The Automated Thermal Block is a Peltier-driven heating and cooling device pre-programmed to perform the lysis steps of the BAX® System protocols. It has been designed as a solid-state device with minimal moving parts to help ensure quality performance over time. The temperature of the plate is sensed by a platinum resistance temperature device mounted under the plate. The computer in the unit compares the plate temperature with the target temperature and instructs the module to heat or chill the plate as required.