FAQ


  1. How many gels can be run at one time?

    You can run 1, 2, 3 or 4 gels at a time. If one or two are run, then the main electrode assembly must be used (165-8037, it's the one that has the banana plugs). If a third or fourth gel is added, then the companion running module is used (165-8038).

  2. I am confused... What is the difference between the two electrode assemblies? Which one should I use if I run only two gels?

    The Mini-PROTEAN Tetra has two electrode assemblies.

    Main Electrode Assembly: It is the one with the banana plugs, and it is the one you need to use if running 1 or 2 gels. It must be placed in the back of the tank.
    Companion Running Module: It is the additional module, which is reserved for running a 3rd and 4th gel. It has to be placed in the front of the tank. It does not have electrodes, so it can't be used by itself. It should not be placed in the tank if running only 1 or 2 gels.
  3. I am running 1 or 2 gels, and the buffer is heating up and my proteins are not moving.

    If the Companion Running Module was also placed in the tank, that is the cause for the heat and lack of mobility. Only the Main Electrode Assembly is necessary when running only 1 or 2 gels

  4. Can I use the main electrode assembly from the Tetra Cell (165-8037) in the Mini-PROTEAN 3 tank?

    Yes. A customer who has the MP3 and wants to benefit from the improved wing-flap design and reduce the chance of upper buffer chamber leakage can run the Main Electrode Assembly in the MP3 tank.

  5. Can I use the electrode assembly and clamping frame from the Mini-PROTEAN 3 in the Tetra Cell tank?

    No, the electrode assembly with the clamping frame from the MP3 cell can't be used in the Tetra Cell tank.

  6. Can I use the Tetra Cell tank and lid with the Mini Trans-Blot Module?

    Yes. The Mini Trans-Blot Central Core Assembly (800-2105) will fit and can be used with the Tetra tank and lid.

  7. How many gels can be transferred at one time when using the Tetra Cell tank and lid and the Mini Trans-Blot Module?

    Since the Mini Trans-Blot blotting module is used for transfer with the Tetra System, you can transfer only two gels at a time. However, customer could use the Criterion Blotter (170-4070) to transfer all four gels at once.

  8. If I only want to run one or two gels at a time, do I still have to buy the Tetra Cell with the two electrode assemblies (main and companion running module)?

    No, you can buy the two-gel system (165-8002 and 165-8003), which comes with just the main electrode assembly (no companion running module). If later on you want to upgrade to a four-gel system you will need to buy the Companion Running Module (165-8038).

  9. When I run only two gels, do I have to fill up the tank to the top with running buffer? That is a waste of buffer!

    No, you do not have to fill the tank up to the top. The front of the tank has two fill lines: one for two gels and the other for four gels. If running three gels, then pour buffer to reach in between those two lines.

  10. Can I use my Mini-PROTEAN 3 Casting stand and frames to cast gels that I will run on the Tetra Cell?

    Yes, casting accessories are the same for both systems. That includes: casting stand, casting frame, short plate, spacer plate, combs and casting stand gaskets.

  11. Casting stand gaskets have been modified. How?

    When the Mini-PROTEAN Tetra was initially launched, we changed the casting module gaskets to a sticky, thermoplastic material. The sticky nature of this material was supposed to create a better seal. However, it was more difficult to handle and after evaluating the feedback from customer, we have switched back to the silicon material that was sold with the MP3. If replacements are required contact your local Bio-Rad sales representative or simply order catalog number 165-3305.