Programmed changes in hybridization conditions to improve probe signal quality

A method of improving signal-to-noise performance of probes on an array, said method comprising:

• providing a sample containing sequences that provide perfect complementary matches to sequences contained on at least some of said probes;
• and
• hybridizing the probes with the sample, while cycling the stringency of hybridization conditions during said hybridizing.

A computer readable medium carrying one or more sequences of instructions for improving signal-to-noise performance of a probe, wherein a probe is provided for hybridization with a sample, and wherein execution of one or more sequences of instructions by one or more processors causes the one or more processors to perform the steps of:

• hybridizing the probe with the sample at a first hybridization stringency over a first hybridization time period;
• and
• following said hybridizing over the first hybridization time period, hybridizing the probe with the sample at a second hybridization stringency over a second hybridization time period.

A computer readable medium carrying one or more sequences of instructions for improving signal-to-noise performance of probes on an array, wherein probes are provided on an array for hybridization with a sample, wherein the sample contains sequences that provide perfect complementary matches to sequences contained on at least some of said probes, and wherein execution of one or more sequences of instructions by one or more processors causes the one or more processors to perform the steps of:

• hybridizing the probes with the sample;
• and
• cycling the stringency of hybridization conditions during said hybridizing.