Scientific Industries Vortex-Genie® 2 Digital Variable-Speed Vortex Mixer
| Brand | Cole-Parmer |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | SI-A246 |
| Speed Range | 600–2700 rpm |
| Speed Display | Analog scale + LED digital readout |
Overview
The Scientific Industries Vortex-Genie® 2 Digital Variable-Speed Vortex Mixer is an engineered solution for reproducible, high-efficiency sample agitation in life science, clinical diagnostics, and quality control laboratories. Based on orbital oscillation mechanics—where a motor-driven eccentric cam induces controlled circular motion at the platform surface—the instrument delivers consistent shear forces across liquid-phase samples without requiring manual intervention or operator-dependent technique. Unlike fixed-speed vortexers, the Genie® 2 Digital integrates precise electronic speed regulation and programmable timing to support method standardization under GLP and ISO/IEC 17025-compliant workflows. Its robust cast-aluminum housing and sealed induction motor ensure long-term operational stability, while the low-vibration base minimizes cross-contamination risk during multi-position benchtop deployment.
Key Features
- Digital speed control with LED display (500–3000 rpm range; calibrated resolution ±10 rpm), enabling precise replication of mixing intensity across users and shifts
- Programmable timer with three operating modes: touch-activated (1–99 sec), hands-free (1–99 min), and continuous run—each mode independently selectable and retained after power cycling
- Interchangeable platform accessories compatible with all Vortex-Genie® series instruments, including safety cups (for single-tube vortexing), 3″ (7.6 cm) standard platforms, vertical tube holders (for 15 mL, 50 mL, and microcentrifuge tubes), and specialized inserts for vials, ampoules, and irregular containers
- Thermoplastic rubber-coated platform surface to enhance grip and reduce slippage during high-speed operation
- UL-listed power supply with dual-voltage capability (120 VAC / 60 Hz or 230 VAC / 50–60 Hz); current draw ≤0.65 A at 120 V, ≤0.50 A at 230 V
- No external calibration required; factory-trimmed speed accuracy maintained over 10,000+ operational cycles per maintenance interval
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Vortex-Genie® 2 Digital accommodates a broad range of container formats—from 0.2 mL PCR tubes to 50 mL conical centrifuge tubes—via optional accessories certified to ASTM D4064 for mechanical agitation repeatability. When used with the included safety cup or foam-insert platforms, it meets USP requirements for uniform suspension of particulate test preparations. The device complies with IEC 61010-1:2010 for laboratory electrical equipment safety and carries CE marking for EMC and LVD directives. For regulated environments, audit trails can be generated manually via lab notebook documentation; while the unit itself does not include FDA 21 CFR Part 11-compliant electronic signature functionality, its deterministic timing and non-volatile speed settings support traceable SOP execution.
Software & Data Management
This is a standalone electromechanical instrument with no embedded firmware, network interface, or proprietary software dependency. All operational parameters—including selected speed, timer mode, and elapsed time—are displayed locally via the integrated LED screen. No drivers, cloud connectivity, or data export capabilities are provided, ensuring electromagnetic isolation in sensitive analytical environments (e.g., adjacent to mass spectrometers or NMR systems). Users maintain full control over protocol documentation through external systems (LIMS, ELN, or paper-based records), aligning with ALCOA+ principles for data integrity in GxP-regulated labs.
Applications
- Resuspension of lyophilized reagents and bacterial pellets prior to downstream analysis
- Homogenization of immunoassay reagents and ELISA plate wash buffers
- Pre-analytical mixing of whole blood samples for hematocrit stabilization and plasma separation
- Cell lysis support in combination with enzymatic or detergent-based protocols
- Uniform dispersion of nanoparticles, colloidal suspensions, and nanomaterial standards for TEM/SEM sample preparation
- QC testing of viscosity-modified formulations where shear history must remain consistent between replicates
FAQ
Is the Vortex-Genie® 2 Digital compatible with third-party accessories?
Yes—it accepts all original Scientific Industries Genie-series accessories, including TurboMix™ adapters, vertical rack holders, and foam-insert trays. Compatibility is mechanically guaranteed via standardized 3″ platform mounting geometry.
Does the unit require periodic recalibration?
No. The speed control system uses a factory-calibrated potentiometer and precision-tuned motor assembly; routine verification against a tachometer is recommended annually per ISO/IEC 17025 Clause 6.5.2, but adjustment is not user-serviceable.
Can the timer be disabled for continuous operation?
Yes. The “continuous” mode bypasses all timing functions and maintains set speed until manually powered off.
What is the maximum load capacity of the 3″ platform?
The platform supports up to 1.5 kg distributed evenly; exceeding this may affect speed stability and accelerate bearing wear.
Is the safety cup autoclavable?
The polypropylene safety cup is rated for steam sterilization at 121°C for 20 minutes; repeated autoclaving may reduce opacity but does not compromise structural integrity or sealing performance.
