Caution:

Please read this Manual thoroughly.

If you do not understand or are unsure of any
information contained in this Manual please
contact your Agent or Bioquell for
clarification.

OPERATING MANUAL

ASTEC

OMNI PCR WORKSTATION

(Ref: TM050-O&M-002 rev 2)

52 Royce Close
West Portway
Andover
Hampshire
SP10 3TS UK
Tel: +44 (0) 1264 835835
Fax: +44 (0) 1264 835836
http://www.bioquell.com

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1 INTRODUCTION

The Astec Omni PCR Workstation (Fig. 1) is a small workstation designed to

cover all requirements necessary for DNA investigation. The unit provides
both operator and sample protection.

Figure 1 Omni PCR Workstation

The Omni PCR works on a recirculatory principle, like a Class II Safety

Cabinet, with approximately 70% of air drawn from the working area being
recirculated. The air is passed through the main HEPA filter in the roof of the
working area to provide a laminar airflow of 0.30-0.40 m/sec over the work
surface. The unit is self-balancing and draws its make-up air through the
open front at a velocity in excess of 0.3 m/sec and discharges it through a
HEPA filter on the exhaust. This is shown in Figure 2

Figure 2 – Airflow Schematic

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The main and exhaust HEPA filters are class H14 in accordance with EN
1822-1.

The Omni PCR performs to ISO 14644-1 1999 Class 5 at 0.30 micron. This
standard has superseded the American Federal Standard 209D and
BS5295.

The Omni PCR is constructed with an epoxy coated mild steel enclosure and
head unit. The work surface is manufactured in 316 stainless steel and is
removable for easy cleaning. The front doors are in polycarbonate with a
hinged access door to the work area.

The Omni PCR is fitted with a variable timed UV light system that has tubes
fitted to both the front and back of the work area ensuring complete
coverage of the working area. The door must be closed before the UV light
will work. This interlock prevents the working area being accessed while the
UV light is in operation, and will automatically switch the light off if the door is
opened before the time elapsed. This unique feature ensures maximum
safety in the working environment. A small shelf allows samples and
pipettes to be placed directly under the UV light for a maximum efficiency kill
during decontamination. A pipette holder on the side allows for safe and
easy storage of the decontaminated pipettes.

Page 4 of 18
2 INSTALLATION

WARNING:
INSTALLATION SHOULD ONLY BE CARRIED OUT BY TRAINED AND
APPROVED ENGINEERS OR AGENTS.

ASTEC MICROFLOW OR ITS AGENTS CANNOT ACCEPT

RESPONSIBILITY FOR DAMAGE, LOSS OR INJURY CAUSED BY, OR
RESULTING FROM, INCORRECTLY INSTALLED EQUIPMENT.

2.1 The Omni PCR normally comes ready assembled but sometimes the UV
Tubes will be removed for transportation to prevent any chance of damage.

Once removed from its packaging check for any transit damage and that the
following items are included:
(a) Operating Manual
(b) Mains Power Lead (if not fitted)
(c) Rear Shelf
(d) Pipette Bracket

2.2 Service Requirements - Power Supply 230 V ±10% or 110 V ±5%. The plug
is fitted with a 5 Amp fuse.

The Omni PCR should be installed in a draught free position to ensure good
containment. It should NOT be positioned close to any doors or open
windows.

Fit the rear shelf on the brackets provided and screw the pipette holder on
the left-hand side.

2.3 Before use check the following items:

(a) Carry out a visual examination of the Omni PCR, ensure all glazing
panels are intact and that the door operates correctly.
(b) Switch the Omni PCR on and check the following:
(i) When the door is open the fan should run and the fluorescent light
should be illuminated.
When the door is closed the fan should stop and the fluorescent
light should be extinguished.
(ii) When the door is closed the UV lights can be switched on and off
using the timer or ‘Stop’ buttons as required.
When the door is open the UV lights should be extinguished and
the timer buttons inoperative.

Page 5 of 18
3 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

3.1 MAINS ON/OFF

Press the switch down to switch on. A green indicator lamp will indicate that
power is connected to the unit. With the door open the fan will run at full
speed, ready for normal operation of the unit and the main light will
illuminate. The Omni PCR can be used immediately.

