Bio-Rad iQ™5 Optical System Software, Version 2.1 - Manual (Page 10)

Section 1 Getting Started
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Section 1. Getting Started
This section contains information on the following topics:
o
The MyiQ2 Real-Time Detection System (page 1)
o
Setting up the system hardware (page 1)
o
Installing the iQ5 software (page 4)
o
Recommended computer settings (page 4)
o
Compatibility with earlier versions of the software (page 6)
1.1 The MyiQ™2 Real-Time PCR Detection System
The MyiQ2 Real-Time PCR Detection System is the latest addition to a family of real-time PCR
detection systems that are comprised of an optical detection module and iCycler
® thermal cycler.
The two-color MyiQ™2 features a broad-spectrum light source (tungsten-halogen lamp) and
paired filter optical design to ensure optimal excitation and emission. This results in excellent
sensitivity and discrimination between multiple fluorophores. A CCD detector captures a
simultaneous image of all 96 wells of the block resulting in a comprehensive data set illustrating
the kinetic behavior of the data during each cycle.
The iQ™5 Optical System software (version 2.1) is used to control and collect and analyze data
from the MyiQ2 Real-Time PCR Detection System. The software is also capable of controlling, and
collecting and analyzing data from the single color MyiQ™ and five color iQ™5 Real-Time PCR
detection systems. This manual provides instructions on use of the software applicable to each of
these three systems. The online Help manual is available at all times by pressing the F1 key.
1.2 Setting Up the System Hardware
The MyiQ2, MyiQ, or iQ5 system should be installed on a clean, dry, and level surface. Identify an
appropriate work area for the installation process prior to unpacking any system components.
The entire installation process should take approximately 15 minutes to complete. Handle the
optics module and iCycler thermal cycler with care and with clean, dry hands during unpacking
and assembly.
1.2.1 System Checklist
MyiQ2 Optics Module (catalog #170-9758)
• Optics module
•
Power cord
• iQ5 optical system software installation disk (170-9753)
•
Amplification tech notes CD (version 1.0)
iCycler Chassis (catalog #170-8701)
• Power cord
•
iCycler chassis
• iCycler thermal cycler instruction manual