®nual

X50
gEN)
Manual

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www.eppendorf.com/myeppendorf

Mastercycler® X50

Operating Manual
Copyright© 2021 Eppendorf SE, Germany.

All rights reserved, including graphics and images. No part of this publication may be reproduced without
the prior permission of the copyright owner.

Eppendorf® and the Eppendorf Brand Design are registered trademarks of Eppendorf SE, Germany.

Mastercycler®, flexlid®, SteadySlope® and Eppendorf twin.tec® are registered trademarks of Eppendorf SE,
Germany.

Registered trademarks and protected trademarks are not marked in all cases with ® or ™ in this manual.

U.S. Patents are listed on www.eppendorf.com/ip.

Notice

The software of the Mastercycler X50 contains open source software. License information is available in the
settings of the Mastercycler X50 software under About this Mastercycler.

6313 900 060-03/102021

 Table of contents
Mastercycler® X50 3
English (EN)

Table of contents
1 Operating instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
1.1 Using this manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
1.2 Danger symbols and danger levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
1.2.1 Danger symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
1.2.2 Danger levels. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
1.3 Symbols used . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
1.4 Abbreviations used . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

2 Safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.1 Intended use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.2 User profile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.3 Warnings for intended use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.4 Danger symbols on the device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

3 Product description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
3.1 Product overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
3.1.1 Master variant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
3.1.2 Eco variant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
3.1.3 Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
3.1.4 Status lamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
3.2 Delivery package . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
3.3 Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
3.3.1 Features of the Mastercycler X50 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
3.3.2 Consumables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
3.3.3 Networking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
3.3.4 Service. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

4 Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
4.1 Selecting the location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
4.2 Installing the device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
4.2.1 Connecting the device to the power supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
4.2.2 Using the USB port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
4.2.3 Connecting the Mastercycler X50 to a network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
4.2.4 Connecting the eco device directly to the master device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
4.2.5 Connecting multiple eco devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
4.3 Decommissioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
4.4 Registering the device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
4.4.1 VisioNize onboard devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

5 Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
5.1 First steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
5.1.1 Switching on the device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
5.1.2 Opening the heated lid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
5.1.3 Closing the heated lid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
5.2 Operating the user interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
5.2.1 Logging in and out as a user. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
5.2.2 Home screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
 Table of contents
4 Mastercycler® X50
English (EN)

5.3 Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
5.3.1 Opening the menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
5.3.2 Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
5.3.3 Protocols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
5.3.4 Export . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
5.3.5 Incubate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
5.3.6 Maintenance & Qualification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

6 User administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
6.1 The user administration concept . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
6.1.1 Administrator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
6.1.2 User with standard rights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
6.1.3 User with restricted rights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
6.1.4 User rights without user administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
6.1.5 User rights. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
6.2 Defining settings in the user administration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
6.2.1 Creating an administrator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
6.2.2 Editing the user administration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
6.2.3 Deactivating the user administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
6.3 Editing user accounts as administrator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
6.3.1 Creating a user account . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
6.3.2 Editing user accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
6.3.3 Deleting a user account . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
6.3.4 Resetting the password/PIN for a user account . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
6.4 Administrating your own user account . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

7 Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
7.1 Overview of the Program Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
7.1.1 Accessing the Program Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
7.2 Creating a new folder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
7.3 Administration of folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
7.4 Creating a new program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
7.5 Administration of programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
7.6 General program settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
7.6.1 Header. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
7.6.2 Editing the general program settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
7.6.3 Setting the lid temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
7.6.4 Selecting the block temperature control mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
7.6.5 Performing block settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
7.6.6 Selecting the program status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
7.6.7 Entering a comment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
7.7 Editing programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
7.7.1 Selecting the program step . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
7.7.2 Inserting a program step. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
7.7.3 Sketch mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
7.7.4 Setting gradients . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
7.7.5 Defining increments and decrements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
7.7.6 Defining the ramp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
7.7.7 Deleting a program step . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
 Table of contents
Mastercycler® X50 5
English (EN)

8 PCR run . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
8.1 Loading the thermoblock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
8.1.1 Selecting the sample tubes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
8.1.2 Inserting the sample tubes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
8.2 Selecting a program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
8.2.1 Selecting a program in the Program Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
8.2.2 Selecting the most recently used program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
8.3 Starting a program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
8.4 Pausing and resuming a program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
8.5 Display the remaining run time for the program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
8.6 Aborting the program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

9 Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
9.1 Accessing settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
9.2 About this Mastercycler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
9.3 System Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
9.3.1 Accessing System Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
9.3.2 Assignment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
9.3.3 Auto Restart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
9.3.4 Protocol Level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
9.3.5 Date & Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
9.3.6 Network. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
9.4 Device Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
9.4.1 Accessing Device Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
9.4.2 Acoustic Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
9.4.3 Display Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
9.5 Setting service and maintenance intervals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
9.5.1 Accessing Maintenance & Qualification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
9.5.2 Editing recurring tasks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

10 Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
10.1 Performing a software update. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
10.2 Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
10.2.1 Cleaning the touch screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
10.2.2 Cleaning the housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
10.2.3 Cleaning the heated lid and thermoblock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
10.3 Disinfection/decontamination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
10.4 Decontamination before shipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

11 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
11.1 General errors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

12 Transport, storage and disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

12.1 Packing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
12.2 Transport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
12.3 Disposal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
 Table of contents
6 Mastercycler® X50
English (EN)

13 Technical data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
13.1 Power supply. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
13.2 Weight/dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
13.3 Ambient conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
13.4 Application parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Certificates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
 Operating instructions
Mastercycler® X50 7
English (EN)

1 Operating instructions
1.1 Using this manual

 Read this operating manual completely before using the device for the first time.
 Consider this manual as part of the product and keep it somewhere easily accessible.
 If this operating manual is lost, please request another one. The current version of the operating manual
can be found on our webpage www.eppendorf.com.

1.2 Danger symbols and danger levels

1.2.1 Danger symbols

The safety instructions in this manual have the following danger symbols and danger levels:

Biohazard Explosive substances

Electric shock Hot surface

Risk of crushing Toxic substances

Hazard point Material damage

1.2.2 Danger levels

DANGER Will lead to severe injuries or death.
WARNING May lead to severe injuries or death.
CAUTION May lead to light to moderate injuries.
NOTICE May lead to material damage.

1.3 Symbols used

Depiction Meaning
1. Actions in the specified order
2.
 Actions without a specified order
• List
Text Display or software texts
Additional information
 Operating instructions
8 Mastercycler® X50
English (EN)

1.4 Abbreviations used

DHCP
Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (network)

DNS
Domain Name System (network)

IP
Internet Protocol (network)

MAC
Media Access Control (network)

PCR
Polymerase Chain Reaction

PDF
Portable Document Format

PIN
Personal Identification Number

USB
Universal Serial Bus
 Safety
Mastercycler® X50 9
English (EN)

2 Safety
2.1 Intended use

The Eppendorf Mastercycler X50 is a laboratory device for DNA amplification by means of polymerase
chain reaction. The Mastercycler X50 is intended for indoor use only and may be used for training and
research purposes in routine and research laboratories in the fields of life sciences, industry and chemistry.
The product is intended for research purposes only and may not be used for diagnostic or therapeutic
purposes.

The Mastercycler X50 uses various block types to support various consumables.

The Mastercycler X50 may only be operated by persons trained in laboratory techniques and procedures.

2.2 User profile

The device and accessories may only be operated by trained and skilled personnel.

Before using the device, read the operating manual and the instructions for use of the accessories carefully
and familiarize yourself with the device's mode of operation.

2.3 Warnings for intended use

Read the operating manual and observe the following general safety instructions before using the
Mastercycler X50.

DANGER! Risk of explosion.

 Do not operate the device in areas where work with explosive substances is carried out.
 Do not use this device to process any explosive or highly reactive substances.
 Do not use this device to process any substances which could generate an explosive
atmosphere.

WARNING! Risk of fire.

 Do not use this device to process any highly flammable liquids.

 Safety
10 Mastercycler® X50
English (EN)

WARNING! Damage to health due to infectious liquids and pathogenic germs.

 When handling infectious liquids and pathogenic germs, observe the national
regulations, the biosafety level of your laboratory, and the manufacturers' Safety Data
Sheets and application notes.
 Wear your personal protective equipment.
 For comprehensive regulations about handling germs or biological material of risk group
II or higher, please refer to the "Laboratory Biosafety Manual" (source: World Health
Organization, Laboratory Biosafety Manual, in the currently valid version).

WARNING! Lethal voltages inside the device.

Touching high-voltage parts can cause an electric shock. Electric shocks cause heart injury
and respiratory paralysis.

 Ensure that the housing is closed and undamaged.

 Do not remove the housing.
 Ensure that no liquids can penetrate the device.
Only authorized service staff may open the device.

