Abstract: A device for handling PCR microcards, each having an array of sample chambers closed by a transparent material on one side thereof, in relation to a PCR instrument, the device including a carrier having an apertured region with an array of holes corresponding in number and relative location with the array of sample chambers in each of the microcards, and a provision for retaining a microcard on the carrier so that the transparent material faces the apertured region with the reagent sample chambers aligned, respectively, with the holes in the apertured region, and so that the side of the microcard opposite the transparent material is unobstructed at least throughout the array of sample chambers. The device cooperates with the PCR instrument to ensure accurate positioning of the carrier and the microcard retained thereon for real time PCR processing.

Abstract: The invention includes a heating apparatus for biological samples. The heating apparatus of the present invention includes a cover, a sample block having a plurality of openings in a top portion thereof for receiving a sample well tray having a plurality of sample wells, and an urging mechanism. The urging mechanism is positionable between the sample block and the sample well tray to urge the sample well tray away from the sample block when the cover is moved from a closed position toward an open position. The cover imparts a downward force on the top of the sample well tray to press the sample wells into the openings of the sample block when the heated cover is moved toward a closed position. The urging mechanism imparts an upward force on the sample well tray. The downward force imparted by the heated cover is sufficient to retain the sample well tray against the sample block when the cover is in the closed position.

Abstract: A device for handling PCR microcards, each having an array of sample chambers closed by a transparent material on one side thereof, in relation to a PCR instrument, the device including a carrier having an apertured region with an array of holes corresponding in number and relative location with the array of sample chambers in each of the microcards, and a provision for retaining a microcard on the carrier so that the transparent material faces the apertured region with the reagent sample chambers aligned, respectively, with the holes in the apertured region, and so that the side of the microcard opposite the transparent material is unobstructed at least throughout the array of sample chambers. The device cooperates with the PCR instrument to ensure accurate positioning of the carrier and the microcard retained thereon for real time PCR processing.

Abstract: A device for handling PCR microcards, each having an array of sample chambers closed by a transparent material on one side thereof, in relation to a PCR instrument, the device including a carrier having an apertured region with an array of holes corresponding in number and relative location with the array of sample chambers in each of the microcards, and a provision for retaining a microcard on the carrier so that the transparent material faces the apertured region with the reagent sample chambers aligned, respectively, with the holes in the apertured region, and so that the side of the microcard opposite the transparent material is unobstructed at least throughout the array of sample chambers. The device cooperates with the PCR instrument to ensure accurate positioning of the carrier and the microcard retained thereon for real time PCR processing.

Abstract: A device for handling PCR microcards, each having an array of sample chambers closed by a transparent material on one side thereof, in relation to a PCR instrument, the device including a carrier having an apertured region with an array of holes corresponding in number and relative location with the array of sample chambers in each of the microcards, and a provision for retaining a microcard on the carrier so that the transparent material faces the apertured region with the reagent sample chambers aligned, respectively, with the holes in the apertured region, and so that the side of the microcard opposite the transparent material is unobstructed at least throughout the array of sample chambers. The device cooperates with the PCR instrument to ensure accurate positioning of the carrier and the microcard retained thereon for real time PCR processing.