OHAUS VXMTDG Digital Multi-Tube Vortex Mixer
| Brand | OHAUS |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Manufacturer | OHAUS Corporation |
| Product Type | Refrigerated Orbital Shaker |
| Model | VXMTDG |
| Timer Range | 1 s to 160 h |
| Orbital Speed | 500–2500 rpm |
| Orbit Diameter | 3.6 mm |
| Temperature Range | 4–40 °C |
| Platform Count | 2 independently controlled shaking platforms |
Overview
The OHAUS VXMTDG Digital Multi-Tube Vortex Mixer is a dual-platform, refrigerated orbital shaker engineered for high-throughput sample homogenization, resuspension, and mixing in life science laboratories. Unlike conventional linear or circular shakers, the VXMTDG employs precise orbital motion—where each platform rotates along a 3.6 mm diameter circular path—generating consistent, low-shear vortexing action ideal for sensitive biological samples such as cell suspensions, bacterial cultures, ELISA plates, and nucleic acid preparations. Its integrated Peltier-based cooling system maintains temperature stability between 4 °C and 40 °C, enabling temperature-sensitive protocols including enzyme reactions, protein binding assays, and cold-chain sample processing without external refrigeration. Designed for reproducibility and operational continuity, the instrument features microprocessor-based control architecture with real-time feedback loops for speed and temperature regulation, meeting core requirements for GLP-compliant workflows.
Key Features
- Dual independent shaking platforms—each fully programmable for speed, time, and temperature, supporting parallel processing of heterogeneous sample sets.
- Orbital motion at 500–2500 rpm with 3.6 mm orbit diameter ensures uniform energy transfer across tube arrays (10–29 mm diameter), minimizing foaming and sample denaturation.
- Peltier thermoelectric cooling/heating system delivers stable temperature control within ±0.5 °C accuracy across the full 4–40 °C range, validated per ISO/IEC 17025 calibration practices.
- Extended timer functionality from 1 second to 160 hours supports both rapid mixing and extended incubation-mixing protocols (e.g., overnight hybridization or slow enzymatic digestion).
- Vibration-dampening suction-cup feet and rigid aluminum alloy chassis ensure stable operation on standard laboratory benches—even at maximum speed—without slippage or resonance artifacts.
- Microprocessor-controlled interface with non-volatile memory retains user-defined methods, power-loss recovery, and audit-ready event logging (start/stop timestamps, parameter changes).
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The VXMTDG accommodates standard tube formats—including 0.2 mL PCR strips, 1.5 mL and 2.0 mL microcentrifuge tubes, 15 mL and 50 mL conical tubes—via interchangeable foam inserts (sold separately). Its orbital geometry and low-center-of-gravity design prevent tube ejection during high-speed operation. The unit complies with IEC 61010-1:2010 for laboratory electrical safety and meets electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards per EN 61326-1. For regulated environments, firmware supports optional 21 CFR Part 11–compliant user access control and electronic signature modules when paired with OHAUS LabX software (v3.5+). All thermal and rotational performance data are traceable to NIST-certified reference standards.
Software & Data Management
When connected via USB or Ethernet to OHAUS LabX™ software, the VXMTDG enables centralized method deployment, remote monitoring, and automated data export to CSV or PDF reports. LabX provides full audit trail functionality—including operator ID, timestamped parameter modifications, and system event logs—required for FDA-inspected QA/QC labs. Method templates can be version-controlled and locked to prevent unauthorized changes. Raw sensor data (temperature, RPM, elapsed time) are logged at 1 Hz resolution and archived with metadata (date, user, protocol ID), supporting retrospective analysis and deviation investigations per ISO 13485 and GMP Annex 11 guidelines.
Applications
- High-efficiency cell lysis and reagent mixing in molecular biology workflows.
- Uniform suspension of anaerobic bacterial cultures prior to plating or OD measurement.
- Temperature-controlled antigen-antibody incubation in immunoassay development.
- Pre-analytical sample homogenization for clinical diagnostics (e.g., whole blood, saliva, stool suspensions).
- Parallel optimization of buffer conditions during protein purification scale-up.
- Stability testing of biopharmaceutical formulations under controlled thermal agitation.
FAQ
Does the VXMTDG support simultaneous operation of both platforms at different speeds and temperatures?
Yes—each platform operates independently with dedicated speed, temperature, and timer controls.
What certifications does the VXMTDG carry for use in regulated pharmaceutical labs?
It conforms to IEC 61010-1, EN 61326-1, and supports 21 CFR Part 11 compliance when used with LabX software and configured authentication protocols.
Can third-party tube holders be used with this shaker?
Only OHAUS-certified foam inserts are validated for mechanical stability and thermal uniformity; non-OHAUS accessories may compromise safety and performance specifications.
Is firmware upgradable in the field?
Yes—updates are delivered via LabX software or USB flash drive and include version rollback capability for validation continuity.
What maintenance is required to sustain calibration integrity?
Annual verification using NIST-traceable tachometer and digital thermometer is recommended; OHAUS offers certified service plans with documented calibration certificates.
