IKA HS 260 basic Reciprocal Shaker

Overview

The IKA HS 260 basic is a compact, benchtop reciprocal shaker engineered for reliable and reproducible mixing of samples in life science laboratories. It operates on a linear reciprocating motion—distinct from orbital or rotary shaking—making it particularly suitable for applications requiring gentle yet effective suspension of particulates, cell resuspension, staining/destaining procedures, and immunoassay plate agitation. The device employs a brushless DC motor with electronic speed control and integrated microprocessor-based timing logic, ensuring stable performance across its full operational range. Designed and manufactured in Staufen, Germany, the HS 260 basic adheres to IKA’s long-standing engineering standards for mechanical robustness, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), and electrical safety (DIN EN 60529, IP21 rating). Its absence of temperature regulation positions it as a dedicated ambient-temperature mixing solution—ideal for integration into controlled-environment workflows where thermal stability is externally managed.

Key Features

• Reciprocal motion with precise 20 mm stroke length—optimized for uniform sample agitation without vortex formation or excessive shear stress
• Digitally adjustable speed range from 0 to 300 rpm, with fine resolution down to 1 rpm; minimum controllable speed is 20 rpm
• Integrated LED display showing real-time speed (rpm) and remaining timer duration
• Dual operation modes: programmable timed run (5–50 minutes) or continuous operation
• Maximum load capacity of 7.5 kg—including platform and clamping accessories—ensuring compatibility with multi-vessel configurations
• Compact footprint (360 × 100 × 420 mm) and low mass (8.16 kg) facilitate placement in biosafety cabinets, cold rooms, or shared lab benches
• IP21-rated enclosure provides protection against vertically falling drips and solid objects ≥12.5 mm—suitable for standard laboratory environments
• Universal voltage input (100–120 V / 220–240 V, 50/60 Hz) enables global deployment without external transformers

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The HS 260 basic accommodates a wide variety of sample containers—including test tubes (10–50 mL), Erlenmeyer flasks (up to 250 mL), Petri dishes, microtiter plates (96-well and 384-well formats), and custom glassware—via interchangeable clamps (sold separately). No proprietary platform geometry is required; users may select from IKA’s catalog of universal holders (e.g., universal tube clamps, plate adapters, flask supports) to match experimental needs. While the instrument itself does not include regulatory certification for GMP or GLP environments, its design conforms to foundational requirements for traceability and reliability: all operational parameters are digitally recorded via front-panel display, and the absence of internal data storage eliminates ambiguity in audit trails. For labs operating under ISO/IEC 17025 or FDA 21 CFR Part 11 frameworks, external logging solutions can be implemented using third-party environmental monitoring systems interfaced via analog output (optional accessory).

Software & Data Management

The HS 260 basic operates as a standalone hardware unit without embedded firmware connectivity or PC interface. All parameter inputs and status feedback occur locally via the dual-line LED display and tactile membrane keypad. This architecture prioritizes operational simplicity, reduces electromagnetic interference risks in sensitive assay environments, and ensures uninterrupted function during network outages or software updates. For laboratories requiring electronic recordkeeping, the device supports manual entry into LIMS or ELN platforms through standardized SOP documentation templates. Optional analog output modules (available upon request) enable analog signal transmission (0–10 V or 4–20 mA) corresponding to real-time rpm or timer status—facilitating integration with building management systems or centralized process controllers.

Applications

• Western blot membrane washing and antibody incubation
• Cell culture flask passaging and re-suspension prior to centrifugation
• Staining and destaining of polyacrylamide gels
• Extraction protocols involving solid-phase matrices (e.g., silica columns, magnetic beads)
• Pre-analytical sample homogenization for clinical chemistry or microbiology workflows
• Quality control mixing steps in pharmaceutical manufacturing (non-sterile ambient processes)
• Academic teaching labs emphasizing fundamental principles of mechanical agitation and kinetics

FAQ

Is the HS 260 basic compatible with microtiter plates?

Yes—when used with IKA’s optional 96-well plate clamp (Cat. No. 000002621), the shaker maintains consistent motion across all wells without edge effects or cross-contamination risk.
Does the device support programmable ramp-up or ramp-down profiles?

No—the HS 260 basic offers only stepwise speed setting and fixed-duration timing; advanced acceleration/deceleration sequencing requires higher-tier models such as the IKA HS 501 digital.
Can this shaker be operated inside a CO₂ incubator?

Not recommended—its IP21 rating and operating temperature range (5–50 °C) do not meet the humidity and condensation resistance requirements typical of humidified incubator environments.
Are replacement fuses or service manuals available directly from IKA?

Yes—technical documentation, spare parts lists, and certified service bulletins are accessible via IKA’s global support portal using the serial number and model designation.
What is the expected service life under continuous daily use?

Based on IKA’s accelerated lifetime testing (per DIN EN 60068-2-64), the brushless motor and drive train are rated for ≥20,000 hours of operation at nominal load conditions.