Document:

<PAGE>   1
                                                                   EXHIBIT 10.10

*CERTAIN INFORMATION WITHIN THIS EXHIBIT HAS BEEN OMITTED AND THE NON-PUBLIC
INFORMATION HAS BEEN FILED SEPARATELY WITH THE SEC. CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT HAS
BEEN REQUESTED WITH RESPECT TO THE OMITTED PORTIONS.

                                                Fisher Scientific Company L.L.C.
                                                            2000 Park Lane Drive
                                                      Pittsburgh, PA  15275-1126

                                                               Tel: 412-490-8300
                                                               Fax: 412-490-8990

[FISHER SCIENTIFIC LOGO]

January 10, 2000

CEPHEID CORPORATION
1190 Borregas Avenue
Sunnyvale, CA 94089-1302
Attn: Thomas L. Gutshall, Chairman & CEO

Dear Mr. Gutshall:

This letter is to confirm discussions between representatives of both firms
concerning the Smart Cycler(TM) System, accessories, and reaction tubes
developed by and made by or for Cepheid ("SUPPLIER") and the terms of our
agreement for Fisher Scientific Company L.L.C. ("FISHER") to distribute those
products.

1.    Product Line. The "Products" shall include the Smart Cycler(TM) System
described in Exhibit A, the accessories listed in Exhibit A, and the reaction
tubes described in Exhibit A. The "Products" shall further include additional,
upgraded and improved Smart Cycler(TM) Systems, accessories and reaction tubes
introduced by Supplier as a replacement for existing Products and intended for
sale in the life science research market (the "Field"). Additional thermal
cyclers, accessories, and reaction tubes offered by Supplier shall become
"Products" only upon agreement of the parties. All Products shall conform to
SUPPLIER's specifications as have been disclosed to FISHER. All outer shipping
cartons shall conform to applicable Department of Transportation specifications.

2.    Distribution Rights. SUPPLIER grants to FISHER the right to distribute the
Products in the United States (including Puerto Rico) into the life science
research market (the "Field"). Such right shall be exclusive, except for: (a)
SUPPLIER's reserved right to sell directly to the end user customers listed in
Exhibit B and (b) SUPPLIER's right to make OEM sales of thermal cyclers,
accessories and/or reaction tubes similar to Products which SUPPLIER may sell
and ship to a firm for resale under that firm's label. In addition, SUPPLIER
grants to FISHER rights to distribute the PRODUCTS in the countries outside of
the United States (including Puerto Rico) listed in Addendum 1, according to the
terms outlined in Addendum 1.

2a.   Definition of Field. Rights are granted by the SUPPLIER to FISHER for
distribution into the Field of life science research. Specifically excluded from
the Field are human and veterinary diagnostics (including applications subject
to regulatory labeling including "For Investigational Use Only" or "For Research

<PAGE>   2

Use Only"), environmental testing, quality assurance and control testing,
identity and forensic testing, and testing for biothreat agents.

2b.   Exclusive Supplier. While the exclusive distribution rights under
Paragraph 2 remain in force, SUPPLIER will be the exclusive supplier to FISHER
of systems capable of performing thermal cycling with real-time optical
detection.

2c.   Sales Targets; Loss of Exclusivity. The parties have set minimum worldwide
sales targets for FISHER, in terms of units of Smart Cycler(TM) Systems (units
defined as the total number of 16-site Smart Cycler(TM) processing blocks,
either as part of a Starter System or as Add-On Blocks). Such sales targets
shall not represent commitments to purchase; but if FISHER fails to achieve a
sales target, SUPPLIER may, by written notice to FISHER terminate the
exclusivity of FISHER's distribution rights under Paragraph 2. Such written
notice shall be given within 90 days after the end of the sales target period
and shall become effective 30 days after FISHER's receipt of the notice. Such
termination of exclusivity shall be SUPPLIER's sole remedy for FISHER's failure
to achieve sales targets. The sales targets are as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
               Year 1                       Year 2
               ------                       ------
               <S>                          <C>
               [**] units                   [**] units
</TABLE>

FISHER shall provide SUPPLIER within 30 days after the first of each March,
June, September, and December a true and accurate accounting report of Products
(including units sold and selling price) sold on a country-by-country basis
during the preceding 3 months. In addition, FISHER shall provide to SUPPLIER on
a monthly basis an updated customer and contact list.

FISHER shall also provide SUPPLIER with one year (comprised of four quarters)
worldwide forecasts that will be updated on a quarterly basis and will include
projections for each of the upcoming three months. While the forecast will not
be binding in total, the projections provided for the upcoming quarter will
represent a purchase commitment.

3.    Product Price. The Product list prices and transfer prices to Fisher shall
be as listed in Exhibit A. These prices shall be firm through December 31, 2000.
Thereafter, prices may be increased once annually to be effective January 1 of
the upcoming calendar year by negotiation between the parties, with SUPPLIER
giving FISHER no less than one hundred twenty (120) days prior written notice of
proposed new prices. In no event shall the annual price increase for a Product
exceed the percentage price increase in the Producer Price Increase (excluding
food and energy) published by the U.S. Department of Commerce; however, any
price increases directly resulting from an increase in the price of the computer
as purchased by the SUPPLIER, will not be subject to this price increase limit.

<PAGE>   3

Each shipment shall be billed at the price in effect at the time of order
placement. Notice of price changes shall be sent to:

                      MARKETING SERVICES DEPARTMENT
                      Fisher Scientific
                      2000 Park Lane
                      Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania  15275

        With a copy to:      Central Purchasing

3a.   Payment Terms. Payment terms shall be 1% ten, net forty-five days from
receipt of valid invoice.

4.    Warranty. SUPPLIER shall warrant all Smart Cycler(TM) System Products for
12 months from delivery to FISHER's customer and all accessories (except the
computer) for 12 months from delivery to FISHER's customer. The warranty
provided for the computer by the computer manufacturer will be transferred to
FISHER's customer. SUPPLIER shall provide or reimburse FISHER's Fisher Service
Division for parts used in making repairs during the warranty period and shall
make parts available after the warranty period to such Fisher Service Division
at a discount of [**] from Supplier's list price for such parts. SUPPLIER shall
reimburse FISHER for travel and labor reasonably incurred for repairs during the
warranty period at terms negotiated from time to time between SUPPLIER and such
Fisher Service Division, though the hourly labor rate for support received from
the US Fisher Service Division through December 31, 2000 will be $[**].

SUPPLIER also warrants that the Smart Cycler(TM) System to be distributed by
FISHER in the Field shall be an "authorized thermal cycler" under the terms of
the Thermal Cycling Authorization Program administered by PE Biosystems, a
division of PE Corporation.

5.    Shipping. At the time of initial launch and for three months following
launch, SUPPLIER shall ship all initial customer orders of Smart Cycler(TM)
System Products (systems, accessories, and reaction tubes) directly to FISHER's
customers, FOB Sunnyvale, CA, freight charged to FISHER, within 30 days of order
receipt. Also, at the time of initial launch and for three months following
initial launch, SUPPLIER shall ship accessories and reaction tube Products FOB
Sunnyvale, CA to FISHER's distribution centers (freight collect) within 14 days
of order receipt, in order to fulfill customer re-orders received during this
time period. Beginning three months from initial launch, SUPPLIER will ship all
Smart Cycler(TM) System Products (systems, accessories and reaction tubes) FOB
Sunnyvale, CA to FISHER's distribution center in Santa Clara, CA (freight
collect), in order to fulfill all customer orders and re-orders. SUPPLIER shall
follow FISHER routing guide in the shipment of Products.

