EZ1 DNA Investigator Card

Easier handling of solid materials with “tip dance” protocol

In addition to the standard trace protocol, an optional, fully automated “tip dance” protocol can be used, where the filter-tip moves back-and-forth relative to the worktable platform while pipetting. This enables processing of solid materials, such as swabs, fabrics, blood discs, or cigarette butts, directly in the sample tube. There is no need for prior centrifugation to remove solid materials that could clog the tip (see flowchart "EZ1 DNA Investigator trace and “tip dance” protocols"). The “tip dance” protocol simplifies handling and, in some cases, increases DNA yield with more efficient extraction of the sample (see figure "Easy and efficient processing of solid materials with the “tip dance” protocol").

Optimized protocol for larger sample volumes

A large-volume protocol enables fully automated processing of starting volumes up to 500 µl. This not only allows efficient DNA purification from dilute samples with low concentrations of DNA, such as diffuse stains, but also enables purification from samples that require larger volumes for thorough lysis. The ability to process larger sample volumes — with the same elution volume as the standard trace protocol — enables higher yields of more concentrated DNA for greater sensitivity in downstream applications (see "Higher yields of concentrated DNA with the large-volume protocol").

Simply insert the EZ1 Card with the desired protocol into the EZ1 Card slot and start the instrument.

The high-quality DNA obtained using the EZ1 DNA Investigator Kit and Card with the BioRobot EZ1 workstation is suited for many forensic, environmental, biodefense, biosecurity, and other applied-testing applications, such as:

• Genotyping, including fingerprinting and paternity analysis
• Purification of DNA from trace samples, such as casework or crime-scene samples
• DNA extraction from filters used in environmental testing
• Routine analysis of reference samples