IKA KS 260 control Orbital Shaker
| Brand | IKA |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Manufacturer | IKA Werke GmbH & Co. KG |
| Product Type | Orbital Shaker |
| Model | KS 260 control |
| Timing Range | 0–5999 min (0–9 h 59 min) |
| Speed Range | 10–500 rpm |
| Orbit Diameter | 10 mm |
| Max Load Capacity (including clamp) | 7.5 kg |
| Operating Mode | Timed or Continuous |
| Display | LED for speed and timer |
| Interface | RS-232, Analog Output |
| Power Supply | 220–240 V, 50/60 Hz |
| Input Power | 45 W |
| Protection Rating | IP21 |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | 360 × 98 × 420 mm |
| Weight | 8.8 kg |
| Ambient Operating Conditions | 5–50 °C, ≤80 % RH |
| Compliance | DIN EN 60529 |
Overview
The IKA KS 260 control is a precision-engineered orbital shaker designed for consistent, low-shear mixing in life science laboratories. Utilizing a robust eccentric drive mechanism, it delivers uniform circular motion with a fixed 10 mm orbit diameter—ideal for cell culture suspension, solubility testing, staining protocols, and general reagent homogenization. Unlike reciprocating or vortex shakers, the KS 260 control’s orbital motion minimizes sample foaming and shear-induced damage to sensitive biological entities such as mammalian cells or protein complexes. Its compact footprint (360 × 98 × 420 mm) and low-profile design allow seamless integration into biosafety cabinets, cold rooms, and standard benchtop workflows. Engineered for continuous-duty operation at full load (up to 7.5 kg including clamps), the unit features a brushless DC motor delivering high reproducibility across its full 10–500 rpm range, with digital speed regulation ensuring <±1 rpm stability under variable load conditions.
Key Features
- Microprocessor-controlled orbital motion with precise digital speed and time adjustment via front-panel LED interface
- Programmable timer with 1–5999 minute range (0–9 h 59 min), supporting both timed and continuous operation modes
- Integrated electronic braking system for rapid, controlled deceleration—critical for preventing spillage during protocol interruption
- RS-232 serial interface and analog output (0–10 V) for external monitoring and integration into automated lab environments
- IP21-rated enclosure compliant with DIN EN 60529, ensuring protection against vertically falling drips and solid objects >12.5 mm
- Low-noise, energy-efficient motor (10 W output / 45 W input) certified for uninterrupted 100% duty cycle operation
- Universal mounting platform compatible with IKA’s full range of interchangeable clamps—including universal platform, tube holders (13–50 mL), microplate adapters (96-well, deep-well), and custom fixtures
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The KS 260 control accommodates diverse vessel geometries without mechanical modification: conical flasks (50–2000 mL), centrifuge tubes, Petri dishes, multiwell plates, and custom bioreactor vessels. Clamp selection determines maximum vessel height and stability; all clamps are sold separately to support application-specific optimization. The shaker meets essential safety and electromagnetic compatibility standards per EU Directive 2014/30/EU (EMC) and 2014/35/EU (LVD). While not intrinsically rated for use in classified hazardous locations, its construction complies with ISO 13485-aligned manufacturing practices for medical device support applications. For GLP/GMP-regulated environments, audit trails can be generated via labworldsoft® software (sold separately), enabling compliance with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when configured with user authentication and electronic signature modules.
Software & Data Management
The KS 260 control is fully compatible with IKA’s labworldsoft® laboratory software suite—a Windows-based platform enabling remote parameter configuration, real-time speed/timer monitoring, data logging (CSV export), and multi-instrument synchronization. Through the RS-232 interface, users can script sequences (e.g., ramp profiles, pause intervals, multi-stage protocols) and archive operational logs with timestamps, operator IDs, and environmental metadata. The analog output channel supports connection to PLCs or SCADA systems for centralized facility-level monitoring. No proprietary drivers are required; communication follows standard ASCII command protocols documented in IKA’s publicly available API reference manual.
Applications
- Cell culture maintenance: Uniform suspension of adherent and suspension cell lines in roller bottles and T-flasks
- Molecular biology: Hybridization buffer agitation, ELISA plate washing steps, and DNA/RNA extraction bead beating support
- Pharmaceutical QA/QC: Dissolution testing per USP , excipient blending validation, and stability study sample agitation
- Environmental microbiology: Bacterial enrichment in liquid media, soil slurry homogenization, and water quality assay preparation
- Bioprocess development: Seed train expansion, media component solubilization, and small-scale bioreactor inoculum preparation
FAQ
Is the KS 260 control suitable for incubator-compatible operation?
No—the unit operates at ambient temperature only and lacks integrated heating or cooling. For temperature-controlled orbital shaking, consider the IKA KS 4000i control or KS 8000 series with Peltier modules.
Are clamps included with the base instrument?
No. All clamps—including universal platforms, flask holders, and microplate adapters—are optional accessories ordered separately based on vessel type and throughput requirements.
Can the shaker be mounted vertically or inverted?
No. The KS 260 control is designed exclusively for horizontal benchtop placement. Its mechanical architecture does not support alternative orientations.
What is the warranty coverage for the KS 260 control?
IKA provides a standard 24-month limited warranty covering parts and labor for defects in materials and workmanship under normal laboratory use, excluding consumables and clamp components.
Does the unit support password-protected parameter locking?
Yes—when connected to labworldsoft®, administrator-defined access levels prevent unauthorized changes to speed, timing, or operational mode, supporting ISO/IEC 17025 documentation requirements.
