Bio-Rad Firmware & Software Updates - Manual (Page 138)

MiniOpticon Instruction Manual
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plate in the block and close the lid for the second procedure of the calibration. Click OK
to confirm that the plate is in the block.
6. When CFX Manager software completes the calibration run, a dialog box appears. Click
Yes to finish calibration and open the Dye Calibration Viewer.
7. Click OK to close the window.
Instrument Maintenance
The MiniOpticon system includes a sensitive optical detector system and a sample block that
must heat and cool very fast. Contamination of these components can interfere with thermal
cycling and data collection.
WARNING! Never allow a reaction to run with an open or leaking sample lid. The
reagents could escape and coat the block, inner lid, or optical detection system.
Excessive dirt can dim the signal, and fluorescence contamination can create
excessive background signal.
Avoid contaminating the MiniOpticon system by following these suggestions:
• Always clean the outside of any containers before placing them in the block
• Never run a reaction with a seal that is open, loose, punctured, or otherwise
damaged because you could contaminate the block, inner lid, and optical system
• Never run a PCR or real-time PCR reaction with volatile reagents that could explode
and contaminate the block, inner lid, and optical system
• Never clean or otherwise touch the optical system behind the heater plate holes in
the inner lid
Cleaning the Sample Block
The thermal block of the MiniOpticon system should be cleaned on a regular schedule to
remove any debris or dirt that might interfere with proper function. Clean as soon as you
discover debris and spilled liquids with a soft, lint-free cloth that is dampened with water.
Cleaning the instrument allows precise instrument function.
WARNING! Never use cleaning solutions that are corrosive to aluminum. Avoid
scratching the surface of the thermal block. Scratches and damage to this surface
interfere with precise thermal control.
WARNING! Never pour water or other solutions into the reaction module bay. Wet
components can cause electrical shock when the thermal cycler is plugged in.
Clean the MiniOpticon system as soon as you discover debris, dirt, or contamination in the
block or on the inner lid. Any dirt can interfere with the ability of the block to change
temperature quickly and collect accurate fluorescent data. To clean the reaction module,
follow the guidelines on page 124.
WARNING! To prevent electrical shock, always unplug the base before cleaning
the instrument.
WARNING! Never touch or allow solutions to touch the optical system that is
located behind the heated plate holes in the inner lid.
TIP: For instructions on handling and cleaning radioactive or biohazardous
materials, consult the guidelines for radiation safety and biosafety provided by your
institution. These guidelines include cleaning, monitoring, and disposal methods
for hazardous materials.