Bioer LifeTouch TC-96/G/H(b)B Gradient PCR Thermal Cycler
| Brand | Bioer |
|---|---|
| Origin | Zhejiang, China |
| Model | TC-96/G/H(b)B |
| Instrument Type | Gradient PCR Thermal Cycler |
| Sample Capacity | 96-well |
| Heating Rate | ≥4 °C/s |
| Temperature Accuracy | ≤±0.1 °C |
| Well-to-Well Uniformity | ≤±0.2 °C |
| Gradient Range | 1–30 °C |
| Temperature Range | 4–105 °C |
| Max Cycles | 99 with nested 2-level programming |
| Ramp Rate Adjustment | Yes |
| Touchdown PCR Support | 0.1–9.9 °C increment/decrement |
| Long PCR Support | Time increment/decrement up to 9 min 59 sec |
| Display | 6.5-inch color LCD touchscreen |
| Connectivity | USB port + Ethernet (LAN) |
| Dimensions (L×W×H) | 345 × 250 × 270 mm |
| Weight | 10 kg |
| Power Input | AC 100–240 V, 50/60 Hz, 600 W |
Overview
The Bioer LifeTouch TC-96/G/H(b)B Gradient PCR Thermal Cycler is an engineered platform for high-fidelity nucleic acid amplification in molecular biology laboratories. Built upon the proven thermal architecture of the TC-series, it integrates Peltier-based thermoelectric heating and cooling with Bioer’s proprietary Thermal Accuracy Stabilization (TAS) technology. This combination delivers rapid thermal transitions, exceptional spatial temperature uniformity across the 96-well block, and sub-degree precision essential for reproducible endpoint PCR, quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) assay development, and demanding applications such as touchdown PCR, long-range PCR, and nested PCR. Its compact footprint and low acoustic emission (<45 dB(A)) support integration into shared core facilities and ISO-classified cleanroom environments without compromising performance or user ergonomics.
Key Features
- High-speed thermal cycling: ≥4 °C/s average heating rate ensures reduced run times while maintaining enzyme integrity and amplicon fidelity.
- Precision thermal control: ±0.1 °C accuracy and ≤±0.2 °C well-to-well uniformity over the full 96-well aluminum block—validated per ISO 13485-aligned internal calibration protocols.
- Programmable gradient functionality: Adjustable 1–30 °C linear thermal gradient across rows enables empirical optimization of annealing temperatures in a single run.
- Dual-mode temperature control: Independent BLOCK mode for standardized protocols and simulated TUBE mode that models thermal profiles observed in standard 0.2 mL thin-wall tubes—critical for method transfer between instruments.
- Robust human-machine interface: 6.5-inch capacitive color touchscreen with intuitive icon-driven navigation, multi-language support (English, Spanish, French, Chinese), and on-device protocol storage (≥1,000 programs).
- Enterprise-ready connectivity: Integrated Ethernet (RJ45) port supports LIS/HIS integration, remote monitoring via TCP/IP, and audit-trail-enabled firmware updates compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when paired with validated network management software.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The LifeTouch TC-96/G/H(b)B accommodates universal 0.2 mL consumables—including full-skirted, semi-skirted, and non-skirted 96-well PCR plates, individual tubes, and 8-tube strips—without adapter requirements. Its heated lid (programmable 30–110 °C) eliminates condensation and ensures consistent evaporation control during extended cycles. The system conforms to IEC 61010-1:2010 safety standards for laboratory equipment and meets electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements per EN 61326-1:2013. For regulated environments, it supports GLP/GMP workflows through optional electronic logbook modules with user authentication, timestamped event logging, and exportable CSV reports traceable to NIST-traceable reference thermometers.
Software & Data Management
Instrument control and data handling are managed via Bioer’s PC-based LifeTouch Control Suite (v3.2+), compatible with Windows 10/11 and macOS 12+. The suite provides protocol cloning, batch scheduling, real-time thermal curve visualization, and comparative analysis across multiple runs. All method files include embedded metadata (user ID, timestamp, instrument serial number) and support digital signature verification. Audit trails record every parameter change, user login/logout, and firmware update—retained for ≥12 months and exportable in PDF/A-1b or XML formats for regulatory submission. Optional cloud synchronization enables cross-site protocol harmonization in multi-lab consortia.
Applications
- Optimization of primer annealing conditions using programmable gradient profiles.
- Nested and two-step RT-PCR workflows requiring precise cycle nesting and temperature ramping.
- Amplification of GC-rich or long DNA fragments (>10 kb) via adjustable time/temperature increments.
- Preparation of templates for Sanger sequencing, NGS library construction, and CRISPR guide validation.
- Diagnostic assay development under CLIA- and CAP-accredited laboratory frameworks.
- Teaching laboratories requiring intuitive operation, reliability, and compliance-ready documentation.
FAQ
Does the LifeTouch TC-96/G/H(b)B support remote monitoring and control via LAN?
Yes—the integrated Ethernet interface enables secure remote access through Bioer’s authenticated web portal, supporting live temperature monitoring, protocol upload/download, and event log review.
Is the heated lid temperature independently controllable?
Yes—lid temperature is set separately from block temperature (range: 30–110 °C) and automatically compensates for ambient fluctuations.
Can this instrument be used for qPCR applications?
While designed primarily for conventional and gradient PCR, its thermal precision and uniformity meet minimum requirements for SYBR Green-based qPCR assay development; however, dedicated optical detection modules are not integrated.
What consumables are validated for use with this cycler?
All major brands of 0.2 mL PCR plates and tubes—including skirted, semi-skirted, and unskirted formats—are fully compatible without mechanical adapters.
Is 21 CFR Part 11 compliance available out-of-the-box?
Full Part 11 functionality requires installation of the optional LifeTouch eSign Module and configuration under a validated IT infrastructure; documentation packages and IQ/OQ protocols are available upon request.
