DLAB MX-M 96-Well Microplate Shaker

Overview

The DLAB MX-M 96-Well Microplate Shaker is an orbital shaking platform engineered for precision and reliability in routine laboratory workflows requiring gentle yet effective mixing of microvolume samples. Based on the principle of controlled orbital motion—where samples undergo uniform circular displacement at a fixed 4.5 mm orbit diameter—the instrument delivers consistent kinetic energy transfer across wells without splashing or cross-contamination. Its compact footprint (260 × 150 × 80 mm) and low mass (3 kg) make it ideal for benchtop deployment in biosafety cabinets, cold rooms, or shared instrumentation spaces. Designed specifically for compatibility with standard ANSI/SBS-compliant 96-well plates—including flat-bottom, U-bottom, and V-bottom configurations—the MX-M supports both single- and dual-plate operation, enabling parallel processing while maintaining speed stability under variable load conditions.

Key Features

• Brushless DC motor architecture ensures silent operation (<55 dB(A)), zero carbon brush wear, and long-term speed stability—eliminating the need for periodic motor maintenance or replacement.
• Stepless analog speed control (0–1500 rpm for single plate; 0–1000 rpm for dual plate) enables fine-tuned optimization of mixing intensity for sensitive biological assays such as ELISA, cell-based reporter assays, and nucleic acid hybridization.
• Interchangeable platform fixtures include the standard PS1.2 single-plate tray (not including 96-well plate), optional dual-plate adapter, universal round-head adapter, and tube adapters for 0.2 mL, 0.5 mL, 1.5 mL, and 2.0 mL microcentrifuge tubes—supporting heterogeneous sample formats within one instrument.
• Robust mechanical design complies with DIN EN 60529 IP21 rating, providing protection against vertically falling solid objects and limited ingress of moisture—suitable for use in standard ISO Class 5–7 laboratory environments.
• Wide-input universal power supply (100–240 VAC, 50/60 Hz) ensures stable performance across global voltage standards without external transformers or converters.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The MX-M accommodates all common microplate formats defined by the Society for Biomolecular Screening (SBS) standard, including 96-, 384-, and 1536-well plates when used with appropriate adapters. It maintains mechanical stability during continuous operation—even at maximum rated speed—with a verified load capacity of 0.5 kg including fixture weight. The device meets electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements per IEC 61326-1 for laboratory equipment and conforms to electrical safety standards IEC 61010-1. While not certified for GLP/GMP-regulated environments out-of-the-box, its analog speed scale and absence of programmable logic allow straightforward integration into SOP-driven workflows where audit trails are managed externally.

Software & Data Management

The MX-M operates as a standalone analog instrument with no embedded firmware, network interface, or digital data logging capability. Speed is adjusted via a calibrated rotary dial and indicated on a fixed analog scale—ensuring operational simplicity, immunity to software failure, and full compatibility with regulated environments where validation of digital control systems would otherwise require extensive documentation (e.g., FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliance). For laboratories requiring traceable parameter recording, manual entry into electronic lab notebooks (ELN) or LIMS is recommended, supported by the device’s consistent mechanical repeatability across operating cycles.

Applications

This shaker is routinely deployed in molecular biology for pre-PCR mix homogenization and post-hybridization wash steps; in immunology for antigen–antibody incubation in ELISA and lateral flow assay development; in microbiology for bacterial suspension resuspension prior to OD₆₀₀ measurement; and in cell culture for gentle agitation during transfection reagent mixing or cytokine stimulation protocols. Its low orbit amplitude and broad speed range also support applications in protein crystallization screening and small-molecule solubility assessment where minimal shear stress is critical to preserving macromolecular integrity.

FAQ

Is the MX-M compatible with deep-well plates or PCR plates?
Yes—when used with the optional round-head or custom-fit adapters, the MX-M supports ANSI/SBS-compliant deep-well (e.g., 96-well, 2 mL) and semi-skirted PCR plates, provided total stack height remains within the instrument’s vertical clearance limit.
Does the shaker include a 96-well plate?
No—the PS1.2 tray is supplied without any microplate; users must provide their own sterile or treated plates according to experimental requirements.
Can the MX-M be operated inside a CO₂ incubator?
No—it is rated for ambient operation only (5–40 °C, ≤80% RH) and lacks environmental sealing for humidified, elevated-CO₂ atmospheres; use is restricted to external benchtop or laminar flow hood settings.
What maintenance is required for the brushless DC motor?
None—brushless design eliminates commutator wear; only periodic cleaning of the platform surface and inspection of fixture fasteners are recommended per manufacturer guidelines.
Is there a timer function or auto-shutoff feature?
No—the MX-M operates continuously until manually powered off; external timers or smart power strips may be used for scheduled operation if needed.