WARNING! Biohazard when tempering with the heated lid open.

When tempering with an open heated lid, the lids of the reaction vessels can spring open.
This will release sample material.

 Only temper with a closed heated lid.

WARNING! Biohazard due to unsuitable reaction vessels, plates and lids.

Unsuitable reaction vessels, plates and lids will get damaged in the Cycler. This will release
sample material.

 Only use reaction vessels, plates and lids that meet the requirements specified in the
operating manual.

CAUTION! Risk of burns on the thermoblock, heated lid and reaction vessels.
The thermoblock, heated lid and reaction vessels reach temperatures of over 50 °C very
quickly.

 Wait until the temperature of the thermoblock, heated lid and reaction vessels is below
30 °C.
 Then open the heated lid.

CAUTION! Risk of poor safety due to incorrect accessories and spare parts.
The use of accessories and spare parts other than those recommended by Eppendorf may
impair the safety, functioning and precision of the device. Eppendorf cannot be held liable or
accept any liability for damage resulting from the use of accessories and spare parts other
than those recommended or from improper use.

 Only use accessories and original spare parts recommended by Eppendorf.

 Safety
Mastercycler® X50 11
English (EN)

WARNING! Risk of injury when lifting the device.

If the device is lifted by its lid, the lid may break off and cause the device to fall.

 Lift the device by the bottom of the housing.

 Use both hands to carry the device.
 Do not lift the device by its lid.

CAUTION! Risk of injury due to lifting and carrying heavy loads

The device is heavy. Lifting and carrying the device can lead to back injuries.

 Only transport and lift the device with an adequate number of helpers.
 Use a transport aid to transport the device.

NOTICE! Damage to electronic components due to condensation.

Condensate may form in the device after it has been moved from a cool environment to a
warmer environment.

 After installing the device, wait for at least 12 h. Only then connect the device to the
mains/power line.

2.4 Danger symbols on the device

Abb. 2-1: Warning symbols on the Mastercycler

Fig. 2-1: Warning symbols on the Mastercycler

1 Burns due to hot surfaces.

If the heated lid is open, you may suffer burns
WARNING when touching the thermoblock and the hot plate.
Hot surfaces on block and lid
Do not touch  Do not touch any hot surfaces.
 Safety
12 Mastercycler® X50
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 Product description
Mastercycler® X50 13
English (EN)

3 Product description
3.1 Product overview
3.1.1 Master variant
Abb. 3-1: Front view and rear view

1 2 3 4

ycler X50
MasterC

10 9 8 7 6 5

Fig. 3-1: Front view and rear view

1 Lid handle 6 Ethernet port

For opening and closing the heated lid.
7 Cycler port
2 Heated lid
8 Lid
3 Heating plate USB port cover.
4 Thermoblock 9 Touch screen
5 Mains/power cord socket with mains/power 10 Name plate
switch
0 = switched off, I = switched on.
 Product description
14 Mastercycler® X50
English (EN)

3.1.2 Eco variant

Abb. 3-2: Front view and rear view

1 2 3 4

ycler X50
MasterC

9 8 7 6 5

Fig. 3-2: Front view and rear view

1 Lid handle 6 Deactivated port

For opening and closing the heated lid.
7 Cycler port
2 Heated lid
8 Display
3 Heating plate Information is displayed. Operation is not
possible.
4 Thermoblock
9 Name plate
5 Mains/power cord socket with mains/power
switch
0 = switched off, I = switched on.
 Product description
Mastercycler® X50 15
English (EN)

3.1.3 Ports
Abb. 3-3: Ports

1 2

Fig. 3-3: Ports

1 Cycler port 2 Ethernet port

Connection to an eco variant of the Mastercycler Connection to the Internet for master variants. In
X50 or an Ethernet switch. eco devices this port is deactivated.

Only Mastercycler X50 eco devices can be connected to a Mastercycler X50 master device.

3.1.4 Status lamp

The status lamp is located on the right above the touch screen.

Status lamp Operating status

Lights up yellow The device is starting up.
Briefly flashes yellow, The device is in idle mode.
then lights up white
Flashes blue A program run is active.
Flashes green A program run is completed.
Flashes yellow The program run is waiting for a user action in the Pause or Hold step.
During a program run the lid is open.
Lights up blue The heating block is active. No program is selected.
The heated lid is active. No program is selected.
Verification of the thermoblock.
Lights up violet After a mains/power outage the device will be automatically restarted.
Flashes red Device error. See the display for additional information on the type of error.
Flashes violet Software update
 Product description
16 Mastercycler® X50
English (EN)

3.2 Delivery package

Quantity Description
1 Mastercycler X50 in the ordered version
1 Operating manual for all master variants. Eco devices are delivered without an
operating manual.
1 Certificate of uniformity
1 Mains/power cord with EU-plug
1 Mains/power cord with US-plug
1 1.5 m Ethernet cable

The Ethernet switch is not included in the delivery package and it is not available from
Eppendorf.

3.3 Features

Circuit Technology: Circuit Technology ensures a homogeneous temperature distribution and enables the
generation of specific temperature gradients for PCR optimizations on the Mastercycler X50.

SteadySlope: The SteadySlope technology ensures that the heating and cooling rates of the thermoblock
during gradient operation are identical to those during normal operation. The reliable transfer of
optimization results to the routine application is ensured.

Program Migration: Program Migration enables the transfer of a PCR program from other thermal cyclers
with a lower temperature control speed to a Mastercycler X50. The required run time is entered into the
Mastercycler X50 (see Performing block settings on p. 59)and the device calculates the matching ramps
automatically. This function enables a simulation of the PCR run without performing PCR optimization first.

flexlid: Except for the versions with a High Pressure Lid, all Mastercycler X50 are equipped with a flexlid
heated lid. It enables an ergonomic one-hand operation and automatically adjusts the contact pressure for
all tubes and PCR plates.

Thermal Sample Protection: The Thermal Sample Protection technology maintains a constant
thermoblock temperature of 20 °C during the warm-up phase of the heated lid. Thermal Sample Protection
reduces the thermal load on the samples and minimizes the risk of non-specific product formation during
the PCR.

Self test function: The master variants of the Mastercycler X50 have an integrated self test function. The
self test function provides a simple way of testing the correct function of the thermoblock of the master
device and the connected eco devices without any auxiliary equipment.

Control: The eco variants of the Mastercycler X50 do not have a control panel. They are controlled via a
connected master variant of the Mastercycler X50.
 Product description
Mastercycler® X50 17
English (EN)

3.3.1 Features of the Mastercycler X50

Master device Thermoblock Thermoblock High Pressure Lid

version material
Mastercycler X50a X 96-well format Aluminum —
Mastercycler X50h X 384-well format Aluminum X
Mastercycler X50l — 96-well format Aluminum —
Mastercycler X50t — 384-well format Aluminum X
Mastercycler X50s X 96-well format Silver —
Mastercycler X50i — 96-well format Silver —

3.3.2 Consumables

PCR strips (0.1 mL) or PCR plates

PCR tubes (0.2 mL)
Mastercycler X50a 96 1x 96-well
Mastercycler X50h — 1x 384-well
Mastercycler X50l 96 1x 96-well
Mastercycler X50t — 1x 384-well
Mastercycler X50s 96 1x 96-well
Mastercycler X50i 96 1x 96-well

3.3.3 Networking

An additional eco device of the Mastercycler X50 can be directly connected to and controlled by a master
device of the Mastercycler X50.

An Ethernet switch can be used to connect and control up to 9 eco devices of the Mastercycler X50.

3.3.4 Service

Eppendorf offers customized service options for preventive maintenance and verification of your thermal
cycler. For more information, service requests and local offers visit www.eppendorf.com/epServices and
the local websites.
 Product description
18 Mastercycler® X50
English (EN)
 Installation
Mastercycler® X50 19
English (EN)

4 Installation
4.1 Selecting the location

WARNING! Risk of injury due to unsuitable work surface.

The device may fall down if placed on an unsuitable work surface.

 Observe the criteria for selecting a location. The criteria can be found in the operating
manual.

NOTICE! Risk of damage due to overheating.

 Do not install the device near heat sources (e.g., heating, drying cabinets).
 Do not expose the device to direct sunlight.
 Ensure unobstructed air circulation. Maintain a clearance of at least 30 cm around all
ventilation gaps.

When the device is in operation, ensure that the device mains/power switch and the cutting
unit of the power system circuit (e.g., residual current circuit breaker) are accessible.

Take the following criteria into account when selecting the location for the device:
• Do not place the device in a wet location.
• The surface must have sufficient bearing capacity and ensure the required stability.
• The surface must be free of vibration.
• The device feet must not slip.
• The height of the location should allow for convenient and safe operation of the device.
 Installation
20 Mastercycler® X50
English (EN)

4.2 Installing the device

4.2.1 Connecting the device to the power supply

WARNING! Danger due to incorrect voltage supply.