<PAGE>   4

6.    Stocking Levels. SUPPLIER shall maintain sufficient inventory of Products
to assure its ability to fill emergency direct shipment orders for FISHER's
customers, including, but not limited to, accessories and reaction tube
Products.

7.    Marketing support. SUPPLIER and FISHER shall each provide Marketing
Support, as described in Exhibit C (for U.S. distribution) and Addendum 1 (for
ex-U.S. distribution). There will be single worldwide contact point within
FISHER for the coordination of transmission of forecasts to SUPPLIER and for
marketing support activities between SUPPLIER and FISHER.

8.    Term. The term of this Agreement shall be from the date of mutual
execution of this Letter Agreement and extending for three years from the date
of initial product launch. Thereafter, the Agreement shall remain in force for
successive six month periods, unless either party gives written notice of
non-renewal to the other at least sixty (60) days prior to the current
expiration date.

9.    Termination. In the event of breach, the non-breaching party shall give
the breaching party (30) days written notice of breach. If the breach is not
cured within the thirty (30) day notice period, the non-breaching party may, at
its sole discretion, terminate the agreement.

10.   Continuing Guaranty. SUPPLIER shall execute and abide by the terms of
DISTRIBUTOR's Continuing Guaranty, a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit
D and incorporated herein by reference. The terms and provisions of the
Continuing Guaranty shall survive the termination of this Agreement.

11.   Amendments. Any terms or conditions of SUPPLIER's standard forms or
otherwise introduced by SUPPLIER shall not be binding unless agreed to in
writing by FISHER. Any amendment to this Agreement shall not be effective unless
in writing and signed by an authorized representative of SUPPLIER and of FISHER.

12.   Public Announcements. SUPPLIER shall not issue or cause to be issued any
press release or public announcement or otherwise disclose the existence of

<PAGE>   5

this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby except as and to the
extent that FISHER and its parent jointly agree, in writing.

Please signify your acceptance of this Agreement by signing below and returning
one original to Jim Mortimer.

                                                   Yours truly,

                                                   /s/ J. BRADLEY MAHOOD
                                                   ------------------------
                                                   J. Bradley Mahood
                                                   Vice President
                                                   Strategic Sourcing

Agreed And Accepted:

CEPHEID CORPORATION

By:  /s/ THOMAS L. GUTSHALL
   ---------------------------------

Name: Thomas L. Gutshall

Title: Chairman & CEO

   1-10-00
------------------------------------
Date

Exhibits       A - Products and Prices
               B - End User Customers Excluded From Exclusivity Provision
               C - Marketing Support
               D - Continuing Guarantee
Addendum       1  - List of Fisher International Affiliates

<PAGE>   6
                                    EXHIBIT A

SMART CYCLER(TM) SYSTEM
  (see attached flyer for description and specifications)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Part #         Description                                 List Price**     Fisher Price
------         -----------                                 ------------     ------------
<S>            <C>                                          <C>            <C>
SC1000N1-1     Smart Cycler(TM) Starter System              $24,995       [**] of List
               (includes one 16-site processing
                block, accessory pack*, and
                desk-top computer)

SC1000N3-1     Smart Cycler(TM) Processing Block            $22,495       [**] of List
               (one 16-site processing block and
                USB interface cable)
</TABLE>

* Accessory pack includes 1 mini-centrifuge, four reaction tube racks, one
  cooling block, software, users manual.

ACCESSORIES:
-----------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Part #         Description                        List Price**        Fisher Price
------         -----------                        ------------        ------------
<S>            <C>                                <C>                 <C>
SCCENT         Mini-Centrifuge                     $325.00            [**] of List

SCRACKS        Tube Racks (pack of 4)              $ 30.00            [**] of List

SCBLOCK        Cooling Block                       $ 85.00            [**] of List
</TABLE>

REACTION TUBES:
--------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

Part #         Description                                    List Price**         Fisher Price
------         -----------                                    ------------         ------------
<S>            <C>                                             <C>                 <C>

900-0003       1 Bag of  25 (greek mu)L Smart Cycler(TM)           $ 30.00         [**] of List
               Reaction Tubes (50 tubes/bag)

900-0004       1 Bag of 100 (greek mu)L Smart Cycler(TM)           $ 30.00         [**] of List
               Reaction Tubes (50 tubes/bag)

SCT25          1 Carton of 25 (greek mu)L Smart Cycler(TM)         $550.00         [**] of List Reaction
               Tubes (20 bags of 50 tubes ea)

SCT100         1 Carton of 100 (greek mu)L Smart Cycler(TM)        $550.00         [**] of List Reaction
               Tubes (20 bags of 50 tubes ea)
</TABLE>

** List prices subject to change by no more than +/- 10% by the time of launch
***List prices subject to change by no more than +/- 15% by the time of launch

<PAGE>   7
[SMART CYCLER LOGO]

SMART CYCLER SYSTEM SPECIFICATIONS

REACTION SITE OPTICS*
Dye detection limit less than 10 nm for FAM/TET/TAM/TOX
Optical channel characterization:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CHANNEL                 1                   2                3           4
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                <C>              <C>                   <C>          <C>
Excitation (nm)    less than 195        + 195-527         527-555          555-593
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Emission (nm)        505-537              537-565         565-605      more than 605
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Simplex Dyes          FAM                TET,JOE          TAM,CY3            ROX,
                    5Y8R Green                           EIR, Alexa       Texas Red
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Multiplex Dyes        FAM                   TET           TAM                ROX
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

REACTION SITE THERMAL CONTROLS*
Solid state heater and forced-air cooling at each site
Thermal reaction chamber thermistors calibrated to +/- 0.50 degrees C using
     National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)-traceable standards
16 independently-controlled reaction sites per processing block
1-6 processing blocks can be interconnected

REACTION TUBES
Single-use disposable tubes
Polypropylene construction
25- and 100 (micro)L volumes
No-leak closures

SOFTWARE/USER INTERFACE
Protocol parameters include:
     - Temperatures and their durations
     - Number of cycles
     - Optical read points
     - Melt curve ramp rates

Quantitative and qualitative data analysis
Graph:
     - Reaction site temperature
     - Fluorescence signal
     - Melt curves
     - Growth curves and second derivatives.
Export data to MS Excel-compatible files for further analysis

PHYSICAL DIMENSIONS
Processing block: 12" w x 12" h x 10" l
As little as 2.5 linear feet of bench space
22 lbs

POWER REQUIREMENTS
100-240 VAC, 50-60 Hz
350 Watts

PERFORMANCE PARAMETERS
Heating ramp rates (max.):
     - 10 degrees C/sec from 50 degrees C to 95 degrees C
Cooling ramp rates (max.):
     - 2.5 degrees C/sec from 95 degrees C to 50 degrees C
Temperature duration accuracy:
     - +/- 1.0 sec from programmed time
Temperature accuracy:
     - +/- 0.5 degrees C from 60 degrees C to 95 degrees C
Melt curve programmable ramp rates:
     - 0.1 degrees C/second to 1.0 degrees C/sec

ASSAY PERFORMANCE
Cycle time ((beta)-actin assay+):
     - less than 60 sec/cycle
     - less than 42 min/40 cycles
Cycle time (M13 assay+):
     - less than 25 sec/cycle
     - less than 20 min/45 cycles
Cycles to detection ((beta)-actin assay):
     - 150,000 copies in less than 28 cycles
     - 150 copies in less than 34 cycles, less than 150 copies in 35-45 cycles
Analytical precision ((beta)-actin assay):
     - Typical within run, site-to-site threshold crossing in +/- 0.25 cycles

*Covered by issued or pending patents

+Commercially available from PE Biosystems, Inc.

