Bio-Rad Mini-PROTEAN® Tetra Cell - Manual (Page 17)

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b. If running 2 gels only, you will be using just the electrode
assembly, so place this assembly in the back position of the
cell, making sure that the red (+) electrode jack matches the
red marking on the top right inside edge of the tank.
c. If running 4 gels, place the electrode assembly (banana
plugs) in the back position (as detailed in 2.2.3b.) and
the companion running module (no banana plugs) in the
front position. Make sure that in both instances the red (+)
electrode is matching with the red marking on the top inside
right edge of the tank. Note that incorrect orientation will not
permit proper placement of the lid.
d. Fill the tank (lower chamber) with buffer to the indicated level
(550 ml for 2 gels and 680 ml for 4 gels).
4. Mini-PROTEAN Tetra Tank Assembly
a. Place the lid on the Mini-PROTEAN Tetra tank. Make sure
to align the color-coded banana plugs and jacks. The
correct orientation is made by matching the jacks on the
lid with the banana plugs on the electrode assembly. A stop
on the lid prevents incorrect orientation. Note that the raised
tabs on each side of the tank will now slide through the
slots in the lid, guiding the lid to a proper close. At this
point, firmly, yet gently, press down on the lid with your
thumbs using even pressure, till the lid is securely and tightly
positioned on the tank.
Caution: When running 1 or 2 gels only, do not place the
companion running module in the tank. Doing so will cause
excessive heat generation and will prevent electrophoretic
separation.
5. Power Conditions
a. Insert the electrical leads into a suitable power supply with
the proper polarity.
b. Apply power to the Mini-PROTEAN Tetra cell and begin
electrophoresis; 200 V constant is recommended for
SDS-PAGE and most native gel applications. The same
voltage (200 V) is used for both 2 and 4 gels. The optimal
voltage for your application may differ. Run time is
approximately 35 min* at 200 V for SDS-PAGE.
* Electrophoresis time will vary between 35 and 45 min for Tris-HCl gels, depending on
acrylamide percentage levels.