealing frame.
operating requirements at the beginning of
the manual.
1. Place the PX1 on a flat, dry surface. The instrument requires the following
clearances to ensure adequate airflow:
n
10.2 cm (4.0 in) of clearance behind instrument
n
17.8 cm (7.0 in) of clearance above instrument
n
16.5 cm (6.5 in) of clearance in front of instrument
n
The PX1 may be placed against another object or wall on either or both sides of
the instrument
2. Insert the supplied power cord into the power connection.
3. Turn on the PX1 using the power switch on the back of the instrument.
n
The heater will remain off the first time the instrument is turned on. In all
future boot ups, the instrument will automatically begin heating to the last set
temperature once the plate support block has been removed
n
Press the power switch on the back panel of the PX1 to power down the system
3
Using the PX1 PCR Plate Sealer
2
Using the PX1™ PCR Plate Sealer
Home Screen Overview
The home screen (Figure 6) displays important heat sealing information.
Instrument status
Current platen
temperature
Loaded protocol
name
Program automatic
heater shutdown
Fig. 6. PX1 home screen.
Seal a plate
Open and
close drawer
Saved protocols
Basic Sealing Instructions
1. Remove the plate support block and
sealing frame when the instrument is turned
on (Figure 7). Touch the
button to open
the drawer and ensure that both the plate
support block and sealing frame are removed
from the instrument. Once removed, touch OK.
The instrument will automatically begin heating
Fig. 7. Remove support block.
to the last set temperature.
WARNING! Burn Hazard! Do not leave the plate support block or sealing frame
in the heated instrument. They may become hot and pose a hazard to the user
and experimental samples.
2. Modify seal temperature and time
n
On the home screen touch Set Temperature
Enter desired seal temperature between 100 and 190
o
C. Touch OK
– The platen automatically begins to heat to the new set temperature. If the set
temperature is lower than the current platen temperature, the heater will remain
off and the platen will cool passively
– The Off button on the numeric keypad will turn the heater off
n
On the home screen touch Set Time
Enter desired sealing time between 0.5 and 10 seconds. Touch OK
Note: Suggested sealing parameters are provided in Chapter 5 and in Bio-Rad heat
seal packaging. Refer to the Optimizing Heat Sealing section for instructions on
optimizing these parameters.
4
Chapter 2 — Using the PX1 PCR Plate Sealer
3. Seal the plate (Figure 8).
A. Determine correct side of the reversible 96/384-
well plate support block to use (A).
– 96-well plates, side with the 96 recesses up
– 384-well plates, flat side up
WARNING! Using the incorrect side of the
plate support block may result in poor sealing
and may possibly damage the instrument.
B. Touc h
to open the drawer. Place plate
support block in the drawer (B).
C. Place PCR plate in plate support block (C).
D. Place seal on plate (D). The yellow sticker on
the Bio-Rad heat seal bag identifies the
sealing surface.
E. Some seals (including Permanent Clear Heat
Seal and Peelable Foil Heat Seal) require
the sealing frame to hold the seal in place. If
required, place sealing frame on top of seal,
aligning frame sides with outer grooves on the
drawer guides (E).
F. Touch Seal when the set temperature has been
reached and the seal button is green. The drawer
will close and the plate will be sealed. When
sealing is complete, the drawer will automatically
open and the plate can be removed.
WARNING! The plate and seal remain hot for
a few seconds after sealing. Use caution
when removing the plates.
Tip: Keep the plate support block and sealing
frame outside the instrument between sealings
so they do not become hot. Alternatively, the
drawer can be kept open to prevent the block
and frame from heating up.
Fig. 8. A , Determine correct
plate support block side.
B, Place plate support block in
dr awer.
C, Place plate in plate support
block.
D, Place se al on plate (seal side
down).
E, Add sealing frame if necessary.
5
Chapter 2 — Using the PX1 PCR Plate Sealer
Optimizing Heat Sealing
Sealing optimization is a crucial step to ensure a
high-quality seal. Sealing a plate for too long or at
too high a temperature can result in oversealing and
potentially affect the quality of data in optical assays,
including qPCR. Undersealing a plate may permit
sample evaporation.
Tip: Optimize sealing conditions using an empty plate.
1. Seal an empty plate with the recommended
sealing parameters listed in Chapter 5.