3.2 UV CONTROL PANEL

The UV Control Panel (Fig. 5) has three preset buttons 15 minutes,

45 minutes and 2 hours. These times have been determined by the
research into DNA and contamination kill times.

Figure 5 Control Panel

To use the UV lights carry out the following:

(a) Place the samples, pipettes etc. on the shelf provided.
(b) Close the front door.
(c) Press the required time button. The UV lights will automatically switch
off after the time has elapsed.
(d) To switch of the UV lights before the selected time has elapsed, press
the ‘Stop’ button.

Caution:
1 Any surface that is not in contact with the direct UV rays will not be
disinfected. This will include the rear and sides of the UV lamp
assembly. Therefore when the lamp is removed it must be cleaned
using a proprietary disinfectant.

2 The UV light has an effective life of 500 hours maximum.

Note:
The UV light will only operate when the front door is shut.

Page 6 of 18
3.3 PROTOCOL FOR PCR

UV irradiate cabinet for 15 minutes prior to use. If you suspect a PCR

contaminant, UV irradiate for 120 minutes if you have not done so before.

Switch to laminar flow and do all manipulations in cabinet.

Use sterile UV treated plasticware and gloves at all times.

Label tubes and place on rack (10 cm from UV source) and UV treat for 45
minutes.

At the same time UV treat pipetman (at least 4: P200 & P20 for PCR
reagents; P20 for genomic DNA/RNA; P2 for enzyme) down the barrel and
art tips.

Make up amplification mix of Reaction buffer, MgCl2 (if added separately)

and sterile double distilled or RO or milli-Q grade water and aliquot
appropriate amounts of mix to each tube (using PCR reagent dedicated
pipetman). If a problem with the primer is suspected, add primers to this mix
or you may want to do this anyway.

In a separate tube, mix dNTPs (using PCR reagent pipetman).

If appropriate, place mineral oil in a universal or bijoux container.

UV irradiate 6, 7 & 8 for 15 minutes 10 cm from UV source.

Add dNTPs to reaction tubes (using PCR reagent dedicated pipetman).

Add primers (using PCR reagent dedicated pipetman) if not added already.

Add template (using dedicated genomic DNA/RNA P20 pipetman) or if you

are nesting, using post PCR dedicated pipetman previously UV treated.

Always run a blank with UV treated water added to reagents.

Add enzyme using a dedicated enzyme P2 pipetman.

If appropriate, add mineral oil immediately after enzyme, close tube and
place on ice until all samples are ready. If you are using ampliwax you can
UV treat the mix but irradiate the dNTPs separately from other reagents.

Spin in microfuge for a few seconds.

Load onto thermal cycler.

Swab cabinet with 70% methanol after use and UV for 120 minutes.

Note:1
DO NOT UV TREAT TEMPLATE OR ENZYME.
Primers and reaction reagents should be aliquoted in the cabinet using UV treated
plasticware before storage.

Page 7 of 18
4 FITTING AND REMOVAL OF FILTERS

The Omni PCR is supplied with its HEPA filters fitted and tested.

The Filter/Plenum Assembly (Fig. 3) is a one piece set and should not be
split. The fan however can be removed and fitted to the replacement
assembly.

FAN

EXHAUST FILTER

PLENUM CHAMBER

MAIN FILTER

Figure 3 Filter/Plenum Assembly Arrangement

4.1 FILTER/PLENUM ASSEMBLY REMOVAL

(a) Remove the screw caps and screws (8 off) that secure the top cover.
(b) Remove the Control Panel (4 screws). Disconnect the white 9-way
connector block (Fig. 4) then refit the Control Panel.

Figure 4 Control Panel Connection

(c) Raise the top cover a small amount then push down gently on the
exhaust filter grille to separate the seal. Remove the top cover from the
unit.

Page 8 of 18
 (d) Disconnect the fan connector. Remove the 4 mm nuts (4 off) that
secure the fan to the plenum. Remove the fan from the plenum.
(e) Detach all cabling that is attached to the plenum.
(f) Lift the Filter/Plenum Assembly clear of the base.

4.2 FILTER/PLENUM ASSEMBLY FITTING

Fitting the Filter/Plenum Assembly and fan is the reverse of the removal
procedure.

Note:
Care must be taken to ensure the sealing gaskets are not damaged.
Reattach the cabling to the plenum in the same positions.

