Decontaminate the sample wells
If the sample wells become contaminated with any biological agents, clean the wells
thoroughly with a cotton swab soaked in 1:10 v/v dilution of 5.25% sodium
hypochlorite (Clorox
®
bleach).
IMPORTANT!
Use bleach solution in moderation. We recommend the use of 10%
bleach solution for removing contamination from the SimpliAmp
™
instrument sample
block(s); excessive use of the solution, however, can corrode the sample block(s)
material. To prevent damage to the sample block(s):
·
Avoid applying excessive amounts of bleach solution. If possible, instead of using a
squeeze bottle or soaked cloth, use an atomizer to deliver the solution to the wells
of the block(s).
·
After treating with bleach solution, rinse the sample block(s) thoroughly using
deionized water.
Note:
Removing residual bleach from the surfaces of the instrument using water
minimizes the long-term effects of bleach treatments.
If the sample block(s) become contaminated with radioactivity, use a commercially
available decontaminant to remove the contamination. If the block(s) cannot be
decontaminated, the instrument cannot be returned for service.
Clean the heated cover
Clean the heated cover once a month or as needed.
CAUTION!
During instrument operation, the temperature of the heated cover
can be as high as 110°C based on the touchscreen maximum cover set point
allowed, and the temperature of the sample block can be as high as 100°C.
Before performing the procedure, keep hands away until the heated cover and
sample block reach room temperature.
To clean the heated cover:
1.
Follow the steps in “Preparation“ on page 32.
2.
Open the heated cover.
3.
Soak a cotton swab or piece of clean cloth with isopropanol and gently wipe the
heated platen.
WARNING!
CHEMICAL HAZARD. Isopropanol is a flammable liquid
and vapor. Exposure may cause eye, skin, and upper respiratory tract
irritation. Prolonged or repeated contact may dry skin and cause irritation.
Exposure may cause central nervous system effects such as drowsiness,
dizziness, and headache. Read the MSDS, and follow the handling
instructions.
4.
Remove any remaining isopropanol from the cover.
Note:
If the platen becomes contaminated with amplified DNA, then raise the
heated cover to the cleaning position, wipe the platen with a cloth or cotton swab
soaked in bleach, then rinse with water.
Chapter 4
Maintain the instrument
As-needed maintenance
4
SimpliAmp
™
Thermal Cycler User Guide
33
Summary of Contents for SimpliAmp Thermal Cycler
Page 91: ......