Installation
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3-5
Cause
Possible Remedies
Air circulation is poor.
Provide more space around machine or adjust room
ventilation.
Ambient air temperature is high. Adjust air conditioning to lower ambient air temperature.
Machine is in warm part of room. Move machine away from, or protect machine from, such
heat sources as radiators, heaters, other equipment, or
bright sunlight.
Machines are crowded.
Arrange machines so that warm exhaust air does not enter
intake vents.
Ensuring That Air Is Cool Enough
•
Do not position two or more DNA Engine Tetrad 2 cyclers (or other thermal cyclers)
so that the hot exhaust air of one blows directly into the air-intake vents of another.
•
Make sure the DNA Engine Tetrad 2 cycler receives air that is 31°C or cooler by measuring
the temperature of air entering the machine through its air-intake vents.
Place the DNA Engine Tetrad 2 cycler where you plan to use it and turn it on. Try to
reproduce what will be typical operating conditions for the machine in that location,
particularly any heat-producing factors (e.g., nearby equipment running, window
blinds open, lights on). Run a typical protocol for 30 minutes to warm up the
DNA Engine Tetrad 2 cycler, then measure the air temperature at the back air-intake
vents. If more than one machine is involved, measure the air temperature for each. If
the air-intake temperature of any machine is warmer than 31°C, use Table 3-1 to trou-
bleshoot the problem. Some experimentation may be required to determine the best
solution when more than one cause is involved. After taking steps to solve the
problem, verify that the temperature of the air entering the air-intake vents has been
lowered, using the procedure outlined above.
Requirements for Robotics Installations
Robotics installations require special attention to airflow and air temperature. Typically in
these installations, DNA Engine Tetrad 2 cyclers and other thermal cyclers are restricted to
a small area, along with other heat-generating equipment. Overheating can quickly occur
when many of these instruments are operating at once, unless preventive measures are
taken.
Follow the procedures described above to ensure adequate airflow and an air-intake
temperature of 31°C or cooler. Air-intake temperature must be verified by measurement.
Do not use oil or glycerin to thermally couple sample vessels to the blocks of machines in
a robotics installation. This can make plates difficult to remove.
