Problem:
The samples show blank lanes for the first approximately half of the run,
then start showing up as if normal. We have not had a normal run in about a
week. It is next to imposible to get through to PE Biosystems for help. When
we have been able to get through the information we get conflicts with
information gotten from another. Service engineer has been here today - says
our plates are contaminated with something from the gel and we should routinely
go through some rigorous wash procedure routinely. We have been running gels
for about four years now and this is the first occurance we have seen like this.
We wash our gels everyday, manually, with hot water at the sink and Multi-Terge.
About 3 years ago we had a problem with band broadening due to some build
up on the plates. But, when we started cleaning with Multi-Terge the problem
was gone. No problems until suddenly one day last week the first half of the
Run was blank, and then as I mentioned earlier, the samples' ladders pattern
started showing.
The service engineer says this 'happens all the time'. If so, then for
somebody out there it must have happened. Would you please respond and let us
know what solved your problem? We're well backed-up now and can't keep
expecting PE Bio. to solve this. If it's someting on the plates fine - but
we're very skeptical.
If it is more practical to respond (converse) by phone that's OK. We're
desperate!
Millie McAdams/ Judy Phelps
919 684-2652/ 919-684-2405