Page 9 of 18
5 MAINTENANCE

The following section covers the recommended preventative maintenance

requirements that should be carried out every 12 months.

WARNING:
OMNI CABINETS ARE SOMETIMES USED TO CONTAIN AND PROTECT
USERS OF THE CABINET FROM HAZARDOUS OR HARMFUL
SUBSTANCES, THEREFORE IT IS IMPORTANT TO ENSURE THAT THE
CABINET IS SAFE TO WORK ON BEFORE COMMENCING THIS
SERVICE SCHEDULE.

5.1 PROCEDURE

(a) Before commencing the service ensure the Omni PCR has been
sterilised using the UV system.
(b) Carry out a visual examination of the Omni PCR, ensure all glazing
panels are intact and that the door operates correctly.
(c) Using the procedure detailed in paras 3.1 (a) to (c), remove the top
cover to expose the fan plenum and all the electrical components.
(d) Check the condition of the fan. Ensure all electrical connections are
secure and that all earth points are secure. Ensure all internal
connections are made before refitting the top cover.
(e) Switch the Omni PCR on and check the following:
(i) When the door is open the fan should run and the fluorescent light
should be illuminated.
When the door is closed the fan should stop and the fluorescent
light should be extinguished.
(ii) When the door is closed the UV lights can be switched on and off
using the timer or ‘Stop’ buttons as required.
When the door is open the UV lights should be extinguished and
the timer buttons inoperative.
(f) With the door open, using a vane anemometer measure the exhaust air
velocities. The average velocity can be then calculated and recorded.
Velocity Checks
V = Average exhaust velocity (measured) Calculated Aperture Velocity
S1 = Outlet filter area -0.073 m2 V x S1
S2 = Front aperture area -0.090 m2 S2
Example:
V = 0.65 m/sec x S1 = 0.073 = Average face velocity of 0.53 m/sec
S2=0.090
These readings should be recorded on the service sheet of which one
copy is left with the customer.

Page 10 of 18
(g) Using an Aerosol Photometer or Particle Counter, check the integrity of
the main and exhaust filters. The results to be recorded on the service
sheet.
(h) Carry out containment tests using KI Discuss to confirm containment.
The results to be recorded on the service sheet.

Page 11 of 18
6 Trouble Shooting

FAULT CHECK

Unit will not run Check the common supply

Check the fuse at the inlet socket

Fan will not run Check if the door is closed

Check the door microswitch operation
Check the fan fuse on the Control PCB
Check the fan capacitor

Main light not working Check the tube is located correctly

Check the tube
Check the light fuse on the Control PCB
Check the starter/ballast

UV lights not working Check the door is closed

Check the door microswitch
Check the tube is located (using gloves)
Check the supply
Check the UV fuse on the Control PCB
Check the starter/ballast

Page 12 of 18
7 SPECIFICATION

9.1 FILTERS

Main (HEPA) 610 x 330 x 65 mm

Exhaust (HEPA) 300 x 300 x 65 mm

9.2 SIZE

Overall
Width: 620 mm
Depth: 570 mm
Height: 895 mm

Work Area
Width: 600 mm
Depth: 335 mm
Height: 590 mm

9.3 WEIGHT

Total 60 kg

9.4 CONSTRUCTION

Base: Epoxy coated mild steel

Top cover: Epoxy coated mild steel
Tray: 316 Stainless Steel
Fan: Centrifugal type

9.5 ELECTRICAL

Supply voltage: 230 V, 50 Hz single phase or 110 V, 60 Hz

Switches: Mains On/Off, UV Timers (3 off) and Stop
Fuses: 2 Amp
Power rating: 300 Watts

Page 13 of 18
 APPENDIX 1 – ELECTRICAL DIAGRAM

230 V ac 2A
LIVE
FUSES MAINS
2A FILTER DOOR
NEUTRAL SWITCH
ON/OFF

EARTH
UV LIGHT

9-WAY CONNECTOR
MAIN FAN MAIN
PCB LIGHT

UV LIGHT

DOOR
SWITCH

Note:
110 V unit has 3 A fuses.

