IKA HS 260 control Reciprocal Shaker
| Brand | IKA |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Manufacturer Type | Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) |
| Product Category | Imported Instrument |
| Model | HS 260 control |
| Instrument Type | Reciprocal Shaker |
| Timer Range | 1–599 min |
| Oscillation Frequency | 10–300 rpm |
| Stroke Length | 20 mm |
| Temperature Control | None |
| Platform Quantity | 1 |
Overview
The IKA HS 260 control is a precision-engineered reciprocal shaker designed for consistent, low-shear agitation of samples in life science and bioengineering laboratories. Operating on a linear reciprocating motion principle—distinct from orbital or rotary shaking—the HS 260 control generates uniform horizontal displacement with a fixed stroke length of 20 mm, ensuring reproducible mixing across vials, tubes, flasks, and microplates. Its robust brushless DC motor delivers stable speed control from 10 to 300 rpm with high torque retention at low speeds, making it suitable for gentle cell suspension, hybridization protocols, blotting washes, and reagent equilibration. The absence of integrated temperature regulation positions this instrument as a dedicated ambient-temperature agitation platform—ideal for applications where thermal stability is maintained externally or not required. With a maximum load capacity of 7.5 kg (including fixtures), the unit supports scalable workflows without mechanical drift or resonance-induced vibration.
Key Features
- Microprocessor-controlled reciprocating motion with precise digital speed and timer adjustment via front-panel LCD interface
- Full-range speed control (10–300 rpm) with ±1 rpm repeatability under standard load conditions
- Programmable timer (1–599 minutes) plus continuous operation mode for extended assays
- Integrated safety stop mechanism and tabletop anti-slip feet for operational stability
- RS232 serial interface and analog output (0–10 V) for external monitoring and integration into automated lab environments
- Compliant with DIN EN 60529 IP21 rating for protection against vertically falling solid objects and limited ingress of moisture
- Labworldsoft® software compatibility enables remote configuration, parameter logging, and multi-instrument fleet management
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The HS 260 control accommodates a wide range of sample vessels—including conical tubes (15–50 mL), Erlenmeyer flasks (up to 1 L), deep-well microplates, and custom glassware—via interchangeable clamping accessories (sold separately). Fixture selection must account for center-of-gravity alignment to maintain dynamic balance across the full speed range. While the instrument itself does not incorporate active thermal regulation, its operational envelope (5–50 °C ambient, ≤80% RH) ensures reliable performance in standard laboratory environments. It conforms to IEC 61010-1 for electrical safety in laboratory equipment and supports GLP-compliant documentation when used with labworldsoft® audit-trail functionality. Though not certified for GMP manufacturing environments, its design facilitates traceable operation in QC/QA labs adhering to ISO/IEC 17025 requirements.
Software & Data Management
The HS 260 control integrates natively with IKA’s labworldsoft®—a validated Windows-based laboratory software platform supporting instrument configuration, method storage, real-time parameter visualization, and export of timestamped operational logs (CSV/Excel). When connected via RS232, users can define multi-step protocols (e.g., ramp-up → hold → ramp-down), trigger external devices via TTL signals, and archive session metadata including speed, duration, date/time stamp, and user ID. All logged data comply with ALCOA+ principles (Attributable, Legible, Contemporaneous, Original, Accurate, Complete, Consistent, Enduring, Available) when deployed within a controlled IT environment. The analog output channel allows connection to PLCs or SCADA systems for centralized facility monitoring.
Applications
- Western/Northern/Southern blot membrane washing and incubation
- Antibody labeling and antigen-antibody binding kinetics studies
- DNA/RNA hybridization in sealed hybridization ovens or ambient chambers
- Cell culture maintenance during transfection or passaging preparation
- Buffer exchange and dialysis support for protein purification workflows
- Chemical synthesis agitation where minimal foaming and shear-sensitive mixing are critical
- Educational laboratory demonstrations of mass transfer kinetics and diffusion-limited reactions
FAQ
Does the HS 260 control support bidirectional (reversing) motion?
Yes—optional firmware upgrade and mechanical retrofit enable programmable reversal of oscillation direction; contact IKA Technical Support for qualification and installation guidance.
Is the RS232 interface compatible with modern USB-to-serial adapters?
Yes—standard FTDI- or CH340-based adapters function reliably under Windows and Linux with appropriate driver installation.
Can multiple HS 260 control units be synchronized?
No native master-slave synchronization is implemented; however, coordinated start/stop and parameter loading are achievable via labworldsoft® network deployment.
What is the expected service life of the motor under continuous operation?
Rated for 100% duty cycle; typical MTBF exceeds 20,000 hours when operated within specified environmental and load limits.
Are third-party clamps or fixtures validated for use with this shaker?
Only IKA-certified accessories undergo mechanical resonance testing and load distribution validation; non-OEM fixtures may compromise speed accuracy or platform integrity.
