IKA KS 501digital Orbital Shaker
| Brand | IKA |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Model | KS 501digital |
| Speed Range | 0–300 rpm (infinitely variable) |
| Orbit Diameter | 30 mm |
| Max Load Capacity | 15 kg |
| Display | Digital LED |
| Timer Function | Yes |
| Compliance | CE, ISO 9001 certified manufacturing |
Overview
The IKA KS 501digital Orbital Shaker is a precision-engineered laboratory shaker designed for consistent, low-shear orbital motion in life science and bioprocessing applications. Utilizing a robust eccentric drive mechanism, it generates smooth, uniform circular oscillation with a fixed 30 mm orbit diameter—optimized for effective suspension and homogenization of liquid cultures without inducing excessive shear stress on sensitive biological samples. Its low-profile, wide-base chassis ensures exceptional mechanical stability during continuous operation—even at maximum load capacity—making it suitable for unattended overnight runs in cell culture, microbial growth, reagent preparation, and solubility studies. The device complies with IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC) and IEC 61010-1 (safety), and is manufactured under ISO 9001 quality management systems. As an imported instrument distributed by authorized IKA partners, it meets EU regulatory requirements for laboratory equipment used in GLP-compliant environments.
Key Features
- Infinitely variable speed control from 0 to 300 rpm, enabling precise adaptation to diverse sample viscosities and vessel types
- Digital LED display for real-time, high-contrast readout of set and actual speed values
- Stable aluminum alloy platform with large support surface (290 × 270 mm) and reinforced structural frame
- Continuous-duty motor rated for uninterrupted operation under full 15 kg load—validated per IKA’s internal endurance testing protocol
- Integrated digital timer (0–99 h 59 min) with automatic shutdown; memory retention after power interruption
- CE-marked and RoHS-compliant; designed for use in laboratories adhering to ISO/IEC 17025 and FDA 21 CFR Part 11–aligned documentation workflows
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The KS 501digital accommodates standard laboratory vessels including Erlenmeyer flasks (up to 5 L), Fernbach flasks, culture bottles, and media preparation containers—with optimal performance observed for volumes ≥250 mL. Its orbital motion profile supports aerobic microbial cultivation (e.g., Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis), suspension cell line propagation (e.g., CHO, HEK293), and buffer equilibration protocols aligned with USP General Chapter <1058> Analytical Instrument Qualification. While the unit itself does not include clamps or adapters, it accepts all IKA-compatible universal platforms (e.g., KS-ULTRA, KS-CLAMP series) and third-party ISO-standard mounting fixtures. Device calibration and performance verification follow ASTM E2500-13 guidelines for laboratory equipment qualification.
Software & Data Management
The KS 501digital operates as a standalone hardware platform without embedded firmware-based data logging. However, its digital interface enables traceable parameter setting and timer activation—supporting manual entry into electronic lab notebooks (ELNs) compliant with 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with audit-trail-enabled software (e.g., LabArchives, Benchling). For integration into automated workflows, optional RS232 output (via IKA Labworld software suite, sold separately) allows remote speed/timer configuration and status monitoring. All operational settings are retained across power cycles, satisfying basic ALCOA+ principles (Attributable, Legible, Contemporaneous, Original, Accurate) for manual recordkeeping in QA/QC and R&D settings.
Applications
- Microbial and mammalian cell culture expansion in shake flasks under controlled aeration conditions
- Preparation and homogenization of culture media, buffers, and dilution standards
- Solubility testing and dissolution profiling per USP <711> and Ph. Eur. 2.9.3
- Antibiotic susceptibility assays requiring uniform suspension of bacterial inocula
- Enzyme kinetics studies where gentle mixing preserves catalytic activity
- Quality control of raw materials and intermediates in biopharmaceutical upstream processing
FAQ
Is the KS 501digital compatible with IKA’s clamp accessories?
Yes—this unit accepts all IKA-certified orbital shaker clamps (e.g., KS-CLAMP-250, KS-ULTRA-FLASK), which must be ordered separately.
Does the shaker maintain speed accuracy across its full 0–300 rpm range?
Per IKA’s technical specification sheet, speed deviation is ≤ ±1% of set value at steady state, verified using NIST-traceable tachometry.
Can this model be installed in a controlled-environment incubator?
No—the KS 501digital is rated for ambient operation only (10–40 °C, max 80% RH non-condensing) and lacks IP-rated enclosure or refrigerated drive components.
What documentation is provided for IQ/OQ validation?
IKA supplies a Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) report, user manual with maintenance schedule, and optional IQ/OQ protocol templates aligned with Annex 15 and GAMP5.
Is firmware upgradable in the field?
No—this is a microcontroller-based analog-digital hybrid system without field-upgradable firmware; functional updates require hardware revision per IKA product lifecycle policy.
