DRETOP ZGC.CP-150 Multifunctional CO₂ Incubator with Light Control

Overview

The DRETOP ZGC.CP-150 is a multifunctional air-jacketed CO₂ incubator engineered for advanced cell culture applications requiring precise environmental control beyond standard CO₂ regulation. Unlike conventional CO₂-only incubators, the ZGC.CP-150 integrates independent light stimulation capability—enabling simulation of diurnal photoperiods—while maintaining strict thermal and gas-phase stability essential for mammalian, stem, and primary cell cultures. Its measurement architecture relies on dual-circuit control: an infrared (IR) CO₂ sensor ensures long-term drift-free concentration monitoring unaffected by ambient humidity or temperature fluctuations, while a microprocessor-driven P.I.D. heating system maintains chamber setpoints within ±0.5 °C. The unit operates on a robust air-jacketed thermal design with ceramic fiber insulation and door-heating technology to eliminate condensation on inner glass surfaces—a critical contamination mitigation feature in aseptic workflows. Designed for continuous operation exceeding 360 hours, it complies with core laboratory safety and performance expectations aligned with ISO 13485 manufacturing practices and supports GLP-compliant documentation when paired with optional data logging interfaces.

Key Features

• Air-jacketed thermal architecture with ceramic fiber insulation and active door heating to prevent internal condensation and microbial ingress
• Infrared CO₂ sensor offering high specificity, minimal cross-sensitivity to H₂O vapor, and rapid recovery (<3 min to 5% CO₂ after 30-sec door opening)
• Programmable LED cold-light system (0–12,000 lx, 6-level intensity, red/blue spectrum options available) with zero radiant heat emission
• Stainless steel mirror-finish interior with radius-corner geometry and removable, autoclavable shelving for enhanced cleanability and sterility assurance
• Dual-glass observation door with nano-enhanced magnetic seal and tempered inner pane for structural integrity and thermal retention
• HEPA-grade inlet air filtration (≥0.3 µm, 99.998% efficiency) coupled with built-in ozone-free UV lamp for continuous air and humidification pan sterilization
• Modular refrigeration system with compressor protection logic (start delay, stop interval, auto-defrost) and high-efficiency evaporative cooling circuit
• Intelligent multi-segment controller supporting up to 99 cycles, each with 30 programmable steps; time resolution up to 9999 minutes per segment
• Independent over-temperature safety cutoff, real-time alarm triggering, and non-volatile memory for parameter retention during power interruption

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The ZGC.CP-150 accommodates standard T-flasks (up to 225 cm²), Petri dishes, multi-well plates, and roller bottles across three adjustable stainless steel shelves (load capacity: ≤15 kg/shelf). Its IR-based CO₂ sensing and air-jacketed thermal uniformity make it suitable for sensitive applications including induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) expansion, co-culture systems, and low-oxygen preconditioning protocols where gas stability is paramount. While not certified to UL 61010-1 or IEC 61000-6-3 out-of-the-box, the unit meets electromagnetic compatibility and electrical safety baselines expected for Class II laboratory equipment. It supports compliance with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when integrated with validated RS485/USB data acquisition software (optional), enabling audit-trail generation, user access control, and electronic signature functionality required under GMP/GLP frameworks.

Software & Data Management

The ZGC.CP-150 features an embedded color touchscreen interface (DCP-series configuration) providing intuitive access to all operational parameters—including real-time CO₂%, temperature, illumination level, and elapsed cycle time. Optional communication modules (RS485 or USB) enable connection to external PCs or networked lab information systems (LIMS). When used with DRETOP’s proprietary incubator management software, users can configure automated data logging at user-defined intervals (e.g., every 30 seconds), generate CSV-exportable trend reports, and implement remote alarm notifications via email or SMS gateway (requires optional wireless alert module). All logged datasets include timestamped metadata, operator ID fields, and event flags for door openings, alarms, or setpoint changes—facilitating traceability in regulated environments.

Applications

This incubator serves diverse life science research and bioproduction needs: circadian rhythm studies in neuroendocrine or photobiology labs; light-responsive gene expression assays using optogenetic constructs; photodynamic therapy (PDT) preclinical screening; plant tissue culture under controlled photoperiods; and hybridoma or CHO cell line maintenance where diurnal temperature/light cycling improves viability and antibody yield. Its modular design allows integration into larger environmental simulation platforms—for example, coupling with external CO₂ scrubbers or humidity generators (via side port customization) to extend functionality toward artificial climate modeling.

FAQ

Does the ZGC.CP-150 include humidity control?

No. This model is configured as a CO₂ + light + temperature incubator without active humidification. For combined humidity regulation, consider the DCP-150RQ or DCP-150GC variants.
What is the recovery time after door opening?

Following a 30-second door opening, the unit restores 37 °C within <8 minutes and 5% CO₂ within <3 minutes, verified under ISO 15189-relevant test conditions.
Can the lighting spectrum be customized?

Yes. Red (630–660 nm) and blue (450–470 nm) LED arrays are available as factory-installed options to support wavelength-specific photobiomodulation or cryptochrome activation studies.
Is the CO₂ sensor calibrated at the factory?

All IR sensors undergo two-point NIST-traceable calibration (0% and 5% CO₂ in balanced air) prior to shipment, with calibration certificate provided.
What safety certifications does this unit carry?

It conforms to GB/T 14710 (Chinese environmental testing standards) and CE-marked per EN 61000-6-2/6-3 and EN 61010-1; full IEC 61010-2-040 certification is available upon request for specific export markets.