 Only connect the device to voltage sources which correspond with the electrical
requirements on the name plate.
 Only use earth/grounded sockets with a protective earth (PE) conductor.
 Only use the mains/power cord supplied.

NOTICE! Sample loss through interruption in the mains/power supply.

If you use multiple sockets, the current consumption of several devices may exceed the
power current strength. The mains/power fuse interrupts the mains/power supply. The
devices do not receive any power. The current programs are aborted.

 Connect the mains/power cord of each device directly to an earth/grounded socket.

 Do not use multiple sockets.

NOTICE! Impairment to the display caused by the protective foil

The display functionality can be impaired if the protective foil is peeled off when the device
is switched on.

 Remove the protective foil before switching on the device for the first time.

 Connect the mains connection socket to the power socket using a power cable.
 Installation
Mastercycler® X50 21
English (EN)

4.2.2 Using the USB port

The master variants of the Mastercycler X50 have a USB port to which a storage medium can be connected.

There is no USB port on the eco devices.

1. Open the lid.

2. Insert the storage medium into the USB port (1).
3. After data has been imported or exported: Remove the storage medium and close the lid.
 Installation
22 Mastercycler® X50
English (EN)

4.2.3 Connecting the Mastercycler X50 to a network

The master device can be connected directly to the Internet and to an internal network. An
Internet connection is not necessary to operate the device. If the master device is connected
to the Internet the operator is responsible for data security.

 A connection to the internal network or the Internet can only be made by a network
administrator.
 Check the settings for the internal network or the Internet before making a connection.

The device has a network connection (RJ45). It is possible to work with a DHCP or a fixed IP
address. The connection is possible with any common, ethernet-based infrastructure. We
recommend 100 Mbit or 1 Gbit connections (autonegotiation).

1 2

1 Cycler port 2 Ethernet port. In eco devices this port is

deactivated.

1. Connect the master device to the internal network via the Cycler port.
2. Connect the eco devices to the internal network via the Cycler port.
The eco devices are recognized by the master device and can be assigned to the master device (see
Assignment on p. 78).
3. Connect the master device to the Internet via port 2.
 Installation
Mastercycler® X50 23
English (EN)

4.2.4 Connecting the eco device directly to the master device

Master device Eco device

X50 X50
MasterCycler MasterCycler

 Connect the master device and the eco device via the Cycler ports.
The eco device is recognized by the master device and can be assigned to the master device (see
Assignment on p. 78).

4.2.5 Connecting multiple eco devices

Switch

X50
MasterCycler

X50
MasterCycler
X50 X50
MasterCycler MasterCycler

Master device max. 9 Eco devices

1. Connect the master device to the Ethernet switch via the Cycler port.
2. Connect the eco devices to the Ethernet switch via the Cycler ports.
The eco devices are recognized by the master device and can be assigned to the master device (see
Assignment on p. 78).
 Installation
24 Mastercycler® X50
English (EN)

4.3 Decommissioning
Programs on connected eco devices continue to run when the master device is switched off.

If the Mastercycler X50 is not in use for more than one week, the following steps must be carried out:

1. Load the block with an empty PCR plate or tube.

2. Close the heated lid and flip the handle forwards.
The closed lid prevents contamination of the thermoblock.
3. Disconnect the Mastercycler X50 from the power supply.

4.4 Registering the device

To register a VisioNize onboard device for VisioNize Services, a connection to the local network with
Internet access is required. If the device is connected to the Internet, it can be logged into VisioNize via the
administrator account access data. Further information on logging the device in to VisioNize can be found
in the "VisioNize Lab Suite" software manual at https://www.eppendorf.com.

4.4.1 VisioNize onboard devices

Prerequisites:
• Available Ethernet port near the device
• Standard Ethernet cable
• Internet access
Administrator account (Tenant) for VisioNize

Prevention of data loss, loss of samples or misuse of data

 Protect the VisioNize onboard device from unauthorized access via the Internet.
Contact IT systems administration for questions.

Security risks

 Only enable OPC/REST when required. Every communication protocol used to transmit
data via the Internet represents a potential security risk.

Connecting to the network

1. Connect the Ethernet port of the device to the
local network with a standard Ethernet cable via
an available Ethernet port.
2. To check the network connection, tap the Settings
button.
3. Tap Menu>Settings>System Settings>Network.
 Installation
Mastercycler® X50 25
English (EN)

DHCP
4. The device can be easily integrated into the
network using the DHCP network protocol.
Enable the Enable DHCP slider.
5. If no DHCP is in use, disable Enable DHCP.
6. Tap the Manual Setup button.
7. Enter the device parameters for the network.
8. To check the entries: Call Menu>Settings>System
Settings>Network.
When the device has been integrated into the
network, the IP address of the device will appear
next to IP Addresses.

If the IP address is not displayed, note the MAC address and contact IT systems administration.
 Installation
26 Mastercycler® X50
English (EN)
 Operation
Mastercycler® X50 27
English (EN)

5 Operation
5.1 First steps

Before the Mastercycler X50 is used for the first time, the following points must be met:
• The device has been correctly connected.
• The device is free from any damage.
• The free circulation of air around the ventilation gaps at the rear of the device and at the fan between
the front stabilizing feet is ensured.

5.1.1 Switching on the device

1. Use the main/power switch at the rear of the device to switch on the device.
The status lamp lights up and the fan starts.
The software starts.

5.1.2 Opening the heated lid

The Mastercycler X50 is equipped with a heated lid. The heated lid automatically adjusts to the height of
the PCR tubes or PCR plates that are used. It is designed for one-hand operation. A manual adjustment to
the tube height or adjusting the contact pressure to the tube lids is not required.

The heated lid ensures a uniform contact pressure between the tubes and the thermoblock and protects the
tube lids against leaks. The heating process prevents the formation of condensate in the upper area of the
tube during the temperature control of the reaction liquid.

WARNING! Biohazard when tempering with the heated lid open.

When tempering with an open heated lid, the lids of the reaction vessels can spring open.
This will release sample material.

 Only temper with a closed heated lid.

CAUTION! Risk of burns on the thermoblock, heated lid and reaction vessels.
The thermoblock, heated lid and reaction vessels reach temperatures of over 50 °C very
quickly.

 Wait until the temperature of the thermoblock, heated lid and reaction vessels is below
30 °C.
 Then open the heated lid.

 Flip up the lid handle as far as it will go.

 Operation
28 Mastercycler® X50
English (EN)

5.1.3 Closing the heated lid

CAUTION! Risk of crushing when closing the heated lid.

 Hold the middle of the handle on the heated lid.

 When you close the heated lid, do not place your fingers between the heated lid and the
housing.

Always make sure that the thermoblock is loaded with PCR tubes of the same type only to
ensure that the tubes are all of the same height. The tubes all need to be of the same height
to ensure that they are pressed into the thermoblock evenly.

1. Load the thermoblock with PCR tubes or a PCR plate.

1 2

2. Close the heated lid (1).

3. Move the lid handle further down and lock it (2).
The force required for locking the heated lid depends on the type of PCR tubes or the PCR
plate used.
The device is ready for operation.
 Operation
Mastercycler® X50 29
English (EN)

5.2 Operating the user interface

The touch screen is designed to be operated with your fingers only without the need for any
auxiliary equipment. Laboratory gloves made from nitrile or latex can be worn. Alternatively,
a capacitive touch pen can be used for capacitive touch screens, e.g., if thicker gloves have
to be worn in the laboratory.

If any liquid comes into contact with the touch screen, the functions that are displayed on
the touchscreen may be triggered.

 Do not drip any liquids onto the touch screen.

 Do not spill any liquids onto the touch screen.

5.2.1 Logging in and out as a user

Prerequisites
User administration has been set up

1 2

4 3

1 Edit box 3 Cancel login

2 Number pad 4 Delete the entry step by step

Logging in as a user
1. Tap the Login button.
2. Enter your user ID or user name.
3. Enter your PIN or password.
If the correct PIN or password has been entered, the user is logged in automatically.
Logging out as a user
1. Tap the Logout button.

As an alternative to the Logout button in the toolbar, the user can also log off in the Menu.
 Operation
30 Mastercycler® X50
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5.2.2 Home screen

Abb. 5-1: Home screen

1 2

5 4 3

Fig. 5-1: Home screen

1 Status bar 4 Toolbar

User name if the user has logged in using user Buttons for the navigation and operation of the
administration. device
Device name if a name has been entered.
5 Program Manager
Date and time
2 Current information about the device status
and the selected program.
3 Display of recently used programs or recent
users.

The toolbar (4) contains the buttons for navigating within the software. The toolbar is always visible.

• Home: The home screen is displayed.

