How to Use the New ChemiDoc MP for DNA Gel Imaging

Press the green button to turn on the ChemiDoc instrument. When the home screen appears, tap to access the login menu and either enter your existing credentials or create a new user account by typing a username and clicking the plus sign.

Open the imager drawer and pull out the transilluminator. Clean the tray with DI water and a kimwipe, then select the appropriate tray (UV Tray or optional Blue Tray) based on your staining method, as Smart Tray Technology will automatically recognize and adjust imaging parameters.

Center your gel or blot sample on the selected tray with the UV Safety Shield if needed for band excision. Push the transilluminator back in and close the drawer once you are satisfied with the sample position.

Zoom to your desired imaging area or select image size. Tap the application button to choose the stain category appropriate for your sample, then optionally take a preview and set your region of interest to exclude bright areas like markers.

Choose between entering a predetermined exposure time or using automatic band detection. Tap the camera button to capture the image, then assess band intensities by tapping each band to view relative fluorescence units and percent saturation.

Use the transform icon to adjust image appearance; adjustments are automatically saved without altering the underlying data. Tap the image info icon to enter a custom name and notes about your experiment.

Tap the Send/Save icon and select your file format and destination (USB drive or network). Exporting as Image Lab file format preserves your custom name, notes, and all quantitative data for use with Bio-Rad's free Image Lab analysis software on Mac or PC.