IKA MTS 2/4 Digital Microplate Shaker
| Brand | IKA |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Model | MTS 2/4 Digital |
| Orbital Motion Type | Circular |
| Orbit Diameter | 3 mm |
| Max. Load Capacity (incl. clamps) | 2 or 4 microplates |
| Motor Input Power | 35 W |
| Motor Output Power | 13.2 W |
| Continuous Operation Duty Cycle | 100 % |
| Min. Adjustable Speed | 50 rpm |
| Speed Range | 0–1100 rpm |
| Speed Display | Analog Scale |
| Timer Function | Yes |
| Timer Display | 7-segment LED |
| Timer Setting Range | 1–99 min |
| Operation Modes | Timed or Continuous |
| Microplate Compatibility | Standard 96-well and 384-well plates |
| Dimensions (W × D × H) | 185 × 105 × 320 mm |
| Weight | 2.7 kg |
| Ambient Operating Temperature | 5–40 °C |
| Max. Relative Humidity | 80 % (non-condensing) |
| Ingress Protection Rating | IP21 (per DIN EN 60529) |
| Input Voltage | 220–240 V / 100–120 V |
| Frequency | 50/60 Hz |
| Total Instrument Power Consumption | 45 W |
Overview
The IKA MTS 2/4 Digital Microplate Shaker is an engineered solution for precise, reproducible orbital agitation of standard microtiter plates in life science laboratories. Designed around a robust, brushless DC motor and calibrated circular motion mechanism, it delivers consistent 3 mm orbit amplitude—optimized to promote uniform mixing, suspension resuspension, and reagent homogenization without splashing or cross-well contamination. Unlike generic benchtop shakers, the MTS 2/4 integrates dedicated microplate clamping architecture that accommodates either two or four plates simultaneously, supporting high-throughput workflows in ELISA, cell-based assays, immunoassays, and enzymatic reaction kinetics. Its compact footprint (185 × 105 × 320 mm) and low thermal signature (45 W total power draw) make it suitable for placement inside biosafety cabinets or adjacent to sensitive instrumentation such as plate readers and liquid handlers.
Key Features
- Programmable digital timer with 7-segment LED display, enabling precise incubation-integrated shaking from 1 to 99 minutes—critical for time-sensitive binding or washing steps.
- Electronically controlled speed regulation across a broad 0–1100 rpm range, with fine-tuned minimum setting at 50 rpm for gentle cell suspension or antibody incubation.
- Dual-load configuration: switchable between 2-plate and 4-plate modes using standardized IKA MT-Platten clamps—no tools required.
- Continuous operation mode for extended kinetic studies; 100% duty cycle rating ensures thermal stability during overnight runs.
- IP21-rated enclosure per DIN EN 60529—protects internal electronics against vertically falling drips and solid objects >12.5 mm, meeting general laboratory environmental requirements.
- Universal dual-voltage input (100–120 V / 220–240 V, 50/60 Hz), certified for global deployment without external transformers.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The MTS 2/4 is validated for use with ANSI/SBS-compliant 96-well and 384-well microplates—including flat-bottom, U-bottom, V-bottom, and PCR-compatible formats. It does not support deep-well or non-standard plates without optional adapters. The device complies with IEC 61010-1 (Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use) and carries CE marking for the European Economic Area. While not FDA 21 CFR Part 11–enabled (lacking audit trail or electronic signature functionality), its deterministic timer and analog speed control support GLP-aligned documentation when paired with lab notebook entries or LIMS-integrated run logs.
Software & Data Management
The MTS 2/4 operates as a standalone instrument with no embedded software, firmware updates, or connectivity interfaces (RS-232, USB, or Ethernet). All parameters are set manually via front-panel controls; speed is indicated on an analog scale, and elapsed/remaining time is shown on the LED timer. This design prioritizes operational simplicity, reliability, and electromagnetic compatibility in shared instrumentation environments—eliminating risks associated with driver conflicts, network vulnerabilities, or software obsolescence. For labs requiring automated protocol integration, external programmable logic controllers (PLCs) or TTL-triggered relays may be used to synchronize start/stop signals with adjacent equipment.
Applications
- ELISA plate washing and conjugate incubation steps requiring uniform agitation without foam formation.
- Cell dissociation and resuspension prior to flow cytometry or viability assays.
- Antibody-antigen binding enhancement in lateral flow or sandwich immunoassays.
- Pre-incubation mixing for qPCR master mix preparation and plate loading.
- Standardization of shaking conditions across multi-user core facilities—enabling inter-experiment comparability under ISO/IEC 17025 quality frameworks.
FAQ
Does the MTS 2/4 support 384-well plates?
Yes—it accommodates both 96-well and 384-well ANSI/SBS-standard microplates when used with appropriate IKA clamps.
Is the timer programmable in seconds?
No—the timer resolution is 1 minute, with a setting range of 1–99 minutes.
Can the unit be mounted inside a cold room?
It is rated for ambient operation between 5 °C and 40 °C; condensation below 5 °C may compromise electrical safety and mechanical longevity.
Does it include microplates?
No—microplates are sold separately; only clamps and power cord are included.
What maintenance is required?
No routine maintenance is specified beyond periodic cleaning of the platform surface and inspection of clamp integrity; the brushless motor has no serviceable parts.
