Labmate LMGP-502 Gradient PCR Machine

Index

1. Safety Measures

The following fundamental safety precautions must be followed during all handling, maintenance, and repair of this instrument. Ignoring these instructions or the warnings found elsewhere in this manual may compromise the instrument's safety features and intended functionality.

• This instrument is designed for normal indoor use only.
• Users should not attempt to open or repair the instrument themselves, as this may lead to electric shock. All repairs should be carried out by professional personnel.
• Before connecting the power supply, ensure the supply voltage matches the instrument's rated voltage. Also, confirm that the power outlet's load capacity is not less than what the instrument requires.
• If the power cord is damaged, it must be replaced with one of the same type and specifications. Do not place heavy objects on the power cord during operation and avoid positioning the cord in high-traffic areas.
• Always grasp the plug itself when plugging in or unplugging the power cord. Ensure the plug is fully inserted into the socket. Never pull the cord to unplug it.
• The instrument should be installed in an environment with low humidity and minimal dust, away from water sources, direct sunlight, and strong light. The area should be well-ventilated and free from corrosive gases or electromagnetic interference. Keep the device away from heat sources such as stoves and heaters. Do not operate the instrument in damp or dusty environments.
• Turn off the power when the instrument is not in use. If the device will not be used for an extended period, unplug it and cover it with a soft cloth or plastic sheet to prevent dust accumulation.
• Immediately unplug the instrument from the electrical outlet if the following occurs:
• Liquid has spilled inside the instrument
• The instrument has been exposed to rain or water
• The instrument is malfunctioning, particularly if unusual noises or odors are detected.
• The instrument has been dropped, or its casing is damaged.
• There is a significant change in the instrument's performance or functionality.

2. Introduction

Gradient PCR Machine LMGP-502 works within the range of 4 to 99.9°C. Its high-speed heating and cooling rates ensure efficient thermal cycling. Its user-friendly interface enables real-time monitoring and seamless operation management. It features multiple login management and large data storage, for secure access and protocol retrieval. The Gradient PCR Machine is ideal for molecular biology, diagnostics, and research settings.

3. Features

• Semiconductor technology
• Touchscreen Display
• Block/Tube Temperature Control
• Program Pause Function
• USB Connectivity

4. Specifications

5. Applications

Gradient PCR Machine LMGP-502 is ideal for Molecular Biology, Genetics, Clinical Diagnostics, Biotechnology & Research Labs for DNA/RNA amplification, sequencing, genetic disorder analysis, gene expression studies and mutation analysis.

6. Instrument Introduction

Structure

The instrument features a user-friendly interface with an LCD screen, hot lid button, vent, and USB interface. The rear view shows the power outlet and fuse.

Figure-1: Front view of the PCR machine showing the LCD screen and controls.

Figure-2: Rear view of the PCR machine showing the power outlet and fuse.

7. Installation

Working Condition

• Ambient temperature: 5°C ~ 30°C
• Relative humidity: ≤70%
• Power Supply: 100~240V AC 6.6~3.1A 50/60Hz

8. Operations

8.1 Operation Guide

8.1.1 Start Up

After powering on the instrument, the LCD screen displays the welcome screen (Figure 3). Once the welcome screen is complete, the instrument proceeds to the main menu interface (Figure 4).

Figure-3: Welcome screen displaying the product name.

Figure-4: Main menu interface with icons for File, Calculator, System, User, and Help.

8.1.2 Run File Operation

The running file refers to the PCR amplification program, composed of temperature steps and cycle steps. Each file can include up to 30 steps.

1) File Library

Click the "File" icon on the main interface to open the file library screen. The file list appears in the left column, while the right side displays detailed information and a preview of the selected file. Functional buttons are located at the bottom of the screen. When a file is selected, it can be edited, deleted, or renamed (Figure 5).

To export a file, insert the USB disk before powering on the instrument. Once the interface shows "USB Storage," select the file and press the export button to export it to the USB disk. Restart the instrument after completing the operation.

Figure-5: File library interface showing file management options and USB export functionality.