++Cepheid experimental application

Practice of the patented polymerase chain reaction (PCR) processor requires a
license. The Smart Cycler Thermal Cycler is an Authorized Thermal Cycler and
may be used with PCR licenses available from PE Corporation. Its use with
Authorized Reagents also provides a limited PCR license in accordance with the
label rights accompanying such reagents.

[FISHER SCIENTIFIC LOGO]                                        [CEPHEID LOGO]

<PAGE>   8
[CYCLER LOGO]

                  RAPID AMPLIFICATION WITH REAL TIME DETECTION

The Smart Cycler(TM) System from Cepheid is a highly versatile and efficient
thermal cycler with real time optical detection, specifically tailored to the
rapidly evolving needs of today's molecular biology laboratory.

The core of the Smart Cycler System is the I-CORE(TM) (Intelligent
Cooling/Heating Optical Reaction) module, incorporating state-of-the-art
microfluidic and microelectronic design. Each Smart Cycler processing block
contains sixteen independently programmable I-CORE modules, each of which
performs four-color, real time fluorometric detection. Samples are amplified
and measured in the Smart Cycler's proprietary sealable reaction tubes, which
are designed to optimize rapid thermal transfer and optical sensitivity.

The Smart Cycler software enables single or multiple operators to define and
simultaneously carry out any number of separate experiments, each with a unique
set of cycling protocols, threshold criteria, and data analysis. In addition,
thermal and optical data from each and all sites can be monitored in real time,
and graphs of temperature, growth curves, and melt curves can be charted as the
data are collected.

The Smart Cycler Starter System is delivered with all the equipment and software
needed to obtain faster assay results. The system (retail price $27,495)
includes a Smart Cycler processing block, Windows-compatible computer and
monitor, Smart Cycler Software, users manual, and accessory kit. The accessory
kit features a mini-centrifuge, tube-racks, and cooling block specifically
designed to accommodate Smart Cycler reaction tubes. The tubes can be purchased
in 25 or 100(micro)L volumes.

                                   [GRAPHIC]

                         [FISHER SCIENTFIC LETTERHEAD]
ORDERING INFORMATION

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CEPHEID             FISHER
PART NUMBER         PART NUMBER
<S>                 <C>
SC1000N1-1          11-400         Smart Cycler starter system
                                   (includes processing block, com-
                                   puter, manual, and accessory kit)

SC1000N3-1          11-400-1       Smart Cycler processing block

900-0028            11-400-6       Cooling block

900-0020            11-400-7       Mini-centrifuge

900-0027            11-400-8       Tube racks, 4-pack
</TABLE>

<TABLE>
CEPHEID             FISHER
PART NUMBER         PART NUMBER
<S>                 <C>
900-0023            11-400-2       Smart Cycler reaction tubes,
                                   100 (micro)l, qty 1,000

900-0022            11-400-3       Smart Cycler reaction tubes,
                                   25 (micro)l, qty 1,000

900-0004            11-400-4       Smart Cycler reaction tubes,
                                   100 (micro)l, qty 50

900-0003            11-400-5       Smart Cycler reaction tubes,
                                   25 (micro)l, qty 50
</TABLE>

                              www.smartcycler.com

<PAGE>   9
                                    EXHIBIT B

U.S. End User Customers Excluded From The Exclusivity Provisions Of Paragraph 2
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NAME:                                                                      ADDRESS:
----                                                                       -------
<S>                                                                        <C>
United States Department of Defense                                        Various
       Including but not limited to USAMRIID, JPOCMO,
       U.S. Marine Corps Systems Command, NRL, SBCCOM,
       Naval Research & Development Command, Armed Forces
       Institute of Pathology, U.S. Army Nuclear & Chemical
       Agency, Special Operations and Low-Intensity Conflict Group,
       Dugway Proving Ground, USAMMDA

United States Department of Justice                                        Various
       Including but not limited to FBI Hazardous Material
       Response Unit, Defense Threat Reduction Agency,
       FBI Technical Support Working Group, National Domestic
       Preparedness Office.

National Guard                                                             Various
       Including but not limited to: RAID Teams, Consequence
       Management Program, Integration Office, Bureau Readiness
       Center, Office of Weapons of Mass Destruction.

Central Intelligence Agency                                                Washington, DC

Centers for Disease Control, BioTerrorism Response                         Atlanta, GA

MKI Systems                                                                Dumfries, VA

Maxwell Technologies                                                       San Diego, CA

Litton Systems, Inc.                                                       Woodland Hills, CA

Battelle Institute/National Security Division                              Columbus, OH

DynCorp                                                                    Various
</TABLE>

<PAGE>   10
                                    EXHIBIT C

Sales & Marketing Support- Respective Roles and Responsibilities of FISHER and
SUPPLIER (U.S. Distribution)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------

During the term of this Agreement, FISHER shall use its reasonable best efforts
to actively promote the Products of this Agreement in the United States and
Puerto Rico through its sales force and through its life science specialists.
FISHER shall support such sales at its own expense via the following activities:

      o     Launch package/training material sent to entire sales and customer
            service organization

      o     Training of Life Science Specialists at Life Science meetings or
            designated and agreed upon training sessions

      o     Full page advertisement in issues of BioTrack publication, according
            to the following schedule: [**]

      o     Product information put on "What's New" section of Fisher web-site

      o     Include Cepheid on supplier lists for Fisher web-site, Life Science
            brochures and publications

      o     Display Products at trade shows where appropriate

      o     Include Products in Fisher sponsored catalogues, brochures, and
            literature

      o     Provide targeted sales incentive and commission program to support
            Product sales

During the term of this agreement, the following activities will also be
undertaken by both parties, as described below:

      o     Fisher and Cepheid will participate in a business review meeting on
            a quarterly basis, or on another agreed upon timeframe

      o     Cepheid will have primary responsibility for providing technical
            support for its products, although the Fisher Life Science
            Specialists will be trained by Cepheid to provide basic response,
            should they be contacted directly by Fisher customers

      o     Cepheid will provide Fisher with product and application literature
            at its own costs, although Fisher will offer printing services at
            cost

      o     Cepheid shall provide Fisher with [**] demo units at no cost to
            Fisher. Additional units will be provided at terms to be negotiated
            between the parties

      o     Fisher will provide a single, designated point of contact in the
            United States to provide worldwide forecasts and sales reports, and
            to help manage any issues arising from the worldwide distribution
            agreement (from the US sales and service organization, non-US
            affiliates, and worldwide customers)

<PAGE>   11

                              EXHIBIT C (CONTINUED)

In addition, Cepheid may choose, at its own discretion and cost, to participate
in the following promotional activities:

      o     Participate in the Fisher New Lab Start-Up Program

      o     Attend and have a booth at Fisher's National Sales Meeting

      o     Participate in account specific vendor shows

      o     Participate is scheduled work days with Fisher sales representatives
            and Life Science Specialists

      o     Advertise and exhibit in other life science research focused
            publications and meetings, making reference to Fisher as the
            distribution source.

