Tanon EPS-600 Universal Constant Voltage/Constant Current Electrophoresis Power Supply

Overview

The Tanon EPS-600 is a microprocessor-controlled, switch-mode electrophoresis power supply engineered for precision, reliability, and operational flexibility in routine molecular biology laboratories. It operates on dual-mode regulation—simultaneous constant voltage (CV) and constant current (CC) output—ensuring stable field strength across variable gel resistance conditions, such as during SDS-PAGE, native PAGE, agarose gel electrophoresis, or semi-dry western blot transfer. Unlike analog-based units, the EPS-600 employs digital feedback control to maintain setpoint accuracy within ±1% of full scale under dynamic load changes, minimizing band distortion and improving inter-run reproducibility. Its compact, stackable chassis supports space-constrained benchtop environments while maintaining thermal stability through intelligent fan-assisted convection cooling.

Key Features

• Four independent output channels—enabling concurrent operation of up to four electrophoresis tanks (e.g., two mini-verticals + two horizontal gels), each with individually selectable CV/CC mode and timer settings.
• Dual-range digital display: three-digit LED readout for real-time voltage (V) or current (mA), plus a dedicated single-digit status indicator showing operational mode (CV, CC, or TIMER), fault condition (OL, SC), or standby state.
• Precision programmable timer (0–999 minutes) with auto-shutdown and memory retention—preserves last-used voltage, current, and timing parameters after power cycle for rapid re-initiation of standardized protocols.
• Comprehensive safety architecture: automatic no-load detection halts output if no circuit continuity is sensed; instantaneous current limiting engages upon short-circuit or over-current events (>800 mA); thermal foldback prevents sustained overheating during extended high-power runs.
• Robust mechanical design: reinforced ABS housing with non-slip rubber feet and vertical stacking grooves—certified for stable multi-unit deployment without vibration coupling or airflow obstruction.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The EPS-600 is validated for use with standard commercial electrophoresis systems including Mini-PROTEAN® (Bio-Rad), Hoefer SE260/SE600 (Cytiva), and Tanon’s own HE series vertical and horizontal gel apparatuses. It delivers consistent performance across common gel matrices: 8–20% polyacrylamide (for protein separation), 0.8–2.0% agarose (for DNA/RNA fragment analysis), and nitrocellulose/PVDF membranes (during electroblotting). The unit complies with IEC 61010-1:2010 for electrical safety in laboratory equipment and meets EMC requirements per EN 61326-1:2013. While not FDA 21 CFR Part 11–compliant by default (as it lacks audit-trail-capable software), its deterministic hardware behavior supports GLP-aligned documentation when paired with lab notebook-based run logs.

Software & Data Management

The EPS-600 operates as a standalone instrument without proprietary software dependency. All parameter configuration and monitoring occur via front-panel controls and LED display—eliminating driver installation, OS compatibility constraints, or network exposure risks. For laboratories requiring electronic recordkeeping, optional RS-232 serial interface (available via accessory module) enables integration with LIMS or custom Python/Node-RED scripts for timestamped parameter logging. No firmware updates are required under normal operation; calibration is factory-set and traceable to NIST-traceable standards.

Applications

• Small-format vertical SDS-PAGE and native PAGE (e.g., 10 × 10 cm gels) under constant voltage (100–200 V) or constant current (20–40 mA).
• Horizontal agarose gel electrophoresis (up to 15 × 15 cm) at 5–120 V, supporting DNA ladder resolution from 50 bp to 20 kb.
• Semi-dry and wet-tank western blot transfer (0.8–1.2 mA/cm²), with programmable ramp-down to prevent membrane overheating.
• Multiplexed workflow support: simultaneous running of nucleic acid gels and protein gels across separate channels—reducing turnaround time in core facilities.
• Teaching labs: intuitive interface and built-in safety protections make it suitable for undergraduate instruction in molecular techniques.

FAQ

Can the EPS-600 be used for pulse-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE)?

No—the EPS-600 provides only DC output and does not support programmable polarity switching or pulse timing required for PFGE applications.
Is remote control possible without additional hardware?

Not natively; the base model lacks USB or Ethernet connectivity. Remote operation requires optional RS-232 interface and host-side scripting.
Does the unit support constant power (CP) mode?

No—it implements only constant voltage and constant current regulation, which are sufficient for >95% of routine electrophoretic separations.
What is the maximum continuous duty cycle at 600 V / 800 mA?

Rated for indefinite operation at ≤400 V / 400 mA; above this, thermal management limits continuous use to ≤60 minutes per session with ≥15-minute cooldown intervals.
Are replacement fuses user-serviceable?

Yes—front-accessible 2 A slow-blow ceramic fuses (5 × 20 mm) are specified in the operator manual and widely available from electronics distributors.