IKA KS 260 basic Orbital Shaker
| Brand | IKA |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Manufacturer Type | Direct Manufacturer |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | KS 260 basic |
| Instrument Type | Orbital Shaker |
| Timer Range | 5–50 min |
| Oscillation Speed | 0–500 rpm |
| Orbit Diameter | 10 mm |
| Number of Platforms | 1 |
| Max Load Capacity (incl. clamp) | 7.5 kg |
| Input Power | 45 W |
| Operating Temperature Range | 5–50 °C |
| Relative Humidity Limit | ≤80 % |
| Protection Class | IP21 |
| Voltage | 220–240 V / 100–120 V |
| Frequency | 50/60 Hz |
| Analog Output | Yes |
| Continuous Operation | Supported |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | 360 × 98 × 420 mm |
| Weight | 8.5 kg |
Overview
The IKA KS 260 basic is a compact, benchtop orbital shaker engineered for precision and reliability in life science laboratories. It operates on the principle of controlled circular motion—generating a consistent 10 mm orbit diameter—to ensure homogeneous mixing, suspension, and aeration of liquid samples across diverse biological and biochemical applications. Designed for continuous or timed operation, the unit delivers stable rotational performance from 50 rpm (minimum adjustable speed) up to 500 rpm, with electronic speed regulation ensuring high reproducibility between runs. Its robust brushless motor architecture provides low-vibration operation, minimizing mechanical stress on sensitive cultures or reagents while maintaining long-term operational stability. The absence of integrated temperature control positions this model specifically for ambient-temperature shaking tasks—ideal for cell culture maintenance, solubility testing, ELISA plate preparation, bacterial growth support, and routine sample homogenization where thermal regulation is not required.
Key Features
- Compact footprint (360 × 98 × 420 mm) optimized for space-constrained lab benches and biosafety cabinets
- Microprocessor-controlled speed regulation with LED digital display for real-time monitoring of rpm and timer status
- Adjustable timer function (5–50 minutes) plus continuous mode selection via front-panel controls
- IP21-rated enclosure ensures protection against vertically falling drips and solid objects ≥12.5 mm—suitable for standard laboratory environments
- Analog output interface (0–10 V) enables integration with external data acquisition systems for process logging or centralized lab monitoring
- High-efficiency brushless motor (10 W output / 45 W input) delivering low heat generation and extended service life
- Rated for 100% duty cycle—capable of uninterrupted operation under full load (up to 7.5 kg including clamps)
- Compliant with DIN EN 60529 (IP rating), IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC emission), and IEC 61000-6-2 (immunity) standards
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The KS 260 basic accommodates a wide range of vessel formats—including Erlenmeyer flasks (up to 2 L), test tubes, centrifuge tubes, multiwell plates, and custom containers—via interchangeable clamps (sold separately). Its 10 mm orbit diameter and smooth acceleration profile minimize splashing and foaming in low-viscosity media, supporting applications aligned with ISO 8573-1 (compressed air purity), USP (aseptic compounding environment support), and CLSI EP05-A3 guidelines for mixing consistency validation. While not certified for GLP/GMP production environments out-of-the-box, its analog output, stable speed control, and audit-ready mechanical design facilitate integration into validated workflows requiring traceable shaking parameters. All electrical components meet CE marking requirements per the Low Voltage Directive (2014/35/EU) and RoHS 2011/65/EU restrictions on hazardous substances.
Software & Data Management
The KS 260 basic operates as a standalone instrument without embedded software or USB connectivity. However, its analog voltage output (0–10 V, proportional to actual rpm) allows seamless connection to programmable logic controllers (PLCs), SCADA systems, or third-party data loggers for time-stamped speed tracking. When deployed in regulated settings—such as QC labs following FDA 21 CFR Part 11—users may implement external electronic lab notebooks (ELNs) or LIMS platforms to record operator ID, start/stop timestamps, setpoints, and duration. The device supports manual documentation integrity through its dual LED displays, which retain visible confirmation of both speed and remaining timer value during operation—reducing transcription errors in paper-based SOPs.
Applications
- Maintenance of aerobic microbial cultures (e.g., E. coli, yeast) in shake flasks under ambient conditions
- Preparation of uniform suspensions for spectrophotometric analysis or particle size distribution studies
- Coating uniformity verification in diagnostic assay development (e.g., antigen immobilization on microtiter plates)
- Solubility and dissolution rate screening during early-stage pharmaceutical formulation
- Buffer equilibration and reagent reconstitution prior to HPLC or mass spectrometry workflows
- Supporting ASTM D4097 (standard test method for determining the settling rate of suspended solids) via standardized agitation protocols
FAQ
Is the KS 260 basic suitable for use inside a CO2 incubator?
No—this model lacks environmental sealing and temperature control; it is rated only for ambient lab conditions (5–50 °C, ≤80 % RH).
Are clamps included with the base unit?
No—clamps are optional accessories and must be selected and ordered separately based on vessel type and quantity.
Can the shaker be operated without the timer function?
Yes—selecting “continuous” mode bypasses the timer and maintains constant speed until manually stopped.
What safety certifications does the unit carry?
It bears CE marking, complies with DIN EN 60529 (IP21), and meets electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and low-voltage safety directives applicable to laboratory equipment in the EU and North America.
Does IKA provide calibration documentation with the KS 260 basic?
Factory calibration is performed prior to shipment; users receive a conformity statement. Traceable calibration certificates (e.g., ISO/IEC 17025) are available upon request at additional cost.
