Shasta Synthesizer Requirements – FAQ
⚙️ System & Hardware Requirements
Q: What are the minimum PC requirements to run the synthesizer software?
A:
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Operating System: Windows 10 or 11 (64-bit)
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Processor: Intel i5 or better
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RAM: 8 GB minimum (16 GB recommended)
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Storage: 256 GB SSD or higher
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Ports:
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Ethernet port required with static IP configuration (see below)
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USB port(s) for driver installation or peripherals
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Display: 1920x1080 minimum resolution
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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:
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The synthesizer communicates via a direct Ethernet connection.
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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. For RNA, ensure your amidites are fully protected (TOM, TBDMS, or UltraMild formats). Contact our support for validated suppliers and protocols.
Q: What column types are compatible?
A: Supports standard synthesis columns: pipette style, 96 well plates, syringe style columns (large scale drain apparatus required) or 384 well plates (384 well drain apparatus required).
🔌 Power & Pneumatics
Q: What are the electrical power requirements?
A:
- 3 Outlets Required:
- Instrument
- Computer
- Monitor
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Voltage: 100–240V AC
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Frequency: 50/60 Hz
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Power: 300–500W
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Surge protection strongly recommended
Q: What are the gas/vacuum requirements?
A:
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Inert Gas (Nitrogen or Argon):
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Pressure: 60–80 psi regulated
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Purity: ≥99.99%
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Q: Can I use house air or gas?
A: Yes but it must maintain specifications for purity as stated above
💻 Connectivity & Software
Q: Is an internet connection required?
A: Not for daily operation. However, internet access is recommended for software updates and remote support
Q: What ports or drivers are needed for PC connectivity?
A:
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USB 2.0
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Ethernet port
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Admin rights required for software installation
🧼 Lab Environment & Safety
Q: What are the environmental requirements for the instrument?
A:
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Temperature: 18–25°C (64–77°F)
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Humidity: <60% non-condensing
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Clean, well-ventilated lab area
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Fume hood or dedicated exhaust recommended for handling deblock and waste fumes
Q: Is a waste trap needed?
A: Yes. A chemical waste carboy is required to safely capture acidic and volatile fumes from synthesis byproducts.