Many new fluorescent dyes have been developed to replace the traditional method of nucleic acid detection using toxic EtBr. The use of these new dyes eliminates the requirement for DNA-damaging UV light, as their fluorescent excitation can be achieved using visible, blue light wavelengths. The Accuris SmartBlue is the perfect transilluminator to use with these new dyes.
- Blue light, safe for nucleic acids
- Uniform illumination (UI Technology)
- Optimal wavelength (465) for green stains
- Easily removable, 2 position amber shield
- Optional amber viewing glasses
Safer samples, safer for you
New fluorophors have been developed to replace the traditional method of nucleic acid detection with toxic Ethidium bromide. They also eliminate the use of DNA damaging UV light, as they are visualized with blue light. The SmartBlue Transilluminator is the perfect partner for these new stains. It emits blue light at a wavelength of 465nm, perfect for excitation of most green fluorophors, including Accuris' SmartGlow™, as well as many protein stains. Exposing DNA to this wavelength does not cause damage, and results in a much higher down stream cloning efficiency as compared to even short UV light exposures. In addition, the blue light is not damaging to the skin and eyes.*
Two position filter cover
The SmartBlue transilluminator requires no special shielding, however, the light does need to be filtered for visualization of the dyes. The amber cover, which rests above the viewing surface and gel, filters out the blue light, allowing the bands to be seen clearly. The cover can be placed at a 60º angle to provide easy access to the gel for band excision. For documentation, the filter cover is easily removed completely.
UI Technology: bright and clear images
Engineered diffusers and filters provide an extremely evenly lit viewing surface. Even in ambient light, bands of DNA can clearly be seen in gels. Images obtained using the SmartBlue Transilluminator are brighter and more balanced than those obtained using epi-illiminators which light from the sides.
Reliable, durable and long lasting
An array of super bright LEDs with a long, 30,000 hour service life provide the light source for the SmartBlue Transilluminator. Unlike those in a UV Transilluminator, the filters in the SmartBlue will not solarize and degrade in performance over time. Gel bands can be excised directly on the scratch resistant, glass viewing surface. To save energy, the power switch includes an automatic 5 minute shutoff. The SmartBlue Transilluminator is covered by a 2 year warranty.
Optional amber viewing glasses
Our Viewing Glasses offer efficient blocking of the blue light wavelength from the SmartBlue illuminator, allowing clear visualization of the fluorescing DNA bands without the filter cover in place. These convenient glasses are recommended for users that are frequently excising DNA bands from gels.
* The SmartBlue product uses high intensity LED lights. Although the visible blue wavelength is significantly safer than UV light, it is recommended to not stare directly at the viewing surface without the amber cover in place.