Roche LightCycler 480 Real-Time PCR System
High-throughput, high-precision PCR — engineered for modern genomics labs.
The Roche LightCycler® 480 is the trusted real-time PCR platform designed to empower laboratories with rapid thermal cycling, excellent optical accuracy, and full-format flexibility. Whether you're running a 96-well setup or scaling to 384-well plates, the LightCycler 480 ensures reproducible data, exceptional sensitivity, and future-ready integration with robotics and LIMS. This analyzer offers the modular, performance-driven infrastructure your lab demands—backed by Roche’s legacy of precision and innovation.
Why Labs Still Choose the Roche LightCycler 480
Fast, flexible qPCR with unmatched accuracy
With rapid <40-minute 384-well runs and exchangeable thermoblocks requiring no recalibration, the LightCycler 480 delivers high-throughput performance without sacrificing precision.
High-plex capability with robust optical design
Equipped with five excitation and six emission filters, this system enables complex multiplex assays with exceptional optical uniformity—eliminating edge effects for reliable data across every well.
Broad chemistry and application compatibility
Compatible with SYBR Green I, hydrolysis probes, HybProbe®, and SimpleProbe® technologies, the LightCycler 480 supports a wide range of qPCR applications including SNP genotyping, gene expression, melting curve analysis, and quantification.
Scalable, automation-ready architecture
Built for the demands of today and tomorrow, it integrates seamlessly with LIMS and lab automation systems—making it a future-proof investment for any molecular diagnostics lab.
Why Buy Yours from Block Scientific?
Block Scientific is more than a lab equipment supplier — we're your performance partner. Here's what sets us apart:
Get a Quote in 90 Minutes — with dedicated expert follow-up every step of the way.
Nationwide on-site service & installation — over 40 years serving clinical and research labs across the U.S.
Refurbished to OEM standards by factory-trained engineers — with a 30-day satisfaction guarantee.
Trade-in program — get credit for your aging PCR or qPCR system.
Bundle pricing — combine equipment + reagents + consumables to lower your cost per test. Browse reagents.
Uniform 10–15% reagent discount — no tiered pricing games.
Flexible financing options — including lease-to-own and deferred payments.
Key Features & Workflow Benefits
- Rapid Results with Smart Thermal Control: Complete 40-cycle, 384-well runs in under 40 minutes using advanced Peltier technology for ultra-fast heating/cooling.
- Exceptional Accuracy Across Wells: Proprietary optics eliminate edge effects, delivering consistent fluorescence detection and reproducible quantification.
- User-Exchangeable Thermoblocks: Switch between 96- and 384-well formats in minutes — no service visit or calibration needed.
- Multiplex-Ready Optical System: Five excitation and six emission filters support advanced multiplex assays using SYBR Green I, FRET, and more.
- Built for Genomic Applications: Supports array validation, SNP genotyping, gene knockdown studies, and high-resolution melting curve analysis.
- Automation & LIMS Integration: Built-in barcode reader, robotic compatibility, and full LIMS connectivity ensure scalability and compliance.
- Modular Software Packages: Choose only what you need — from absolute quantification to allelic discrimination and statistical tools.
Technical Specifications
LC 480 96-Well | LC 480 384-Well | LC 480 II 96-Well | LC 480 II 384-Well | |
| Reaction Volumes | 20–100 µL | 5–20 µL | 10–100 µL | 5–20 µL |
Run Time | < 60 min | < 40 min | < 60 min | < 40 min |
| Detection | 6 detection filters, signals detected online by CCD camera | 6 detection filters, signals detected online by CCD camera | Cooled monochrome CCD camera | Cooled monochrome CCD camera |
| Excitation | 5 excitation filters, high-intensity broad-spectrum xenon lamp | 5 excitation filters, high-intensity broad-spectrum xenon lamp | LightCycler® 480 LED Lamp | LightCycler® 480 LED Lamp |
Temperature control | Peltier-based heating/cooling from 40°C - 95°C | Peltier-based heating/cooling from 40°C - 95°C | Peltier-based heating/cooling from 37°C–95°C | Peltier-based heating/cooling from 37°C–95°C |
Dimensions (W x D x H) | 24 x 24 x 21.5 in | 24 x 24 x 21.5 in | 24 x 24 x 21.5 in | 24 x 24 x 21.5 in |
Weight | 121 lbs | 121 lbs | 121 lbs | 121 lbs |
Automation | Barcode, LIMS, robotic-ready | Barcode, LIMS, robotic-ready | Barcode, LIMS, robotic-ready | Barcode, LIMS, robotic-ready |
What Comes in a Refurbished Package
Each fully refurbished Roche LightCycler 480 includes:
Main instrument with selected thermoblock (96 or 384 well)
Refurbished Pentium-class PC preloaded with Roche software
Power and connectivity cables
Integrated barcode reader
Performance validation test
Optional startup reagents & consumables (bundle pricing available)
Printed and digital user documentation
Block Scientific’s 30-day satisfaction guarantee
Optional upgrades: software modules, automation packages, and reagent starter kits.
Service, Warranty & Financing Options
At Block Scientific, we provide:
- OEM-grade refurbishment by certified technicians
- On-site installation and training available nationwide
- Service contracts tailored to lab volume and compliance needs. View service options.
- Financing options — from 12-month plans to deferred startup payments
- 30-day performance guarantee on all refurbished units
Get a Quote in 90 Minutes
Ready to upgrade or expand your lab’s PCR capability?
We’ll send you a formal quote with configuration options and estimated lead time in under 90 minutes.
Need a callback or demo scheduling? Just ask.
FAQs
Q: Is this a real-time PCR or qPCR instrument?
Yes, the Roche LightCycler 480 is a real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) platform optimized for SYBR Green I, hydrolysis probes, and FRET-based assays.
Q: What’s the difference between LightCycler 480 and 480 II?
The 480 II adds updated software, refined optics, and improved automation integration but maintains backward compatibility and form factor.
Q: Can I use this with my existing LIMS?
Absolutely. Both LC 480 and LC 480 II support full LIMS connectivity and barcode-driven sample tracking.
Q: Is this compatible with melting curve analysis and SNP genotyping?
Yes. It excels in high-resolution melting (HRM) and SNP applications with low inter-well deviation and multicolor detection capabilities.
Compliance & Disclaimers
Used and refurbished Roche LightCycler 480 systems sold by Block Scientific are not covered by OEM warranty. However, every unit is professionally restored to meet or exceed original performance specifications. For research use only; not intended for diagnostic procedures unless otherwise validated.
