DNA Engine Tetrad 2 Thermal Cycler Operations Manual
10-10
Tech Support: 1-800-4BIORAD • 1-800-424-6723 • www.bio-rad.com
Problems with an Alpha Unit
An Alpha unit is a distinct, separately engineered piece of equipment that is made to inter-
face with all DNA Engine
®
line thermal cyclers. However, to rule out problems with any
Alpha unit, please follow this recommended troubleshooting flowchart.
Figure 10-3: Alpha Unit Troubleshooting Flowchart
Problems Related to Protocols
The suggestions we make here are by no means exhaustive, but are intended as a starting
point for further investigation. Should the DNA Engine Tetrad 2 system check out OK, we
recommend positive controls for troubleshooting purposes.
Following is a general description of some common problems related to the protocols
and reaction components in sequencing and thermal cycling applications. For a more
detailed discussion of protocols and reactions, see Current Protocols in Molecular
Biology (F. Ausubel
et al
., eds., John Wiley & Sons)
Front-end OK—
proceed
Alpha unit defective;
return for service
Base defective;
return for service
System status at this point:
front-end OK, communcating with engines.
Problem:
protocols do not appear to be
running properly.
Check error log
Is problem
Alpha unit related?
n
y
