English Product Name
| Brand | Analytik Jena |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Model | Compact XS / S / M / L / XL |
| Gel Thickness | 5 mm |
| Sample Capacity | 25 wells |
| Voltage Range | 0–250 V |
| Current Range | 0–100 mA |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 20 × 15 × 8 cm |
| Instrument Type | Protein Electrophoresis Apparatus |
| Compliance | CE-marked, RoHS-compliant, designed for IEC 61010-1 safety standards |
Overview
The Analytik Jena Compact XS Horizontal Electrophoresis System is a precision-engineered, benchtop electrophoresis platform optimized for routine nucleic acid and protein separation in academic, clinical, and industrial life science laboratories. Based on standard horizontal agarose and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (AGE/PAGE) principles, the system applies a controlled DC electric field across a submerged gel matrix to drive charged biomolecules—such as DNA fragments, RNA, or denatured proteins—through the porous gel network at rates inversely proportional to their molecular size and charge-to-mass ratio. Designed by Biometra (now part of Analytik Jena AG), the Compact XS series embodies over three decades of German engineering heritage in electrophoresis instrumentation, emphasizing mechanical robustness, electrical safety, and ergonomic usability without compromising analytical reproducibility.
Key Features
- Vertically opening safety lid with reinforced side flanges—enables unobstructed access for pipetting while preventing buffer splash and accidental electrode contact
- Co-located anode and cathode terminals on the same lateral side of the electrophoresis tank—simplifies cable routing and eliminates risk of power cord submersion during lid handling
- UV-transparent gel tray fabricated from high-purity, low-autofluorescence acrylic—permits direct post-electrophoresis visualization under 254 nm or 302 nm UV transilluminators without gel transfer
- Ergonomic buffer chamber with integrated finger recesses on sidewalls—facilitates secure, contamination-free removal and repositioning of the gel tray
- Color-coded comb system (distinct hues per thickness: 0.75 mm, 1.0 mm, 1.5 mm)—ensures rapid visual identification and minimizes misapplication during gel casting
- Compatibility with standard multichannel pipettes (8-channel and 16-channel)—combs are precisely spaced to match common pipette tip geometries for high-throughput, reproducible sample loading
- Platinum-coated stainless steel electrodes with corrosion-resistant plating—guarantees stable current delivery and long-term electrochemical integrity across repeated buffer cycles
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Compact XS supports both agarose (0.5–3.0% w/v) and native/denaturing polyacrylamide gels (3–20% T), accommodating applications ranging from genomic DNA fingerprinting and PCR product verification to SDS-PAGE analysis of purified recombinant proteins. Its 5 mm gel thickness is optimized for balanced resolution and rapid heat dissipation under moderate voltage conditions (≤200 V). All materials—including the gel tray, comb holders, and buffer chamber—are certified non-cytotoxic and compliant with ISO 10993-5 for biological safety. The instrument meets EN 61010-1 (2012) for laboratory electrical equipment safety and carries full CE marking for use within the European Economic Area. It is suitable for GLP-aligned workflows where traceable instrument qualification (IQ/OQ) and documented maintenance logs are required.
Software & Data Management
As a standalone electrophoresis apparatus, the Compact XS operates without embedded firmware or proprietary software—eliminating compatibility dependencies and reducing validation overhead in regulated environments. All operational parameters (voltage, current, run time) are set manually via external power supplies conforming to IEC 61000-3-2 harmonic emission limits. This analog architecture ensures deterministic behavior, facilitates audit-ready documentation (e.g., handwritten or LIMS-integrated run logs), and complies with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when paired with validated electronic record systems. Optional accessories—including calibrated voltage/current meters and timer modules—can be integrated to support SOP-driven execution and deviation tracking.
Applications
- Routine QC of PCR amplification products and restriction digests in molecular biology core facilities
- Verification of plasmid integrity, ligation efficiency, and CRISPR editing outcomes
- Qualitative assessment of protein expression, purification yield, and degradation profiles via Coomassie- or silver-stained SDS-PAGE
- Teaching laboratory implementation—robust construction and intuitive operation reduce training time and minimize student-handling errors
- Preparative gel excision for downstream mass spectrometry or cloning workflows
FAQ
Is the Compact XS compatible with ethidium bromide and SYBR Safe staining protocols?
Yes—the UV-transparent gel tray is chemically resistant to common nucleic acid dyes and compatible with both pre- and post-staining workflows using standard intercalating agents.
Can I use the Compact XS with TAE, TBE, and lithium borate (LB) buffers?
Yes—all three buffer systems are supported; however, optimal resolution and run time depend on gel concentration, voltage setting, and buffer ionic strength. Refer to manufacturer-recommended buffer conductivity guidelines for each application.
Does the system include a built-in power supply?
No—the Compact XS is a passive electrophoresis chamber only. A separate, CE-certified DC power supply capable of delivering 0–250 V and 0–100 mA is required and must be selected based on gel dimensions and desired migration speed.
What maintenance is required to ensure long-term electrode performance?
Rinse electrodes thoroughly with deionized water after each use; avoid prolonged exposure to high-salt buffers without rinsing. Inspect platinum plating annually for visible pitting or discoloration—replacement electrodes are available as service parts.