• Back: The previous window is displayed.
• Menu: The menu items that are available for the device are displayed (see Menu on p. 31).
 Operation
Mastercycler® X50 31
English (EN)

5.3 Menu
5.3.1 Opening the menu
1. Tap the Menu button.
The menu items that are available for the device
are displayed.
2. Select the menu item.
 Operation
32 Mastercycler® X50
English (EN)

5.3.2 Events
Abb. 5-2: Events window

1 2 3 4

Fig. 5-2: Events window

1 List of all notifications and messages 3 Filter options

The button is highlighted in blue when messages
2 Confirm any open notifications.
are filtered.
4 Export list of messages to a USB storage
medium.

500 000 notifications and messages are saved. If there are more than 500 000 entries, the
oldest entries are overwritten.

Accessing Events
1. Tap the Menu button.
2. Tap the Events button.
 Operation
Mastercycler® X50 33
English (EN)

Filtering the event list

3. Tap the button for the filter options.
The window with the filter settings opens.
• Priority
• Time Span
• Message
• Slot
If a filter is enabled, a checkmark appears next to
the filter.
Tap the Clear all filters button to disable all filters.
4. Close the selection window.
The filtered notifications and messages are
displayed.

Accessing more information

1. Select a notification or message from the event list.
The window with detailed information appears.
2. Use the arrow keys to navigate between the notifications and messages.
Exporting the event list
1. Connect a USB stick and tap the Export button.
The event list is saved as an Excel table. If the export was successful, the Export successful window
appears.
2. Confirm the message to complete the process.
 Operation
34 Mastercycler® X50
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5.3.3 Protocols

1 000 program runs can be saved. If there are more than 1 000 programs, the oldest
programs are overwritten.

Opening logs
1. Tap the Menu button.
2. Tap the Protocols button.
The list of logged programs appears.

Filtering logs
3. Tap the button for the filter options.
The window with the filter settings opens.
• Program Name
• Run Identificaion
If a filter is enabled, a checkmark appears next to
the filter.
Tap the Clear all filters button to disable all filters.
4. Close the selection window.
The filtered logs are displayed.
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Information window
Abb. 5-3: Information window of a log

1 2 3 4

Fig. 5-3: Information window of a log

1 General information on the program 3 Details

2 Information on the program settings 4 Export button
A log with information on the program can be
saved as a PDF file.

1. Select the log.

The information window of the log is displayed.
 Operation
36 Mastercycler® X50
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5.3.4 Export

1. Tap the Menu button.

2. Tap the Export button.
A selection list for the export appears.
3. Connect a USB stick.
4. Select the data for the export.
5. Tap the Export button to export the selected data.
The data is saved. If the export was successful,
the Export successful window appears.
6. Confirm the message to complete the process.

5.3.5 Incubate

The thermoblock and the lid can be temperature controlled independently of a PCR run.

The Incubate function can be set separately for all connected devices.

Accessing the Incubate function

1. Tap the Menu button.
2. Tap the Incubate button.

Setting the Incubate function.

3. Set the temperature for the thermoblock.
4. Use the switch to enable the Incubate function for
the thermoblock.
5. Set the temperature for the lid.
6. Use the switch to enable the Incubate function for
the lid.
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Ending the Incubate function

7. To end the Incubate function for all devices, tap
the Stop All Incubations button.
8. To end the Incubate function for individual
devices, switch off the corresponding Block or Lid
switches.

5.3.6 Maintenance & Qualification

Maintenance & Qualification can be used to perform defined Recurring Tasks. If the device was disqualified
automatically due to an overdue task this information is displayed on a button below the Recurring Tasks
button. After tapping this button a window opens in which the device can be requalified and the setting
Warn & Disqualify can be changed to Warn.

The functions in the Maintenance & Qualification menu item can be opened separately for all connected eco
devices.

Accessing the Maintenance & Qualification function

1. Tap the Menu button.
2. Tap the Maintenance & Qualification button.
 Operation
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Performing a Verification

Prerequisites
Verification requires a Temperature Verification System.

Verification using the multi-channel system is described in the operating manual of the
"Temperature Verification System – T6".

Verification using the single-channel measuring device can only be performed by an administrator or a user
with standard access rights.

1. Tap the Recurring Tasks button.

2. Tap Verification.
3. Tap the Perform Task button.

4. Follow the instructions displayed by the software.

5. Export the certificate to a USB stick after taking
the measurement.

The certificate can only be exported to a USB stick immediately after taking the
measurement.
 Operation
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Performing a Self Test

All users can perform a self test.

The master variants of the Mastercycler X50 have an integrated self test function. The self test function
provides a simple way of testing the correct function of the master device and the connected eco devices
without any auxiliary equipment.

1. Tap the Self Test button and select the device.

2. Tap the Perform Task button and select the
device.

3. Follow the instructions displayed by the software.

The results are displayed at the end of the self
test.

4. Connect a USB stick and tap the Export button.

The certificate is saved as a PDF file. If the export
was successful, the Export successful window
appears.
5. Confirm the message to complete the process.

The certificate can only be exported to a USB stick immediately after taking the
measurement.
 Operation
40 Mastercycler® X50
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 User administration
Mastercycler® X50 41
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6 User administration
6.1 The user administration concept

The user administration can be used to organize access to the Mastercycler X50. There are three user roles:

• Administrator
• User with standard rights
• User with restricted rights

6.1.1 Administrator

The administrator has additional rights:

• Configuring Mastercycler X50

• Access to user administration

6.1.2 User with standard rights

A normal user can operate the Mastercycler X50 without restrictions and create new programs and folders.

6.1.3 User with restricted rights

A user with restricted rights can operate the Mastercycler X50 with certain restrictions, i.e. select, start and
stop existing programs.

6.1.4 User rights without user administration

Without user administration all users have the same rights an administrator has.
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6.1.5 User rights

Tasks User with restricted User with standard Administrator/

rights rights operator (rights without
user administration)
Export logs × × ×
Login/Logout × × ×
Changing your own × × ×
password
View administrator × × ×
settings (does not apply
for user administration)
View device × × ×
information
View logs × × ×
Start self test × × ×
View programs × × ×
View program folder × (shared) × ×
Select program for PCR × × ×
run
Enter run ID × × ×
Start PCR run × (released programs × ×
only)
Interrupt PCR run × × ×
Stop PCR run × × ×
Select incubation × × ×
temperature
Start incubation × × ×
Stop incubation × × ×
View user settings × × ×
View Program × × ×
information
Identify last error × × ×
Set service intervals × × ×
Use Sketch mode × ×
Import and export × (export only) × ×
programs
Edit programs × ×
Assign programs to a × ×
folder
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Tasks User with restricted User with standard Administrator/

rights rights operator (rights without
user administration)
Create, edit and delete × ×
a folder
Cut, copy and paste the × ×
contents of a folder
Delete the contents of a × ×
folder
Maintain programs × ×
(protected program
access)
Select program × ×
templates
Release a program × ×
Define access rights for ×
folders
Share folders × ×
Verify a device × ×
Set the Auto Restart ×
function
Set the acoustic alarm ×
Assign eco devices to ×
the system
Configure network ×
settings
Create a user account × (administrator)
Updating the software × × ×
Qualification status ×
accounts
Change a user name ×
Change user rights ×
Reset a user password ×
Deleting a user account ×
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6.2 Defining settings in the user administration

6.2.1 Creating an administrator

1. Tap the Menu button and navigate to the Settings

> User Management menu item.
2. To activate the user administration, slide the User
Management switch to the I position.
The Login mode window appears.

3. Define the login mode for all users.

4. Continue the process with Continue.
The Administrator credentials window appears.

5. Enter the user name for the first administrator in

the Enter User Name field.
6. Continue the process with Continue.
The Administrator credentials window appears.

7. Enter PIN or password in the Enter PIN/Password

field. Confirm the entry in the Repeat PIN/
Password field.
8. Continue the process with Continue.
The User Management succesfully enabled
window appears.
The user administration is activated.
The user account for the first administrator is
created.

9. Confirm the message.

The User Management window appears.
It is now possible to edit the user administration.
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6.2.2 Editing the user administration

Prerequisites
• The administrator is logged in.

1. Tap the Menu button and navigate to the Settings

> User Management menu item.

2. Define the settings for the user administration.

• User Management: Switch the user administration on and off.

• Automatic Logout: Define the time after which a user is automatically logged out if the touch screen is
not used.
• Login Mode: Define the login mode for all users.
• Grant all users extra privileges: Restricted rights (Restricted User) or standard rights (User) are active for
all users.

When the Grant all users extra privileges option is activated, a login is not necessary. Also,
users who are not recorded in the user administration can operate the device with these
rights (Restricted User / User).
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6.2.3 Deactivating the user administration

NOTICE! Data loss in case of deactivation of the user administration

Deactivating the user administration deletes all user accounts.

 Check whether deactivation of the user administration is required.

 Inform all users that the user accounts have been deleted.

Prerequisites
• The administrator is logged in.

