Instructions for thawing and storing NextSeq 500/550 reagents

Illumina guarantees at least 3 months shelf life from the date of shipment. Reagent performance is guaranteed until the expiration date printed on the label, as long as the reagents are stored following Illumina recommendations.

Note: NextSeq 500/550 v2.5 flow cells ship at ambient temperatures. Upon arrival, store NextSeq 500/500 v2.5 flow cells at 2°C to 8°C.

Box Dimensions: Note**:** Same for all NextSeq 500/550 kit types

  • NextSeq 500/550 SBS Cartridge (-20°C): 12.3" x 10.25" x 2.9"

  • NextSeq 500/550 Accessroy Box (-20°C): 5.68" x 3.59" x 2.12"

  • NextSeq 500/550 Flow Cell Box (4°C): 6.5" x 8.75" x 0.93"

  • NextSeq 500/550 Buffer Cartridge (Room Temp): 14.75" x 4.18" x 4.18"

To prepare the reagent cartridge:

  • Thaw the reagent kit in a room temperature, deionized water bath for 60 minutes.

    • When water is added to the fill line on the cartridge, the cartridge stays at bottom of the water bath and does not float.

    • Once thawed, place on ice or set aside at 2°C to 8°C, and use as quickly as possible and within the same day.

  • Alternatively, thaw overnight at 2°C to 8°C, then store at 2°C to 8°C for up to 1 week.

To prepare the flow cell:

  • Remove the flow cell package from 2°C to 8°C storage.

  • Set unwrapped flow cell package aside at room temperature for 30 minutes.

  • If the foil package is intact, the flow cell can remain at room temperature for up to 12 hours.

  • Avoid repeated cooling and warming of the flow cell.

  • When the flow cell is removed from foil (room temperature), the flow cell must be used right away for optimal performance, though can be used within a couple of hours.

    • Illumina does not recommend returning the flow cell to 2°C to 8°C storage after warming, as condensation may form, which can negatively impact run performance.

This information is also available in video form. Search for Knowledge Base article How to prepare reagents pre-run on the NextSeq 500/550 ****Video.

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