IKA VXR Basic Vibrax Orbital Shaker

Overview

The IKA VXR Basic Vibrax Orbital Shaker is a compact, benchtop laboratory shaker engineered for precision and reliability in routine life science applications. Designed around a robust electromagnetic drive system and optimized mechanical architecture, it delivers consistent orbital motion with a fixed 4 mm orbit diameter—ideal for gentle yet effective mixing of small-volume samples in microcentrifuge tubes, Eppendorf-style vials, and standard test tubes. Unlike reciprocating or vortex shakers, the VXR Basic employs true orbital agitation, generating uniform shear profiles across the sample surface without splashing or excessive foaming. Its continuous-duty motor supports uninterrupted operation over extended periods, making it suitable for incubation-coupled protocols, cell suspension maintenance, reagent homogenization, and enzymatic reaction mixing where thermal stability and mechanical consistency are critical. The device operates without microprocessor control or digital feedback, relying instead on analog speed regulation—a design choice that enhances long-term operational stability, reduces electromagnetic interference in sensitive environments, and lowers total cost of ownership.

Key Features

• Orbital motion with precisely calibrated 4 mm orbit diameter for reproducible mixing performance
• Wide speed range (0–2200 rpm) adjustable via analog dial, enabling fine-tuned optimization for diverse sample viscosities and container types
• Electromagnetic drive system with improved torque delivery at low speeds—ensures smooth startup and stable rotation even below 100 rpm
• Compact footprint (157 × 247 × 130 mm) and lightweight construction (6.1 kg) facilitate integration into crowded biosafety cabinets, cold rooms, or modular lab benches
• IP21-rated enclosure provides protection against vertically falling drips and solid objects >12.5 mm—suitable for general laboratory use under controlled environmental conditions (5–40 °C, ≤80 % RH)
• Energy-efficient motor (35 W input / 13.2 W output) minimizes heat generation and contributes to ambient temperature stability during prolonged runs

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The VXR Basic accommodates a broad range of standard laboratory vessels through interchangeable clamping accessories—including optional fixtures for 64 × 1.5 mL microtubes (compatible with Eppendorf, Axygen, and similar formats) and 36 × 16 mm test tubes. All clamps are mechanically secured via standardized M4 threaded inserts, ensuring secure retention at maximum speed. While the shaker itself does not carry CE marking for medical device use or ISO 13485 certification, its construction adheres to DIN EN 60529 (IP21) for electrical safety and mechanical ingress protection. It is intended for research-use-only (RUO) applications and complies with general laboratory equipment standards under EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC. No built-in data logging or audit trail functionality is provided; therefore, it is not validated for GLP, GMP, or FDA 21 CFR Part 11 environments unless integrated into a broader validated system with external monitoring.

Software & Data Management

The IKA VXR Basic Vibrax is a standalone analog instrument with no embedded firmware, USB interface, or software connectivity. Speed settings are manually adjusted using a calibrated rotary dial with visual scale markings—eliminating dependency on digital controllers, firmware updates, or proprietary drivers. This architecture ensures deterministic behavior, zero risk of software corruption, and full compatibility with electromagnetic-sensitive environments such as NMR suites or electrophysiology labs. Users requiring traceable parameter documentation must implement external recording protocols (e.g., logbooks, LIMS entries, or time-stamped video verification). For laboratories needing electronic records, IKA offers digitally enabled alternatives (e.g., VIBRAX digital series), but the VXR Basic remains purpose-built for simplicity, durability, and operational transparency.

Applications

• Maintenance of suspended mammalian or bacterial cultures during short-term incubation
• Homogenization of immunoassay reagents, antibody dilutions, and ELISA coating solutions
• Preparation of serial dilutions and standard curves in molecular biology workflows
• Equilibration of chromatography mobile phases and buffer degassing support
• Cell dissociation support prior to flow cytometry or microscopy sample preparation
• General-purpose mixing in teaching labs, QC testing, and bioprocess development pilot studies

FAQ

Is the VXR Basic compatible with refrigerated or CO₂ incubators?
Yes—its low heat dissipation (13.2 W output power) and absence of internal electronics make it suitable for placement inside cooled enclosures, provided ambient humidity remains below 80 % RH and condensation is prevented.
Can I use third-party clamps with this shaker?
Only clamps featuring M4 threaded mounting holes and a center-of-mass offset compatible with 4 mm orbital motion are recommended; non-IKA clamps may induce imbalance or resonance at high speeds.
Does the device include overload or stall protection?
No—the VXR Basic lacks active current sensing or thermal cutoff circuits; users must ensure load distribution remains within the 2 kg limit (including clamp weight) to prevent mechanical strain.
What maintenance is required?
Annual inspection of drive coupling integrity and periodic cleaning of the platform surface with 70 % ethanol; no lubrication or calibration is specified by the manufacturer.
Is the analog speed dial calibrated to traceable standards?
IKA does not provide factory calibration certificates for the VXR Basic; users requiring metrological traceability should employ an external tachometer for verification.