1. Tap the Menu button and navigate to the Settings

> User Management menu item.
2. To deactivate the user administration, slide the
User Management switch to the 0 position.
The Disabling User Management window appears.

3. Continue the process with Continue.

The Confirm deleting all user accounts window
appears.

4. Enter the PIN/password.

5. Complete the process with Continue.
The user administration is deactivated. All user
accounts are deleted.
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6.3 Editing user accounts as administrator

NOTICE! Risk of data loss due to loss of the administrator password.

The administrator can only change their password or PIN with their access data. If the
administrator's access data is lost, it will not be possible to make changes to the user
administration or to the system settings.
In this case, the device will have to be reset to the factory settings by an authorized service
technician. All user accounts and any data and settings stored on the device will be deleted.

 Create a second user account with administrator rights.

 Keep the administrator password secure.

6.3.1 Creating a user account

999 user accounts can be created.

Prerequisites
• The administrator is logged in.

1. Tap the Menu button and navigate to the User

menu item.
The list with the user accounts is displayed.
2. Tap the Add User button.
The Enter user name for the new user field
appears.

3. Enter the user name.

4. Confirm the entry.
The User credentials window appears.
The user account has been created. The user data
appears in the window.
The user has been assigned to the Restricted User
user group.
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6.3.2 Editing user accounts

Users with restricted rights or standard rights can only edit their own entries for Full Name
and E-mail. Users can always change their own password or the PIN.
Administrators can assign a new user ID to a user account and change the user rights.

Prerequisites
• The administrator is logged in.

1. Tap the Menu button and navigate to the User

menu item.
The list with the user accounts is displayed.
Editable entries are indicated by a black pen
symbol.
2. Select the user account.
3. Option: Enter the full name.
4. Option: Enter the e-mail address.
5. Tap User-ID to change the user ID.
6. Select a new user ID.

7. Tap Role to change the user group and the

associated rights.
The list with the available user groups is
displayed.
8. Assign a user group to the user.
• Restricted User
• User
• Administrator
The selected parameters are stored and will
appear in the user account.

6.3.3 Deleting a user account

Prerequisites
• The administrator is logged in.

1. Tap the Menu button and navigate to the User

menu item.
The list with the user accounts is displayed.
2. Select the user account that is to be deleted.
3. Tap the Recycle bin symbol.
The Confirm the deletion of: window appears.
 User administration
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4. Confirm that you want to delete the user account.

The user account is deleted.

6.3.4 Resetting the password/PIN for a user account

If a user has forgotten his password/PIN, the administrator can generate a new password/PIN.

The administrator can only change his password or PIN with his current access data. If the
administrator's access data is lost, it will no longer be possible to make any changes in the
user administration.
In this case, the device will have to be reset to the factory settings by an authorized service
technician. This means that all user accounts and programs, log files and logs which are
stored on the device will be deleted.

 Create a second user account with administrator rights.

Prerequisites
• The administrator is logged in.

1. Tap the Menu button and navigate to the User

menu item.
The list with the user accounts is displayed.
2. Select the user account.
3. Tap the Reset Password/PIN button.
The Do you want to reset the Password/PIN for:
window appears.
4. Tap Reset to confirm the action.
The New Credentials window appears.
The new password/PIN is created automatically.
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6.4 Administrating your own user account

Users can only edit their own Full Name and E-mail entries. Users can always change their own PIN or
password.

Prerequisites
• The user is logged in.

1. Tap the Menu button and navigate to the User

menu item.
The list with the user accounts appears. Entries
indicated by a black pen can be edited.
2. Select the user account.
3. Optional: Enter the full name.
4. Optional: Enter the e-mail address.
5. To change the password/PIN, tap the Change
Password/PIN button.
6. Enter the current password/PIN in the Enter
current Password/PIN field.
7. Enter the new password/PIN in the Enter new
Password/PIN and Repeat new Password/PIN
fields.
8. Confirm your entry.
The message Password/PIN successfully changed
appears.
The new password or the new PIN is active.
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7 Programming
7.1 Overview of the Program Manager
7.1.1 Accessing the Program Manager

 Tap the Program Manager on the home screen.

The window with the Program Manager is
displayed.

The Program Manager can also be accessed from the Menu using the Programs button.

The available folders and programs are displayed in accordance with user rights.

• New button: Create new folders or new programs.

• Import button: Import folder and programs from a USB stick.
Programs from Mastercycler nexus or Mastercycler pro can be imported here. Controlled ramps and
simulated devices will not be transferred.
• My folder folder: Folders for your own subfolders and programs
• Shared with me folder: In this folder all subfolders and programs are displayed that other users have
released for the user who is currently logged in.
• Other users folder: Other users can access subfolders and programs if they have the corresponding user
rights.
• Lost and Found folder (not shown): This folder is only visible to the Administrator, it contains deleted
programs and folders of all users.
 Programming
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7.2 Creating a new folder

You can create up to 500 folders.

1. Tap the New button.

2. Select New folder.

3. Enter a name for the folder.

4. Confirm your entry.
The new folder is displayed under My folders.
 Programming
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7.3 Administration of folders

1. Tap the ... button to the right of the folder name.
The folder editing options are displayed.

• Sharing button (administrator and users with standard rights): Share a folder with other users.
• Copy button: Copy folder
• Move button (administrator only): Move folder from Lost and Found to My folders.
• Rename button: Rename folder
• Info button: Information about folder
• Export button: Copy folder to a USB stick
• Delete button: Delete a folder

7.4 Creating a new program

You can create and save up to 5 000 programs.

1. Tap the New button.

 Programming
54 Mastercycler® X50
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2. Select New program.

3. Enter a name for the program.

4. Select the template.
5. Confirm your entry.

6. Select and confirm the folder for the new

program.

7. Confirm the displayed message.

The new program is displayed in the selected
folder.
 Programming
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7.5 Administration of programs

1. Tap the ... button to the right of the program
name.
The program administration options are
displayed.

• Protect button: Protect program (Read only or Write and read)

• Copy button: Duplicate a program
• Move button: Move program to another folder
• Rename button: Rename program
• Info button: Information about program
• Export button: Copy program to a USB stick
• Delete button: Delete program
 Programming
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7.6 General program settings

7.6.1 Header

The header contains general settings for a program which can be edited using the Edit Settings button.

The following information is displayed:

• Name of the program
• Runtime
Under Runtime either the estimated or the desired run time is indicated.
– The estimated run time is calculated from the PCR program and the settings for the block
temperature control mode, the block type and the heating and cooling rates.
– The desired run time is based on the activated function Desired runtime and the value for the run
time that was entered manually.
• Lid Temperature
Under Lid Temperature the set lid temperature is indicated.
• Temperature Mode
Under Temperature Mode the selected block temperature control mode is indicated.
• Block Settings
Under Block Settings the selected block type is indicated.
• Status
Under Status the selected program status is indicated.
 Programming
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7.6.2 Editing the general program settings

Prerequisites
Program has been selected.

1. Tap the Edit Settings button.

2. Adjust the settings or add a comment.

• Lid Temp: Set the lid temperature
• Temp Mode: Select the block temperature control
mode
• Block Settings: Set the block type, limit the
heating and cooling rates and set the run time
• Release State: Select the program status
• Comment: Add a comment for the program

3. Confirm the settings.

 Programming
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7.6.3 Setting the lid temperature

1. Use the Lid temperature switch to enable or disable the heated lid temperature.

Prerequisites
Lid temperature has been enabled.

2. Tap the value, enter the new value using the number pad and confirm the entry.
3. Use the Energy-saving mode switch to enable or disable the power saving mode.

7.6.4 Selecting the block temperature control mode

1. Tap the Fast, Intermediate, Standard, or Safe button.

 Programming
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7.6.5 Performing block settings

Selecting the block type

1. Tap the Any, Silver 96, Aluminum 96, or Aluminum 384 button to select a block type.
Limiting the heating rate

2. Use the Heating rate limit switch to enable or disable the heating rate.
If the Heating rate limit function is disabled, the device automatically uses the maximum
value.

Prerequisites
Heating rate has been enabled.

3. Tap the value, enter the new value using the number pad and confirm the entry.
 Programming
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Limiting the cooling rate

4. Use the Cooling rate limit switch to enable or disable the cooling rate.
If the Cooling rate limit function is disabled, the device automatically uses the maximum
value.

Prerequisites
The cooling rate has been enabled.

5. Tap the value, enter the new value using the number pad and confirm the entry.
Setting the desired run time

6. Use the Desired runtime switch to enable or disable the run time.

If Desired runtime is enabled, no ramps can be defined.

Prerequisites
Run time has been enabled.

When it is enabled, the run time specified by the set block type is displayed automatically.

7. Tap the value to change the run time manually. Enter the desired value using the number pad and
confirm the entry.
The device calculates the matching ramps for the run time that was entered.
 Programming
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7.6.6 Selecting the program status

1. Tap the Not Released or Released button.

Programs with the status "released" cannot be changed and can also be used by users with
restricted user rights.

