Staggered Start of Runs

At specific times during a single-sided run, you can set up and start a run on the idle side of the NovaSeq X Series. The system displays the next available start time for the idle side, which remains locked unless you request a start. If staggered start information is not available, the feature is not compatible with the recipe that is in use. If a maintenance wash is required on the idle side of the instrument, you cannot request a staggered start.

After you request a staggered start, the software automatically pauses the in-progress run to allow the setup of a new run. The paused side is placed in a safe state and resumes automatically.

When a staggered run begins, the estimated run completion time for the previously in-progress run can change. Make sure to check for the latest time estimates.

The following table shows the approximate time that staggered start is first available for an in-progress run. Additional pause points are available at the end of each cycle.

Flow Cell Type

Time (Hours)

1.5B (600 cycles)

~8

25B

~6.5

10B, 5B, 1.5B (100, 200, or 300 cycles)

~6

If you cancel run setup after a pause or the pause lapses after 30 minutes without initiating run setup, you can request a staggered start again. However, pausing a run multiple times can negatively impact run data quality.

To initiate a staggered start, do as follows.

1. From the Sequencing screen, select Request on the idle side.

When the in-progress run pauses, the option to start a new run appears on the previously locked side.

2. Select Start.
3. Set up a sequencing run. Refer to Initiate a Sequencing Run for instructions.

After run setup and pre-run checks are complete, the new run starts and the paused run resumes.

Avoid delays during run setup. Pausing a run for an extended period can negatively impact run data quality.