2. Carefully examine the entire seal and plate surface.
Look for even sealing around each individual well
and across the entire plate (Figure 9).
3. Make sure well rims are not significantly deformed.
Note: Minimizing well deformation is especially
important for qPCR assays. Significant well
deformation could affect optical readings.
4. If using a peelable seal, peel off the seal and
examine the adhesive patterns where the wells
contacted the seal. Look for uniform circular
imprints across the entire seal (Figure 10).
5. Optional: fill a sample plate with a colored liquid
such as 0.01% bromophenol blue solution.
Examine sample volumes to ensure pipetting
accuracy. Seal the plate. Thermal cycle the plate
and examine all wells for signs of evaporation
(Figure 11).
6. Save optimized sealing protocol so that it can
be easily accessed for future experiments. Refer
to Storing and Using Sealing Protocols section for
detailed instructions.
Fig. 9. Impressions should have
uniform width around individual
wells and across entire plate.
Fig. 10. Uniform and complete
circles demonstrate good sealing.
Fig. 11. Examine sample volumes
after cycling. In this demo,
corner wells were poorly sealed to
demonstrate sample evaporation.
6
Chapter 2 — Using the PX1 PCR Plate Sealer
Storing and Using Sealing Protocols
Storing Protocols
1. Touch Protocols on the home screen
(Figure 6).
2. A screen displaying a table of saved
protocols is displayed (Figure 12). View
additional protocols by touching the
and arrows.
3. Touch the protocol you would like to edit
or replace with a new sealing protocol.
Fig. 12. Protocols window.
4. Touch Edit. A screen displaying the
protocol name, temperature, and time appears.
5. Touch the parameter you wish to modify and use the keypad to make the desired
changes. Touch OK to save the changes or Cancel to revert back to previously
saved protocol.
Using saved protocols
1. Touch Protocols on the home screen.
2. A screen displaying a table of saved protocols is displayed. View additional protocols
by touching the
and arrows.
3. Touch the protocol you would like to use.
4. Touch Load. The protocol name, temperature, and time appear on the home screen
and the platen automatically starts heating to the desired temperature.
Set Auto Shutdown
The Set Auto Shutdown function allows you to customize the duration of time an idle
instrument remains at the set temperature prior to automatically shutting down.
1. Touch Set Auto Shutdown on the home screen (Figure 6).
2. Enter the time the idle instrument should remain at the set temperature before
automatically shutting down. Times can range from 30 minutes to 3 hours.
n
If the instrument has received no user input for this set amount of time, the
heater and screen will automatically shut of f and the LED light will change
from green to orange
n
Touch the screen to bring the instrument out of Auto Shutdown mode.
The instrument will automatically begin heating to the last set temperature
n Changes made to the Auto Shutdown setting are saved when the main
power is shut of f
7
PX1 PCR Plate Sealer Maintenance
PX1™ PCR Plate Sealer
3
Periodically remove any debris, dirt, or residues that might interfere with proper instrument
function or present a chemical, biological, or radiological hazard. For instructions on
handling and cleaning radioactive or biohazardous materials, consult the guidelines for
radiation safety and biosafety provided by your institution.
Cleaning Outer Instrument Parts
Turn off and unplug instrument. Allow instrument to cool for at least one hour.
External Casing
1. Use a damp cloth or tissue to clean spills off the outside of the case. Use a 10%
bleach solution or 70% ethanol solution for decontamination.
2. Allow casing to dry completely before rebooting the instrument .
Touch Screen
1. Gently clean the screen with any approved LCD cleaning agent.
2. Allow screen to dr y completely before rebooting the instrument .
External ventilation slots
Remove dust and debris with a soft brush, damp cloth, or vacuum cleaner.
Maintenance
Cleaning the Platen
The platen (Figure 3) was designed with a nonstick surface to facilitate cleaning. This
feature makes it easy to remove seals accidently placed upside down during sealing.
1. Turn off and unplug the instrument.
2. Wait at least one hour for the instrument to completely cool.
Caution: The platen may retain heat for more
than one hour.
– Bio-Rad recommends cleaning the platen when the drawer remains on its tracks.
If this is too difficult, see the Removing the Drawer section.
