IKA KS260 Control Orbital Shaker
| Brand | IKA |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Model | KS260 Control |
| Timer Range | 0–599 min |
| Oscillation Speed | 10–500 rpm |
| Orbit Diameter | 10 mm |
| Temperature Range | 5–50 °C |
| Platform Quantity | 1 |
| Max Load Capacity (incl. clamp) | 7.5 kg |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | 360 × 98 × 420 mm |
| Weight | 8.8 kg |
| Power Input | 45 W |
| Protection Rating | IP21 |
| Interface | RS232, Analog Output |
| Voltage | 220–240 V / 100–120 V, 50/60 Hz |
| Environmental Operating Range | 5–50 °C, ≤80% RH |
Overview
The IKA KS260 Control Orbital Shaker is a precision-engineered laboratory shaker designed for consistent, reproducible orbital motion in life science and bioprocessing applications. It operates on the principle of controlled circular oscillation—generating a 10 mm orbit diameter—to ensure uniform mixing, suspension, and aeration of liquid samples across flasks, tubes, and microplates. Engineered for long-term reliability and operational stability, the unit features a brushless DC motor delivering high torque at low speeds and smooth acceleration profiles across its full 10–500 rpm range. Its compact footprint (360 × 98 × 420 mm) and low-profile design facilitate integration into biosafety cabinets, cold rooms, and modular lab benches without compromising accessibility or thermal management. The device supports continuous operation at 100% duty cycle under rated load conditions, making it suitable for unattended overnight protocols such as bacterial culture expansion, enzyme kinetics assays, and cell-based assay preparation.
Key Features
- Precise digital speed control with real-time LCD display of rpm, elapsed time, and operating mode (timer or continuous)
- Programmable timer with adjustable range from 1 minute to 599 minutes (9 h 59 min), plus dedicated continuous-run mode
- Integrated RS232 interface and analog output (0–10 V) for external monitoring, data logging, and integration into centralized lab automation systems
- IP21-rated enclosure ensuring protection against vertically falling drips and solid objects ≥12.5 mm—validated for standard laboratory environments per DIN EN 60529
- Robust aluminum alloy platform with non-slip elastomer coating; compatible with IKA’s full range of universal and application-specific clamps (sold separately)
- Thermally stable design supporting ambient operation between 5 °C and 50 °C, with humidity tolerance up to 80% RH non-condensing
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The KS260 accommodates a wide variety of sample vessels—including Erlenmeyer flasks (up to 2 L), centrifuge tubes, deep-well plates, and custom bioreactor vessels—via interchangeable clamping systems. While the base unit ships without clamps, all IKA-certified fixtures are engineered to maintain mechanical alignment and minimize vibration transmission during high-speed operation. The shaker complies with key international safety and electromagnetic compatibility standards, including IEC 61000-6-2 (immunity) and IEC 61000-6-4 (emission), and meets essential requirements of the EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC. For regulated environments, its deterministic timer logic and non-volatile parameter storage support audit-ready workflows aligned with GLP and ISO/IEC 17025 documentation practices.
Software & Data Management
All operational parameters—including speed setpoint, timer duration, start/stop triggers, and run history—are fully configurable via the optional labworldsoft® software suite. This Windows-based application enables remote control, multi-device synchronization, and export of timestamped CSV logs compliant with 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when used with appropriate system validation and user access controls. The RS232 interface supports ASCII command protocol for integration with LIMS or SCADA platforms, while the analog output provides real-time speed feedback for closed-loop monitoring systems. Firmware updates are delivered via USB and retain all user-defined presets post-installation.
Applications
The KS260 serves critical roles across academic research, pharmaceutical QC, and industrial biotechnology labs. Typical use cases include microbial growth in liquid media (e.g., E. coli or yeast cultures), solubility testing of APIs, immunoassay plate washing pre-incubation, hybridization buffer agitation in molecular biology workflows, and dissolution testing support in formulation development. Its stable low-speed performance (down to 10 rpm) ensures gentle resuspension of sensitive cell pellets, while the upper range supports vigorous aeration of aerobic cultures. When paired with temperature-controlled enclosures, it functions as a core component in environmental simulation studies requiring precise orbital agitation under defined thermal conditions.
FAQ
Is the KS260 compatible with incubators or cold rooms?
Yes—the unit is rated for continuous operation between 5 °C and 50 °C and maintains full functionality at reduced ambient temperatures, provided condensation is prevented.
Can I monitor real-time speed output externally?
Yes—via the 0–10 V analog output signal, which scales linearly with actual rotational speed and can be interfaced with DAQ systems or PLCs.
Are clamps included with the shaker?
No—clamps are sold separately and must be selected based on vessel type, volume, and required retention force. IKA offers universal, flask-specific, and microplate-compatible options.
Does the device support password-protected parameter locking?
Not natively on the front panel; however, labworldsoft® enables role-based access control and configuration lockdown when deployed in validated IT environments.
What maintenance is required for long-term reliability?
The brushless motor requires no scheduled lubrication or brush replacement. Routine cleaning of the platform surface and periodic inspection of clamp mounting hardware are recommended per IKA’s Maintenance Schedule 02-2023.
