Bio-Rad Gene Pulser MXcell™ Electroporation System - Manual (Page 58)

Gene Pulser MXcell™ System Manual
49
Appendix A: PulseTrac™ System
The Gene Pulser MXcell™ electroporation system uses the PulseTrac waveform delivery
system to generate the most accurate exponential decay pulses possible for optimal cell
transformation. PulseTrac accurately calculates the time constant and amplitude of each
pulse based on what is actually delivered to the sample. More importantly, the PulseTrac
system compensates for amplitude changes caused by varying sample resistances and
improves the accuracy of the low voltage capacitors. This provides:
• Sample conductivity measurement integrated with pulse output for true waveform
delivery for samples with resistance in the 10–1000 ohm range
• Internal calibration and circuit monitoring program for accurate pulse delivery
throughout the lifetime of the unit
• Time constant and voltage amplitude measurements to allow pulse delivery
verification
The PulseTrac test algorithm is activated upon startup of the Gene Pulser MXcell system.
PulseTrac System Description
The PulseTrac system monitors and adjusts for the internal system resistance used to limit
current and the sample resistance in the well. Sample resistance depends on its
conductivity, the distance between the electrodes in the well, and the volume of media
within the well. PulseTrac circuitry monitors the resistance of the sample and delivers the
desired voltage regardless of sample volume or conductivity. When you are optimizing
electroporation with the PulseTrac system, the electrical variables are controlled with
exacting precision so that your results reflect only the biological variables in your
experimental design. This PulseTrac diagnostic algorithm examines the complete electrical
circuit and electronically selects the right combination of capacitors to deliver the most
accurate and reproducible pulse for optimal and consistent electroporation over the lifetime
of the unit.