3. If removing an upside down seal, gently pull the seal off the platen once the platen
has fully cooled.
4. Wipe the platen with a paper towel or lint-free wipe dampened slightly with water.
Any adhesive or melted plastic on the platen should easily wipe away.
Note: Never use abrasives or sharp-edged objects to clean the platen as they may
damage the nonstick surface.
5. Allow the instrument to dry.
8
Chapter 3 — PX1 PCR Plate Sealer Maintenance
Cleaning the Drawer
Use a damp cloth to clean up spills inside the drawer. Decontamination procedures should
use a 70% ethanol or 10% bleach solution. Use a silicone-based grease to lubricate the
rails on the bottom of the tray if necessary after cleaning. Lithium- and molybdenumbased greases should be avoided as they may react with the silicone-based grease.
Removing the Drawer
1. Turn off and unplug the instrument.
2. Allow the instrument to cool for at least one hour
before removing the drawer.
WARNING! Burn Hazard: The platen can
remain hot longer than an hour and can
burn the user if touched when hot. Allow
the instrument to cool completely before
performing any maintenance.
Fig. 14. Top of the drawer. Arrows
indicate the direction to push the
release tabs to remove the drawer.
3. Manually open the drawer.
4. Reach under the bottom of the open drawer
(Figure 14) and push both tabs to the left.
Figure 15 shows the underside of the drawer.
(Black tabs should be pushed to the left when
the instrument faces up.)
5. While pushing both tabs to the left, pull the drawer
off the tracks. The tracks will extend slightly as the
drawer is pulled. Avoid touching the rails because
the grease may be removed.
The rails can be wiped with a soft dry cloth.
Fig. 15. Underside of the drawer.
The black tabs (arrows) can be pushed
to release the drawer from the tracks.
Decontamination procedures should use a
70% ethanol or 10% bleach solution. If a liquid
decontamination agent is used, the tracks should
be lubricated using a silicone-based grease.
Lithium- and molybdenum-based greases
should be avoided as they may react with the
silicone-based grease.
Replacing the Drawer
1. Make sure the drawer tracks are fully extended
(Figure 16).
2. Place metal prongs on the rear of the drawer
inside the black ends of the tracks (Figure 17).
3. Manually push the drawer in all the way to the
closed position. If the drawer appears crooked,
ensure rails are properly seated on the tracks
before forcing the drawer in completely.
Fig. 16. Fully extended tracks.
Fig. 17. Replace the drawer. Align
the two sets of prongs on the back
end of the drawer with black ends
of the tracks.
9
Error Messages and Replacing Fuses
Error Messages and
4
Error Messages
Th e PX1™ performs a series of tests to ensure the instrument is functioning properly. If
any issues are detected, the instrument will display an error message.
In some cases, the user will be instructed to perform a function to clear the error. After
performing this function, touch OK. If the error clears, the user may continue to use the
instrument.
In many cases, restarting the instrument will allow the PX1 to reset to its normal
working conditions and automatically clear the issue. If the error persists, please
contact Bio-Rad technical support for assistance.
Error Message Explanation
Drawer blockage.
Remove object.
If issue continues, restart
instrument.
Replacing Fuses
The drawer is unable to open or close. Carefully remove
any obstructions and touch OK. If error persists, restart
the instrument. This error may also occur if the drawer is
not fully pushed onto the tracks. If this appears to be the
case, manually push the drawer in all the way.
Drawer hardware issue.
Restart instrument.
If issue continues, contact
Bio-Rad.
Platen hardware issue.
Restart instrument.
If issue continues, contact
Bio-Rad.
Sensor failure.
Restart instrument.
If issue continues, contact
Bio-Rad.
Drawer took too long.
If issue continues, restart
instrument.
10
The motor failed to open or close the drawer. As a
safety precaution, power to the heater is shut down.
Restart the instrument. If the error is cleared, the PX1
will automatically heat to the set temperature.
The motor failed to raise or lower the platen. As a
safety precaution, power to the heater is shut down.
Restart the instrument. If the error is cleared, the PX1
will automatically heat to the set temperature.
The sensor that detects the platen temperature is not
functioning properly. As a safety precaution, the heater
has been turned off. Restart the instrument. If the
error is cleared, the PX1 will automatically heat to the
set temperature.
