INSTRUMENTATION - MEGABACE™ 500
MegaBACE 500 Specifications
MegaBACE 500 DNA Analysis System is a high-throughput, fluorescence-based DNA system utilizing capillary electrophoresis with up to 48 capillaries operating in parallel. The system performs sample injection, gel matrix replacement, DNA separation, detection, and data analysis. MegaBACE 500 can be configured for both sequencing and genotyping applications.
MegaBACE 500 can be field upgraded by a service representative to a 96-capillary MegaBACE 1000. This upgrade doubles the throughput with no increase in lab footprint. Additionally the user retains the flexibility to run between 16 and 96 capillaries at a time.
Components
- Capillary electrophoresis instrument
- Up to 3 capillary arrays of 16 capillaries each for a maximum of 48 capillaries
- Separation matrix for DNA analysis
- Reagents for DNA sequencing and genotyping
- Instrument control and data analysis software
- Computer workstation and monitor for instrument operation and data analysis
Capillary arrays
The capillaries are supplied in pre-assembled arrays of 16 capillaries. Up to 48 capillaries can be used during a run.
- 200 micron outer diameter
- 75 micron internal diameter
- 40 cm detection length
The same arrays are used for all applications resulting in faster turnaround, less waste and less stocking requirements for customers.
Separation matrix
MegaBACE Long Read Matrix is optimized for both sequencing and genotyping applications. This saves time when switching between applications and results in less waste.
MegaBACE Long Read Matrix can produce DNA sequences of 700 bases or resolve multiplexed fragments in excess of 900 bases. The gel matrix is replaceable, and each pack includes 96 pre-dispensed tubes plus running buffer.
Sequencing reagents
All MegaBACE DNA sequencing reagent kits offer unparalleled performance on a broad range of templates:
Genotyping reagents
To complement instrument functionality, we offer a range of MegaBACE ET Size Standards for a variety of applications. These include MegaBACE ET400-R,
ET550-R, and ET900-R.
For SNP validation, MegaBACE SNuPe™ Genotyping Kit contains everything needed to perform a robust single-base extension reaction of PCR products in a single-tube format.
Software
The following software tools are available:
Computer requirements
Hardware: Pentium 4 2.4GHz
Operating system: Windows™ 2000 SP2
Installed RAM: 512 MB Ram
Software: Microsoft™ Office Pro
Specifications
Sequencing read length and throughput
Average read length with dye primer chemistry is  550 bases at 98.5% accuracy with M13 standard template. With a slower, 3 hour run time, sequences of up to 1000 bases is possible. MegaBACE 500 can produce more than 250 per 9-hour day.
Genotyping sizing accuracy, precision, and throughput
MegaBACE 500 delivers up to 7200 microsatellite genotypes or 2880 SNP genotypes per 9-hour day.
Sample requirement
Minimal sample loading volume of 5 µl. The samples are introduced to the system in a 96-well format. Samples can be reinjected up to 10 times.
Excitation
- Single mode (488 nm) for sequencing
- Dual mode (488 and 532 nm) for genotyping
Detection
- 4 channels with 2 PMTs
- Confocal optics with multiple filter sets
- Digital resolution is 16 bits linear to
 5%
Electrophoresis Voltage: Up to 320 V/cm
Chamber Operating Temperature: 27 °C to 44 °C
Environmental Requirements
Temperature: 20 °C to 25 °C
Humidity:  80% noncondensing
Weight: 272 kg (approximate)
Dimensions: 81.2 cm (height) x 103.3 cm (width) x 87.4 cm (depth)
| Electrical requirements: |
 | Volts (AC) | Frequency | Amps |
| US/ Canada | 208  10% or
220  10% | 60Hz  1% | 15 |
| Japan | 200  10% | 50/ 60Hz  1% | 16 |
| Europe | 230  10% | 50Hz  1% | 14 |
| U.K. and Australia | 240 + 6% or - 10% | 50Hz  1% | 13 |
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