# Open qPCR (dual channel)

> qPCR instrument, dual channel fluorescence detection

**Wikidata**: [Q117477781](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q117477781)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/open-qpcr-dual-channel

## Summary
Open qPCR (dual channel) is an open hardware qPCR instrument with dual channel fluorescence detection, manufactured by Chai Bio, and includes open-source software components.

## Key Facts
- It is a real-time fluorescence sensing thermo cycler manufactured by Chai Bio.
- The device has a mass of 5 kilograms.
- It costs approximately $7,999 as of April 9, 2023, in the United States.
- The dimensions are 25 cm in width, 20 cm in height, and 30 cm in horizontal depth.
- It includes open-source software components, with the software available on GitHub.
- It is classified as open hardware.
- It differs from the single-channel version of the same instrument.

## FAQs
### Q: What is the price of the Open qPCR (dual channel)?
A: The Open qPCR (dual channel) costs approximately $7,999 as of April 9, 2023, in the United States.

### Q: What are the dimensions of this device?
A: The device measures 25 cm in width, 20 cm in height, and 30 cm in horizontal depth.

### Q: Is the software for this instrument open source?
A: Yes, the device includes open-source software components, with the software available on GitHub.

### Q: What is the manufacturer of this instrument?
A: The manufacturer is Chai Bio.

## Why It Matters
The Open qPCR (dual channel) represents an important advancement in accessible molecular biology instrumentation. As an open hardware device, it democratizes access to quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) technology by making its design documents publicly available and modifiable. This approach lowers barriers to entry for researchers, educators, and institutions that might otherwise be priced out of commercial qPCR systems. The dual-channel fluorescence detection capability allows for simultaneous monitoring of multiple targets in a single reaction, increasing experimental throughput and efficiency. By combining open hardware principles with sophisticated molecular biology technology, the device addresses the need for more affordable, customizable, and transparent laboratory equipment in research and educational settings.

## Notable For
- It is classified as open hardware, meaning its design documents are openly accessible to and modifiable by others.
- It includes open-source software components, with the software available on GitHub.
- It offers dual-channel fluorescence detection, allowing simultaneous monitoring of multiple targets.
- It differs from the single-channel version of the same instrument.
- It provides a more affordable alternative to commercial qPCR systems while maintaining professional-grade performance.

## Body
### Technical Specifications
The Open qPCR (dual channel) is a real-time fluorescence sensing thermo cycler designed for quantitative polymerase chain reaction applications. The device features dual-channel fluorescence detection, enabling simultaneous monitoring of two different fluorophores or molecular targets within the same reaction. This capability enhances experimental throughput and allows for more complex multiplexed assays.

### Physical Dimensions
The instrument has compact dimensions of 25 cm in width, 20 cm in height, and 30 cm in horizontal depth, with a mass of 5 kilograms. These specifications make it suitable for laboratory workstations with limited space while maintaining professional performance standards.

### Software Integration
The device incorporates open-source software components, with the software available on GitHub under the project name "chaipcr". This approach allows users to modify, customize, and distribute the software as needed, further enhancing the instrument's flexibility and adaptability to various research applications.

### Manufacturer and Availability
Manufactured by Chai Bio, the Open qPCR (dual channel) is marketed as an accessible alternative to commercial qPCR systems. The device is available through the manufacturer's website, with a price point of approximately $7,999 as of April 9, 2023, in the United States. A user manual is provided as a downloadable PDF from the manufacturer's site.

### Classification and Differentiation
The instrument is classified as open hardware, distinguishing it from proprietary commercial systems. It specifically differs from the single-channel version of the same instrument, offering enhanced capabilities through its dual-channel fluorescence detection system. The device is designed to serve as both a scientific instrument model and a real-time fluorescence sensing thermo cycler.

## References

1. [Source](https://www.chaibio.com/openqpcr)
2. [Source](https://grabcad.com/library/chai-open-qpcr-1)
3. [Source](https://github.com/chaibio/chaipcr)
4. [Source](https://static.chaibio.com/spree/products/114/Open_qPCR_User_Manual.pdf)