Description:

The Thermostat 5320 is a stand-alone dry-bath that chills or heats samples from 23 °F (–5 °C) up to 210 °F (99 °C) using a Peltier-assisted aluminum platform. Exchangeable SmartBlocks accommodate 0.5–2 mL tubes, PCR plates or deep-well plates, and are recognized automatically for error-free runs. Users may run continuous holds or a four-step temperature/time program directly from the back-lit keypad. A 9 °F min⁻¹ heating rate and 10.8 °F min⁻¹ cooling rate (99 → 77 °F) shorten enzyme inactivation and ligation protocols, while block-to-block deviation stays within 0.36 °F, ensuring identical yields across 24 positions. The 8.7 × 9.8 × 4.9 in frame weighs just 11 lb yet houses an RS-232 port for remote logging and QC. All electronics are splash-protected for hood use, and automatic fan control limits noise in open labs.

Economic Advantage:

Traditional water baths require plumbing, frequent cleaning and take 30 minutes to reach 95 °C. The 5320’s dry-block design hits set-point in a third of that time, never spills and eliminates hazardous mercury thermometers—saving both labor and compliance costs. Its universal power supply and block library mean one chassis replaces multiple dedicated incubators, stretching grant dollars further.