Page 14 of 18
 APPENDIX 2 - CARE AND CLEANING

1 STAINLESS STEEL COMPONENTS

Considerable care has been taken in the selection and processing of the
stainless steel components used in the construction of this equipment,
however even stainless steel can be damaged by chemical attack.
It is therefore important to ensure that any cleaning or disinfecting
procedures used will not cause a chemical attack that may damage the
surface of the stainless steel. Work surfaces should be kept clean and free
of chemical liquids, particularly those containing Chlorine.
Liquids or vapours containing Chlorine are known to cause gradual staining
of stainless steel. To avoid this, when chemicals are used containing
Chlorine all surfaces should be thoroughly dried and all traces of the solution
removed, the area should then be treated with a neutralising agent. Open
vessels left inside the equipment which are likely to cause Chlorine vapours
may also result in staining of the metal surfaces.
Should the surface of the stainless steel become stained, it may be cleaned
by mechanical polishing and special treatment of the affected area. Our
service department can help with this process.

2 PLASTIC COMPONENTS

Cleaning of the plastic items should only be carried out with mild detergent
or chlorine based cleaning solutions. Care must be taken not to apply
chlorine solutions to any stainless steel metalwork, as this will potentially
cause staining.

Do not apply heat, abrasive materials, solvents or solvent wipes to the

surface as this can cause irreparable damage.

3 PAINTED AND OTHER COMPONENTS

Caution:
Do not use water around electrical connections, switches etc.

To clean all painted and other components use a damp cloth and, when
required, a liquid detergent.

Note:
Do not use abrasive cleaners.

Page 15 of 18
APPENDIX 3 CE CERTIFICATE

Page 16 of 18
 APPENDIX 4 WARRANTY

BIOQUELL UK Ltd. produces products that are warranted under normal usage
against defects in workmanship and materials for one-year parts and labour
costs, from the date of manufacture. The Warranty is stated in the Standard
Terms and Conditions of sale.

Export and Agent retailed products are warranted directly by the Agent.
Please confirm your warranty and liability status with the Agent.

In addition, the Warranty is void unless the following conditions are met:
(a) The product has been installed and used as stated within the
Instruction Manual.
(b) The warranty does NOT include servicing or maintenance. An
approved service company who have attended our training courses for
your product must carry out maintenance of product. Failure to
maintain or service this product will invalidate the warranty.
Maintenance must be carried out in accordance with the Service
Manual and include tasks within stated periods. Failure to use
approved service companies or BIOQUELL UK Ltd. trained personnel for
maintenance also affects the CE Marking status of the product,
removing BIOQUELL’s Duty of Care and responsibility
(c) Consumables such as: pre-filters, HEPA filters, light bulbs and tubes,
not warranted.
(d) This Warranty is void if faults are caused by accidental damage,
mishandling, adjustment by unauthorised personnel or failure to
follow the correct maintenance and safety precautions as stated in the
Instruction Manual.
(e) The Warranty expressly provided for herein is the sole Warranty
provided in connection with the product and no other Warranty,
expressed or implied, is provided. BIOQUELL UK Ltd. assumes no
responsibility for any other claims, consequential (including lost time
or profit) or other damage, whether based in contract, tort or
otherwise, not specifically stated in this Warranty.
(f) Except in respect of death or personal injury caused by Seller’s
negligence, or as expressly provided in these Conditions, Seller shall
not be liable to Buyer by reason of any representation (unless
fraudulent), or any implied warranty, condition or other term, or any
duty at common law, or under the express terms of the Contract for
any loss of profit or any indirect, special or consequential loss,
damage, costs, expenses or other claims (whether caused by the
negligence of Seller, its servants or agents or otherwise) which arise
out of or in connection with the supply of the Goods or their use or
resale by Buyer, and the entire liability of Seller under or in connection
with the Contract shall not exceed the price of the Goods.

Page 17 of 18
 Note:
When requesting a Warranty visit, please have the following
information available:
(i) Product model number and name.
(ii) Serial number.
(iii) Date of last service, and Service Company.
(iv) Nature of fault and any other comments likely to indicate cause of
fault.
(v) A Purchase Order number to cover costs incurred if visit is outside
the scope of the Warranty.
BIOQUELL UK Ltd., or other nominated personnel will carry out
warranty visits.
(g) In the event of any health and safety incidents please advise us in
writing at the earliest opportunity.
(h) This warranty and all other contractual issues shall be governed by
English law and the parties agree to submit to the nonexclusive
jurisdiction of the courts of England.

Page 18 of 18