Bio-Rad CHEF Mapper® XA System User Manual

Page 9

The lid contains a safety interlock. Low voltage current from the power module passes

through a short path in the lid interlock. If the lid is opened, the current flow is broken, and
circuitry in the power module shuts off the high voltage. The temperature probe is embedded
in the bottom of the chamber.

Warning: There are high voltages and currents within the chamber which can be
harmful. Do not circumvent the safety interlocks. Always turn off the power to the
chamber before working in the gel box.

Fig. 1.3. A. The complete CHEF Mapper XA chiller system, with chamber and power module, and
B. variable speed pump and Cooling Module.

1.4 Safety

The CHEF Mapper system uses high voltage and current and should be operated with

care at all times. The safety interlocks are for your protection and should not be circumvent-
ed. To avoid shock, set up the CHEF Mapper components in a dry area. Immediately wipe up
any spilled buffers or salt solutions.

When pausing or aborting a run, always check that the high voltage warning light on the

CHEF Mapper system has turned off. In some cases this can take 20 seconds, while the power
supply discharges. It is then safe to remove the lid from the chamber.

The Cooling Module is ground isolated. Although there is virtually no current flowing

through the Tygon tubing into the cooler, avoid assembling or disassembling the tubing while
the CHEF Mapper system is operating with a voltage load.

Section 2
Operation

2.1 Setup

Place the CHEF Mapper electrophoresis chamber on a level surface, with the power mod-

ule to the right or on a shelf above. Position the electrophoresis chamber with the two quick
releases facing you and the safety interlock to the front. Place the cooling module to the left
of the chamber. Place the variable speed pump at the rear of the chamber, and connect the plug
from the pump to the port labeled PUMP CONNECTOR in the front of the power module.
Level the chamber with the leveling feet at each corner using the leveling bubble provided.