<PAGE>   12
                                   ADDENDUM 1

      1.    Canada, upon execution of an addendum between Cepheid and Fisher
            Scientific Limited

      2.    United Kingdom, upon execution of an addendum between Cepheid and
            Fisher Scientific UK Limited

      3.    France, Germany, Belgium and Netherlands, upon execution of an
            addendum between Cepheid and Fisher Bioblock

<PAGE>   13
[FISHER SCIENTIFIC LOGO]

                                   EXHIBIT D

                              CONTINUING GUARANTY

A.   CEPHEID CORPORATION (hereinafter referred to as "SUPPLIER"), having its
     principal office and place of business at 1190 Borregas Avenue, Sunnyvale,
     CA 94089-1302 hereby guarantees that all Products (including their
     packaging, labeling and shipping) comprising each shipment or other
     delivery hereinafter made by SUPPLIER (hereinafter referred to as
     "Products") to or on the order of Fisher Scientific Company L.L.C., a
     Delaware limited liability company, having its principal place of business
     at 2000 Park Lane, Pittsburgh, PA 15275 or to any of its branches,
     divisions, subsidiaries, affiliates, or any of their customers (hereinafter
     collectively referred to as "Fisher"), are, as of the date of such shipment
     or delivery, in compliance with applicable federal, state and local laws,
     and any regulations, rules, declarations, interpretations and orders issued
     thereunder, including, without limitation, the Federal Food, Drug and
     Cosmetic Act, as amended, and conform to representations and warranties
     made by SUPPLIER in its advertising, product labeling and literature.

B.   Further, with respect to any Product that is privately labeled for Fisher.
     SUPPLIER agrees to make no change in such Products or the Fischer artwork
     on the labeling or packaging relating thereto without first obtaining the
     written consent of Fisher. SUPPLIER recognizes that Fisher is the owner of
     the trademarks and trade names connoting Fisher which it may elect to use
     in the promotion and sale of such private label Products and that SUPPLIER
     has no right or interest in such trademarks or trade names. SUPPLIER shall
     periodically analyze and review packaging and labeling for any Products
     which are private labeled for Fischer to ensure conformity with the
     provisions of paragraph A hereof and the adequacy of Product warnings and
     instructions.

C.   SUPPLIER hereby agrees that it will reimburse Fisher for all reasonable
     out-of-pocket costs and expenses incurred in connection with any product
     corrective action or recall relating to the Products which is requested by
     SUPPLIER or required by any government entity.

D.   SUPPLIER agrees to procure and maintain on an occurrence form basis product
     liability issuance with respect to the Products and contractual liability
     coverage relating to this Guaranty, with insurer(s) having Best's rating(s)
     of A-or better, naming Fisher as an additional insured (Broad Form Vendors
     Endorsement), with minimum limits in each case of $1,000,000. SUPPLIER
     shall promptly furnish to Fisher a certificate of insurance and renewal
     certificate of insurance evidencing the foregoing coverages and limits. The
     insurance shall not be canceled, reduced or otherwise changed without
     providing Fisher with at least ten (10) days prior written notice. Fisher
     agrees to maintain corresponding levels of insurance and to provide
     certificates of such issuance to SUPPLIER and further agrees that Fisher's
     insurance coverage shall be primary to the extent that a claim is based
     upon the negligent acts and omissions or willful misconduct of Fisher.

E.   SUPPLIER agrees to and shall protect, defend, indemnify and hold harmless
     Fisher (and with respect to Subparagraph E. (i) below, Fisher's customers)
     from any and all claims, actions, costs, expenses and damages, including
     attorney's fees and expenses arising out of: (i) any actual or alleged
     patent, trademark or copyright infringement in the design, composition, use
     by itself or in accordance with SUPPLIER's instructions, sale, advertising
     or packaging of the Products, (ii) any breach of the representations or
     warranties set forth in this Guaranty; (iii) the sale or use of the
     Products where such liability results from the act or omission of SUPPLIER
     (whether for breach of warranty, strict liability in tort, negligence or
     otherwise), except to the extent that such liability is caused by the
     negligent acts or omissions or willful misconduct of Fisher. Fisher agrees
     to and shall protect, defend, indemnify and hold harmless SUPPLIER to the
     extent that any such liability is caused by the negligent acts or omissions
     or willful misconduct of Fisher.

F.   SUPPLIER agrees to and shall provide to Fisher Material Safety Data Sheets
     and other information concerning any Product as required by then applicable
     federal, state or local law.

G.   If the Products to be furnished by SUPPLIER are to be used in the
     performance of a U.S. government contract or subcontract, those clauses of
     the applicable U.S. Government procurement regulation which are mandatorily
     required by Federal Statute to be included in U.S. Government subcontracts
     shall be incorporated herein by reference including, without limitation,
     the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, as amended.

H.   The representations and obligations set forth herein shall be continuing
     and shall be binding upon the SUPPLIER and his or its heirs, executors,
     administrators, successors and/or assigns, whichever the case may be, and
     shall inure to the benefit of Fisher, its successors and assigns and to the
     benefit of its officers, directors, agents and employees and their heirs,
     executors, administrators and assigns.

I.   The agreements and obligations of SUPPLIER set forth in this Guaranty are
     in consideration of purchases made by Fisher from SUPPLIER and said
     obligations are in addition to (and supersede to the extent of any
     conflict) any obligations of SUPPLIER to Fisher or Fisher to SUPPLIER. This
     Guaranty shall be effective upon the first sale to Fisher of any Product by
     SUPPLIER, and the obligations of SUPPLIER under this Guaranty shall survive
     and be enforceable in accordance with its terms.

     SUPPLIER

     CEPHEID CORPORATION

     /s/ THOMAS L. GUTSHALL
     --------------------------------------
     Signature of Authorized Representative

     CEO & CHAIRMAN 1-10-00
     ---------------------------------------
     TITLE

     FISHER SCIENTIFIC COMPANY LLC.

     /s/ [SIGNATURE ILLEGIBLE]
     ----------------------------------------
     Signature of Authorized Representative

     VP Strategic Merchandising 1/13/00
     ----------------------------------------
     Title<PAGE>   1
                                                                   EXHIBIT 10.14

*CERTAIN INFORMATION WITHIN THIS EXHIBIT HAS BEEN OMITTED AND THE NON-PUBLIC
INFORMATION HAS BEEN FILED SEPARATELY WITH THE SEC. CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT HAS
BEEN REQUESTED WITH RESPECT TO THE OMITTED PORTIONS.

LICENSE AND SUPPLY AGREEMENT entered into as of the 4th day of February 2000.

