When should I use a Thermo Scientific low profile PCR plastic?
We recommend Thermo Scientific low profile PCR plates and tubes for reaction volumes below 20 µL. The low profile design minimizes the airspace between the PCR reaction and reduces evaporation effects, thereby increasing PCR efficiency in low volume reactions.
Find additional tips, troubleshooting help, and resources within our Real-Time PCR and Digital PCR Instruments Support Center.
What is a low profile Thermo Scientific plate/tube?
Low profile Thermo Scientific PCR plastics have shorter wells than the standard profile plastics, decreasing the “dead space” between the heated lid of the thermal cycler and the sample. This eliminates condensation on the side wall of the tube, preventing reduction in PCR volume and increasing the efficiency of the reaction.
Find additional tips, troubleshooting help, and resources within our Real-Time PCR and Digital PCR Instruments Support Center.
Plate warping is causing problems with the robot in my automated processes. How can I solve this?
We recommend Thermo Scientific Armadillo PCR plates which are designed for robotic handling with high rigidity and resistance. Combining the rigidity of a polycarbonate frame with thin walled polypropylene wells, the Armadillo plates provide superior thermal cycling performance under all conditions without warping.
Find additional tips, troubleshooting help, and resources within our Real-Time PCR and Digital PCR Instruments Support Center.
Why should I use Thermo Scientific white plastics in qPCR?
White plates and tubes reflect significantly more signal back to the qPCR instrument's detector than traditional clear plates. The improved signal reflection ensures that even the lowest levels of fluorescence are detected. White well walls also prevent signal from passing through to the cycler block where it can be inconsistently reflected or absorbed. This keeps variations in the cycler block from affecting qPCR data. Using Thermo Scientific white PCR plastics increases sensitivity and reduces variability within the qPCR assay.
Find additional tips, troubleshooting help, and resources within our Real-Time PCR and Digital PCR Instruments Support Center.
What are the barcodes formats used on standard barcoded Thermo Scientific PCR plates?
The barcode has been carefully designed and positioned for compatibility with all major barcode readers. Each barcode includes a human readable format as a back up to the standard 128 barcode to ensure valuable samples can always be identified. The barcode labels themselves are scratch resistant and able to withstand chemical exposure and wide temperature extremes from -196 degrees C to +120 degrees C.
Find additional tips, troubleshooting help, and resources within our Real-Time PCR and Digital PCR Instruments Support Center.