Edmund Büehler TiMix 2 Microplate Shaker

Overview

The Edmund Büehler TiMix 2 is a compact, high-precision microplate shaker engineered for consistent orbital mixing of small-volume samples in life science laboratories. Designed around a brushless DC motor and precision-machined eccentric drive mechanism, the TiMix 2 delivers stable, low-vibration orbital motion with a fixed 2 mm diameter—optimized for homogeneous suspension of cells, reagents, and assay components without splashing or cross-contamination. Unlike heated shakers or multi-axis platforms, the TiMix 2 focuses exclusively on non-temperature-controlled, high-reproducibility shaking for applications where thermal stability is either unnecessary or externally managed. Its footprint (170 × 220 × 120 mm) enables seamless integration into biosafety cabinets, cold rooms, and automated liquid handling workcells. The device operates silently (<45 dB(A) at 1,000 rpm), minimizing acoustic interference in sensitive environments such as core facilities and regulated QC labs.

Key Features

• Ultra-compact form factor: Engineered for space-constrained benchtops and integrated workflows—fits under standard fume hood sashes and within robotic deck footprints.
• Wide speed range: Adjustable oscillation frequency from 50 to 1,500 rpm in 1-rpm increments, supporting gentle resuspension (e.g., antibody-coated beads) and vigorous mixing (e.g., enzymatic digestions).
• Precision orbital motion: Fixed 2 mm orbital diameter ensures repeatable shear profiles across all well positions—critical for assay reproducibility in ELISA, qPCR setup, and cell-based screening.
• Universal plate compatibility: Interchangeable platform adapters accommodate ANSI/SLAS-standard 96-well, 384-well, PCR, and deep-well microplates without tools or recalibration.
• Programmable timer with memory: Independent timer function (1 second to 99 hours 59 minutes) retains last-used settings after power cycle; supports unattended overnight protocols.
• Robust safety architecture: Complies with IEC 61010-1 for laboratory electrical equipment; includes automatic motor stall detection and overcurrent protection.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The TiMix 2 is validated for use with standard polypropylene, polystyrene, and cyclo-olefin copolymer (COC) microplates—including low-binding and sterile-filtered formats. It does not support temperature-controlled applications; users requiring thermal regulation must pair it with external incubators or climate-controlled enclosures. The device meets CE marking requirements under the EU Low Voltage Directive (2014/35/EU) and Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive (2014/30/EU). While not intrinsically rated for hazardous locations, its RoHS-compliant construction and absence of internal heating elements make it suitable for ISO Class 5 cleanroom-adjacent use when operated with appropriate gowning and airflow controls. No FDA 21 CFR Part 11 functionality is embedded; however, audit trails may be generated externally via connected LIMS or ELN systems when used in GLP/GMP environments.

Software & Data Management

The TiMix 2 operates via an intuitive front-panel interface with LED display and tactile rotary encoder—no PC connection or proprietary software required. All operational parameters (speed, time, status) are locally stored in non-volatile memory and persist through power loss. For laboratories implementing digital SOPs, the device’s deterministic behavior (i.e., identical speed/timing output per input command) enables full traceability when logged manually or via barcode-scanned protocol execution. While no native API or USB/RS-232 interface is provided, third-party hardware controllers (e.g., LabVIEW-compatible DAQ modules) can monitor status LEDs or relay outputs for integration into broader automation frameworks.

Applications

• Pre-incubation mixing of ELISA capture antibodies and antigen standards
• Homogenization of lysates prior to centrifugation in high-throughput proteomics workflows
• Resuspension of lyophilized reagents in diagnostic assay development
• Equilibration of PCR master mixes before thermal cycling
• Cell detachment support during adherent culture passaging (in conjunction with enzymatic dissociation buffers)
• Uniform coating of microplate wells with extracellular matrix proteins

FAQ

Is the TiMix 2 compatible with 384-well plates?
Yes—the universal platform includes alignment pins and spring-loaded clamping that secure ANSI/SLAS-compliant 384-well plates without slippage at speeds up to 1,500 rpm.
Does the TiMix 2 generate heat during extended operation?
No measurable temperature rise occurs on the plate surface after 2 hours at 1,200 rpm; thermal validation data is available upon request for ISO 17025-accredited labs.
Can multiple TiMix 2 units be synchronized?
Not natively—but identical parameter entry across units ensures inter-device consistency; timing drift is <±0.1% over 24 hours.
What maintenance is required?
None beyond periodic cleaning of the platform surface with 70% ethanol; the brushless motor has a rated service life exceeding 20,000 operating hours.
Is calibration documentation provided?
A factory-issued performance verification report (including speed accuracy ±1 rpm and timer deviation <0.5%) is included with each unit; optional UKAS-accredited calibration is available via authorized service centers.