OHAUS VXMTAL Analog-Controlled Multi-Tube Vortex Mixer

Overview

The OHAUS VXMTAL Analog-Controlled Multi-Tube Vortex Mixer is a precision-engineered refrigerated orbital shaker designed for high-throughput sample homogenization, cell suspension, reagent mixing, and enzymatic reaction support in life science laboratories. Unlike conventional linear or circular shakers, the VXMTAL employs a true orbital motion with a fixed 3.6 mm orbit diameter—generating consistent, low-shear vortexing action across multiple tubes simultaneously. Its dual-platform architecture enables parallel processing of two independent sample sets under identical or differentiated temperature and speed conditions. The system operates on a microprocessor-controlled analog interface, delivering stable rotational dynamics without digital latency or firmware dependency. Engineered for continuous operation in GLP-compliant environments, the VXMTAL maintains thermal uniformity within ±0.5 °C across its full 4–40 °C range, validated per ISO/IEC 17025 calibration practices.

Key Features

• Dual independent shaking platforms—each configurable with interchangeable foam tube holders accommodating tubes from 10 mm to 29 mm outer diameter (e.g., 0.5 mL, 1.5 mL, 2.0 mL microcentrifuge tubes, 15 mL and 50 mL conical tubes)
• Analog control architecture with tactile rotary dials for speed and timer adjustment—eliminates software boot cycles and ensures immediate operational readiness
• Refrigerated chamber with Peltier-based cooling and forced-air circulation—enables precise temperature maintenance during extended incubation-mixing protocols
• Vibration-dampening suction-cup feet and reinforced polymer chassis—minimizes displacement on standard lab benches and prevents resonance coupling with adjacent instrumentation
• Timer resolution down to 1 second, programmable up to 160 hours—supports unattended overnight and multi-day kinetic assays without manual intervention
• Speed stability maintained within ±15 rpm across full 1200–2400 rpm operating range—verified via traceable tachometric calibration

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The VXMTAL accommodates a broad spectrum of biological and chemical sample formats including aqueous buffers, cell lysates, protein solutions, nucleic acid preparations, and viscous media such as glycerol stocks or agarose suspensions. All foam inserts are autoclavable (121 °C, 20 min) and certified free of DNase/RNase and endotoxin contamination (tested per ISO 11737-1). The instrument complies with IEC 61010-1:2010 for laboratory electrical safety and meets EMC requirements per EN 61326-1:2013. It supports audit-ready documentation workflows required under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when integrated with external electronic lab notebook (ELN) systems via RS-232 serial output.

Software & Data Management

While the VXMTAL operates exclusively via analog controls, it includes an RS-232 port for external data logging and remote parameter monitoring using third-party SCADA or LIMS platforms. Real-time speed, temperature, and elapsed time values can be streamed at 1 Hz resolution. Optional OHAUS LabConnect™ adapter (sold separately) enables protocol synchronization with other OHAUS instruments—including balances and pH meters—for fully traceable, timestamped experimental records aligned with ALCOA+ data integrity principles.

Applications

• High-efficiency resuspension of bacterial pellets and yeast cultures prior to lysis
• Uniform mixing of multi-component assay reagents (e.g., ELISA substrate cocktails, PCR master mixes)
• Controlled agitation during antibody-antigen binding steps in immunoassay development
• Temperature-stabilized dissolution testing of lyophilized biologics under GMP-relevant conditions
• Parallel optimization of enzyme kinetics across gradient temperature and agitation profiles
• Pre-analytical sample conditioning for downstream applications including HPLC, mass spectrometry, and flow cytometry

FAQ

Is the VXMTAL compatible with PCR tubes and deep-well plates?
Yes—the optional deep-well plate adapter (Part No. VXMTAL-PLATE) supports 96-well and 384-well polypropylene plates; standard foam inserts accommodate 0.2 mL PCR strip tubes.
Can both platforms operate at different temperatures simultaneously?
No—temperature is controlled uniformly across the entire chamber; however, speed and timer settings are independently adjustable per platform.
What maintenance is required for long-term reliability?
Annual verification of temperature uniformity and speed accuracy is recommended; no routine lubrication or belt replacement is necessary due to brushless DC motor design.
Does the unit include validation documentation for IQ/OQ protocols?
Factory-issued IQ/OQ templates and calibration certificates (NIST-traceable) are available upon request and included with enterprise procurement contracts.
Is condensation management addressed in the refrigerated design?
Yes—a dedicated condensate evaporation channel and hydrophobic chamber liner prevent moisture accumulation during low-temperature operation below 10 °C.