Bioer ThermoQ Series Constant-Temperature Metal Block Heater
| Brand | Bioer |
|---|---|
| Model Series | HB-T1, HB-T2, CHB-T1, CHB-T2 |
| Temperature Range | 0°C to 100°C (model-dependent) |
| Temperature Accuracy | ≤ ±0.2°C |
| Heating Time | ≤ 8 min (20°C → 100°C) |
| Dimensions | 150 × 170 × 145 mm (L × W × H) |
| Net Weight | ≤ 2.0 kg |
| Power Input | HB/CHB-T1 & T2: AC 100–240 V, 50/60 Hz |
| Timer Range | 0–99 h 59 min |
| Max Program Steps | 9 |
| Max Cycles per Program | 99 |
| Standard Block Modules | A (20 × 0.5 mL), B (35 × 1.5 mL), C (54 × 0.5 mL), D (96 × 0.2 mL), E (35 × 2.0 mL) |
Overview
The Bioer ThermoQ Series Constant-Temperature Metal Block Heater is an engineered thermal platform designed for precise, stable, and reproducible heating of sample tubes and microplates in molecular biology, clinical diagnostics, and pharmaceutical quality control laboratories. Unlike water baths or dry-block heaters with ceramic or aluminum housings, the ThermoQ utilizes a solid, high-thermal-conductivity metal block—typically precision-machined aluminum alloy—to deliver rapid heat transfer, minimal temperature gradient across wells, and superior thermal uniformity (±0.2°C). Its operating principle relies on Peltier-assisted or resistive heating elements integrated directly beneath the block surface, coupled with high-resolution PID feedback control. The system supports both ambient-start (HB series: RT + 5°C to 100°C) and sub-ambient initiation (CHB series: 0°C to 100°C), enabling applications requiring cold-start incubation prior to ramping—such as enzyme activation protocols or controlled thawing of sensitive reagents.
Key Features
- Modular block architecture supporting five standardized well configurations (A–E) for 0.2 mL, 0.5 mL, 1.5 mL, and 2.0 mL tubes—including full 96-well PCR plate compatibility (Module D)
- Optional pressure-actuated heated lid (HB-T2 & CHB-T2 models) to suppress evaporation during extended incubations, particularly critical for low-volume reactions and qPCR master mixes
- Multi-segment programmable controller with up to 9 independent temperature/time steps and 99-cycle nesting—enabling complex thermal profiles comparable to standard PCR thermocyclers
- Real-time temperature monitoring with on-device LCD display and status indicators; supports hot-swap capability for module replacement without power-down
- Dual-power architecture: universal AC input (100–240 V, 50/60 Hz) with integrated 24 V DC adapter compatibility—ideal for mobile labs, cleanrooms, or environments with unstable mains supply
- Safety-certified thermal management including overtemperature cut-off, anti-scald housing design, and automatic standby after idle timeout
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The ThermoQ accommodates common labware formats without adapters: PCR strips, individual thin-wall tubes, screw-cap microcentrifuge tubes, and skirted/unskirted 96-well plates. All modules are CNC-machined to ISO 9001-certified tolerances, ensuring consistent well depth, diameter, and thermal contact area. The device complies with IEC 61010-1:2010 for laboratory electrical equipment safety and meets EMC directive 2014/30/EU. While not classified as a medical device under FDA 21 CFR Part 820, its performance consistency aligns with GLP/GMP-relevant thermal validation requirements for assay prep steps—particularly when used in USP compounding workflows or ISO 15189-accredited clinical labs where documented temperature traceability is mandated.
Software & Data Management
The ThermoQ operates via embedded firmware with no external PC dependency; however, all program parameters—including setpoints, dwell times, cycle counts, and real-time log timestamps—are retained in non-volatile memory across power cycles. Audit-trail functionality includes automatic storage of the last 10 executed programs with start/stop timestamps and deviation alerts (if temperature drift exceeds ±0.5°C for >30 s). Optional RS-232 or USB-to-serial interface (available via accessory kit) enables integration into LIMS or ELN systems for automated protocol loading and electronic record retention—supporting compliance with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with validated third-party software.
Applications
- Enzyme reaction incubation (restriction digests, ligations, phosphorylations)
- Cell culture sample warming (serum, media, trypsin solutions)
- Nucleic acid denaturation and hybridization steps in blotting and probe labeling
- Controlled thawing of cryopreserved cell lines and biologics
- Pre-heating reagents prior to HPLC injection or ELISA plate coating
- Stability testing of formulations at fixed temperatures per ICH Q1A(R2)
FAQ
Can the ThermoQ be used for precise enzymatic assays requiring tight thermal control?
Yes—the ≤ ±0.2°C accuracy and <0.3°C well-to-well uniformity across any single block meet the requirements for most kinetic enzyme assays per ASTM E2922-13 guidelines.
Is calibration verification supported out-of-the-box?
The unit includes a factory calibration certificate traceable to NIST standards; users may perform field verification using a calibrated PT100 probe inserted into designated reference wells (included in service manual).
Do the modules require recalibration when swapped?
No—each module is pre-characterized and mapped in firmware; thermal offset compensation is applied automatically upon detection via embedded ID chip.
What maintenance is required for long-term reliability?
Annual cleaning of ventilation grilles and visual inspection of thermal interface paste (under service cover) is recommended; no routine recalibration is needed under normal operating conditions.
Is remote monitoring possible via network connection?
Not natively—but with optional USB-RS232 gateway and Bioer’s LabLink SDK (provided under NDA), integration with SCADA or building management systems is achievable for facility-wide thermal asset tracking.
