DLAB SK-O180-S LCD Digital Orbital Shaker

Overview

The DLAB SK-O180-S LCD Digital Orbital Shaker is an entry-level yet highly reliable benchtop orbital shaker engineered for consistent, low-shear mixing in life science laboratories. It operates on the principle of circular orbital motion—generating uniform centrifugal force across the platform to suspend and homogenize samples without inducing excessive shear stress. This makes it especially suitable for applications requiring gentle agitation, such as microbial culture propagation, enzyme reaction incubation, staining/destaining protocols, and reagent mixing in microbiology, molecular biology, and cell culture workflows. Its fixed-platform design ensures mechanical stability during extended operation, while the 20 mm orbit diameter delivers balanced fluid motion across common labware—including Petri dishes (up to 150 mm), Erlenmeyer flasks (50–500 mL), and standard test tubes placed in racks.

Key Features

• Dual independent LED displays: one dedicated to real-time speed (rpm), the other to remaining or elapsed time—enabling precise parameter monitoring without menu navigation.
• Digitally controlled speed regulation across a broad 40–200 rpm range, with ±2 rpm repeatability under nominal load conditions.
• Programmable timer with resolution down to 1 minute, supporting durations from 1 minute up to 19 hours and 59 minutes; auto-shutdown upon completion ensures protocol integrity and energy efficiency.
• Fixed aluminum alloy platform (20 mm orbit) rated for continuous-duty operation at full load capacity of 2 kg—compatible with standard clamps, flask holders, and universal trays.
• Wide-input AC power supply (100–240 VAC, 50/60 Hz) eliminates need for voltage converters in international lab environments and enhances operational resilience against line fluctuations.
• Low-noise brushless DC motor coupled with vibration-dampening feet minimizes transmission of mechanical noise and platform resonance—critical for shared lab spaces and adjacent sensitive instrumentation.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The SK-O180-S accommodates a wide variety of sample containers without adapter requirements: flat-bottom Petri dishes (up to 150 mm), conical flasks (50–500 mL), glass or plastic test tubes (in compatible racks), and multi-well plates secured via non-slip matting. Its orbital motion profile conforms to common laboratory practice guidelines for suspension-based protocols outlined in ISO 15190:2020 (Laboratory safety) and supports GLP-aligned documentation when paired with external loggers. While not certified for IEC 61000-6-3 EMC emission compliance out-of-box, its electromagnetic signature falls within acceptable limits for general-purpose research labs per CISPR 11 Group 1 Class B criteria. No regulatory certification (e.g., FDA 510(k), CE medical device) applies, as the unit is classified as general-purpose laboratory equipment under IEC 61010-1:2010+A1:2019 (Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use).

Software & Data Management

The SK-O180-S is a standalone hardware device with no embedded microprocessor-based data logging, network interface, or software integration capability. All operation is managed via front-panel push-button controls and LED feedback—ensuring deterministic response, zero firmware dependencies, and immunity to cybersecurity vulnerabilities. For labs requiring audit trails or electronic records, external USB or RS-232 data loggers may be connected via optional analog output modules (sold separately). When used in regulated environments (e.g., pharmaceutical QC labs following USP or FDA 21 CFR Part 11), users must implement procedural controls—including manual logbook entries, operator sign-offs, and periodic performance verification using NIST-traceable tachometers—to maintain compliance.

Applications

• Microbial growth enhancement in nutrient agar plates and liquid broth cultures (e.g., E. coli, yeast, and fungal suspensions).
• Uniform staining and destaining of SDS-PAGE gels and Western blot membranes.
• Antibody incubation and antigen-antibody binding steps in ELISA and immunohistochemistry workflows.
• Cell dissociation support during passaging (when combined with enzymatic solutions and temperature-controlled environments).
• Homogenization of immunoassay reagents, calibration standards, and buffer preparations prior to dispensing.
• Environmental microbiology sampling preparation—including water filtration eluent mixing and soil extract agitation.

FAQ

Is the SK-O180-S suitable for use inside CO₂ incubators or cold rooms?
No—the unit is designed for ambient-temperature benchtop operation only. It lacks environmental sealing, condensation protection, or temperature-rated components required for enclosed or sub-ambient environments.
Can multiple platforms be stacked or daisy-chained for higher throughput?
No—this model features a single fixed platform. DLAB does not offer mechanical stacking kits or synchronization interfaces for multi-unit coordination.
What maintenance is required to ensure long-term accuracy?
Annual verification of speed accuracy using an optical tachometer is recommended. Clean the platform surface regularly with 70% ethanol; avoid abrasive cleaners or high-pressure sprays near control electronics.
Does the shaker include overheat or overload protection?
Yes—it incorporates thermal cutoff circuitry that disables motor output if internal temperature exceeds safe operating thresholds, and current-limiting logic prevents stall-induced damage during transient overloads.
Are replacement parts such as platforms or motor assemblies available?
Yes—DLAB provides genuine spare parts including platform assemblies, control PCBs, and brushless motor modules under part numbers accessible through authorized distributors. Warranty coverage is 12 months from date of shipment.