CEN ISO/TS 20836:2005

Foreword
Introduction
1 Scope
2 Normative references
3 Terms and definitions
4 Installation of thermal cyclers
5 Maintenance of thermal cyclers
6 Performance tests
  6.1 General
  6.2 Biochemical performance test
  6.3 Physical performance test
7 Test report and documentation of irregularities
Annex A (informative) Biochemical performance test - PCR method
                      for testing the temperature accuracy
Annex B (informative) Physical performance test
Bibliography

ISO/TS 20836:2005 provides basic requirements for the installation, performance and maintenance of thermal cyclers. Although thermal cyclers are robust technical equipment, they do require regular maintenance. Their cooling/heating elements have a limited lifetime. Proper functioning of the cooling/heating element depends both on the quality of the cooling/heating devices and proper use and care.In addition to outlining the requirement for a defined maintenance programme, procedures are described for the determination of thermal cycler performance by biochemical or physical methods.