Owner manual
QX100 Droplet Generator Instruction Manual | 5
Droplet Generation
2
2.1 Sample Preparation
Prepare the PCR reaction by combining 2x PCR supermix, 20x primers and 
probe, and DNA sample. Mix by vortexing in short pulses, and centrifuge briefly.
The concentration of intact human genomic DNA should be <66 ng per 
20 µl reaction. If using higher concentrations, digest DNA with a restriction 
endonuclease that does not cut target or reference amplicons
Use either the ddPCR
™
 supermix for probes or the One-Step RT-PCR kit 
for probes, which contain reagents required for droplet generation. Follow 
the instructions in the product inserts to prepare the samples for droplet 
generation
Vortex the supermixes thoroughly to ensure homogeneity, as a concentration 
gradient may form during –20°C storage. Alternatively, pipet up and down 
>5 times to mix. Centrifuge briefly to collect contents at the bottom of the tube 
before dispensing
Thaw and equilibrate reaction components to room temperature. If the 
sample is prone to thermal degradation, prepare the reaction mix on ice, but 
equilibrate the reaction mix to room temperature (~3 minutes) before loading 
into the DG8
™
 cartridge for droplet formation
Assemble reaction mixtures in vials or in 96-well PCR plates. The advantage 
of using a PCR plate is that samples can be loaded into the DG8 cartridge 
using an 8-channel pipet
Use standard lab precautions to avoid contamination of the reaction mix and 
sample: wear gloves, clean pipets, work in a clean area such as a PCR hood, 
and use low protein binding tubes










