System checks for Illumina sequencing platforms
System checks are not required for normal operation and maintenance of an Illumina sequencing platform. However, an Illumina Technical Applications Scientist may ask you to perform a system check for troubleshooting purposes.
This bulletin outlines the system checks that can be performed and the time needed to complete the check for all Illumina sequencing instruments.
For all system checks, if an instrument wash is due, perform the wash before starting a system check. Always power cycle before performing the system checks.
iSeq 100
Time taken | Requirements | Procedure |
45
minutes |
|
|
During the system check, the software ejects and retracts the cartridge one time, and displays the remaining number of uses onscreen. Both reusable components are valid for up to 130 uses. For more information, see the iSeq 100 System Guide.
MiniSeq
The appropriate system checks are preselected. Those that are unselected should only be performed by an Illumina engineer.
Time taken | Requirements | Procedure |
20
mins |
|
|
MiSeq
The Tip/Tilt and Full Optics tests require a special flow cell and should only be performed by an Illumina engineer.
Time taken | Requirements | Procedure |
60
minutes |
|
|
* If performing a volume test on a system running MCS 2.6 or lower only, you will need to raise and lower the sippers manually to check the PR2 position. When prompted remove any droplets from the wash bottle sipper, as follows:
- 1.Slowly raise the sipper handle and check the wash bottle sipper for the presence of a large water droplet.
- 2.Slowly lower the sipper handle far enough into the water to allow the surface tension to remove the droplet.
- 3.Slowly raise the sipper handle and check the wash bottle sipper for the presence of a large water droplet.
- 4.Slowly lower the sipper handle completely, making sure that the sippers lower into the wash bottle and waste bottle.
For more information see the MiSeq System Guide for MiSeq Reporter, MiSeq System Guide for Windows 7, or MiSeq Guide for Windows 10.
NextSeq 500/550
Time taken | Requirements | Procedure |
90
mins |
|
|
NextSeq 1000/2000
Time taken | Requirements | Procedure |
| None |
|
For more information, see the NextSeq 1000 and 2000 Sequencing System Guide and the How To Perform a System Check on The NextSeq 1000/2000 video.
HiSeq 1000/2000/2500/3000/4000/X
The only system check on the HiSeq systems that can be performed by customers is the fluidics check.
Time taken | Requirements | Procedure |
2-3 minutes
per position |
|
|
For more information, see the appropriate System Guide: HiSeq 1000, HiSeq 2000, HiSeq 2500, HiSeq 3000, HiSeq 4000,
NovaSeq 6000
NovaSeq system checks should not be performed by customers unless asked by an Illumina scientist, and should be carried out under guidance. Power cycle the instrument before performing the system check
Time taken | Requirements | Procedure |
1 hour to
complete all tests |
|
|
For any feedback or questions regarding this article (Illumina Knowledge Article #5873), contact Illumina Technical Support [email protected]. |