BETWEEN:   ARIDIA CORP., a corporation incorporated under the laws of the
           Province of Nova Scotia (hereinafter the "Corporation")

AND:       CEPHEID, a corporation incorporated under the laws of the state of
           California (hereinafter "Cepheid")

WHEREAS, Cepheid has expertise and know-how relating to systems, subsystems and
consumables (such as disposable reaction tube), for diagnosing human disease
parameters;

WHEREAS Infectio Diagnostic (I.D.I.) Inc. ("IDI") has granted to the Corporation
an exclusive license to make, use, offer to sell and sell certain nucleic acid
sequences in combination with Cepheid proprietary technology for identification
and diagnosis of certain human infectious disease parameters;

WHEREAS, Cepheid and the Corporation desire to enter into an agreement whereby
JV Products will be developed and commercialized with Cepheid systems,
subsystems and consumables for use with IDI nucleic acid sequences;

WHEREAS IDI, Cepheid and the Corporation have entered into a Joint Technology
and Collaboration Agreement dated February 4, 2000; and

WHEREAS IDI, Cepheid and the Corporation have entered into a Shareholders
Agreement dated February 4, 2000.

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements
hereinafter set forth and other good and valuable consideration, the parties
hereby agree as follows:

<PAGE>   2
                                      -2-

                                    ARTICLE 1

                                   DEFINITIONS

As used in this agreement:

1.1   "AFFILIATE(s)" shall mean any corporation or other business entity
      controlled by or in common control of a party. "Control" as used herein
      means ownership directly or through one or more Affiliates, of fifty
      percent (50%) or more of the shares of the share capital entitled to vote
      for the election of directors, in the case of any corporation, or fifty
      percent (50%) or more of the equity interests in the case of any other
      type of legal entity, status as a general partner in any partnership, or
      any other arrangement whereby a party controls or has the right to control
      the board of directors or equivalent governing body of a corporation or
      other entity.

1.2   "CEPHEID" shall include all of the divisions, subsidiaries and Affiliates
      of Cepheid.

1.3   "CEPHEID INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY" shall mean all technology rights and
      patents rights (a) owned by Cepheid, existing as of the date hereof or
      developed subsequent to the date hereof and (b) relating to systems,
      subsystems and consumables for diagnosing human disease parameters
      including without limitations the patents and patents applications listed
      and described on Appendix A hereto. The Cepheid Intellectual Property
      shall also include any improvements, refinements, updates, discoveries or
      inventions related to Cepheid Intellectual Property and intellectual
      property developed by Cepheid in the course of the Collaboration Program
      as defined in the Collaboration Agreement.

1.4   "CEPHEID PRODUCTS" shall mean any products developed by Cepheid including
      but not limited to systems, subsystems and non reagent consumables to be
      incorporated in the JV Products.

1.5   "COLLABORATION AGREEMENT" shall mean the Joint Technology and
      Collaboration Agreement between the Corporation, IDI and Cepheid dated
      February 4, 2000;

1.6   "COST" shall mean [to be provided by the parties and shall take into
      account adjustment mechanisms]

1.7   "FIELD" shall mean the rapid diagnosis of human infectious diseases,
      including but not limited to bacteria, fungi, antibiotic resistance and
      related disorders, with systems integrating both IDI Intellectual Property
      and Cepheid Intellectual Property.

1.8   "IDI" shall include all of the divisions, subsidiaries and Affiliates of
      IDI.

1.9   "IDI INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY" shall mean all technology rights and patent
      rights (a) owned by IDI, existing as of the date hereof or developed
      subsequent to the date hereof and (b) relating to nucleic acid sequences
      useful for the identification and/or diagnosis of human infectious disease
      parameters, including, without limitation, the patents and patent
      applications listed and

<PAGE>   3
                                      -3-

      described on Appendix B hereto. The IDI Intellectual Property shall also
      include any improvements, refinements, updates, discoveries or inventions
      related to IDI Intellectual Property and intellectual property developed
      by IDI in the course of the Collaboration Program as defined in the
      Collaboration Agreement.

1.10  "JV PRODUCTS" shall mean any of the Corporation Products integrating both
      Cepheid Intellectual Property and IDI Intellectual Property.

1.11  "SHAREHOLDERS AGREEMENT" shall mean the Shareholders Agreement between
      IDI, Cepheid and the Corporation dated February 4, 2000, and any addenda
      and amendments of said agreement.

1.12  "TERRITORY" shall mean all of the countries in the world, including their
      respecting territories and possessions.

1.13  "TRANSFER PRICE" shall mean with respect to any Cepheid Product the price
      at which Cepheid will sell Cepheid Product to the Corporation as provided
      in Article 3 hereof.

                                    ARTICLE 2

                         LICENSE AND TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER

2.1   LICENSE GRANT

      (a)   Cepheid hereby grants to the Corporation a fully paid-up,
            royalty-free, exclusive right and license in the Territory, with the
            right to grant sublicenses, in and to all Cepheid Intellectual
            Property and Cepheid Products to make, use, offer to sell and sell
            JV Products in the Field.

      (b)   If the Corporation grants a sublicense to a third party, the
            Corporation guarantees that such sublicense shall be in conformity
            with the terms and conditions of this Agreement and the Corporation
            shall not be relieved of its obligations pursuant to this Agreement
            as a result of such sublicense.

2.2   LIMITED RIGHTS

      Notwithstanding Section 2.1, the Corporation and IDI acknowledge and
      covenant that Cepheid can make, have made, use, offer for sale, and sell
      outside the Field in the Territory, directly or indirectly, Cepheid
      Intellectual Property and Cepheid Products for use with technology other
      than IDI Intellectual Property.

2.3   CEPHEID WARRANTY

      To the best knowledge of Cepheid, Cepheid Intellectual Property and
      Cepheid Products do not infringe patents of any third party other than
      certain patents owned by Perkin Elmer for which Cepheid is currently
      negotiating a license.

<PAGE>   4
                                      -4-

                                    ARTICLE 3

                       SUPPLY AND USE OF CEPHEID PRODUCTS

3.1   EXCLUSIVE PURCHASE

      The Corporation shall exclusively purchase Cepheid Products required for
      the manufacturing and sale of the Product from Cepheid and shall not use
      any third party product or technology other than Cepheid Products and
      Cepheid Intellectual Property for the manufacture and sale of JV Products
      except for IDI Intellectual Property.

3.2   PRODUCTION

      Cepheid declares that it is and shall be in a position to produce or cause
      to be produced Cepheid Products in a quantity necessary to meet the
      Corporation's reasonable projected sales forecast projections with
      reserves to include back-up supplies in the event such may be required.

3.3   TRANSFER PRICE

      The Transfer Prices at which Cepheid shall sell Cepheid Product to the
      Corporation shall be as follows: the transfer price of Cepheid instruments
      shall be equal to the Cost of said Cepheid Instruments plus [**]; the
      transfer price of Cepheid consummables shall be established as agreed by
      both IDI and Cepheid to enable their equitable sharing of revenues and
      profits generated by the Corporation. Transfer pricing formulas will be
      periodically reviewed and adjusted as necessary upon agreement by both IDI
      and Cepheid to ensure their equitable sharing of revenues and profits
      generated by the Corporation.

3.4   TITLE TO CEPHEID PRODUCTS

      To secure the payment of all amounts due hereunder and the observance and
      performance of all the terms, provisions, agreements and covenants of this
      Agreement, Cepheid reserves ownership of all Cepheid Products sold to the
      Corporation under the terms of this Agreement until the earlier of the
      dates on which the Corporation shall have (i) resold such Cepheid Products
      to a customer or (ii) made payment in full to Cepheid of all amounts due
      hereunder. Such reservation of ownership shall operate to the maximum
      extent permitted under the laws of the country in which the respective
      Cepheid Product is physically located, and the Corporation shall comply
      with all formalities required to give effect thereto.

