Modular and Flexible C1000™ and S1000™ Thermal Cyclers

Date: 
2008-01-21

HERCULES, CA — January 21, 2008 — Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. (AMEX: BIO and BIOb), a multinational manufacturer and distributor of life science research and clinical diagnostic products, today announced the introduction of the Bio-Rad 1000-series thermal cycling platform, its next generation PCR instrumentation.

The C1000™ and S1000™ thermal cyclers offer a flexible and modular high-end PCR platform, with features giving performance that is fast, accurate, and reproducible. The C1000 incorporates the best of the iCycler®, system including a large graphical display and the best of the DNA Engine including its fully adjustable lid. The C1000 also includes features such as USB flash drive data storage and the Protocol Autowriter that enables users to automatically write protocols based on their input parameters and the desired reaction speed.

"We are excited to add these next generation thermal cyclers to our range of PCR solutions," said Hilary Srere, Bio-Rad's PCR amplification marketing manager. "The C1000 and S1000 thermal cyclers give users the flexibility to work the way they want to work, with options for programming and the ability to support a wide range of consumables. At the same time they will get best-in-class thermal performance and adherence to the most stringent quality standards."

Unlike thermal cyclers from other manufacturers, the C1000 and S1000 thermal cyclers offer multiple block formats including 96-well fast, 384-well, and a dual 48-well fast block that is gradient enabled. Bio-Rad is the only manufacturer to offer a gradient enabled dual block. Additionally, the C1000 can be upgraded to real-time PCR with the CFX96™ reaction module.

The 1000-series offers scientists technology that helps them achieve faster results. In addition, the 1000-series offers easy integration into existing workflows and has multiple features that focus on the user such as easy-to-use software, PC compatibility, single-run optimization with thermal gradient, automatic programming, multiple connectivity options, and online training and tools.

About Bio-Rad
Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. (AMEX: BIO and BIOb) has remained at the center of scientific discovery for more than 50 years manufacturing and distributing a broad range of products for the life science research and clinical diagnostic markets. The company is renowned worldwide among hospitals, universities, major research institutions, as well as biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies for its commitment to quality and customer service. Founded in 1952, Bio-Rad is headquartered in Hercules, California, and serves more than 85,000 research and industry customers worldwide through its global network of operations. The company employs approximately 6,300 people globally and had revenues of nearly $1.3 billion in 2006. For more information, visit www.bio-rad.com.

This release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as, "believe," "expect," "may," "will," "intend," "estimate," "continue," or similar expressions or the negative of those terms or expressions. Such statements involve risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to vary materially from those expressed in or indicated by the forward-looking statements. For further information regarding the Company's risks and uncertainties, please refer to the "Risk Factors" in the Company's public reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2006, as updated by subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K. The Company cautions you not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which reflect an analysis only and speak only as of the date hereof. Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. disclaims any obligation to update these forward-looking statements.