What is the optimal order of pipetting artus® PCR samples?

In general, the following pipetting order is applicable: 

1.  artus® Master Mix 
2.  analytical samples
3.  quantitation standards (QS, supplied) 
4.  nuclease-free sterile water (supplied)

To avoid cross-contamination deriving from the supplied QS, QIAGEN strongly recommends to pipette and seal (if possible) the analytical patient samples (2.) prior to the QS (3.).

A water control should be included subsequently to pipetting the analytical/QS samples (4.) to control a contamination-free process flow.