The drawer has not opened or closed within a set
amount of time. Make sure nothing is preventing the
drawer from opening or closing properly and touch OK. If
error persists, restart the instrument.
Chapter 4 — Error Messages and Replacing Fuses
Error Message Explanation
Platen overheated.
Restart instrument.
If issue continues, contact
Bio-Rad.
The platen overheated. Restart the instrument.
As a safety precaution, the heater has been turned off.
Manually set the desired temperature and the platen
will begin to heat.
System did not reach
temperature.
Restart instrument.
The platen failed to reach target temperature in the
allotted time. As a safety precaution, the heater has
been turned off. Restart the instrument.
If issue continues, contact
Bio-Rad.
System overheated.
Restart instrument.
If issue continues, contact
Bio-Rad.
Push drawer in.
If issue continues, restart
instrument.
Platen not initialized.
Restart instrument.
If issue continues, contact
Bio-Rad.
Platen blockage.
Remove object.
If issue continues, restart
instrument.
The internal temperature of the PX1 has exceeded
a safe limit. Power to the heater is shut down. Allow
instrument to cool and then restart.
Note: the temperature has been set to OFF. Manually
set the desired temperature and the platen will begin
to heat.
Drawer may be overextended. Manually push the
drawer in and touch OK. If error persists, restart the
instrument.
The platen did not raise properly. Restart the
instrument to initialize the platen.
Platen failed to raise or lower because of a blockage.
Carefully remove blockage and touch OK. Ensure
the plate was placed on the correct side of the plate
support block (for example, 384-well plates placed
only on the flat side of the block and 96-well plates
placed only on the side with 96 recesses).
11
Chapter 4 — Error Messages and Replacing Fuses
Replacing Fuses
Fuses will blow in the case of an electrical fault or a severe power surge. This process
protects the user and instrument from electrical hazards. Although fuses should never
need to be replaced, some institutions prefer to replace fuses on a regular basis to
maintain uninterrupted operation.
If the PX1 does not turn on, first confirm the power cord is in a functioning power
source within the instrument specifications. If the cord and AC power source
are fully functional, use the directions below to determine if the fuses are intact.
WARNING! To prevent electrical shock, always turn off and unplug the
instrument before checking the fuses.
WARNING! The fuses and other protection features have been designed not
to fail over the life of the instrument. If the fuses fail more than once, there may
be an electrical fault in the instrument. If this occurs, contact Bio-Rad customer
support for assistance.
Directions to Replace a Fuse (Figure 18)
1. Turn off and unplug the instrument. Remove power cord from the instrument.
2. Use a sturdy blunt object to gently pry open the fuse cover (A).
3. Use a small coin to unseat the fuse carrier (B).
4. Remove both fuses from the fuse carrier and inspect. If the wire is no longer intact,
the fuse is blown (C).
5. If either fuse is blown, install two new fuses (8 A, 250 V, 5 x 20 mm, Fast Blow) into
the fuse carrier (see Table 2).
6. Reinstall the fuse carrier using firm pressure to ensure it is fully seated.
7. Close the fuse cover.
8. Reconnect the power cord and turn on the instrument.
A B C
Fig. 18. Replacing the fuse.
12
Compatible PCR Plastics and Heat Sealing Films
Compatible PCR Plastics
5
Table 4. Heat sealing film comparison chart.
Product Catalog Number Key Features Compatibility
Optically clear
heat seal
Permanent clear
heat seal
Pierceable foil
heat seal
Peelable foil
heat seal
* Limited and variable compatibilit y based on plastic composition. ** Not recommended for real-time
PCR. PP, polypropylene; COC, cyclic olefin copolymer; PE, polyethylene; PS, polystyrene.
Table 5. Sugg ested sealing guidelines for heat seals. Use these sealing times and temperatures for
initial plate sealing. Optimize sealing parameters if necessary.
