FAQ: What is the optimal heat shock time for the 96-tube format NEB 5-alpha Competent E. coli (NEB #C2987U)?

Both the temperature and the timing of the heat shock step are important and specific to the transformation volume and vessel. Using the 96-tube provided, 30 seconds at 42°C is optimal. Expect approximately 15% loss in transformation efficiency when heat shocking for 20 seconds.