IKA MTS2/4 Digital Microplate Shaker

Overview

The IKA MTS2/4 Digital Microplate Shaker is a precision-engineered orbital shaker specifically designed for consistent, low-shear agitation of standard 96-well and 384-well microplates in life science laboratories. Utilizing a robust eccentric drive mechanism with a fixed 3 mm orbit diameter, the device generates uniform circular motion to ensure homogeneous mixing without splashing or cross-well contamination—critical for ELISA, cell-based assays, immunoassays, and enzymatic reaction incubations. Unlike generic benchtop shakers, the MTS2/4 integrates microplate-specific mechanical constraints—including rigid plate clamping geometry and optimized center-of-mass alignment—to maintain plate stability across its full speed range (50–1100 rpm). Its compact footprint and low thermal output make it suitable for placement inside refrigerated rooms or laminar flow cabinets where ambient temperature control is essential.

Key Features

• Dual-configuration platform supporting either 2 or 4 standard microplates simultaneously, with dedicated stainless-steel clamping fixtures ensuring secure retention during high-speed operation
• Digital LED timer with 1–99 minute programmable range and audible end-of-cycle alert for unattended protocol execution
• Stepless electronic speed control with real-time rpm readout via analog scale—no digital display, but calibrated for ±2% repeatability under load
• Continuous or timed operation modes; 100% duty cycle rating enables extended incubation protocols without thermal derating
• IP21-rated housing provides protection against vertically falling drips and solid objects >12.5 mm—suitable for general laboratory environments per DIN EN 60529
• Universal voltage input (100–240 V, 50/60 Hz) with internal switching power supply ensures stable performance across global electrical infrastructures
• Low-noise brushless motor (13.2 W output, 35 W input) engineered for long-term reliability and minimal vibration transmission to adjacent instrumentation

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The MTS2/4 accommodates ANSI/SBS-compliant 96-well and 384-well plates—including PCR plates, deep-well storage plates, and filter-bottom assay plates—without adapter modification. Plate clamps are machined to accept standard plate footprints with ±0.2 mm tolerance, minimizing lateral shift during oscillation. While the unit itself does not include active temperature regulation, its operational envelope (5–40 °C ambient) aligns with ISO 15195:2018 requirements for calibration laboratory environmental conditions. The device complies with IEC 61010-1 for electrical safety in laboratory equipment and meets EMC directive 2014/30/EU for electromagnetic compatibility. It is routinely deployed in GLP-compliant environments where instrument qualification includes documented verification of speed accuracy, timer linearity, and plate retention integrity.

Software & Data Management

The MTS2/4 operates as a standalone hardware-controlled system with no embedded microprocessor or firmware-based data logging. All operational parameters—including set time and nominal speed—are manually configured via front-panel controls. As such, it requires no software installation, network connectivity, or cybersecurity validation. This architecture eliminates risks associated with firmware vulnerabilities, obsolescence, or regulatory nonconformance related to FDA 21 CFR Part 11 electronic records. For laboratories requiring audit trails, external validation tools (e.g., calibrated tachometers, stopwatch timers, and plate displacement gauges) are recommended for IQ/OQ documentation per ASTM E2500-13. No RS232, USB, or analog output interfaces are provided—consistent with IKA’s design philosophy for purpose-built, maintenance-minimized benchtop instruments.

Applications

• ELISA and multiplex immunoassay plate washing and substrate incubation
• Cell dissociation and gentle resuspension of adherent monolayers in 96-well formats
• Antibody-antigen binding kinetics studies requiring precise agitation timing
• High-throughput screening (HTS) plate preconditioning prior to reader analysis
• Microbial suspension homogenization for OD600 measurements in microplate readers
• Pre-analytical sample mixing in clinical diagnostics workflows compliant with CLSI EP25-A guidelines

FAQ

Does the MTS2/4 support temperature-controlled shaking?
No. The MTS2/4 is a non-thermostatic shaker. For combined shaking and temperature control, consider the IKA KS4000ic or KS4000i series incubator shakers.
Can the MTS2/4 accommodate 384-well plates?
Yes—provided they conform to SBS standard dimensions (127.76 × 85.48 mm) and are placed within the designated clamp zones. Verification of plate warpage and lid clearance is recommended at speeds >600 rpm.
Is the timer resolution adjustable below 1 minute?
No. Minimum timer increment is 1 minute; fractional timing requires external timing devices or manual intervention.
What maintenance is required for long-term reliability?
Annual inspection of clamp screw torque (2.5 N·m), visual check of drive belt tension, and cleaning of ventilation grilles with dry compressed air—per IKA Service Bulletin MTS-2022-01.
Does the unit meet CE marking requirements for export to the European Economic Area?
Yes. Certified to Directive 2014/30/EU (EMC), 2014/35/EU (LVD), and Regulation (EU) 2019/1020 (market surveillance), with Declaration of Conformity available upon request.