Beijing Liuyi DYCP-31A Mini Horizontal Agarose Electrophoresis System
| Brand | Beijing Liuyi (LY) |
|---|---|
| Origin | Beijing, China |
| Model | DYCP-31A |
| Instrument Type | Nucleic Acid Electrophoresis Apparatus |
| Gel Tray Dimensions (L × W) | 85 × 80 mm |
| Sample Combs | 12- and 15-well, 1.0 mm and 2.0 mm thickness |
| External Dimensions (L × W × H) | 242 × 132 × 105 mm |
| Buffer Capacity | 500 mL |
| Weight | 1 kg |
Overview
The Beijing Liuyi DYCP-31A Mini Horizontal Agarose Electrophoresis System is a compact, benchtop electrophoresis apparatus engineered for routine nucleic acid separation and analysis in molecular biology laboratories. It operates on the principle of horizontal electrophoresis—where DNA or RNA fragments migrate through an agarose gel matrix under a constant direct current electric field, with mobility inversely proportional to logarithmic molecular weight. Designed specifically for low-throughput applications such as PCR product verification, restriction digest analysis, and RNA integrity assessment, the DYCP-31A supports dual-gel operation via integrated cooling capability, minimizing thermal gradient-induced band distortion and enabling reproducible migration patterns across repeated runs. Its miniature footprint (242 × 132 × 105 mm) makes it ideal for space-constrained environments including teaching labs, QC stations, and field-deployable molecular workflows.
Key Features
- Integrated cooling system maintains stable gel temperature during extended runs, reducing buffer evaporation and preventing “smiling” or “frowning” bands caused by uneven heat distribution.
- Adjustable leveling feet and precision-machined base ensure consistent horizontal alignment of the gel tray—critical for uniform electric field distribution and band resolution.
- Modular comb system accommodates four interchangeable sample loading configurations: 12- and 15-well combs in both 1.0 mm and 2.0 mm thicknesses, supporting variable sample volume requirements and optimal resolution for fragments ranging from 100 bp to >20 kbp.
- Chemically resistant acrylic tank and transparent polycarbonate lid facilitate real-time visual monitoring without interruption; all wetted components are autoclavable or compatible with 70% ethanol disinfection.
- Low-profile design with recessed electrode terminals minimizes arcing risk and simplifies buffer filling—buffer capacity is precisely calibrated to 500 mL for optimal conductivity and ion migration kinetics.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The DYCP-31A is validated for use with standard agarose concentrations (0.7–2.0% w/v) and common electrophoresis buffers including TAE (Tris-Acetate-EDTA) and TBE (Tris-Borate-EDTA). It supports post-electrophoresis staining with ethidium bromide, SYBR® Safe, GelRed®, and other nucleic acid intercalating dyes under UV or blue-light transillumination. While not certified to IEC 61010-1 or UL 61010B as a standalone Class I device, its construction adheres to general laboratory safety principles for low-voltage DC electrophoresis systems (<150 V). Protocols generated using this instrument align with widely accepted methodologies described in ASTM D7926-15 (Standard Guide for Electrophoretic Analysis of Nucleic Acids) and support GLP-compliant documentation when paired with traceable power supplies and calibrated timers.
Software & Data Management
As a hardware-only electrophoresis platform, the DYCP-31A does not incorporate embedded firmware or proprietary software. It is fully compatible with third-party imaging systems (e.g., Bio-Rad GelDoc™, Azure Biosystems cSeries) and open-source analysis tools including ImageJ/Fiji with Gel Analyzer plugin. Users may integrate run parameters—voltage, duration, buffer type—into LIMS or ELN platforms via manual entry or CSV export from connected power supplies. For auditability, laboratories implementing 21 CFR Part 11 compliance may pair the system with electronic logbooks that record operator ID, date/time stamps, gel dimensions, comb configuration, and voltage settings per run.
Applications
- Verification of PCR amplification products prior to sequencing or cloning
- Assessment of RNA integrity (RIN-equivalent evaluation via 28S/18S rRNA band intensity ratio)
- Analysis of restriction enzyme digestion patterns for plasmid mapping
- Quality control of synthetic oligonucleotides and gene fragments
- Teaching laboratory exercises in molecular genetics, biochemistry, and biotechnology curricula
FAQ
What buffer volumes are recommended for optimal performance?
A total volume of 500 mL ensures full submersion of the gel while maintaining appropriate conductivity and heat dissipation. Overfilling beyond this volume increases resistance variability and may compromise run consistency.
Can the DYCP-31A be used for polyacrylamide gels?
No—it is designed exclusively for agarose-based matrices. Polyacrylamide gels require vertical electrophoresis configurations, higher voltage tolerance, and specialized casting accessories not supported by this horizontal platform.
Is the unit compatible with high-voltage power supplies?
It is rated for operation within the standard nucleic acid electrophoresis range (up to 150 V DC). Exceeding this limit risks electrolyte decomposition, excessive Joule heating, and potential damage to comb slots or gel tray integrity.
How often should the glass plates and combs be cleaned?
After each use, rinse thoroughly with deionized water and wipe with lint-free cloth; soak in 10% sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) solution for 15 minutes if residual polymer or dye accumulation is observed.
Does the system include a built-in timer or voltage regulator?
No—timing and voltage control must be managed externally via a programmable DC power supply meeting IEC 61000-4-30 immunity standards for laboratory-grade instrumentation.