3.5   FORECASTS

      For the purposes of Section 3.1, the Corporation shall provide Cepheid on
      a calendar quarterly basis with an updated two year forecast in order to
      enable Cepheid to develop realistic production requirements of Cepheid
      Products for future periods.

<PAGE>   5

                                      -5-

3.6   DELAY IN SUPPLY

      In the event that Cepheid would encounter circumstances out of its control
      where the supply of the Cepheid Products could not be provided to the
      Corporation, IDI shall so advise the Corporation, in the best of delays,
      and in such a case the parties shall attempt to find alternatives to
      supply the required Cepheid Products to the Corporation during the period
      in question.

3.7   TRANSPORTATION

      All Cepheid Products to be supplied by Cepheid to the Corporation shall be
      delivered to the Corporation F.O.B. Sunnyvale, California, at the premises
      of the Corporation. Subject to the following, the parties agree that the
      term "F.O.B." shall be interpreted in accordance with the Uniform
      Commercial Code. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, Cepheid
      Products shall be at Corporation's sole risk and responsibility as of the
      moment that Cepheid Products have been placed on board the carrier
      specified by the Corporation.

3.8   EXPORT/IMPORT LICENSE

      Notwithstanding any provisions to the contrary, the obtainment of any and
      all export and/or import licenses as well as any and all required
      governmental consents are the sole responsibility of the Corporation,
      Cepheid declaring, however that it shall collaborate with the Corporation
      in this regard.

                                    ARTICLE 4

                                  INFRINGEMENT

4.1   INFRINGEMENT

      (a)   Each party shall promptly report in writing to the other party
            during the term of this Agreement any known infringement or
            suspected infringement of any Product, Cepheid Intellectual Property
            or Cepheid Products by a third party of which it becomes aware, and
            shall provide the other party with all available evidence supporting
            said infringement or suspected infringement.

      (b)   Except as provided in paragraph (d), the Corporation shall have the
            right to initiate an infringement or other appropriate suit against
            any third party who at any time has infringed, or is suspected of
            infringing, any Product, Cepheid Intellectual Property or Cepheid
            Products. The Corporation shall give Cepheid sufficient advance
            notice of its intent to file said suit and the reasons therefor, and
            shall provide Cepheid with an opportunity to make suggestions and
            comments regarding such suit. The Corporation shall keep Cepheid
            properly informed, and shall from time to time consult with Cepheid,
            regarding the status of any such suit.

      (c)   The Corporation shall have the sole and exclusive right to select
            counsel for any suit referred to in paragraph (b) and shall pay all

<PAGE>   6
                                      -6-

            expenses of the suit, including without limitation attorney's fees
            and court costs. If necessary, Cepheid shall join as a party to the
            suit but shall be under no obligation to participate except to the
            extent that such participation is required as the result of being a
            named party to the suit. Cepheid shall offer reasonable assistance
            to the Corporation in connection therewith at no charge to the
            Corporation except for reimbursement of reasonable out-of-pocket
            expenses (not including salaries of Cepheid personnel) incurred in
            rendering such assistance. Cepheid shall have the right to
            participate and be represented in any such suit by its own counsel
            at its own expense. The Corporation shall not settle any such suit
            involving rights of IDI without obtaining the prior written consent
            of Cepheid, which consent shall not be unreasonably.

      (d)   In the event that the Corporation elects not to initiate an
            infringement or other appropriate suit pursuant to paragraph (b),
            the Corporation shall promptly advise Cepheid of its intent not to
            initiate such suit, and Cepheid shall have the right, at the expense
            of Cepheid, of initiating an infringement or other appropriate suit
            against any third party who at any time has infringed, or is
            suspected of infringing, any Product, Cepheid Intellectual Property
            or Cepheid Products. In exercising its rights pursuant to this
            paragraph (d), Cepheid shall have the sole and exclusive right to
            select counsel and shall pay all expenses of the suit, including
            without limitation, attorney's fees and court costs, and shall be
            entitled to receive and retain any damages, royalties, settlement
            fees or other consideration. If necessary, the Corporation shall
            join as a party to the suit but shall be under no obligation to
            participate except to the extent that such participation is required
            as a result of being a named party of the suit. At Cepheid's
            request, the Corporation shall offer reasonable assistance to
            Cepheid at no charge to Cepheid except for reimbursement of
            reasonable out-of-pocket expenses (not including salaries of the
            Corporation personnel) incurred in rendering such assistance. The
            Corporation shall have the right to participate and be represented
            in any such suit by its own counsel at its own expense.

4.2   CLAIMED INFRINGEMENT

      Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, in the event
      that any action, suit or proceeding is brought against Cepheid or the
      Corporation, licensee or sublicensee of the Corporation alleging the
      infringement of the intellectual property rights of a third party by
      reason of the manufacture, use, sale or offer for sale of Cepheid
      Products, Cepheid Intellectual Property or JV Products by the Corporation,
      the Corporation will have the obligation to defend itself and Cepheid in
      such action, suit or proceeding at the Corporation's expense. Cepheid
      shall have the right to separate counsel at its own expense in any such
      action or proceeding. The parties will cooperate with each other in the
      defense of any such suit, action or proceeding. The parties will give each
      other prompt written notice of the commencement of any such suit, action
      or proceeding or claim or infringement and will furnish

<PAGE>   7
                                      -7-

      each other a copy of each communication relating to the alleged
      infringement, but the failure to do so shall not affect the Corporation's
      obligations under this Article and under Article 5 except to the extent
      the Corporation is actually damaged thereby. The Corporation shall not
      compromise, litigate, settle or otherwise dispose of any such suit, action
      or proceeding which involves the use of Cepheid Product or Cepheid
      Intellectual Property without Cepheid's advice and prior written consent,
      provided that Cepheid shall not unreasonably withhold its consent to any
      settlement which will provide an unconditional release of Cepheid.

4.3   LIMITED LIABILITY

      Notwithstanding anything else in this Agreement or otherwise, neither
      Cepheid nor the Corporation will be liable with respect to any subject
      matter of this Agreement under any contract, negligence, strict liability
      or other legal or equitable theory for any indirect, incidental,
      consequential or punitive damages or lost profits.

4.4   WARRANTY DISCLAIMER

      The Corporation agrees that there does not exist any warranty, guarantee,
      declaration or condition, express or implied, made by Cepheid, including
      implicit warranties as to merchantability, market quality, commercial
      value and fitness for any particular purpose whatsoever relative to
      Cepheid Intellectual Property or Cepheid Products or to the incorporation
      of Cepheid Products in the JV Products.

