PyroMark Q48 Autoprep Instrument

An automated benchtop platform from QIAGEN designed to support the PyroMark Q48 pyrosequencing workflow. The instrument automates sample-preparation steps to improve throughput and reproducibility for sequencing-based assays including mutation detection, SNP analysis and methylation profiling, and is suited to molecular biology laboratories. It offers 48-well capacity for DNA methylation and mutation analysis workloads.

Operational specifications include a touchscreen LCD display with 800 x 600 pixel resolution, an integrated optical detection module and a high-intensity LED light source. The unit measures 50.5 x 52.8 x 51.6 cm (W x D x H), weighs 38 kg and operates on 100–240 V AC, 50/60 Hz mains power with a maximum consumption of 180 W. Noise output is below 60 dB. Internal memory of 8 GB supports data storage, and connectivity is provided via cable, USB and Ethernet, with synchronisation to Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS). The dedicated PyroMark Q48 Software Suite controls the workflow.

According to the manufacturer, users of the PyroMark Q96 ID, PyroMark Q24 and PyroMark Q24 Advanced instruments should note that reagents for those instruments will be discontinued after 2023 and 2025 respectively, and assays should be migrated to this platform to take advantage of automated, standardised pyrosequencing sample preparation.