 Release programs after detailed examination only.

7.6.7 Entering a comment

1. Add a comment for the program.

The text is displayed in the log file of the PCR run.
 Programming
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7.7 Editing programs

7.7.1 Selecting the program step

1. Select a program.

2. Select the column with the program step that is to

be edited.
The available editing options are displayed next
to the program steps.
• Gradient: Setting gradients
• Inc./Dec.: Incremental change of the temperature
and/or holding time until the next cycle
• Ramp: Set the temperature control speed of the
thermoblock incrementally
• Add step left: Add another programming step to
the left of the selected programming step
• Add step right: Add another programming step to
the right of the selected programming step
• Delete: Delete a program step
 Programming
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7.7.2 Inserting a program step

1. Tap the Add step left or Add step right button.

You can select the following program steps depending on the previous or subsequent program step:
• Temperature: Individual temperature step with adjustable block temperature and holding time.
• 3-Steps Cycle: Cycle program step with 3 temperature steps and an adjustable number of repetitions
(1 to 99).
• 2-Steps Cycle: Cycle program step with 2 temperature steps and an adjustable number of repetitions
(1 to 99).
• n-Steps Cycle: Cycle program step with up to 40 temperature steps and an adjustable number of
repetitions (1 to 99).
• Hold: Temperature step with adjustable block temperature and indefinite holding time. The set
temperature is maintained until the program is resumed manually.
• Sketch mode: Free programming on the touch screen

2. Select a new program step.

The new program step is added to the left or right of the program step that was highlighted earlier.
3. Set the block temperature, holding time and number of repetitions.
4. Tap the Save button.
The changed program is saved.
 Programming
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7.7.3 Sketch mode

1. Select the column with the program step that is to

be edited.
2. Tap the Add step left or Add step right button.

3. Tap the Sketch mode button.

The start window appears briefly with an
explanation of the four functions.
• Vertical line: This adds a program step. A
maximum of 6 program steps are possible.
• Horizontal line: This sets the temperature for the
program step. A curve across several program
steps creates a temperature profile.
• A circle around several program steps: This
creates a cycle (30 x) for these program steps.
• X: Deletes the program step.

4. Wait for the start window to close.

5. Create the program steps, temperatures and

cycles.
6. Confirm the program steps.
The Sketch mode window is closed.
7. Tap the Save button.
The changed program is saved.
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7.7.4 Setting gradients

A gradient step can be used to optimize the specificity and yield in PCR reactions. A vertically or
horizontally increasing temperature gradient is generated during the holding time. The ramp rates before
and after the gradient step are constant across the entire thermoblock.

The gradient function is only available if the Block Settings were selected correctly (see
p. 56). If Any is set, no gradient temperatures are displayed.
The gradient temperature can be set between 30 °C and 99 °C. If a gradient temperature
below 30 °C was defined, an alarm message is displayed when the program starts. The
gradient spread is 30 °C max.
1. Select the column with the program step that is to
be edited.

2. Tap the Gradient button and enable the function.

3. Select a horizontal or vertical gradient function.
4. Define the low temperature Low Temp and high
temperature High Temp.
5. Tap the Save button.
The changed program is saved.
6. Close the window.
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7.7.5 Defining increments and decrements

1. Select the column with the program step that is to

be edited.

2. Enter the increment or decrement for the cycle

time.
Time: The duration of the next cycle will be
increased or reduced by the set value.
Adjustable from 00:01 to 01:00 in 1 s increments.

3. Enter the increment or decrement for the block

temperature.
Temperature: The block temperature will be
increased or reduced by the set value for the next
cycle.
Adjustable within the block limits of 4 °C and
99.0 °C, in increments of 0.1 °C.
4. Close the window.
5. Tap the Save button.
The changed program is saved.
 Programming
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7.7.6 Defining the ramp

The ramp can be used to set the temperature control speed of the thermoblock in increments.

1. Select the column with the program step that is to

be edited.
2. Tap the Ramp button and enable the function.
3. Enter the value for the ramp rate (cooling).
The maximum ramp rate depends on the cooling
rate (see Application parameters on p. 96).
4. Close the window.
5. Tap the Save button.
The changed program is saved.

7.7.7 Deleting a program step

1. Select the column with the program step that is to be deleted.

2. Tap the Delete button.
The program step is deleted.
 Programming
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 PCR run
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8 PCR run
8.1 Loading the thermoblock
8.1.1 Selecting the sample tubes

WARNING! Biohazard due to unsuitable reaction vessels, plates and lids.

Unsuitable reaction vessels, plates and lids will get damaged in the Cycler. This will release
sample material.

 Only use reaction vessels, plates and lids that meet the requirements specified in the
operating manual.

Approved sample tubes for devices with a thermoblock with 96 wells

The thermoblock can be loaded with the following sample tubes:

• 0.1 mL PCR strips

• 0.2 mL PCR tubes and PCR strips
• 96-well PCR plates

Approved sample tubes for devices with a thermoblock with 384 wells

The thermoblock can be loaded with the following sample tubes:

• 384-well PCR plates

Compatible types of PCR plates

The following types of PCR plates are compatible.

Semi-skirted PCR plate Skirted PCR plate Non-skirted/unskirted PCR plate

PCR plate with a semi skirt. PCR plate with full skirt. PCR plate without a skirt.

Requirements for sample tubes

The sample tubes must meet the following requirements:

• Temperature resistance of 110 °C min.

• Accurate fit in the thermoblock
 PCR run
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Maximum volumes

The sample volumes may vary depending on which type of sample tube is used.

For devices with a thermoblock with 96 wells

• PCR plates: Max. 100 μL
• 0.1 mL PCR strips: Max. 100 μL
• 0.2 mL PCR tubes and PCR strips: Max. 100 μL

For devices with a thermoblock with 384 wells

• PCR plates: Max. 25 μL

8.1.2 Inserting the sample tubes

WARNING! Biohazard due to sample material directly in the thermoblock.

 Do not fill sample material directly into the thermoblock.

 Only use reaction vessels, plates and lids that meet the requirements specified in the
operating manual.

WARNING! Biohazard when tempering with the heated lid open.

When tempering with an open heated lid, the lids of the reaction vessels can spring open.
This will release sample material.

 Only temper with a closed heated lid.

Observe the following notes:

 Never run programs with an empty thermoblock. Always load the thermoblock with PCR plates or PCR
tubes for a program run.
 Place the tubes in the center of the thermoblock and ensure that they are positioned symmetrically
towards the center.
 Load the thermoblock with a minimum of 5 tubes. If you have fewer reaction batches, add some empty
tubes to ensure that the thermoblock is loaded with a minimum of 5 tubes.
Very soft PCR tubes may become deformed at high temperatures. To prevent deformation:
• Increase the number of empty sample tubes in the thermoblock.
• Reduce the temperature of the heated lid.
• Use original Eppendorf PCR consumables. Eppendorf PCR consumables are a perfect
match for the device.
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8.2 Selecting a program

8.2.1 Selecting a program in the Program Manager

 Tap the Program Manager on the home screen.

The window with the Program Manager is
displayed.

The available folders with programs are displayed depending on the user rights.

 Open the My folders folder.

Your own folders are displayed.

 Open one of your own folders.

Your own available programs are displayed.
 Select a program.
The program window is displayed.
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8.2.2 Selecting the most recently used program

 Select a program under Recently used on the

home screen.
The program window is displayed.

8.3 Starting a program

The Start Program button is inactive on the home screen. The button is only active in the
program window if a program has been selected.
A wrong program can result in sample loss. Before a program is started:

 Check the program selection.

Prerequisites
• The thermoblock is loaded
• Heated lid is closed

1. Select the program using the Program Manager

or from the most recently used programs on the
home screen.
The program window is displayed and the Start
Program button is now active.

2. Tap the Start Program button.

 PCR run
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3. Accept or change the Run identification edit box.

4. Select the Cycler (only if eco devices are

connected).
5. Confirm the program selection.
The program starts.

8.4 Pausing and resuming a program

1. On the home screen, tap the window with the
information about the current program.
The program window is displayed.

2. Tap the Pause button.

The program is paused.
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3. Tap the Resume button.

The program is resumed.

8.5 Display the remaining run time for the program

 Tap the display with the remaining run time.

