Stuart SI505 Microplate Incubator Shaker
| Brand | Stuart |
|---|---|
| Origin | United Kingdom |
| Model | SI505 |
| Temperature Range | Ambient + 7°C to 60°C |
| Temperature Uniformity | <0.6°C at 37°C |
| Speed Range | 250–1250 rpm |
| Orbit Diameter | 1.5 mm |
| Display Resolution | 0.1°C |
| Temp Stability & Accuracy | ±0.5°C at 37°C |
| Timer Range | 1 s to 9 days |
| Humidity | Up to ~80% (with stainless-steel water pan) |
| Internal Dimensions (W×D×H) | 307 × 300 × 190 mm |
| Max Load | 1 kg |
| Net Weight | 22.5 kg |
| Power Supply | 230 V, 50 Hz, 250 W |
| IP Rating | IP31 |
| Compliance | IQ/OQ documentation available |
Overview
The Stuart SI505 Microplate Incubator Shaker is an integrated benchtop instrument engineered for precise temperature-controlled orbital shaking of microplates and tube racks in life science laboratories. It combines incubation and agitation functions within a single compact unit—eliminating the need for separate shakers and incubators while maintaining strict thermal and mechanical reproducibility. The device operates on a fixed 1.5 mm orbital motion, delivering uniform, low-shear mixing ideal for cell culture maintenance, enzyme kinetics assays, ELISA development, bacterial growth studies, and other applications requiring simultaneous thermal regulation and homogeneous sample agitation. Its thermally insulated chamber features optimized airflow distribution and a passive humidity management system—enabling extended unattended operation with minimal sample evaporation. Designed and manufactured in the UK, the SI505 adheres to IEC 61010-1 safety standards and supports laboratory compliance frameworks including GLP and ISO/IEC 17025.
Key Features
- Independent digital PID temperature and speed control—prevents unintended thermal drift during speed adjustment
- High-resolution LED display showing real-time temperature (0.1°C resolution) and rotational speed (set in 10 rpm increments)
- Microprocessor-based timing system with programmable duration from 1 second to 9 days; auto-shutoff with audible alert upon timer completion (shaking stops, heating continues)
- Retractable stainless-steel water pan enabling rapid humidification up to ~80% RH—reduces evaporation over 24-hour incubations
- Ergonomic sliding platform with non-slip matting accommodates up to four standard 96-well microplates or two universal tube racks (compatible with SSM51, SSM52, and SSM53 accessories)
- USB interface for remote monitoring and data logging via PC—supports weekend or overnight experiments with continuous temperature tracking
- Robust 304 stainless-steel interior and powder-coated steel exterior—resistant to corrosion and compatible with common lab disinfectants
- IP31-rated enclosure providing protection against vertically falling water droplets and solid objects ≥2.5 mm
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The SI505 accepts all standard ANSI/SLAS-compliant microplates (including 96-, 384-, and 1536-well formats) as well as commercially available rack systems for 0.2 mL, 0.5 mL, and 1.5 mL tubes. Its 220 × 220 mm platform ensures secure positioning without lateral slippage under high-speed agitation. The instrument is supplied with full Installation Qualification (IQ) and Operational Qualification (OQ) documentation upon request (model SI505/IQOQ), facilitating validation in regulated environments such as pharmaceutical QC labs operating under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 or EU Annex 11 requirements. Temperature performance has been verified per ASTM E2500-13 guidelines for laboratory equipment qualification.
Software & Data Management
While the SI505 operates as a standalone unit with intuitive front-panel controls, its USB port enables integration with Stuart’s optional LabLink software (Windows-compatible). This application allows users to log temperature profiles, export time-stamped CSV files, set alarm thresholds, and generate audit-trail-ready reports compliant with ALCOA+ principles. All logged data include timestamps, operator ID fields (when configured), and metadata such as ambient conditions and firmware version—supporting traceability in GxP workflows. No proprietary drivers are required; the device appears as a virtual COM port using standard CDC ACM protocol.
Applications
- Cell-based assays requiring synchronized growth and mixing (e.g., suspension cultures, transfection optimization)
- Immunoassay development and validation—including coating, blocking, and washing steps in ELISA workflows
- Enzymatic reaction profiling under controlled thermal and kinetic conditions
- Molecular biology applications: plasmid preparation, PCR setup, ligase reactions, and hybridization protocols
- Microbial growth curve analysis across temperature gradients and agitation rates
- Stability testing of biologics and diagnostic reagents under accelerated conditions
FAQ
Is the SI505 suitable for CO₂-sensitive applications?
No—the SI505 does not provide CO₂ control or gas-tight sealing; it is designed for ambient-air incubation only.
Can the water pan be used continuously without refilling?
Under typical lab conditions (22–25°C ambient, 40–50% RH), the stainless-steel pan maintains ~80% RH for up to 48 hours before requiring replenishment.
What safety certifications does the SI505 carry?
It complies with IEC 61010-1:2010 for laboratory electrical equipment and carries CE marking under the Low Voltage Directive (2014/35/EU) and EMC Directive (2014/30/EU).
Does the instrument support password-protected settings?
No—the SI505 lacks user-level access control; however, its physical design prevents accidental parameter changes during routine handling.
Is calibration service available directly from Stuart?
Yes—UK-based Stuart Calibration Services offers accredited temperature and speed verification with NIST-traceable certificates, aligned with ISO/IEC 17025 requirements.
