DLAB MX-S Orbital Shaker

Overview

The DLAB MX-S Orbital Shaker is an entry-level, benchtop laboratory shaker engineered for precision mixing of small-volume liquid samples in tubes, vials, and microplates. It operates on the principle of orbital motion—where the platform rotates in a horizontal circular path with a fixed 4 mm diameter orbit—generating gentle yet effective homogenization without splashing or foaming. Unlike vortex mixers that rely on rapid vertical agitation, the MX-S’s orbital motion ensures uniform suspension of particulates, reagent resuspension, and consistent cell culture maintenance during incubation preparation. Its brushless DC motor with eccentric ball bearing design delivers stable rotational output across the full 0–2500 rpm range, supporting both momentary “touch” activation and uninterrupted continuous operation. The unit is optimized for ambient lab environments (5–40 °C, ≤80% RH), complies with IEC/EN 60529 (IP21) for basic protection against solid objects and vertically dripping water, and meets electromagnetic compatibility requirements per EN 61326-1 for laboratory instrumentation.

Key Features

• Continuously variable speed control via calibrated analog dial—no digital interface required, minimizing electronic complexity and enhancing long-term reliability
• Eccentric ball bearing drive mechanism ensures mechanical stability at high speeds (up to 2500 rpm) and extends service life beyond 10,000 hours of cumulative operation
• Silicone rubber footpads provide vibration damping and anti-slip anchoring on stainless steel or laminated work surfaces—critical for maintaining positional integrity during extended runs
• Compact footprint (127 × 130 × 160 mm) and lightweight construction (3.5 kg) enable flexible placement inside biosafety cabinets, cold rooms, or shared instrument benches
• ABS polymer housing offers chemical resistance to common solvents (e.g., ethanol, isopropanol, diluted acids/bases) and facilitates wipe-down decontamination per ISO 15190:2020 laboratory safety guidelines
• 100% duty cycle rating permits unattended overnight operation—validated under GLP-compliant validation protocols for routine QC sample preparation

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The MX-S accommodates standard tube formats—including 0.2 mL PCR tubes, 1.5/2.0 mL microcentrifuge tubes (Eppendorf®-compatible), 15 mL and 50 mL conical tubes—via interchangeable platform adapters (sold separately). Its 4 mm orbital amplitude generates sufficient shear force for efficient suspension of bacterial pellets, antibody conjugates, and magnetic beads while preserving cell viability in low-shear applications. The device does not require calibration certification per ISO/IEC 17025, but users may perform in-house verification using traceable tachometers (e.g., ASTM E2917-22 Annex A1). It conforms to essential safety standards including IEC 61010-1 (electrical safety for laboratory equipment) and carries CE marking under the EU Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU and EMC Directive 2014/30/EU.

Software & Data Management

The MX-S is a stand-alone analog instrument with no embedded firmware, network connectivity, or data logging capability. This architecture eliminates cybersecurity risks, software obsolescence, and regulatory validation burdens associated with computerized systems. For laboratories operating under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 or EU Annex 11 requirements, the absence of electronic records simplifies audit readiness—only mechanical usage logs (date, operator, speed setting, duration) need be maintained manually in bound lab notebooks. Optional third-party USB tachometers (e.g., Extech 461923) can be used to document speed accuracy during IQ/OQ qualification.

Applications

• Resuspension of lyophilized reagents and pelleted cells prior to downstream analysis (e.g., ELISA, Western blotting, NGS library prep)
• Homogenization of immunoassay plates during wash steps to reduce background noise
• Pre-incubation mixing of enzyme-substrate reactions requiring temperature-stable agitation
• Uniform dispersion of nanoparticles in aqueous suspensions for DLS or TEM sample preparation
• Supporting ASTM D4097-21 (Standard Practice for Mixing Paints and Related Materials) in quality control labs

FAQ

Is the MX-S suitable for use inside a CO₂ incubator?
No—the unit is rated for ambient temperatures only (5–40 °C) and lacks humidity-resistant sealing or corrosion-inhibiting coatings required for incubator environments.
Can the MX-S accommodate deep-well microplates?
Not natively; it supports only tube-based platforms. Deep-well plate compatibility requires a dedicated plate shaker model (e.g., DLAB MS100 series).
Does the MX-S meet GLP or GMP documentation requirements?
Yes—its analog design avoids electronic record complications. Users may satisfy traceability requirements through manual log entries referencing speed setting, duration, and sample identifiers.
What maintenance is required?
Annual inspection of eccentric drive coupling and silicone footpad integrity is recommended. No lubrication or motor servicing is needed due to brushless DC architecture.
Is there a warranty?
DLAB provides a 24-month limited warranty covering material and workmanship defects under normal laboratory use conditions.