SmartCycler FAQ

Q: What is the SmartCycler® System?

A: The SmartCycler® System integrates nucleic acid amplification and detection of the target sequence in simple or complex samples using real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). The system is a rapid, real-time thermal cycler used for identifying DNA/RNA from prepared biological samples. Each reaction site is individually programmable and is therefore the most flexible system on the market. It provides both summarized and detailed test results data in tabular and graphic formats. Please refer to the website for further details regarding the SmartCycler® technology.

Q: Is the SmartCycler® System licensed to perform PCR?

A: Conveyed with the purchase of a Cepheid SmartCycler® System are the licensing rights to perform the patented real-time polymerase chain reaction process on the SmartCycler® under Applera's European Patent No. EP 0 872 562, Japanese Patent No. JP 3136129 and patents pending, for all field including human in vitro diagnostics except for diagnosis and monitoring of HIV and HCV infections.

Q: What are the differences between a SmartCycler® I and SmartCycler® II?

A: The software and optics have been updated with the introduction of the SmartCycler® II. The software has many new features such as Automatically Advance to Next PCR stage, User Defined Ramp Rates, Copy Run Setup, Compare Runs on same screen, Overlay Graphs, Import Standard Curve, Export graphs and screens directly into jpeg files, plus many more features. The SmartCycler®s four optical channels have been optimized for greater spectral separation, which allows for better multiplexing capabilities.

Q: What do I need to do to upgrade?

A: Contact Cepheid Technical Support.