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Shasta Instrument Specifications

The Shasta Oligonucleotide Synthesizer from Sierra BioSystems is a high‑throughput, flexible DNA/RNA synthesizer designed for production and research laboratories. Its modular design supports multiple column and plate formats, delivers consistent synthesis quality, and uses a positive‑pressure fluidics system for reduced maintenance compared to vacuum‑based systems.

1. Physical Specifications

Synthesizer Models

Model Width Depth Height Weight
Shasta 96 35.2 in (89.4 cm) 31.5 in (80 cm) 33 in (83.8 cm) ~250 lbs (113 kg)
Shasta 192 Same footprint as 96 Same footprint as 96 Same as 96 ~260 lbs (118 kg)
Shasta 768 Same footprint as 96 Same footprint as 96 Same as 96 ~260 lbs (118 kg)
 

Peripheral Devices

Device Width Depth Height Weight
Computer 7 in (17.8 cm) 6.9 in (17.5 cm) 1.3 in (3.3 cm) 3.13 lbs (1.4 kg)
Monitor 21 in (53.3 cm) 9 in (22.9 cm) 14 in (35.5 cm) 7 lbs (3 kg)
Keyboard 18 in (45.2 cm) 7.5 in (19 cm) 1.5 in (3.8 cm) ~1 lb (0.5 kg)
 

2. Laboratory Requirements

  • Altitude: ≤ 2000 m (6500 ft)

  • Temperature (operating): 20–25 °C (68–77 °F) recommended; 15–30 °C allowable

  • Humidity: ≤ 80% RH (lower humidity improves synthesis quality)

  • Pollution Degree: Nonconductive pollutants only

  • Space: Bench space accommodating full footprint + access for ventilation and maintenance

  • Clearance: Access to front and sides for servicing

3. Gas Requirements

  • Gas Type: Argon (preferred) or Nitrogen, ≥ 99.998% purity

  • Supply: Pressurized house line or cylinder source

  • Pressure Regulator: Two‑stage, Swagelok®‑type outlet for ¼‑in OD tubing

  • Primary Gauge: 0–3000 psi

  • Secondary Gauge: Adjustable to 0–50 psi (typical setpoint: 25–30 psi)

  • Recommendation: Keep two cylinders available (1 in use, 1 spare)

4. Ventilation Requirements

  • Option 1: Fume hood with face velocity 100 ft/min (30 m/min) average (80–125 ft/min range)

  • Option 2: Dedicated duct exhaust with draw of –2.0 in. H₂O (–5.1 cm H₂O)

  • Waste System: Closed fluid waste system, typically 20 L HDPE carboy

  • Exhaust Handling: Positive‑pressure vented lines should connect to lab exhaust

5. Electrical Requirements

Location Voltage Frequency Amperage
North America 120 ± 10% VAC 50/60 Hz ± 1% 10 A
Europe / Australia 240 ± 10% VAC 50/60 Hz ± 1% 10 A
Japan 110 ± 10% VAC 50/60 Hz ± 1% 10 A
 

  • Power Rating: 250 W

  • Line Requirement: Dedicated 1.5 kVA line and ground, UPS or line conditioner recommended

  • Cords: Standard 3‑prong plug (NA/JP), EC plug (EU/AU)

  • Grounding: Dedicated electrical ground required to avoid noise issues

6. Throughput & Format Compatibility

  • Supports 96‑well plate format

  • Upgradeable to 192‑ or 384‑well plate format

  • Flexible for multiple oligo lengths and synthesis scales in the same run

  • Can run different chemistries simultaneously in separate columns

7. Chemistry Compatibility

  • Supports standard DNA/RNA phosphoramidite synthesis chemistries

  • Compatible with multiple vendors' amidites and solvents

  • Requires anhydrous acetonitrile

8. Waste Management

  • Waste Bottle Size: 20 L polyethylene safety carboy

  • Safety: Bottles should be in LDPE safety containers with secure covers

  • Disposal: Follow all local, state, and national hazardous waste disposal regulations

9. Shipping & Storage

  • Shipping & Storage Temperature: 10–40 °C allowable

  • Packaging: Crated with computer, peripherals, reagent caps, tubing, columns, and spares. Compressor typically packaged separately

10. Accessories Included (unless otherwise specified)

  • Pre‑loaded computer with software

  • Keyboard, monitor, mouse

  • Reagent/amidite caps sized per configuration

  • Tubing set

  • Spare parts kit

  • 20 L polyethylene safety carboy (if requested at time of purchase)

11. Safety Equipment Recommendations

  • Lab coat

  • Safety glasses

  • Chemical‑resistant gloves

  • Fire extinguisher (Halon recommended)

  • Eyewash station

  • First aid kit

  • Spill cleanup kit

💡 Tip: For installation and setup requirements, see our Shasta Pre-installation Guide and Pre-Installation Checklist