IKA HS260 Basic Reciprocal Shaker
| Brand | IKA |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Model | HS260 Basic |
| Timer Range | 5–50 min |
| Oscillation Frequency | 0–300 rpm |
| Stroke Length | 20 mm |
| Platform Quantity | 1 |
| Max Load Capacity (incl. clamp) | 7.5 kg |
| Motor Input Power | 45 W |
| Operating Temperature Range | 5–50 °C |
| Relative Humidity Limit | 80 % |
| Protection Class | IP21 |
| Voltage | 220–240 V / 100–120 V |
| Frequency | 50/60 Hz |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | 360 × 100 × 420 mm |
| Weight | 8.5 kg |
Overview
The IKA HS260 Basic Reciprocal Shaker is a compact, benchtop laboratory shaker engineered for precision and reliability in routine biological and chemical sample agitation tasks. It operates on a linear reciprocating motion principle—generating consistent back-and-forth oscillation along a fixed 20 mm stroke path—ideal for applications requiring gentle yet effective mixing of suspensions, cell cultures, staining solutions, and immunoassay plates. Designed for continuous-duty operation (100 % duty cycle), the unit features a robust brushless motor with low thermal output and high mechanical stability, ensuring long-term repeatability across repeated experimental runs. Its DIN-compliant construction (EN 60529, IP21) guarantees safe operation under standard laboratory ambient conditions (5–50 °C, ≤80 % RH), making it suitable for shared core facilities, teaching labs, and QC environments where footprint, ease of use, and regulatory traceability are critical.
Key Features
- Reciprocating motion with precisely controlled 20 mm stroke length—optimized for uniform mixing without vortexing or splashing
- Digital LED display for real-time monitoring of speed (rpm) and timer countdown (5–50 min range)
- Stepless electronic speed control from 20 rpm (minimum adjustable) to 300 rpm—enabling fine-tuned optimization for sensitive samples
- Single-platform design with load capacity up to 7.5 kg (including clamps), supporting standard flasks, tubes, microplates, and custom vessels
- Energy-efficient motor architecture: 45 W input power, 10 W mechanical output—minimizing heat generation and electrical load during extended operation
- Compact footprint (360 × 100 × 420 mm) and lightweight chassis (8.5 kg) for flexible placement on fume hoods, biosafety cabinets, or modular lab benches
- No integrated heating or cooling—designed exclusively for ambient-temperature shaking applications requiring thermal neutrality
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The HS260 Basic accommodates a wide variety of vessel formats—including Erlenmeyer flasks (up to 2 L), centrifuge tubes (15–50 mL), deep-well microplates, and custom reaction vials—via optional, separately ordered clamps (e.g., universal spring clamps, microplate holders, and flask adapters). All clamp interfaces conform to IKA’s standardized mounting geometry, ensuring mechanical compatibility and vibration-damping alignment. The device meets EN 61326-1 (EMC for laboratory equipment) and EN 61010-1 (safety requirements for electrical equipment), and its IP21 rating certifies protection against vertically falling solid objects and limited ingress of moisture—supporting compliance with GLP documentation protocols when paired with external audit-trail-capable lab management systems.
Software & Data Management
As a standalone analog-digital hybrid instrument, the HS260 Basic does not feature embedded software, USB connectivity, or data logging capabilities. Speed and timer settings are manually configured via front-panel rotary controls and confirmed by dual LED displays—ensuring operational simplicity, minimal failure points, and full user control without firmware dependencies. While it lacks RS-232 or analog output interfaces, its deterministic mechanical behavior and stable rpm regulation enable reproducible protocol execution across shifts and operators. For laboratories requiring electronic recordkeeping, integration with external environmental monitoring systems (e.g., Vaisala viewLinc or Siemens Desigo) can be achieved through external relay-based start/stop triggers synchronized with lab information management systems (LIMS).
Applications
- Western blot membrane washing and antibody incubation
- Cell suspension maintenance during passaging or viability assays
- Extraction buffer agitation in nucleic acid and protein purification workflows
- Staining and destaining of gels and blots under controlled motion parameters
- Reagent homogenization for ELISA, lateral flow assay development, and diagnostic kit manufacturing
- Teaching laboratory exercises in molecular biology, microbiology, and biochemistry curricula
- QC sampling preparation for pharmaceutical raw material testing per USP and
FAQ
Is the HS260 Basic compatible with temperature-controlled enclosures?
Yes—the absence of internal heating/cooling elements allows safe operation inside refrigerated rooms, cold rooms, or CO₂ incubators, provided ambient humidity remains below 80 % and condensation is prevented.
Can multiple HS260 units be synchronized for parallel processing?
No native synchronization capability exists; however, external programmable timers or PLC-controlled power relays can coordinate start/stop timing across multiple units.
What clamp types are recommended for 96-well microplates?
IKA part number 0000020220 (universal microplate holder) provides secure, low-profile fixation with minimal cross-talk between wells.
Does the HS260 Basic support GMP documentation requirements?
While the unit itself does not generate electronic audit trails, its mechanical consistency, CE marking, and compliance with EN 61010-1 support inclusion in GMP validation protocols when used with documented SOPs and calibration logs.
Is maintenance required beyond routine cleaning?
No scheduled maintenance is specified—only periodic inspection of clamp fasteners and wiping of the platform surface with isopropyl alcohol to prevent residue buildup.
