Bio-Rad Ready Gel Precast Gels for 2-D Electrophoresis - Manual (Page 9)

Note: When running 2 gels only, use the Electrode Assembly (the one with the banana plugs), Not the
Companion Running Module (the one without the banana plugs). When running 4 gels, both the Electrode
Assembly and the Companion Running Module must be used, for a total of 4 gels (2 gels per assembly).
a. Set the clamping frame to the open position on a clean flat surface (see Figure 4a)
b. Place the first gel sandwich or gel cassette (with the short plate facing inward) onto the gel supports;
gel supports are molded into the bottom of the clamping frame assembly; there are two supports in
each side of the assembly. Note that the gel will now rest at a 30° angle, tilting away from the center
of the clamping frame. Please use caution when placing the first gel, making sure that
the clamping frame remains balanced and does not tip over. Now, place the second gel on
the other side of the clamping frame, again by resting the gel onto the supports. At this point there
will be two gels resting at an angle, one on either side of the clamping frame, tilting away from the
center of the frame (see Figure 4b).
Note: It is critical that gel cassettes are placed into the clamping frame with the short plate facing inward.
Also, the clamping frame requires 2 gels to create a functioning assembly, If an odd number of gels (1 or
3) is being run, you must use the buffer dam (see Figure 4b).
c. Using one hand, gently pull both gels towards each other, making sure that they rest firmly and
squarely against the green gaskets that are built into the clamping frame; make certain that the short
plates sit just below the notch at the top of the green gasket.
d. While gently squeezing the gel sandwiches or cassettes against the green gaskets with one hand
(keeping constant pressure and both gels firmly held in place), slide the green arms of the clamping
frame over the gels, locking them into place. Alternatively, you may choose to pick-up the entire
assembly with both hands, making sure that the gels do not shift, and simultaneously sliding both
arms of the clamping frame into place (see Figure 4c).
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