A window with the remaining run time opens.
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8.6 Aborting the program

1. On the home screen, tap the window with the
information about the current program.
The program window is displayed.

2. Tap the Stop button.

3. Tap the Abort Program button.

The program is shut down.
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 Settings
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9 Settings
9.1 Accessing settings
1. Tap the Menu button.
2. Tap the Settings button.
The following menu items are displayed:
• About this Mastercycler (see About this
Mastercycler on p. 77)
• System Settings (see System Settings on p. 77)
• Device Settings (see Device Settings on p. 81)
• User Management (see Editing the user
administration on p. 45)
• Maintenance & Qualification (see Setting service
and maintenance intervals on p. 83)

9.2 About this Mastercycler

 Tap the About this Mastercycler button.
The following information can be accessed:
• Name: The device name can be entered by the
administrator.
If no name is entered, the device will be referred
to as Unknown Device in the export files.
• Registration Number: The registration number
can be entered by the administrator.
• Location: Location information can be entered by
the administrator.
• Article number
• Serial number
• Software Version
• Hardware Configuration
• Associated Devices
• License Information

9.3 System Settings

9.3.1 Accessing System Settings

 Tap the System Settings button.

The following settings can be made.
• Assignment: Assign eco devices.
• Auto Restart
• Protocol Level
• Date & Time: Set the date, time and time zone.
• Network: Set the parameters for network
operation.
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9.3.2 Assignment

1. Tap the Assignment button.

2. Select a free slot.
All the eco devices that are connected or available
on the Intranet are displayed in a selection list.
3. Assign the eco device to the slot.
4. Enter and confirm the Registration ID of the eco
device.
The eco device can be operated via the Master
device.

The Registration ID is shown on the display of the eco device.

9.3.3 Auto Restart

If the Auto Restart function is enabled, the program that is currently running is resumed automatically after
a mains/power outage.

The Restart Time parameter defines how long a mains/power outage can last. The current program is not
resumed if the mains/power supply to the device is restored after this time has elapsed.

1. Tap the Auto Restart button.

2. Use the Auto Restart switch to enable the
function.
3. Tap the Restart Time button.
4. Enter the value for the Restart Time parameter.
Permitted values: 1 s – 45 h
 Settings
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9.3.4 Protocol Level

The function Export detailed program run protocol defines how logs are exported. If the function is enabled,
more detailed logs are exported.

1. Tap the Protocol Level button.

2. Use the switch to enable or disable the function
Export detailed program run protocol.

9.3.5 Date & Time

Do not set the date and time while the program is running.

If the date, time or time zone are changed, logs may be sorted incorrectly.

Setting the date and time automatically

Prerequisites
• The device is connected to the network. A time server is available.

1. Tap the Date & Time button.

2. Use the Automatic date & time switch to enable
the function.
3. Tap the Select timezone button.
4. Select the continent and the time zone.
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Setting the date and time manually

1. Tap the Date & Time button.
2. Use the Automatic date & time switch to disable
the function.
Set date and Set time can be selected.
3. Tap the Set date button and enter the date.
4. Tap the Set time button and enter the time.
5. Tap the Select timezone button.
6. Select the continent and the time zone.

9.3.6 Network

The master device can be connected directly to the Internet and an internal network. An
Internet connection is not required for operation. If the master device is connected to the
Internet, the owner is responsible for data security.

 A connection to the internal network or the Internet may only be established by a

network administrator.
 Check the settings for the internal network or the Internet before establishing a
connection.
1. Tap the Network button.
The following settings can be made.
• IP Adresses: Current IP address of the device.
• MAC Adresses: Number which uniquely identifies
the device in the network.
• Enable OPC/REST access: The device allows
communication with an external software via OPC
or REST.
• Enable DHCP: The device uses an IP address
which was assigned to it by an existing DHCP
server.
• Manual Setup: Enables a window. This window
can be used to enter the network settings
manually if no DHCP server is available. Manual
Setup can only be selected if automatic IP
address assignment (Enable DHCP) is disabled.
 Settings
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Manual Setup
2. Use the switch to disable the Enable DHCP
function.
Manual Setup can be selected.
3. Tap the Manual Setup button.
4. Complete the entries in the input window and
confirm.

9.4 Device Settings

9.4.1 Accessing Device Settings

 Tap the Device Settings button.

The following settings can be made.
• Acoustic Signals: Setting the volume and the
acoustic alarm.
• Display Settings: Setting the brightness and power
saving mode.

9.4.2 Acoustic Signals

1. Tap the Acoustic Signals button.

2. Enable or disable the acoustic alarm.
3. Enable or disable Acoustic notification on hold
step.
 Settings
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9.4.3 Display Settings

1. Tap the Display Settings button.

Setting the brightness
2. Tap the Display brightness button.
The slider control bar for the brightness setting is displayed.
3. Set the brightness.
Enabling the power saving mode
4. Use the Engergy save mode switch to enable or disable the power saving mode.
Setting the Display timeout

Prerequisites
Power saving mode has been enabled.

5. Tap the Display timeout button.

A window with specified times is displayed.
6. Select the time after which the brightness of the display is dimmed.
The brightness of the display is dimmed if there is no input during the selected interval.
 Settings
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9.5 Setting service and maintenance intervals

9.5.1 Accessing Maintenance & Qualification

Information on the service procedure:

• Self Test (see p. 39)
• Verification (see p. 38)
 Tap the Maintenance & Qualification button.
The following settings can be made.
• Recurring Tasks: Editing recurring tasks
• Enable or disable Automatically disqualify devices
when software changes
• Enable or disable Automatically disqualify devices
when hardware changes

9.5.2 Editing recurring tasks

The Self Test and Verification tasks can be edited.

The setting Warn & Disqualify under Task Policy has special consequences. If Warn & Disqualify is selected
the device disqualifies itself automatically as soon as the task exceeds the value that was defined for when
it becomes due. If this occurs the device changes to Disqualified. If the device is to be requalified, the
settings must be changed in Task Policy.

Self Test
1. Tap Self Test.
2. Tap the Edit button.
3. Select the option for Task Policy and tap Continue
to confirm.
If Warn & Disqualify was selected, read the
message and agree with the content by tapping
the Confirm button or close the message and
select a different option.
4. Select the option for Task Trigger and tap
Continue to confirm.
5. Enter values for the selected option and adopt the
settings by tapping Finish.
6. Tap Verification.
7. Tap the Edit button.
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Verification
8. Tap Verification.
9. Tap the Edit button.
10. Select the option for Task Policy and tap Continue
to confirm.
If Warn & Disqualify was selected, read the
message and agree with the content by tapping
the Confirm button or close the message and
select a different option.
11. Select the option for Task Trigger and tap
Continue to confirm.
12. Enter values for the selected option and adopt the
settings by tapping Finish.
 Maintenance
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10 Maintenance
10.1 Performing a software update

The software update is performed on the master device. The software update on all eco devices is
performed afterwards.

Checking the software version on the device

1. Check which software version is installed on the device. Tap the menu path Menu > Settings > About this
Mastercycler .
The software version is displayed under Software Version.
Requesting a software update
2. Request the data for the software update from your local Eppendorf partner. The address can be found
on the Internet at www.eppendorf.com.
3. Save the update.zip file with the software update on a USB stick.
4. Unzip the update.zip file.
The device has only access to the data at the top level of the USB stick.
• Do not save the data in a folder.

Performing a software update

Prerequisites
• The Master device is switched off.
• All eco devices on which the software is to be updated are connected and have been switched on. All
eco devices must be in the idle state. There must not be any programs running.

If the function Menu > Settings > Maintenance & Qualification > Automatically disqualify
devices when software changes is enabled the device needs to be requalified after the
software update.
5. Connect the USB stick with the software update to the device.
6. Switch on the master device.
The Mastercycler is started from the USB stick.
7. Follow the instructions on the device until the software update is complete.
Do not abort the software update. If the update is stopped, this will result in loss of data and
the device will have to be reset to the factory settings. If this happens contact the authorized
service.

All the eco devices that are connected are updated automatically if a software update is
available for the eco devices.
 Maintenance
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10.2 Cleaning

NOTICE! Damage from the use of aggressive chemicals.

 Do not use any aggressive chemicals on the device or its accessories, such as strong and
weak bases, strong acids, acetone, formaldehyde, halogenated hydrocarbons or phenol.
 If the device has been contaminated by aggressive chemicals, clean it immediately using
a mild cleaning agent.

10.2.1 Cleaning the touch screen

1. Tap the Menu > Clean Screen button.

The touch screen is locked and can be cleaned.

Unlocking the locked touch screen

2. Tap the corners in the numbered sequence.
The touch screen is unlocked and the previous
screen is displayed.
 Maintenance
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10.2.2 Cleaning the housing

DANGER! Electric shock due to the ingress of liquid.

 Switch off the device and disconnect it from the mains/power line before commencing
any cleaning or disinfection procedures.
 Do not allow any liquids to penetrate the inside of the housing.
 Do not spray clean or spray disinfect the housing.
 Only reconnect the device to the mains/power line when it is completely dry, both inside
and outside.

DANGER! Electric shock.

 Switch off the device and disconnect the mains/power plug before commencing any
service or cleaning procedures.

 Use a damp, lint-free cloth to clean the surface of the Mastercycler X50.
 Use a neutral laboratory cleaner, if required.

