Ottescience AVS-300 Microplate Vortex Shaker

Overview

The Ottescience AVS-300 Microplate Vortex Shaker is an engineered solution for high-throughput, reproducible mixing of samples in standard microplate formats—including 96-well, 384-well, 24-well, and 48-well plates—commonly used in ELISA, cell culture, molecular biology, and assay development workflows. Unlike orbital or linear shakers, the AVS-300 employs a true vortex motion generated by eccentric rotation of the platform, inducing vigorous yet uniform circular agitation across all wells simultaneously. This mechanism ensures efficient suspension of adherent cells, homogenization of viscous reagents, and rapid dissolution of lyophilized compounds without cross-contamination or well-to-well variability. Designed for integration into both ambient lab environments and controlled incubation chambers (including CO₂ incubators), the unit operates reliably at temperatures as low as 4 °C and maintains stable performance under humid conditions thanks to its sealed electronics architecture and splash-resistant housing.

Key Features

• Brushless DC motor drive system delivering precise speed control (300–1700 rpm in 10-rpm increments), low acoustic emission (<55 dB(A) at 1 m), and extended service life with zero brush maintenance.
• Intuitive full-color LCD display showing real-time speed, remaining time, and operational mode—supporting bidirectional countdown (countdown from set time) or continuous run mode.
• Interchangeable platform trays compatible with multiple plate footprints; standard tray accommodates up to four 96-well plates or equivalent surface area load (e.g., two 384-well plates).
• Robust polymer enclosure with integrated vertical splash guard and recessed control panel—designed to withstand routine exposure to aqueous buffers, ethanol, and mild detergents per ISO 13485-compliant lab cleaning protocols.
• Optional digital interface module (RS-232 or USB) enables external software integration for automated protocol execution, audit-trail logging, and centralized device management in GLP/GMP-regulated environments.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The AVS-300 supports all ANSI/SBS-standard microplates (including skirted, semi-skirted, and unskirted variants) and is routinely validated for use with polypropylene, polystyrene, and cyclic olefin copolymer (COC) plates. Its 3-mm amplitude and high-speed range ensure effective mixing of low-volume (50–300 µL) samples without splashing or edge effects. The device meets IEC 61010-1:2010 safety requirements for laboratory electrical equipment and complies with electromagnetic compatibility standards EN 61326-1:2013. While not certified for sterile applications, its smooth, non-porous surface facilitates decontamination using 70% isopropanol or 0.5% sodium hypochlorite solutions—consistent with CDC-recommended biosafety practices for shared instrumentation.

Software & Data Management

When equipped with the optional communication module, the AVS-300 integrates seamlessly with LIMS or ELN platforms via ASCII-based command protocols. Supported functions include remote start/stop, real-time RPM and timer status polling, parameter configuration (setpoint speed, duration), and event-triggered log export (e.g., completion signal, error code). All communications are timestamped and support basic authentication handshake—enabling traceability required under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 for electronic records in regulated quality control laboratories. No proprietary software installation is required; integration relies on standard serial/USB virtual COM port drivers and user-defined scripting (Python, LabVIEW, or custom C# applications).

Applications

• ELISA and immunoassay plate washing and conjugate incubation steps requiring consistent agitation.
• Resuspension of transfected or primary cells prior to harvesting or passaging in multiwell culture plates.
• Mixing of PCR master mixes, restriction digests, and ligase reactions prior to thermal cycling.
• Homogenization of tissue lysates or bacterial suspensions in deep-well plates for downstream protein quantification or NGS library prep.
• Accelerated dissolution testing of drug candidates in 96-well solubility screening plates (aligned with USP dissolution apparatus considerations for miniaturized formats).

FAQ

Can the AVS-300 be operated inside a CO₂ incubator?

Yes—the unit’s compact footprint, passive cooling design, and absence of internal fans allow safe operation in standard humidified CO₂ incubators (5–40 °C, ≤95% RH) when placed on a stable, level shelf.
Is the 3-mm amplitude adjustable?

No—the amplitude is fixed at 3 mm to maintain mechanical stability and reproducibility across the specified speed range; this value was selected to optimize mixing efficiency while minimizing plate deformation or seal failure in adhesive film-covered plates.
Does the device support validation documentation (IQ/OQ)?

While Ottescience does not supply pre-written IQ/OQ protocols, the AVS-300’s deterministic speed control, calibrated timer, and optional data logging capability enable users to develop internally approved qualification documents aligned with ISO/IEC 17025 or ASTM E2500-13 guidelines.
What maintenance is required?

None beyond periodic visual inspection of the tray mounting interface and cleaning of the housing with lint-free cloth and 70% isopropanol; the brushless motor contains no consumable components and is rated for >20,000 hours of continuous operation.
Are replacement trays available for non-standard plate formats?

Yes—custom trays for deep-well plates (e.g., 48-well V-bottom), PCR strips, or tube racks can be ordered separately under part numbers TR-AVS-DW, TR-AVS-PCR, and TR-AVS-TUBE, respectively.