Creating Programs; Designing A New Program; Translating A Protocol Into A Program; Using The Goto Step To Write Short Programs - BIO RAD PTC-200 Operation Manual

Designing a New Program

Translating a Protocol into a Program

Until you are completely familiar with programming the DNA Engine cycler, you may find
it helpful to first translate the protocol into DNA Engine cycler program steps and options
on paper. Write down the protocol to be programmed, one step per line. Then write the
type of program step that goes with the protocol steps, at the end of each line. If a pro-
tocol step involves an option as well as a program step, write both names down on the
same line. Finally, write the End step at the bottom of the list; programs will not run
without this step. Number the lines 1 through N, where N is the final, End line.

Using the GoTo Step to Write Short Programs

The GoTo step allows programs of many repetitious steps to be shortened to just a few
lines. When the program encounters a GoTo step, it returns to a specified step, repeats
that step, and repeats all steps that follow, back to the GoTo step. When the program
has returned, or cycled, back to the step a specified number of times, the program
moves on to the step that follows the GoTo step.
For example, consider a basic cycle sequencing protocol consisting of 30 repeats of a
denaturation, and an annealing/extension step. Rather than listing all 60 steps, use a
GoTo step to design a short, easy-to-enter program:
Raw program:
1. 92° for 30 sec
2. 60° for 3 min
3. 92° for 30 sec
4. 60° for 3 min
5. 92° for 30 sec
6. 60° for 3 min
7. 92° for 30 sec
[continues for total of 60 lines]
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DNA Engine program:
1. 92° for 30 sec
2. 60° for 3 min
3. GoTo step 1, 29 times (i.e.,
cycle back to step 1 and repeat
steps 1 and 2, 29 times)
5. End

Creating Programs

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