Graphical programming aids gene research

BitBox has completed a project for Techne of Cambridge to incorporate touch-sensitive graphical display programming methods into its Touchgene molecular biology thermal cycling equipment.

BitBox has completed a project for Techne of Cambridge to incorporate touch-sensitive graphical display programming methods into its Touchgene molecular biology thermal cycling equipment.

PCR - polymerase chain reaction biotechniques - use rapid and complex thermal cycling on large numbers of sample tubes, to transform, grow and anneal DNA.

The major problem for the research scientist has been to program, modify and record these cycles, some of which can involve 30 heat/cool loops within an hour.

Using the graphical display improves the operator interface, making simpler and more easily understood programming.

In addition the new Touchgene unit has Smart memory cards, which can be removed by the researcher after using the thermal cycler: this ensures that no other operator accidentally modifies or erases his programme, and also keeps his modification ideas confidential, when needed.

BitBox also provided an external interface system to allow a PC to remotely control the programmes used on multiple cyclers, for large-scale test work.

The Touchgene is a significant product advance in biotechnology research equipment, using the best of electronics and software expertise.

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