Instructions for disinfection and decontamination of the device are described separately.
 Maintenance
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10.2.3 Cleaning the heated lid and thermoblock

CAUTION! Risk of burns on the thermoblock, heated lid and reaction vessels.
The thermoblock, heated lid and reaction vessels reach temperatures of over 50 °C very
quickly.

 Wait until the temperature of the thermoblock, heated lid and reaction vessels is below
30 °C.
 Then open the heated lid.

DANGER! Electric shock due to the ingress of liquid.

 Switch off the device and disconnect it from the mains/power line before commencing
any cleaning or disinfection procedures.
 Do not allow any liquids to penetrate the inside of the housing.
 Do not spray clean or spray disinfect the housing.
 Only reconnect the device to the mains/power line when it is completely dry, both inside
and outside.

DANGER! Electric shock.

 Switch off the device and disconnect the mains/power plug before commencing any
service or cleaning procedures.

1. Open the heated lid.

2. Remove any contamination on the block and on the bottom of the heated lid. Use a damp, lint-free cloth
for this purpose. Use a neutral laboratory cleaner, if required.
3. Check whether there is any labeling residue from tube lids on the heated lid. Use ethanol or isopropanol
to remove any residue.
Keep the bores of the block free from dust and lint.
Even small deposits will affect the heat transfer between the thermoblock and the vessels.
 Maintenance
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10.3 Disinfection/decontamination
NOTICE! Damage from UV and other high-energy radiation.

 Do not use UV, beta or gamma rays or any other high-energy forms of radiation for
disinfection.
 Avoid storage in areas with high UV radiation levels.

Required equipment
• Alcohol (70%) (ethanol, isopropanol) or disinfectants containing alcohol

Proceed as follows:

1. Choose the disinfection method which corresponds to the legal regulations and guidelines in place for
your range of application.
2. Switch off the device and disconnect it from the mains/power line.
3. Allow the device to cool down.
4. Wipe all parts of the device and accessories using the disinfectant.

10.4 Decontamination before shipment

If you are shipping the device to the authorized Technical Service for repairs or to your authorized dealer
for disposal please note the following:

WARNING! Risk to health from contaminated device.

1. Observe the information in the decontamination certificate. It is available as a PDF
document on our webpage (https://www.eppendorf.com/decontamination).
2. Decontaminate all parts to be shipped.
3. Include the fully completed decontamination certificate in the package.
 Maintenance
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 Troubleshooting
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11 Troubleshooting
11.1 General errors

Technical faults may be triggered by faults such as a power failure or power fluctuations.

In most cases, the following procedure is therefore sufficient:

1. Switch the device briefly off and back on again after about 10 seconds.
2. Check cable connections.
3. If the fault occurs again: Notify your Eppendorf service team.

11.1.1 Contacts & Support

This area is used to enter contact information and access device information for the communication with
the authorized service to support the troubleshooting process.

11.1.1.1 Adding a contact

1. Navigate to Contacts & Support via Menu.

2. Tap the Contacts button.
3. Tap the Add Contact button.
4. Enter the name and confirm the entry.
5. Enter more contact information and confirm each entry.
If you would like to add your local Eppendorf partner as a contact you can find this
information at www.eppendorf.com.

11.1.1.2 Accessing device information

1. Navigate to Contacts & Support via Menu.

2. Tap the Diagnostics button.
3. Tap the Service Information button.
4. Forward the device information to the authorized service technician.
 Troubleshooting
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 Transport, storage and disposal
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12 Transport, storage and disposal

12.1 Packing
CAUTION! Risk of injury due to lifting and carrying heavy loads
The device is heavy. Lifting and carrying the device can lead to back injuries.

 Only transport and lift the device with an adequate number of helpers.
 Use a transport aid to transport the device.

NOTICE! Risk of damage due to incorrect packing.

Eppendorf SE is not liable for any damage caused by improper packing.

 Only store and transport the device in its original packing.

WARNING! Risk to health due to contaminated device and accessories.

 Decontaminate the device and accessories prior to storage or shipping.

Use the supplied packing material when packing the device for transport or storage. If you do not have this
anymore or if it is damaged, contact your Eppendorf office.

Prepare the device as follows prior to packing:

1. Pay attention to the decontamination notes (see Decontamination before shipment on p. 89).
2. Let the device stand for 30 minutes and make sure there is no condensate in the thermoblock.
3. Load the thermoblock with an empty PCR plate.
4. Close the heated lid.

12.2 Transport

 Use the original packaging and the transport securing devices for transport.

Air temperature Relative humidity Atmospheric pressure

General transport -25 °C – 60 °C 10 % – 95 % 30 kPa – 106 kPa
Air freight -40 °C – 55 °C 10 % – 95 % 30 kPa – 106 kPa
 Transport, storage and disposal
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12.3 Disposal

Observe the relevant legal regulations when disposing of the product.

Information on the disposal of electrical and electronic devices in the European Community:

Within the European Community, the disposal of electrical devices is regulated by national regulations
based on EU Directive 2012/19/EU pertaining to waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE).

According to these regulations, any devices supplied after August 13, 2005, in the business-to-business
sphere, to which this product is assigned, may no longer be disposed of in municipal or domestic waste.
They are marked with the following symbol to indicate this:

As the disposal regulations may differ from one country to another within the EU, please contact your
supplier for more information.
 Technical data
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13 Technical data
13.1 Power supply

Voltage 100 V – 240 V, ±10 %

Frequency 50 Hz – 60 Hz
Power consumption max. 850 W
(devices with aluminum
thermoblock)
Power consumption max. 850 W
(devices with silver
thermoblock)
EMC: noise emission IEC/DIN EN 55011 Class B - residential area
(radio interference)
EMC: noise immunity IEC/EN 61326-1
Overvoltage category II (IEC 61010-1)
Degree of pollution 2
Protection class I

13.2 Weight/dimensions

Dimensions Width: 27.5 cm

Depth: 43 cm
Height: 33 cm
Height with heated lid open: 43.9 cm
Weight 11.5 kg
(Master variant)
Weight 10.7 kg
(eco variant)

13.3 Ambient conditions

General operation 15 °C – 35 °C
up to 75 % relative humidity
up to 2 000 m NN (approx. 80 kPa)
Storage –20 °C – 70°C
up to 95 % relative humidity
 Technical data
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13.4 Application parameters

Mastercycler X50a, Mastercycler X50l
Thermoblock Aluminum 96 wells
Sample capacity • 96 × 0.1 mL PCR tubes
• 96 × 0.2 mL PCR tubes
• one 96-well PCR plate (unskirted, semi-skirted, skirted and
low-profile)
Thermoblock temperature control range 4 °C – 99 °C
Ramp rate (heating) max. 5°C/s
(measured on the thermoblock)
Ramp rate (cooling) max. 2.3 °C/s
(measured on the thermoblock)
Thermoblock temperature homogeneity
(with the gradient function switched off)
at 20 – 72 °C ±0.2 °C
at 72 – 95 °C ±0.3 °C
Control accuracy ±0.15 °C
(with the gradient function switched off)
Gradient spread (horizontal and vertical) max. 30°C
Gradient temperature control range 30 °C – 99 °C
(horizontal and vertical)
Heated lid temperature control range 37 °C – 110 °C
 Technical data
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Mastercycler X50h, Mastercycler X50t

Thermoblock Aluminum 384 wells
Sample capacity • one 384-well PCR plate
Thermoblock temperature control range 4 °C – 99 °C
Ramp rate (heating) max. 5°C/s
(measured on the thermoblock)
Ramp rate (cooling) max. 2.3 °C/s
(measured on the thermoblock)
Thermoblock temperature homogeneity
(with the gradient function switched off)
at 20 – 72 °C ±0.2 °C
at 72 – 95 °C ±0.3 °C
Control accuracy ±0.15 °C
(with the gradient function switched off)
Gradient spread (horizontal and vertical) max. 30°C
Gradient temperature control range 30 °C – 99 °C
(horizontal and vertical)
Heated lid temperature control range 37 °C – 110 °C

Mastercycler X50s, Mastercycler X50i

Thermoblock Silver 96 wells
Sample capacity • 96 × 0.1 mL PCR tubes
• 96 × 0.2 mL PCR tubes
• one 96-well PCR plate (unskirted, semi-skirted, skirted and
low-profile)
Thermoblock temperature control range 4 °C – 99 °C
Ramp rate (heating) max. 10°C/s
(measured on the thermoblock)
Ramp rate (cooling) max. 5°C/s
(measured on the thermoblock)
Thermoblock temperature homogeneity
(with the gradient function switched off)
at 20 – 72 °C ±0.2 °C
at 72 – 95 °C ±0.3 °C
Control accuracy ±0.15 °C
(with the gradient function switched off)
Gradient spread (horizontal and vertical) max. 30°C
Gradient temperature control range 30 °C – 99 °C
(horizontal and vertical)
Heated lid temperature control range 37 °C – 110 °C
 Technical data
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