DNA Engine Tetrad 2 Thermal Cycler Operations Manual
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The Graphical Programming Window
Before we begin entering program steps, let’s explore the graphical programming
window. The graphical programming window displays the steps of programs in an
arrangement of six wide columns separated by seven narrow columns. The narrow
columns depict the transition phases between steps, while the wide columns depict
the temperature and/or gradient steps included in the protocol. A single black line in
a wide column indicates a temperature step, two black lines represent a gradient
step. A goto step is indicated by a blue arrow extending from the end of the last step
to be included in the loop to the beginning of the first step in the loop. The incuba-
tion temperature of the step is indicated above the step line, and the duration of the
step is indicated below the step line.
Selecting a Step
When a step is selected, the line(s) or arrow depicting that step will turn red. Select
a step by positioning the cursor in the step’s column and clicking once. A flashing
insertion point will appear in the temperature field of that step. To select a specific
temperature or time field (or a goto step), position the cursor in the desired field and
click once to display an insertion point, or click twice to highlight the entire field.
Editing Step Parameters
If you have selected a step such that a flashing insertion point appears in the field
you wish to edit, use the backspace and number keys on the numeric keypad to first
delete the current value, then enter the desired temperature, time, or number of
cycles. Click the mouse once to accept the change and move the cursor to the next
field. If you have selected a step such that the field you wish to edit is highlighted,
use the number keys to enter the desired temperature, time, or number of cycles.
Click the mouse once to accept the changes.
If an inappropriate value is entered, such as an incubation temperature of 110°C, the
change will be rejected, and the default value or last valid value will reappear.
Temperature step
Step 1
Gradient step
Goto step
