TAITEC Mix-VR/EVR Desktop Microplate and Tube Vortex Shaker

Overview

The TAITEC Mix-VR and Mix-EVR are compact, high-precision desktop shakers engineered for reproducible sample agitation across diverse life science applications. Unlike conventional orbital shakers, the Mix-VR employs a true orbital motion (360° circular trajectory) optimized for viscous solutions and heterogeneous suspensions in tubes, centrifuge vessels, and 6–24-well microplates. The Mix-EVR implements horizontal eccentric vibration—generating high-frequency, low-amplitude oscillation ideal for uniform mixing of low-volume samples in 96-well plates, PCR tubes, and microcentrifuge tubes (0.5–2.0 mL). Both units operate within a certified environmental range of 0 °C to 50 °C, enabling integration into refrigerated incubators, cold rooms, or heated CO₂ chambers without performance degradation. Their modular architecture supports traceable, application-specific configurations through interchangeable platforms and fixtures—ensuring mechanical consistency across batch processing, assay development, and QC testing.

Key Features

• Two distinct oscillation mechanisms: Orbital rotation (Mix-VR) for macro-scale mixing; horizontal eccentric vibration (Mix-EVR) for micro-volume homogenization
• Digital speed control with real-time rpm display (standard on Mix-VR; optional on Mix-EVR)
• Stable operation across full temperature range (0–50 °C), verified per IEC 61000-6-2 electromagnetic compatibility standards
• Modular platform system supporting >15 accessory configurations—including tilt-angle centrifuge tube holders (5° inclination), spring-grid platforms, and claw-type flask clamps
• Low-profile design (≤152 mm height) for benchtop space optimization and under-hood placement in biosafety cabinets
• Load-balanced drive mechanism minimizing harmonic resonance—critical for long-duration assays requiring thermal and mechanical stability

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Mix-VR accommodates 50 mL conical tubes (vertical or 30° tilted), 15 mL centrifuge tubes, and 6–24-well plates on its standard 300 × 200 mm platform. The Mix-EVR supports 96-well deep-well plates (square or conical), 0.5–2.0 mL microtubes, and sub-20 mm diameter test tubes via dedicated fixtures such as the EM-0524 (24 × 0.5 mL) and ER-1830E (30 × φ18 mm). All accessories are manufactured from autoclavable polypropylene or anodized aluminum, compliant with USP Class VI biocompatibility requirements. When used with validated fixtures and documented SOPs, the system meets analytical method validation criteria outlined in ICH Q2(R2) and supports audit readiness for FDA 21 CFR Part 11 data integrity requirements when integrated with TAITEC’s optional PC-based logging software.

Software & Data Management

While standalone operation requires no software, optional RS-232/USB connectivity enables time-stamped parameter logging (speed, duration, temperature if external probe is installed) into CSV or LIMS-compatible formats. Firmware supports user-defined protocol storage (up to 10 profiles), each with password-protected access—aligning with GLP documentation standards for instrument use history. Audit trails record operator ID, start/stop timestamps, and any parameter modifications, satisfying traceability mandates under ISO/IEC 17025:2017 clause 7.7. Calibration certificates for speed accuracy (±2 rpm at 500 rpm, NIST-traceable verification) are available upon request.

Applications

• Reconstitution of lyophilized reagents and dissolution of high-viscosity compounds (e.g., agarose, collagen gels, polymer-based buffers)
• Cell suspension homogenization prior to flow cytometry or viability assays
• ELISA plate washing and coating steps requiring consistent lateral agitation
• Genomic DNA extraction protocols involving bead-beating adjuncts and phase separation
• Enzyme kinetics studies where temperature-controlled agitation prevents thermal gradient artifacts
• QC release testing of diagnostic kits under controlled environmental conditions (e.g., 4 °C stability studies)

FAQ

Can the Mix-VR and Mix-EVR be operated inside a standard CO₂ incubator?
Yes—both models are rated for continuous operation at 37 °C and 5% CO₂, provided adequate ventilation prevents condensation buildup on internal electronics.
Is speed calibration required before first use?
No routine calibration is needed; however, annual verification using a certified tachometer is recommended for GMP-regulated environments.
What is the maximum allowable load when using the ML-0050 tilt fixture with 50 mL tubes?
The fixture supports up to 12 × 50 mL tubes (total mass ≤1.8 kg), maintaining mechanical integrity at 500 rpm without resonance-induced drift.
Are third-party microplate carriers compatible?
Only TAITEC-certified accessories ensure dimensional tolerances and dynamic balance; non-OEM platforms may compromise speed accuracy and long-term motor lifespan.
Does the system support programmable ramp-up/down profiles?
No—these are fixed-speed devices optimized for endpoint mixing consistency rather than kinetic profiling; variable-ramp functionality is available only on TAITEC’s larger MBR series.