
Magnetic-bead extraction prepares nucleic acid for downstream analysis through a kit-defined binding, washing and elution sequence. HM-TQ16 provides programmed magnetic-bead processing. Sample preparation and reagent selection determine whether the recovered material suits the intended PCR workflow.
HM-TQ16 is part of the HENG MEI Intelligent Manufacturing range supplied by Shandong Hengmei Electronic Technology Co., Ltd.
How the measurement works
HM-TQ16 automates magnetic-bead binding, washing and elution with programmed heating and mixing. Its 1–16 sample throughput and 30–1000 µL processing range must be matched to the extraction kit, consumables and downstream assay.
Set up the analytical workflow
- Identify samples and arrange the extraction controls required by the assay.
- Load reagents and consumables according to the kit layout.
- Run the program matching the kit and sample type.
- Retain the eluate identity and review extraction performance before downstream testing.
Technical configuration
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Throughput | 1–16 samples |
| Processing volume | 30–1000 µL |
| run time | 10–30 minutes, depending on reagents |
Allocate run positions and elution volume
A 16-position run reserving one position for an extraction blank and one for a process control leaves 14 positions for samples under that layout. Eluting a total of 2 µg of nucleic acid into 100 µL gives an average concentration of 20 ng/µL. Actual yield and usable volume depend on the sample and extraction method.
Evaluate yield, purity and downstream suitability
A concentration value alone provides limited information about inhibitors or assay performance. Use the quality checks required for the downstream method and review process-control behavior. Preserve the link between specimen, extraction program and eluate tube so an unexpected downstream result can be investigated through the preparation stage.
Link extraction to the downstream assay
Assign each specimen to an extraction position and an eluate identity before loading the consumables. Select the program and reagent layout for the sample matrix, and include the required extraction controls. Keep the eluate volume and storage conditions appropriate to the downstream work. If amplification or another downstream test behaves unexpectedly, review the extraction and inhibition controls with the specimen history. Preserve the link between the two stages so an investigation can identify whether preparation, assay conditions or the sample itself needs further attention.
Choose the extraction kit with the sample matrix
Specify whether the target is DNA or RNA and define the specimen and input amount. Select the lysis, binding, wash and elution chemistry for that matrix. Check consumable layout and the instrument program together. Plan extraction controls and sample separation to support the downstream PCR or sequencing workflow.
Investigate unexpected results
| Observed issue | Checks and follow-up |
|---|---|
| Downstream amplification is inhibited | Review sample loading, wash conditions and the assay’s inhibition control. |
| Extraction controls behave unexpectedly | Review reagent preparation, plate layout and handling separation. |
| Yield varies across sample types | Evaluate lysis and recovery with the corresponding matrix and kit. |
Keep a usable analytical record
Retain these details with the result so the preparation, measurement and subsequent review can be reconstructed.
- Specimen and input quantity
- Kit lot and extraction program
- Consumable layout and controls
- Eluate identity, volume and quality checks
Technical questions from operators
Does an extractor directly identify a pathogen?
It prepares nucleic acid. Detection is performed through the appropriate downstream assay.
Can any kit be loaded without method setup?
Confirm the consumable layout, reagent chemistry and program for the selected kit.
Use the required controls and the method settings for each sample group, and preserve the original observations alongside the accepted result and review action.
Article address:https://www.molecularbio.cn/news/magnetic-bead-extraction-before-pcr.html




