Eppendorf Mastercycler nexus – the new PCR instrument which sends status emails

The Eppendorf Mastercycler nexus family of PCR instruments offer excellent reproducibility, low noise emission and the versatility to use all types of consumables. Up to three units may be combined for higher throughput, while software capability enables users to access a booking schedule for the instrument and receive email notification when the PCR cycle is finished. Low energy consumption and a small footprint add to the advantages of the Mastercycler nexus for both academic and industrial research laboratories.

Designed to be affordable, flexible and reliable, the Mastercycler nexus incorporates Eppendorf’s flexlid™ concept with automatic height adjustment of the lid. In combination with the universal block this allows use of the widest variety of PCR consumables, from large 0.5 mL tubes down to low profile plates and strips, and therefore a correspondingly wide range of reaction volumes. Excellent block homogeneity and temperature accuracy deliver highly reproducible results. The Mastercycler nexus gradient model provides a true gradient with 12 different temperatures and features SteadySlope technology to ensure that the heating and cooling ramp rates are identical in both optimisation and routine experiments.

With low noise emission, unrivalled at only <40 dB(A), the Mastercycler nexus will not disturb an environment where complex work is carried out. Energy efficiency is a further benefit: only 0.154 kWh are needed for a PCR and standby power consumption is 6 W. The small footprint and front-to-back ventilation system save space and allow units to be placed side-by-side. To increase PCR throughput one or two Mastercycler nexus eco modules (with no control buttons or display) may be connected to the Mastercycler nexus.

According to Dr Kay Körner, International Senior Product Manager PCR, ‘The Mastercycler nexus is ideal for all PCR applications, from large volume to small volume, including emulsion PCR, in situ PCR, and low to high throughput. The combination of low noise levels, mainly due to less ventilation, with excellent temperature accuracy and high energy efficiency make the Mastercycler nexus a true masterpiece of engineering.’