DLAB MX-S+ Digital Vortex Mixer

Overview

The DLAB MX-S+ Digital Vortex Mixer is a precision-engineered laboratory instrument designed for reproducible, high-efficiency sample homogenization across life science, clinical diagnostics, and pharmaceutical R&D workflows. It operates on the principle of orbital shaking—generating controlled circular motion with a fixed 4 mm orbit diameter—to induce rapid fluid agitation within tubes, vials, and microplates. Unlike orbital shakers or rocking platforms, vortex mixers deliver localized, high-shear mixing ideal for resuspension of pellets, dissolution of lyophilized reagents, emulsification of immiscible phases, and uniform dispersion of particulates in low-volume samples (0.2 mL to 50 mL). Its brushless DC motor ensures consistent torque delivery across the full 100–3000 rpm speed range, eliminating commutator wear and enabling long-term operational stability without scheduled maintenance—a critical requirement for GLP-compliant laboratories performing routine QC assays.

Key Features

• Dual-mode operation: Instantaneous touch-activation (momentary mode) for brief mixing pulses, and continuous run mode for extended homogenization protocols.
• High-contrast backlit LCD display showing real-time rotational speed and elapsed time—enabling precise parameter verification and protocol traceability.
• Integrated pressure-actuated cup holder mechanism ensures secure, slip-free attachment of accessories; eliminates tube ejection or solution splashing even at maximum 3000 rpm.
• Sturdy die-cast aluminum base with non-slip rubber feet provides mechanical damping and positional stability during high-speed operation—critical for benchtop safety in shared lab environments.
• Universal accessory compatibility: Supports conical tubes (1.5–50 mL), PCR strips, 96-well microplates (flat and U/V-bottom), and custom adapters for irregular containers—facilitating cross-platform method transfer.
• Low-noise design (<45 dB(A) at 1 m) maintains acoustic integrity in open-plan labs and biosafety cabinets without compromising mixing efficacy.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The MX-S+ accommodates standard ANSI/SLAS-compliant microplates and ISO-certified centrifuge tubes (e.g., Eppendorf Safe-Lock, Axygen Maxymum Recovery). Its mechanical architecture conforms to IEC 61010-1:2010 for electrical safety in laboratory equipment, and its IP21-rated enclosure provides protection against vertically falling drips and solid objects >12.5 mm—suitable for general-purpose wet labs. While not intrinsically temperature-controlled, the device’s ambient operating specification (5–40 °C, ≤80% RH non-condensing) aligns with ISO 15195:2018 requirements for calibration laboratories. When used with validated accessories and documented SOPs, it supports compliance with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 (via external audit trail systems) and EU Annex 11 for electronic records in GMP environments.

Software & Data Management

The MX-S+ operates as a standalone hardware platform with no embedded firmware-based data logging. However, its real-time LCD readout enables manual entry into ELN systems (e.g., LabArchives, Benchling) or integration via optional RS-232/USB-to-serial interface (available as DLAB accessory kit MX-COM). This allows automated capture of speed/time parameters into LIMS or QMS platforms, supporting audit-ready documentation for ISO 17025-accredited testing labs. All operational settings are retained after power cycling, ensuring protocol consistency across shifts without recalibration.

Applications

• Resuspension of bacterial cell pellets post-centrifugation in molecular cloning workflows.
• Homogenization of viscous matrices (e.g., blood plasma, tissue lysates) prior to ELISA or Western blot sample loading.
• Pre-analytical mixing of whole blood with anticoagulant additives in clinical chemistry specimen preparation.
• Uniform dispersion of nanoparticles in buffer solutions for nanotoxicology studies.
• Routine quality control mixing of reference standards and calibration blanks in environmental testing labs.
• Accelerated dissolution testing of oral solid dosage forms per USP <711> guidelines (when paired with temperature-controlled enclosures).

FAQ

Does the MX-S+ support programmable ramping or multi-step protocols?
No—the MX-S+ offers only two fixed operation modes: momentary (press-and-hold) and continuous (set-and-run). Programmable gradient profiles require external controllers or higher-tier models such as the DLAB MX-F series.
Can the MX-S+ be operated inside a cold room or incubator?
Yes, provided ambient conditions remain within 5–40 °C and relative humidity does not exceed 80% RH (non-condensing). Condensation must be prevented on the motor housing and LCD panel to avoid electrical hazards.
Is the 4 mm orbit diameter adjustable?
No—the orbit diameter is mechanically fixed and optimized for balance between shear intensity and sample integrity across common tube geometries.
What is the expected service life of the brushless DC motor?
Rated for ≥20,000 hours of continuous operation under nominal load, with no scheduled lubrication or carbon brush replacement required—consistent with ISO 9001:2015 manufacturing validation data from DLAB Beijing.
Are CE or UL certifications available for the MX-S+?
The MX-S+ carries CE marking (2014/30/EU EMC Directive and 2014/35/EU LVD Directive) and complies with UL 61010-1:2012 through third-party testing by SGS Shanghai. Full certification documents are supplied with commercial shipments to EEA and North American markets.