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Simple, automated library preparation and templating
The Ion Chef System enables automated next generation sequencing workflow for Ion GeneStudio S5 Series, delivering walk-away automation for Ion AmpliSeq library prep through template preparation and semiconductor chip loading.
Designed for NGS workflow efficiency
Ion Chef can enable highly multiplexed library prep for targeted sequencing. It uses emulsion PCR and enrichment to generate consistent templating. Additionally, the system precisely loads Ion Torrent semiconductor chips to streamline your steps to sequencing.
Ion Chef key features
| Ion AmpliSeq library preparation | Automate library construction with Ion AmpliSeq chemistry, helping to enable uniformity and reproducibility for targeted sequencing. |
| Template preparation | Integrated template preparation enables consistent templated beads through automated emulsion PCR and enrichment, reducing variability and user intervention. |
| Semiconductor chip loading | Precision chip loading optimizes sequencing efficiency. Automated handling reduces loading errors and improves data yield and consistency across runs. |
Ion Chef System integrated workflow
The Ion Chef, GeneStudio S5, and Ion Reporter software work together as a seamlessly integrated workflow—from automated templating to sequencing and downstream analysis. With minimal hands-on time and intuitive data processing, labs can move from sample to report with speed and convenience. This end-to-end solution simplifies complexity while delivering consistent, high-quality results.
Learn more about automated template preparation & chip loading with the Ion Chef System.
Simplifying Next-Gen Sequencing Template Prep
with Ion Chef
Simplifying Next-Gen Sequencing Template Prep
with Ion Chef
Benefits of the Ion Chef System
| Simplified operation | An intuitive touchscreen interface, cartridge-based reagents, and integrated barcode/sample tracking make advanced NGS workflows accessible to multiple levels of experience. |
| Walk-away automation | With just 15 minutes of setup for library prep or templating, users can load samples and reagents and walk away while the system prepares libraries and sequence-ready chips. |
| Faster workflow | Multiple manual NGS preparation steps help to enable faster sample-to-sequencing turnaround. |
| Reproducible results | Automated pipetting, chip loading, and onboard tracking helps to minimize user-introduced variability. |
| Higher productivity | Reduced manual intervention frees scientists to focus on experimental design and data analysis rather than sample prep. |
Applications for the Ion Chef System
Instrument |
Ion chip |
Read length |
Key research applications |
Ion 510 Chip |
Up to 400 bp |
Targeted DNA sequencing, targeted RNA sequencing, small RNA sequencing, de novo microbial sequencing, bacterial genotyping, viral genotyping, metagenomics. |
|
Ion 520 Chip |
|||
Ion 530 Chip |
|||
Ion 540 Chip |
Up to 200 bp |
Exome sequencing, transcriptome sequencing, copy number analysis. |
|
Ion 550 Chip |
Ordering information
Ion Chef System
Ion AmpliSeq library construction kits
Ion GeneStudio S5 Series kits
Ion Chef System frequently asked questions
The Ion Chef System is an instrument that automates:
- Library preparation for AmpliSeq-based targeted NGS
- Enrichment of templated Ion Sphere Particles (ISPs)
- Chip loading for sequencing
It is commonly used in clinical research for oncology panels, inherited disease panels, and targeted sequencing workflows.
Ion Chef run time depends on factors such as the specific protocol, application, and number of samples, but here are some typical ranges:
- 12-18 hours for library prep (about 15 minutes of hands-on time, often performed overnight)
- 7–8 hours for template preparation and chip loading (about 15 minutes of hands-on time)
After that, the loaded chip is transferred to the sequencing instrument for the sequencing run.
For labs doing NGS testing for clinical research, key advantages include:
- Reduced hands-on time
- Lower risk of contamination from the environment
- Improved reproducibility
- Standardized workflow
The system requires:
- Ion Chef™ reagent kits (specific to chip type)
- Ion sequencing chips (510/520/530/540/550)
- AmpliSeq™ library prep kits compatible with Ion Torrent™ workflows (optional)
Reagents are cartridge-based and loaded directly into the instrument for automated processing
For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.
PMR-004684