Bio-Rad Gene Pulser Xcell™ Electroporation Systems - Manual (Page 8)

There are no user serviceable parts within the unit. The operator should make no attempt to open any
case cover or defeat any safety interlock. This instrument must not be altered or modified in any way.
Alteration of this instrument will
• Void the manufacturer’s warranty
• Void the IEC 1010 safety certification
• Create a potential safety hazard
Bio-Rad is not responsible for any injury or damage caused by the use of this instrument for purposes other
than those for which it is intended or by modification of the instrument not performed by Bio-Rad or an
authorized agent.
1.2 Electrical Hazards
The Gene Pulser Xcell produces voltages up to 3,000 volts and is capable of passing very high currents.
When charged to maximum voltage, the instrument stores about 400 joules. A certain degree of respect
is required for energy levels of this order. System safety features prevent operator access to the recessed
input jacks and to the recessed electrode contacts inside the sample chamber. These mechanical
interlocks should never be circumvented.
The pulse button is active whenever the character space in the lower right corner is flashing. There is
high voltage present whenever the pulse button is depressed and “Pulsing” is shown on the LCD
display on the front of the instrument. Because of the built-in safety interlock in the ShockPod, no pulse
is delivered to the cuvette when the ShockPod lid is opened. If the capacitor has been partially charged
but not fired (for example, when the charging cycle has been interrupted before the pulse is delivered),
some charge may remain on the internal capacitor. This charge will dissipate over 1–2 minutes.
However, the user cannot make contact with any charged electrical components due to the system
safety features.
1.3 Mechanical Hazards
The Gene Pulser Xcell contains a patented arc-protection circuit that dramatically reduces the incidence of
arcing in the cuvette when high voltage is delivered into the sample. The unit incorporates a circuit that
senses the beginning of an arc and diverts current from the sample within <10 µsec, preventing, or
greatly reducing, mechanical, visual, and auditory phenomena at the ShockPod. Should an arc occur,
the sample chamber is effective in containing these small discharges, but nonetheless we strongly
recommend wearing safety glasses when using the instrument.
1.4 Other Safety Precautions
Avoid spilling any liquids onto the apparatus. Use only a paper towel or a cloth wet with either water or
alcohol to clean the outside surfaces of the Gene Pulser Xcell.
Use only the Bio-Rad cables supplied with the Gene Pulser Xcell.
Use the ShockPod only in the assembled condition. Do not attempt to circumvent the protection of the
ShockPod or use it while disassembled.
Verify the display segments periodically.
Read the instruction manual before using the Gene Pulser Xcell Electroporation System. For technical
assistance contact your local Bio-Rad office or, in the US, call technical services at 1-800-4BIORAD
(1-800-424-6723).
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