--- title: Shasta Synthesizer Requirements – FAQ description: Shasta Synthesizer Requirements – Frequently Asked Questions --- [Skip to content](https://support.sierrabio.com/shasta-synthesizer-requirements-faq#main-content) English Show submenu for translations ![](https://support.sierrabio.com/hs-fs/hubfs/JPG%20file%20-02.jpg?width=2000&height=1125&name=JPG%20file%20-02.jpg) Open main navigation Close main navigation - English Show submenu for translations - [Contact us](mailto:support@sierrabio.com) [Contact us](mailto:support@sierrabio.com) How can we help you? - There are no suggestions because the search field is empty. 1. [Sierra Biosystems Support Center](https://support.sierrabio.com/?hsLang=en) 2. [Pre-Installation & Installation](https://support.sierrabio.com/pre-installation-installation?hsLang=en) 3. [Pre-Installation Requirements](https://support.sierrabio.com/pre-installation-installation?hsLang=en#pre-installation-requirements) September 3, 2026 # Shasta Synthesizer Requirements – FAQ ### ⚙️ **System & Hardware Requirements** **Q: What are the minimum PC requirements to run the synthesizer software?** A: - Operating System: Windows 10 or 11 (64-bit) - Processor: Intel Core i5 (8th Gen or later) or AMD Ryzen 5 equivalent, or better - RAM: 8 GB minimum (16 GB recommended) - Storage: 256 GB SSD or higher - Ports: - **Ethernet port** required with static IP configuration (see below) - USB port(s) for driver installation or peripherals - Display: 1920x1080 minimum resolution - Admin privileges required for installation **Q: Should Windows Updates be enabled on the synthesizer PC?** **A:**We strongly recommend **disabling automatic Windows Updates**. Scheduled or background updates can cause restarts, network interruptions, or software freezes during active synthesis runs. If updates are required for IT policy, they should be **manually installed outside of synthesis hours** with proper shutdown of the instrument beforehand. --- ### 🌐 **Networking Requirements** **Q: What network settings are required to operate the synthesizer?** A: - The synthesizer communicates via a **direct Ethernet connection**. - The connected PC must be configured with a **static IP address: `192.168.1.1`**. - No DHCP or internet access is required for instrument operation **Q: Can I connect the synthesizer to my company network?** A: Yes. However IP conflicts might arise and cause communication issues.  You will need to add additional ethernet ports or enable wireless access if using a standard computer with 1 ethernet port. --- ### 🧪 **Reagent & Consumable Requirements** **Q: What type of amidites are supported?** A: The synthesizer supports standard DNA, RNA, and modified amidites (including phosphorothioate, 2'-OMe, and LNA modifications). For RNA synthesis, ensure your amidites are fully protected using compatible formats such as TOM, TBDMS, or UltraMild. Contact our support team for a list of validated suppliers and recommended protocols. **Q: What column types are compatible?** A: The synthesizer supports the following standard synthesis column formats: - Pipette-style columns - 96-well plates - Syringe-style columns (large-scale drain apparatus required) - 384-well plates (384-well drain apparatus required) Contact our support team to confirm compatibility with your specific column brand or format.  --- ### 🔌 **Power & Pneumatics** **Q: What are the electrical power requirements?** A: - 3 Outlets Required: - Instrument - Computer - Monitor - Voltage: 100–240V AC - Frequency: 50/60 Hz - Power: 300–500W - Surge protection strongly recommended **Q: What are the gas/vacuum requirements?** A: - Inert Gas (Nitrogen or Argon): - Pressure: 60–80 psi regulated - Purity: ≥99.99% **Q: Can I use house air or gas?** A: Yes, house gas (nitrogen or argon) may be used, provided it meets the purity specification of ≥99.99% and is delivered at 60–80 psi regulated pressure. House compressed air is not recommended due to the risk of moisture and particulate contamination, which can damage the instrument and degrade synthesis quality. --- ### 💻 **Connectivity & Software** **Q: Is an internet connection required?** A: No. An internet connection is not required for daily instrument operation. However, internet access is recommended for receiving software updates and enabling remote technical support from our team. If the synthesizer PC is air-gapped, updates can be applied manually via USB — contact our support team for the update package. **Q: What ports or drivers are needed for PC connectivity?** A: - USB 2.0 - Ethernet port - Admin rights required for software installation --- ### 🧼 **Lab Environment & Safety** **Q: What are the environmental requirements for the instrument?** A: - Temperature: 18–25°C (64–77°F) - Humidity: \<60% non-condensing - Clean, well-ventilated lab area - Fume hood or dedicated exhaust recommended for handling deblock and waste fumes **Q: Is a waste trap  needed?** A: Yes. 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