2) Create a New File

Click "New" to enter the new file editing interface. Temperature values are displayed above the temperature curve, and time values are shown below it. Click on either the temperature or time to set parameters using the numeric keypad (Figure 6). Use the "+Step" button to add temperature steps and the "+Cycle" button to add cycle steps (a maximum of 30 steps is allowed per file).

Figure-6: Interface for creating a new PCR file, showing temperature and time settings.

Once parameter settings are completed, click "Return" to open the save dialog box. Click "OK" to proceed, enter the file name in the "Name" field, then click "OK" again. The system returns to the file library interface, and the new file is created and saved (Figure 7(1) and Figure 7(2)).

Figure-7(1): Save dialog box for naming the new PCR file.

Figure-7(2): Numeric keypad interface for entering the file name.

8.1.3 Edit File

In the file library, select the file to edit and click the "Edit" button to enter the editing interface. Temperature values appear above the temperature curve, and time values are displayed below it. Click on the temperature or time to set parameters using the numeric keypad. To add temperature or cycle steps, click the "+Step" or "+Cycle" buttons (the total number of steps cannot exceed 30).

Figure-8: Editing interface for a PCR file, displaying temperature and time settings.

To configure detailed settings for a specific temperature step, select the step and click the "Option" button. Adjust parameters such as "Temp," "Time," "+Temp/c," "+Time/c,” and “Grads.” After completing settings, click “OK” to return to the editing interface (Figure 9). Clicking “Return” exits without saving.

Figure-9: Option menu for detailed temperature step configuration.

8.1.4 Running File

In the file library, select the desired file and click "Run" to enter the running interface. Use "Lid Off" or "Lid On" to control the hot cover. The panel on the right displays hot lid and module temperatures, current step time, and total run time. Click "Run" again to start executing the file (Figure 10).

Figure-10: Running interface showing temperature curves, controls, and status information.

While the file is running, a flashing temperature curve indicates the active step. During the run, you can click "Pause" to temporarily halt, "Continue" to resume, "Skip" to bypass the next step, or "Stop" to end the run.

Once the file completes its run time, the system enters a low-temperature storage mode, and "Total Time" shows as complete. Click "Stop" to end the operation.

8.2 Gradient Calculation

Click the "Calculator" icon on the main interface to access the gradient calculation screen (Figure 11).

Figure-11: Gradient calculation screen interface.

Click on the designated input fields to enter the module temperature and gradient range. Once information is entered, click "OK" to automatically calculate the temperature for each sample well. Click "Return" to go back to the main interface.

8.3 User Management

Click the "User" icon on the main interface to access the user list within the user management screen (Figure 12).

Figure-12: User management screen displaying user list and options.

Click "Register" to open the registration interface. Enter username, password, and other required details, then click "OK" to complete registration. Click "Login" to access the login screen and enter credentials to log in successfully.

Note: Logging in as "Admin" allows the user to delete other user accounts.

8.4 System Settings

Click the "System" icon on the main interface to access the system settings screen (Figure 13). Once settings are configured, click "OK" to save them, or click "Return" to go back to the main interface.

Figure-13: System settings screen showing various configuration options.

8.5 Accessing Help and Importing Files

Click the "Help" icon on the main interface to open the help screen (Figure 13). Insert the USB drive before powering on the instrument. The interface will then display an "Import File" button—click it to switch to the import screen. Select the desired file and click the "Import" button to upload it to the current user. Use the "Refresh" button to update the file library. After completing the operation, restart the instrument.

Figure-13: Help screen interface.

Figure-14: Import screen interface for uploading files from a USB drive.

Figure-15: File selection screen for importing.

9. Maintenance

Regular Cleaning

1. Clean the holes in the base using a neutral soap solution. (Avoid using strong alkalis, concentrated alcohol, or organic solvent solutions.)
2. Ensure there are no objects placed beneath the machine or near the left and right cooling vents. Over time, dust may accumulate on the heat dissipation vents and should be removed promptly. This is essential for proper operation.
3. The module should be cleaned regularly. Accumulated reactant residues in the module cavity can affect temperature accuracy. It is recommended to wipe the cavity with a cotton cloth on a regular basis.

10. Troubleshooting