DLAB SK-O330-Pro Digital Orbital Shaker

Overview

The DLAB SK-O330-Pro Digital Orbital Shaker is an engineered platform for consistent, low-shear orbital mixing of biological and chemical samples in laboratories requiring reproducible agitation under ambient conditions. Designed around a precision-engineered brushless DC motor and a balanced eccentric drive mechanism, the shaker delivers stable orbital motion with a fixed 10 mm orbit diameter—optimized for uniform suspension of cells, microbial cultures, immunoassays, and reagent-based protocols where gentle yet effective mixing is critical. Its operation adheres to fundamental principles of orbital oscillation mechanics: rotational kinetic energy is converted into controlled horizontal circular displacement of the platform, minimizing vortex formation while maximizing surface-to-volume interaction across sample vessels. The unit operates exclusively at ambient temperature and is not equipped with heating or cooling modules, making it suitable for applications where thermal stability is maintained externally—such as incubator-integrated workflows or climate-controlled rooms.

Key Features

• Brushless DC motor ensures long service life, low electromagnetic interference, and maintenance-free operation over extended duty cycles.
• Digital LCD interface provides real-time display of set and actual speed (rpm) and remaining timer duration, supporting both timed and continuous operation modes.
• Adjustable speed range from 100 to 500 rpm enables method-specific optimization—from slow resuspension of sensitive cell pellets to vigorous mixing of viscous media.
• IP21-rated enclosure offers protection against vertically falling drips and solid objects larger than 12.5 mm, meeting basic environmental safety requirements for general laboratory use.
• RS232 serial interface enables bidirectional communication with external PCs for remote parameter control, data logging, and integration into automated lab workflows.
• Universal platform design accommodates interchangeable clamps—including microplate holders, tube racks (13 mm, 15 mm, 16 mm, 25 mm), and flask supports—ensuring compatibility with common vessel formats used in microbiology, molecular biology, and quality control labs.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The SK-O330-Pro supports standard laboratory containers up to 7.5 kg total load (including clamp weight), including Erlenmeyer flasks (up to 2 L), culture tubes, deep-well plates, and PCR strip holders. Its orbital motion profile meets typical mechanical agitation requirements outlined in ISO 8573-1 (for compressed air–free environments) and aligns with procedural standards referenced in USP for container closure integrity testing preparations. While the device itself does not carry CE marking for IVD or medical device classification, its construction and performance characteristics comply with general-purpose laboratory equipment guidelines per IEC 61010-1:2010 (Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use). No internal temperature regulation means users must ensure ambient lab conditions remain within 15–30 °C for optimal motor longevity and speed accuracy.

Software & Data Management

DLAB provides complimentary PC-based software compatible with Windows OS for configuration, monitoring, and export of operational logs. Through the RS232 interface, users can initiate start/stop commands, modify speed and timer settings remotely, and record timestamped runtime parameters—including actual rpm, elapsed time, and error codes (e.g., overload detection or motor stall). Exported data is saved in CSV format for traceability and integration into LIMS or electronic lab notebooks (ELN). The software supports audit trail generation compliant with GLP and GMP documentation practices, though full 21 CFR Part 11 compliance requires additional institutional validation and user access controls implemented at the system level.

Applications

• Microbial culture propagation in liquid broth media (e.g., E. coli, yeast, Bacillus spp.)
• Antibody-antigen binding assays and ELISA plate washing steps
• Suspension of mammalian and insect cell lines prior to centrifugation or passaging
• Extraction buffer equilibration in protein purification workflows
• Homogenization of soil or environmental samples for microbiological analysis
• Preparation of calibration standards and reference solutions in QC/QA laboratories

FAQ

Is the SK-O330-Pro suitable for use inside a CO₂ incubator?

No—the unit is rated for ambient temperature operation only and lacks environmental sealing or corrosion-resistant materials required for high-humidity, elevated-CO₂ incubator environments.
Can the shaker maintain ±1 rpm speed accuracy across its full range?

Speed stability is specified at ±2 rpm under nominal load (≤5 kg); accuracy may vary slightly at extremes of the 100–500 rpm range due to motor torque limitations and mechanical resonance effects.
Does the RS232 interface support USB-to-serial adapters?

Yes—standard FTDI- or CH340-based USB-to-RS232 adapters are fully compatible when appropriate drivers are installed.
What is the expected lifetime of the brushless DC motor?

Rated for ≥20,000 hours of continuous operation under recommended load and ambient conditions (25 °C, non-condensing environment).
Are custom clamp designs available from DLAB?

DLAB offers a catalog of validated accessories; OEM clamp development is available upon request with minimum order quantities and engineering review.