PCR Plate Cata log
Hard-Shell®
384-well
standard
Hard-Shell
384-well 480
Hard-Shell lowprofile 96-well
skir ted
Hard-Shell highprofile 96-well
semi-skirted
™
Multiplate
low-profile 96well unskirted
Multiplate highprofile 96-well
unskirted
™
96-well 223-9441 96 Clear 180, 3 18 0, 3 185, 3 18 5, 5
iQ
and Heat Seals
181-4030
181-4 03 5
181-4040
181-4 04 5
Number
HSP-3xxx 384 Clear
HSR-4xxx 384 Clear
HSP-9xxx 96 Clear
HSS-9xxx 96 Clear
MLL-9xxx 96 Clear
MLP-9xxx 96 Clear
Number
of Wells
Well
Color
White
White
White
White
White
White
n
Validated for real-time PCR
n
Peelable
n
Strongest heat sealing option
n
Ideal for water bath cycling
n
Validated for PCR**
n
Validated for use with the
™
Droplet Digital™ PCR
QX10 0
system
n
Validated for PCR
n
Ideal for sample storage
n
Validated for PCR
Optically
Clear Heat
Seal
175, 3
16 7, 3
175, 3
16 7, 3
185, 3
180, 3
170, 3
185, 3
180, 3
180, 3
175, 3
170, 3
Permanent
Clear Heat
Seal
Tem p°C , se c
175, 3
16 7, 3
175, 3
16 7, 3
180, 3
180, 3
165, 3
180, 3
180, 3
160, 3
150, 3
165, 3
PP, COC, PE*, PS
PP
PP, P S*
PP, COC*
Pierceable
Foil He at
Seal
170, 3
170, 3
170, 3
170, 3
175, 3
175, 3
170, 3
175, 3
175, 3
175, 3
175, 3
175, 3
Peelable
Foil He at
Seal
185, 4
185, 3
185, 4
185, 3
180, 3
185, 5
185, 3
185, 3
185, 5
185, 3
185, 3
185, 3
13
Chapter 5 — Compatible PCR Plastics and Heat Sealing Films
Table 6. Selection guide for compatible PCR plastics.
384-Well Plates 48- and 96-Well Plates
Hard-Shell Hard-Shell Semi Hard-Shell Multiplate
Standard Hard-Shell 480 Skir ted High-Profile Skirted Low-Profile High-Profile Low-Profile High-Profile
Catalog # HSP-3xxx HSR-48xx HSS-xxxx HSP-9xxx MLP-xxxx MLL-xxxx 223-9441
Thermal Cycler
®
Bio-Rad
Bio-Rad® T100™
Bio-Rad® DNA Engine®,
DNA Engine Tetrad
DNA Engine Tetrad 2,
DNA Engine Dyad®,
Dyad Disciple
Bio-Rad® MyCycler™
Bio-Rad® iCycler® ▲
Bio-Rad® MJ Mini™ ▲
Applied Biosystems 0.2 ml tube
cyclers (2720, 9700, Veriti)
Applied Biosystems 0.1 ml tube
cyclers (9800 fast, Veriti fast)
Applied Biosystems 384-well
cyclers (9700, Veriti)
Eppendorf Mastercycler series
Bio-Rad
CFX384 Touch™,* CFX Connect
Bio-Rad® iCycler iQ®, iQ™5, MyiQ™, MyiQ™2
Bio-Rad® Chromo4™
Bio-Rad® DNA Engine Opticon® and DNA Engine Opticon 2
Bio-Rad® MiniOpticon™* ▲
Applied Biosystems standard
systems (7300, 7500, 790 0HT)
Applied Biosystems fast systems
(7500 fast, 7900HT fast, StepOne,
StepOnePlus)
Eppendorf Mastercycler ep realplex
Stratagene (Agilent) Mx series
Roche LightC ycler 480
Other Instruments
Applied Biosystems DNA
sequencers (3100, 3700, 373 0)
Idaho Technology LightScanner
✔
* CFX384, CFX384 Touch, and MiniOpticon real-time PCR detection systems are factory calibrated for
C1000™, C1000 Touch™, S1000™
®
,
™
Real-Time PCR Instrument
®
CFX96™, CFX96 Touch™, CFX384™,*
Recommended
white tubes and white-well plates. White plastics are recommended due to their superior signal-to-noise
ratio. Using clear tubes or clear-well plates on these instruments will require user calibration.
