Bio-Rad PTC Tempo Thermal Cycler

Revitalising lab technologies

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Next-generation thermocycling technology

For over a decade, Bio-Rad and Cobalt have collaborated to bring new and groundbreaking scientific innovations to life. The PTC Tempo Thermal Cycler is the latest cutting-edge device developed under this partnership – a new device that features the latest technology, modern design and an enhanced user experience.

Replacing its predecessor, the C1000, the new device has been developed with a focus on adaptability and efficiency, catering for a diverse range of applications, serving both individuals and broader lab spaces.

From amplification or PCR to cloning, cycle sequencing, gene expression studies, and mutagenesis, its versatility provides real benefits to laboratory efficiency and output.

At its core lies the commitment to precision and reliability. Engineered with a focus on maintaining uniform thermal performance, scientists can trust the PTC Tempo to consistently deliver accurate results. Moreover, its flexibility allows for seamless scalability, accommodating the demands of any laboratory workload. Whether you're working with individual samples or managing a high-throughput lab, this instrument ensures consistent and reliable results with every use. The PTC Tempo offers market-leading thermal gradient control across 8 rows, accurate to within 0.2°C across a large temperature range.

Leveraging our experience in medical device and scientific instrument design, Cobalt supported this project by providing expert industrial design, usability and user experience, design for manufacture, engineering development, and 3D CAD.

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Focus Areas

Year

2021

Client

Bio-Rad

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Design Outcomes

Product Range

Compatibility

Automation

Identity

Compact Form-Factor

Design for Service

The product was developed to have two main options – manual and automatic - based on a single common platform. The two versions feature unique lid and hinge designs, and are compatible with a range of PCR plate configurations.

The PTC Tempo features a heated lid that is compatible with a range of vessels and sealers, supporting both 96 well for general PCR applications and 96 deepwell for larger volume. These options allow users to select the device best suited to their lab, equipment, and workflow.

The automated version features a motorised lid and automated locking mechanism that enables seamless integration with robotics to load or unload samples for increased throughput and efficiency.

The clean, flowing design maintains Bio-Rad’s strong visual identity and fits seamlessly to their existing product range. The device status indication forms a key part of the device visual design – projecting from an LED light bar onto the underside of the lid. This provides enhanced usability by allowing easy visibility from across lab spaces or between rooms, but also creates a striking appearance unique to this device.

The PTC Tempo has been designed to ensure a compact form factor to minimise lab space and maximise productivity. The manually operated lid design features a dual hinge operation, configured to effectively balance well-plate access with the lid’s opening height for maximum clearance beneath low shelving.

The unit has been designed with longevity in mind. Components that might require servicing are easy to access and disassemble independently of other parts.