Analytik Jena TS1/TSC Thermo-Shaking Incubator

Overview

The Analytik Jena TS1 and TSC Thermo-Shaking Incubators are precision-engineered benchtop instruments designed for controlled thermal incubation combined with orbital shaking—essential for molecular biology, microbiology, cell culture, and enzyme kinetics workflows. These devices operate on a Peltier-based thermoelectric heating/cooling system (TSC model) or resistive heating only (TS1 model), enabling stable temperature regulation across a wide operational range. The orbital shaking mechanism employs a brushless DC motor coupled with a balanced eccentric drive to generate consistent, low-vibration motion—critical for maintaining sample integrity during extended incubation periods. Unlike generic shakers, the TS1/TSC series integrates real-time feedback control loops for both temperature and rotational speed, ensuring high reproducibility in time-sensitive assays such as PCR pre-incubation, bacterial growth monitoring, and protein expression optimization.

Key Features

• Integrated dual-function control: simultaneous independent adjustment of temperature, shaking speed (rpm), and incubation duration
• High-resolution LCD display showing setpoints and real-time values for temperature (°C), speed (rpm), and remaining time (min)
• Peltier-driven active cooling (TSC model) extends operational range to sub-ambient temperatures (e.g., 4–60 °C), while TS1 supports heating-only operation (e.g., 25–60 °C)
• Brushless DC motor ensures precise speed control (±1 rpm accuracy), silent operation (<45 dB(A)), and long-term mechanical stability
• Orbital shaking platform with adjustable amplitude (typically 25 mm diameter) optimized for uniform mixing without foaming or shear-induced cell damage
• Modular sample carrier system compatible with multiple formats: 0.2 mL–2.0 mL tube racks, 96-well microplates (PCR and standard), and custom inserts for vials or deep-well plates
• Robust aluminum alloy housing with insulated chamber walls minimizes thermal drift and external heat exchange

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The TS1/TSC accommodates common laboratory consumables including thin-walled PCR tubes, skirted/unskirted 96-well plates, and sterile culture tubes—enabling direct integration into high-throughput screening and diagnostic workflows. Chamber dimensions support standard plate footprints (127.76 × 85.48 mm) with vertical clearance up to 45 mm. All models comply with IEC 61010-1:2010 for electrical safety and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC). For regulated environments, the instrument supports GLP/GMP documentation requirements through optional audit-trail-enabled firmware (available upon configuration), aligning with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 data integrity principles when paired with validated software interfaces.

Software & Data Management

While standalone operation is fully functional via front-panel controls, the TS1/TSC supports optional PC connectivity via USB or RS-232 for remote parameter setting and logging. Analytik Jena’s proprietary LabSoft software enables protocol storage, multi-step method programming (e.g., ramp-and-hold temperature profiles synchronized with variable-speed shaking), and export of timestamped CSV logs for traceability. Data files include metadata such as operator ID, session start/end times, and deviation alerts—facilitating compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 quality management systems used by accredited testing laboratories.

Applications

• Enzyme activity assays requiring precise thermal equilibration prior to kinetic measurement
• Bacterial and yeast culture expansion under controlled aeration and temperature
• Plasmid preparation and miniprep protocols involving lysis and binding steps
• Antibody-antigen binding studies using microplate-based ELISA formats
• Thermal denaturation and refolding experiments in protein biochemistry
• Environmental microbiology studies involving temperature-gradient incubation of soil or water samples

FAQ

What is the difference between the TS1 and TSC models?

The TS1 provides heating-only capability, whereas the TSC incorporates a Peltier element for both heating and active cooling—enabling precise sub-ambient temperature control.
Can the instrument maintain temperature uniformity across a full 96-well plate?

Yes. Chamber design and airflow management ensure ±0.5 °C spatial uniformity at setpoints between 30–50 °C, verified per ASTM E2234-02 guidelines for incubator qualification.
Is calibration certificate included with shipment?

A factory-issued calibration report (traceable to DKD/DAkkS standards) is available upon request and may be required for ISO 17025-compliant labs.
How is speed accuracy verified during operation?

Each unit undergoes dynamic speed validation using an optical tachometer; the displayed rpm reflects real-time encoder feedback from the motor control circuit.
Are third-party rack adapters supported?

Only Analytik Jena-certified carriers are recommended to preserve thermal and mechanical performance; non-OEM inserts may compromise temperature homogeneity or cause resonance-induced instability.