Lidstrom:Thermocyclers

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Thermocycler location	Appearance	Brand	Capabilities	Manual	Use restrictions
Janet's bench	black	DNA Engine: DYAD	small block doesn't do gradient; large block does	n/a	none
Amanda's window	white & new	Eppendorf: Mastercycler gradient	gradient, but see manual b/c it is weird	Mastercycler Gradient	none
Frances' window	black & old	DNA engine	no gradient	n/a	none
Nate's Bench	##	##	##	##	none?
Alexey's Bench	##	##	2 blocks (gradient?)	##	none?
Ceci's window	white, small	Eppendorf: ??	??	??	none?

What makes for a good thermocycler?

Functions

• gradient block(s)
• multiple blocks on one machine
  • reduces the need to enter programs into many machines
• allow for saving of protocols in folders
  • different researchers can have different folders, preventing the accumulation of a huge list of protocols, and others accidentally writing over other peoples' protocols

Interface

• intuitive menu
  • NOT true of eppendorf systems!
  • BioRad system is fantastic
• Show what happens to each well for a given gradient setting *while* the protocol is being edited
  • Not true of white eppendorf Mastercycler gradient

Bonus Points

• ability to recall past thermocycling programs used
  • occasionally useful for troubleshooting failed reactions