, P TC-100
▲ Compatible
®
™
✔
▲ ▲
✔
▲ ▲
✔
✔ ▲ ▲ ✔
✔
✔
▲
✔ ▲ ▲ ✔
▲ ✔
✔
▲ ▲✔
▲
✔
✔
▲ ✔
▲
▲
▲ ▲
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
14
Chapter 5 — Compatible PCR Plastics and Heat Sealing Films
Unskirted Multiplate Unskirted iQ Semi-Skirted
MLP-xxxx MLL-xxxx 223-9441
▲ ▲ ▲
▲ ▲ ▲
▲
✔
▲
✔
✔
✔
✔
▲
✔
▲ ▲ ▲
▲
▲ ▲
▲
▲
✔
▲ ▲
Except 7900HT
▲
Except 7900 fast
▲ ▲ ▲
Except 7900HT
▲
✔
▲
▲ ▲
15
Ordering Information
Catalog # Description
PX1 PCR Plate Se aler
181-4000 PX1 PCR Plate Sealer, includes plate sealer instrument, dual 96/384-well
Heat Se al Films and Foils
181-4030 Optically Clear Heat Seal, pkg of 100, optically clear seals for PCR and
181-4 03 5 Permanent Clear Heat Seal, pkg of 100, nonpeelable, nonpierceable clear
181-4040 Pierceable Foil Heat Seal, pkg of 100, foil seals for PCR and QX100
181-4 04 5 Peelable Foil Heat Seal, pkg of 100, laminate/foil peelable seals for PCR
Accessories
181-4080 Sealing frame, sealing aid for select sealing films
181-4 08 5 Plate support block, for both 9 6- and 384-well plates
plate support block, sealing frame, power cord
real-time PCR applications
seals for PCR, water bath cycling, and sample disposal
™
applications
ddPCR
and sample storage
™
16
Life Science
Life Science
Group
Group
Bio-Rad
Bio-Rad
Laboratories, Inc.
Laboratories, Inc.
Web site ww w.bio-rad.com USA 800 424 6723
Web site ww w.bio-rad.com USA 800 424 6723
Australia 61 2 9914 2800 Austria 01 877 89 01 Belgium 09 385 55 11
Australia 61 2 9914 2800 Austria 01 877 89 01 Belgium 09 385 55 11
Brazi l 55 11 5044 5699 Canada 905 364 3435 China 86 21 6169 8500
Brazi l 55 11 5044 5699 Canada 905 364 3435 China 86 21 6169 8500
Czech R epublic 420 241 430 5 32 Denmark 4 4 52 10 00
Czech R epublic 420 241 430 5 32 Denmark 4 4 52 10 00
Finland 09 804 22 00 France 01 47 95 69 65 Germany 089 31 884 0
Finland 09 804 22 00 France 01 47 95 69 65 Germany 089 31 884 0
Greece 30 210 9532 220 Hong Kong 852 2789 3300
Greece 30 210 9532 220 Hong Kong 852 2789 3300
Hungary 36 1 459 6100 India 91 124 4029300 Israel 03 963 6050
Hungary 36 1 459 6100 India 91 124 4029300 Israel 03 963 6050
Italy 39 02 216091 Japan 03 6361 7000 Korea 82 2 3473 4460
Italy 39 02 216091 Japan 03 6361 7000 Korea 82 2 3473 4460
Mexico 52 5 55 488 7670 The Netherlands 0318 540666
Mexico 52 5 55 488 7670 The Netherlands 0318 540666
New Zealand 64 9 415 2280 Nor way 23 38 41 30
New Zealand 64 9 415 2280 Nor way 23 38 41 30
Poland 48 22 331 99 99 Portugal 351 21 472 7700
Poland 48 22 331 99 99 Portugal 351 21 472 7700
Russia 7 495 721 14 04 Singapore 65 6415 3188
Russia 7 495 721 14 04 Singapore 65 6415 3188
South Africa 27 861 246 723 Spain 3 4 91 590 5200
South Africa 27 861 246 723 Spain 3 4 91 590 5200
Sweden 08 555 1270 0 Switzerland 061 717 95 55
Sweden 08 555 1270 0 Switzerland 061 717 95 55
Taiwan 886 2 2578 7189 Thailand 800 88 22 88
Taiwan 886 2 2578 7189 Thailand 800 88 22 88
United Kingdom 020 8328 200 0
United Kingdom 020 8328 200 0
0612 Sig 121110023997 Rev A US/EG
0612 Sig 121110023997 Rev A US/EG
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