Troubleshooting
Tech Support: 1-800-4BIORAD • 1-800-424-6723 • www.bio-rad.com 10-13
Problems due to Environmental Conditions, Setup,
and Maintenance
Strict adherence to the installation, operation, and maintenance instructions provided
in Chapters 3, 4 and 9 are tantamount to the continued trouble-free operation of the
DNA Engine Tetrad 2 cycler. Should it be determined that the source of a problem is
due to incorrect operation or setup, consult Table 10-3 for a list of problems and sug-
gested solutions.
Table 10-3: Environmental Difficulties
Problem
Cause
Action
Frequent shutdowns
due to overheating.
Frequent “Slow Block
Cycling,” “HS Overheat,”
and “HS Overheating”
error messages.
Machine is not receiving enough air. Make sure air intake vents are not
obstructed by dust, debris, or
paper. Remove light collections of
dust and debris with damp cloth.
Vacuum out heavy collections.
Remove any papers placed under
the machine. Position machine at
least 10 cm from vertical surfaces.
Air flowing into intake vents is not
31°C.
Check temperature of air entering
air intake vents, following proce-
dure on p. 3–4. If higher than 31°C,
use Table 3-1 to troubleshoot and
remove cause/s.
Dust and debris clogging
up air intake vents.
Failure to regularly check for
buildup.
Remove light collections with
damp cloth. Vacuum out heavy
collections.