                                    ARTICLE 5

                                 INDEMNIFICATION

      The Corporation shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless Cepheid and its
      and their respective directors, officers, employees, and agents and their
      respective successors, heirs and assigns (the "Cepheid Indemnitees"),
      against any liability, damage, loss or expense (including reasonable
      attorneys' fees and expenses of litigation) incurred by or imposed upon
      the Cepheid Indemnitees, or any of them, in connection with any claims,
      suits, actions, demands or judgments of third parties, including without
      limitation, personal injury and product liability matters (except in cases
      where such claims, suits, actions, demands or judgments result from
      willful misconduct, gross negligence or material breach of this Agreement
      on the part of Cepheid Indemnitees) arising out of the development,
      testing, production, manufacture, promotion, import, sale or use by any
      person of any JV Products, Cepheid Products or Cepheid Intellectual
      Property manufactured or sold by the Corporation or by a licensee,
      sublicensee, distributor or agent of the Corporation. The Corporation
      shall have no obligation under this Article 5 with respect to incidental,
      indirect, or consequential damages or lost profits of Cepheid.

<PAGE>   8
                                      -8-

                                    ARTICLE 6

                       CONFIDENTIALITY AND NON-DISCLOSURE

      The parties agree that the Confidentiality provisions contained in the
      Shareholders Agreement apply to this Agreement with the necessary changes
      having been made.

                                    ARTICLE 7

                              TERM AND TERMINATION

7.1   TERM AND TERMINATION

      This Agreement shall continue in full force and effect until the
      expiration of the 6 month period following receipt by IDI or Cepheid of a
      notice of winding up sent pursuant to Article 4 of the Shareholders
      Agreement.

7.2   SURVIVAL OF OBLIGATIONS

      Articles 4, 5 and 6 of this Agreement shall survive its termination.

7.3   RETURN OF CEPHEID PRODUCTS

      Cepheid shall have the right at its option to repurchase all or any part
      of the inventories of Cepheid Products in the Corporation's possession as
      of the termination of this Agreement at Cepheid's invoice price to the
      Corporation for such Cepheid Products less any appropriate amount for
      excessive wear and tear. Cepheid shall exercise its option by notifying
      the Corporation in writing no later than 30 days after the effective
      termination date.

                                    ARTICLE 8

                                    DISPUTES

8.1   NEGOTIATION AND MEDIATION

      If a dispute arises out of or relates to this Agreement or its breach (the
      "Matter"), the parties agree to resolve the Matter as follows:

      (a)   A party shall submit written notice of the Matter to the other
            parties and request negotiation.

      (b)   The parties shall attempt in good faith to resolve any Matter
            arising out of or relating to this Agreement promptly by negotiation
            between representatives which the parties may appoint, and

      (c)   If the Matter has not been resolved within 60 days of a party's
            request for negotiation, either party may request that the Matter be
            submitted

<PAGE>   9
                                      -9-

      to a sole mediator selected by the parties for a mandatory 1 day
      mediation;

8.2   ARBITRATION

      If the Matter has not been resolved by such mediation, either party may
      submit the Matter for binding arbitration, to a sole arbitrator in
      accordance with the Rules of Conciliation and Arbitration of the
      International Chamber of Commerce as in effect on the date of commencement
      of such arbitration, (the "ICC Rules") if Cepheid initiates such
      arbitration, and pursuant to the Rules of the American Arbitration
      Association as in effect on the date of commencement of such arbitration
      (the "AAA Rules") if Corporation initiates such arbitration, except where
      such ICC Rules conflict with the provisions of Article 8 in which event
      the provisions of this Article 8 shall prevail.

8.3   APPOINTMENT OF ARBITRATOR

      If the parties fail to agree on the appointment of the sole arbitrator
      within 20 days after one party has served the other party, a written
      notice to concur in the appointment of the single arbitrator nominated by
      the serving party, the sole arbitrator shall be appointed in accordance
      with the ICC Rules or AAA Rules, as the case may be. The sole arbitrator
      shall be a member of the Quebec Bar if the ICC Rules apply or the
      California Bar if the AAA Rules apply with at least 10 years of experience
      in corporate commercial or intellectual property law. The arbitrator shall
      render any final award within 20 days following the completion of evidence
      and arguments on the Matter.

8.4   ADMISSIBILITY OF EVIDENCE IN OTHER PROCEEDINGS

      The parties shall not be entitled to rely on or introduce as evidence
      before any arbitral proceedings whether or not such proceedings relate to
      the Matter that is the subject of the negotiations:

      (a)   Views expressed or suggestions made by another party in respect of a
            possible settlement of the Matter;

      (b)   Admissions or proposals made by another party in the course of
            negotiations; or

      (c)   The fact that the other party had indicated his willingness to
            accept a proposal for settlement made by another party.

8.5   LOCATION

      The mediation and arbitration shall be held in Montreal, Quebec. if
      Cepheid initiates the arbitration and in San Francisco, California if the
      Corporation initiates the arbitration. The parties, their representatives,
      the mediator and the arbitrator shall hold the existence, contend and
      results or any negotiation, mediation or arbitration in confidence unless
      disclosure is required by law or regulation, and in such case the parties
      shall take reasonable precautions to only disclose what is required by law
      or governmental regulation. All proceedings and all pleadings shall be in
      English.

<PAGE>   10
                                      -10-

8.6   AWARD

      Any award of the Arbitration shall be final and binding on the parties and
      shall be enforceable in any court having jurisdiction over the party from
      whom enforcement is requested.

                                    ARTICLE 9

                                     NOTICES

      Any notice, request, instruction or other document to be given hereunder
      shall be deemed validly given if in writing, and delivered personally,
      sent by overnight courier, or sent by certified mail, postage prepaid,
      return receipt requested, as follows:

        If to Cephied:
        -------------

        Cepheid
        1190 Borregas Avenue
        Sunnyvale, CA, 94089-1302
        Attn:  Thomas L. Gutshall
        Facsimile: (408) 541-4192

        and if to the Corporation:
        -------------------------

        Aridia Corp.
        2050 Rene Levesque Blvd. West
        Ste-Foy, Quebec, Canada G1V 2K8
        Attn:  Dr. Pierre Coulombe
        Facsimile: (418) 681-5254

        And copy to: Thomas L. Gutshall
        Facsimile: (408) 541-4192

        and copy to IDI:
        ---------------

        Infectio Diagnostic (I.D.I.) Inc.
        2050 Rene Levesque Blvd. West
        Ste-Foy, Quebec, Canada G1V 2K8
        Attn:  Dr. Pierre Coulombe
        Facsimile: (418) 681-5254

        Alternatively, notices and other communications may be sent by facsimile
        transmission with a confirmation copy sent by one of the forms of
        delivery set forth above. All notices and other communications shall be
        deemed delivered on the date of actual receipt.

<PAGE>   11
                                      -11-

                                   ARTICLE 10

                                  MISCELLANEOUS

10.1  ENTIRE AGREEMENT

      This Agreement along with the Collaboration Agreement, the Shareholders
      Agreement and the License and Supply Agreement between IDI and the
      Corporation constitutes the entire understanding between the parties with
      respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes and replaces all prior
      agreements, understandings, writings and discussions between the parties
      relating to said subject matter. Only a written instrument executed by the
      parties may amend this Agreement.

10.2  WAIVER

      The failure of either party at any time or times to require performance of
      any provision hereof shall in no manner affect its rights at a later time
      to enforce the same. No waiver by either party of any condition or term in
      any one or more instances shall be construed as a further or continuing
      waiver of such condition or term or any other condition or term.

10.3  SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS

      This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of and be
      enforceable by the parties hereto and their respective successors and
      assigns and Cepheid shall not assign this Agreement without the prior
      written consent of the Corporation which cannot be unreasonably withheld.

