Advanced PCX Thermoelectric Coolers by Tark Thermal Solutions Support Faster, More Accurate PCR and Molecular Diagnostic Platforms

­Tark Thermal Solutions, the leading global manufacturer of thermal management solutions (formerly Laird Thermal Systems), announces that the elongated PCX models of thermoelectric coolers enable narrower temperature zones across PCR trays, allowing for more precise thermal management, faster reaction cycles, and increased sample throughput. The elongated construction allows OEMs to design PCR trays with more temperature-controlled zones, simplifying the process of finding the optimal melt temperature and boosting test accuracy and efficiency. By minimizing temperature gradients and providing rapid ramp rates, the PCX Series significantly accelerates PCR test results, supporting both real-time and quantitative PCR platforms.

The Tark PCX Series of thermoelectric coolers (TECs) is engineered specifically for demanding PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) testing applications, offering high reliability, precise temperature control, and rapid thermal cycling for accelerated test throughput. Reliable performance and durability minimize downtime and maintenance for instrument manufacturers and laboratories, supporting higher test volumes and more dependable diagnostic outcomes.

Key benefits for PCR applications include:

• PCX Series of elongated thermoelectric coolers improves temperature-zone precision in PCR trays.

• Responds to renewed demand in molecular diagnostics post-COVID.

• Supports automated, compact, and high-throughput PCR systems used in hospitals, clinical labs, and research centers.

• Enables faster, more accurate, and more accessible disease detection in modern molecular diagnostics.

• PowerCycling PCX TECs provide precise temperature control and faster ramp rates suitable for point-of-care applications requiring real-time PCR testing.

• The PCX Series provides high heat-pumping capacity, supporting up to 215 watts, and operates at temperatures reaching 120°C, which exceeds the typical requirements of PCR processes.

• Through advanced thermoelectric materials and proprietary construction, these TECs maintain extremely tight temperature gradients (within ±0.5°C), critical for accurate DNA amplification during PCR.

• PCX Series TECS have a unique thermally conductive “soft layer” beneath the cold-side ceramic, which absorbs mechanical stresses from repeated heating and cooling. This prevents common failures such as cracking and bowing, especially crucial for elongated TEC models.

• PCX Series TECs withstand harsh thermal cycling environments, passing rigorous PCR qualification standards without performance degradation, ensuring long operational life (more than 200,000 power cycles) even under constant cycling.

For more information on the PCX Series, go here.