Applied Biosystems ABI 7900HT Fast Real-Time PCR System (Refurbished)

Overview

The Applied Biosystems ABI 7900HT Fast Real-Time PCR System is a high-throughput, fluorescence-based thermal cycler engineered for quantitative nucleic acid detection and gene expression analysis. Utilizing TaqMan probe chemistry and SYBR Green I intercalating dye detection, the system implements real-time monitoring of PCR amplification via four-color optical detection (470–660 nm excitation/emission bands) and precise thermal control across 384-well reaction plates. Designed originally for pharmaceutical R&D, clinical research, and molecular diagnostics laboratories, the ABI 7900HT delivers robust cycle-to-cycle fluorescence quantification with high reproducibility (CV < 2.5% across replicates) and dynamic range exceeding 9 logs. This refurbished unit undergoes full functional validation—including baseline calibration, optical alignment verification, thermal uniformity mapping (±0.25 °C across block), and multi-wavelength spectral cross-talk correction—ensuring compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 traceable standards for quantitative PCR instrumentation.

Key Features

• High-speed thermal cycling: Ramp rates up to 5.5 °C/sec enabling fast cycling protocols (e.g., 40 cycles in ≤ 90 minutes)
• 384-well format support with dual-block configuration for simultaneous run comparison or sample multiplexing
• Four-channel fluorescence detection with independent excitation and emission filters optimized for FAM, VIC, NED, and ROX dyes
• Integrated thermal gradient capability (1°C to 25°C span) for rapid assay optimization
• On-board barcode reader for automated plate tracking and LIMS integration readiness
• Refurbishment includes replacement of critical wear components: thermal block gaskets, optical window assemblies, and LED light sources
• Factory-reset firmware and validated software stack (SDS v2.4 or higher) pre-installed on dedicated Windows 10 IoT Enterprise workstation

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The ABI 7900HT accommodates standard 384-well optical reaction plates and low-profile tubes compatible with TaqMan assays, SYBR Green I, Molecular Beacons, and Scorpion primers. All refurbished units are verified for compatibility with FDA-cleared IVD kits and CLIA-lab workflows. The system meets ASTM E2585-20 requirements for real-time PCR instrument performance verification and supports audit-ready documentation per 21 CFR Part 11 when operated with compliant electronic signature and data archiving configurations. Thermal uniformity, optical sensitivity, and inter-run precision are documented in the Certificate of Refurbishment, which includes raw calibration reports and QC run logs traceable to NIST-traceable reference standards.

Software & Data Management

Instrument control and data analysis are performed using Sequence Detection Software (SDS) version 2.4 or later, supporting absolute and relative quantification, SNP genotyping, and melt curve analysis. The software enables automated baseline setting, threshold determination, and amplification efficiency correction. Raw .sds files are structured in HDF5 format for long-term archival integrity and interoperability with third-party bioinformatics pipelines (e.g., R/Bioconductor, Python/Pandas). Data export supports CSV, Excel, and MIQE-compliant XML output. Optional integration with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is supported via ODBC drivers and RESTful API endpoints for automated result ingestion and metadata synchronization.

Applications

This system is routinely deployed in regulated and non-regulated environments for: gene expression profiling in oncology and immunology studies; viral load quantification (e.g., HIV, HBV, SARS-CoV-2); copy number variation (CNV) analysis; microbiome profiling via 16S rRNA qPCR assays; pharmacogenomic biomarker screening; and quality control of biologics manufacturing processes. Its validated performance makes it suitable for GLP-compliant toxicology studies and GMP-aligned process validation where documented instrument qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ) is required. Academic core facilities also leverage its throughput and reproducibility for high-volume genotyping projects and CRISPR editing efficiency assessment.

FAQ

Is this instrument eligible for IQ/OQ/PQ documentation support?
Yes—comprehensive qualification protocol templates (aligned with ASTM E2500 and USP <1058>) and executed reports are available upon request.
What warranty coverage is included?
A 6-month parts-and-labor warranty is provided, covering all refurbished subsystems including optics, thermocycling module, and detection electronics.
Can the system be integrated into a networked lab environment?
Yes—the workstation supports domain authentication, encrypted file transfer (SFTP), and scheduled backup to NAS or cloud storage platforms.
Are consumables and service contracts available post-purchase?
Original manufacturer-certified plates, seals, and calibration standards remain commercially available; extended service plans (1–3 years) can be arranged through authorized field service partners.
Does the refurbishment include software license transfer?
Yes—valid SDS licenses are transferred with the instrument and registered under the end-user’s Applied Biosystems account.