Bio-Rad MicroPulser™ Electroporator - Manual (Page 5)

Section 1
Safety Information
Read This Information Carefully Before Using The MicroPulser.
The MicroPulser meets the safety requirements of EN61010 and the EMC requirements
of EN61326 (for Class B, including flicker and harmonics).
1.1 Electrical Hazards
The MicroPulser produces voltages up to 3,000 volts and is capable of passing very high
currents. When charged to maximum voltage, the instrument stores about 50 joules. A certain
degree of respect is required for energy levels of this order. Safety system features prevent
operator access to the recessed input jacks and to the recessed electrode contacts inside the
sample chamber. These mechanical interlocks should never be circumvented.
There is high voltage present whenever the yellow pulse button is depressed and "PLS"
is shown in the light emitting diode display on the front of the instrument. If the capacitor
has been partially charged but not fired (for example, when the charging cycle has been
interrupted before the pulse is delivered), some charge may remain on the internal capacitor.
However, the user cannot make contact due to the system safety features.
1.2 Mechanical Hazards
The MicroPulser contains a patented arc-protection circuit that dramatically reduces the
incidence of arcing in the cuvette when high voltage is delivered into the sample. The unit
incorporates a circuit which senses the beginning of an arc and diverts current from the sample
within ~5 µsec, preventing, or greatly reducing mechanical, visual, and auditory phenomena
at the shocking chamber. Should an arc occur, the sample chamber is effective in containing
these small discharges, but nonetheless we strongly recommend wearing safety glasses when
using the instrument.
Do not use the MicroPulser with samples suspended in conductive media (refer to Section 3.3
for information on sample resistance).
1.3 Other Safety Precautions
Turn the unit off when not attended.
Avoid spilling any liquids onto the apparatus. Use only a paper towel or a cloth wet with
either water or alcohol to clean the outside surfaces of the MicroPulser.
Use only the Bio-Rad cables supplied with the MicroPulser.
Only use the shocking chamber in the assembled condition. Do not attempt to circumvent
the protection of the shocking chamber or use it while disassembled.
Verify the display segments periodically.
Do not use the MicroPulser if obvious case damage exists that exposes part of the inside
of the unit.
No user-serviceable parts are contained within the MicroPulser; the case should only be
opened by properly trained personnel.
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