10.4  FORCE MAJEURE

      Any delays in or failure of performance by either party under this
      Agreement shall not be considered a breach of this Agreement if and to the
      extent caused by occurrences beyond the reasonable control of the party
      affected, including but not limited to acts of God; acts, regulations, or
      laws of any government; strikes or other considered acts of workers;
      fires; floods; explosions; riots; wars; rebellion; and sabotage; and any
      time for performance hereunder shall be extended by the actual time of
      delay caused by such occurrence.

10.5  SEVERABILITY

      If any provision(s) of this Agreement are or become invalid, or ruled
      illegal by any court of competent jurisdiction, or are deemed
      unenforceable under then current applicable law from time to time in
      effect during the term hereof, it is the intention of the parties that the
      remainder of this Agreement shall not be affected thereby. It is further
      the intention of the parties that in lieu of each such provision which is
      invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, there be substituted or added as part
      of this Agreement, a provision which shall be as similar as possible in
      economic and business objectives as intended by the parties to such
      invalid, illegal, or unenforceable provision, but which shall be valid,
      legal, and enforceable, and shall be mutually agreed by the parties.
<PAGE>   12

                                      -12-

10.6  HEADINGS

      The headings contained herein are for reference purposes only and shall
      not in any way affect the meaning of this Agreement.

10.7  COUNTERPARTS

      This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of
      which shall be an original, but all of which together shall constitute one
      instrument.

10.8  NO AGENCY

      Nothing contained in this Agreement shall be deemed to create a
      partnership between the Corporation and Cepheid. Neither party shall be
      liable for the act of the other party unless the other party expressly
      authorizes such act in writing.

10.9  GOVERNING LAW

      As to matters affecting Cepheid Intellectual Property, this Agreement
      shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the
      State of California, without regard to the application of principles of
      conflicts of laws thereof. As to other matters, this Agreement shall be
      governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Province of
      Quebec, without regard to the application of principles of conflicts of
      laws thereof.

        IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the
date first above written.

CEPHEID                                     ARIDIA CORP.

Per: /s/ THOMAS L. GUTSHALL                 Per:   /s/ DR. PIERRE COULOMBE
    ------------------------------              -------------------------------
      Thomas L. Gutshall                         Dr. Pierre Coulombe

                                            Per: /s/ THOMAS L. GUTSHALL
                                                -------------------------------
                                                   Thomas L. Gutshall

IDI Inc. intervenes to declare that it has taken cognizance of this Agreement
and that it accepts to be bound by Sections 2.2, 3.3 and 7.1.

INFECTIO DIAGNOSTIC (I.D.I.) INC.

Per:  /s/ DR. PIERRE COULOMBE
    -------------------------------
        Dr. Pierre Coulombe

<PAGE>   13

                                   APPENDIX A

                         CEPHEID INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
<PAGE>   14

                                   APPENDIX A

                       TO THE LICENSE AND SUPPLY AGREEMENT
                        BETWEEN ARIDIA CORP. AND CEPHEID

                     CEPHEID PATENT RIGHTS AND APPLICATIONS

I.    Reaction vessel for heat-exchanging chemical processes.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                PATENT
         COUNTRY                NUMBER              ISSUED
<S>                           <C>              <C>
        UNITED STATES         US 5,958,349     Sept. 28, 1999
</TABLE>

<PAGE>   15
                                   APPENDIX B

                      TO THE LICENSE AND SUPPLY AGREEMENT
                        BETWEEN ARIDIA CORP. AND CEPHEID

                       IDI PATENT RIGHTS AND APPLICATIONS

1.   Sspecific and universal probes and amplification primers to rapidly detect
     and identify common bacterial pathogens and antibiotic resistance genes
     from clinical specimens for routine diagnosis in microbiology laboratories.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
COUNTRY           APPLICATION         FILING DATE         STATUS
                    NUMBER
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                <C>                <C>                  <C>
(A) Australia      34681/95            Sept. 12, 1995      292494
(B) Brazil         08/304732           Sept. 12, 1995      Pending
(C) Canada         1529278             April 2, 1998       Pending
(D) China          CN1161060A          Oct. 1, 1997        Pending
(E) United States  US526840            Nov. 4, 1996        6,001,564
(F) Europe         95 931 109.3-2116                       Pending
(G) India          2153CAL97                               Pending
(H) Japan          504973/98           May 19, 1998        Pending
(I) Mexico         97/01847            June 18, 1997       Pending
(J) Norway         971111              Sept. 1, 1998       Pending
(K) New Zealand    JP207909            August 12, 1998     292494
(L) Singapore      9701090-4           Sept. 12, 1995      9701090-4
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

<PAGE>   16
II.  Species-specific, genus-specific and universal DNA probes and amplification
     primers to rapidly detect and identify common bacterial and fungal
     pathogens and associated antibiotic resistance genes from clinical
     specimens for diagnosis in microbiology laboratories.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                    APPLICATION
COUNTRY               NUMBER            FILING DATE         STATUS
-------             -----------         -----------         ------
<S>                 <C>                 <C>                 <C>
(A) Argentina       P970105357          Nov. 14, 1997       Pending
(B) Australia        48598/97           Nov. 14, 1997       Pending
(C) Brazil          PI9713494-5         Nov. 14, 1997       Pending
(D) Canada            5044400           July 22, 1999       Pending
(E) China            97180194.0         Nov. 4, 1997        Pending
(F) United States   WO98/20157          Nov. 4, 1997        Pending
(G) Europe          97911094.7-2116                         Pending
(H) India            2153CAL97          Nov. 13, 1997       Pending
(I) Japan                               May 6, 1999         Pending
(J) Mexico            99-4119           May 3, 1999         Pending
(K) Norway            19991976          April 26, 1999      Pending
(L) New Zealand       335548            June 4, 1999        Pending
(M) Singapore        9901915-0          Nov. 4, 1997        Pending
</TABLE>

<PAGE>   17
III.  Highly conserved genes and their use to generate species-specific,
      genus-specific, family-specific, group-specific and universal nucleic acid
      probes and amplification primers to rapidly detect and identify bacterial,
      fungal and parasitical pathogens from clinical specimens for diagnosis.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
                   APPLICATION
COUNTRY               NUMBER               FILING DATE            STATUS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>               <C>                     <C>                     <C>
Canada            CAN 2,283,458           Sept. 28, 1999          Pending
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

<PAGE>   18
IV.  Specific and universal probes to rapidly detect and identify common
      bacteria form urinary or any other biological samples in the routine
      microbiology laboratory.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                       APPLICATION
COUNTRY                   NUMBER               FILING DATE            STATUS
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                   <C>                     <C>                     <C>
United States         85-586-9001-2           Sept. 12, 1994          08/304,734

United States S.N.     850586.90012           Sept. 11, 1994          08/526,840
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

<PAGE>   19
V.  Species-specific and universal DNA probes and amplification primers to
rapidly detect and identify common bacterial pathogens and associated
antibiotic resistance genes from clinical specimens for routine diagnosis in
microbiology laboratories.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
                   APPLICATION
COUNTRY               NUMBER              FILING DATE             STATUS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                <C>                    <C>                    <C>
United States      US 743,637             Nov. 4, 1996           5,994,066
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

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