WIGGENS WS-350B Heated Microplate Shaker

Overview

The WIGGENS WS-350B Heated Microplate Shaker is an engineered solution for precise, reproducible incubation and agitation of microplates and tube formats in life science laboratories. Designed around a PID-controlled heating system and brushless DC motor-driven orbital shaking mechanism, it delivers tightly regulated thermal environments and consistent mechanical mixing—critical for enzyme kinetics, cell-based assays, immunoassays (e.g., ELISA), bacterial culture resuspension, and nucleic acid hybridization protocols. Its closed-loop temperature control architecture ensures minimal thermal drift across the working surface, while the 2 mm orbital motion provides uniform energy transfer without splashing or cross-contamination between wells. Unlike ambient-only shakers, the WS-350B integrates heating capability directly into the platform, eliminating the need for external incubators and reducing workflow complexity.

Key Features

• PID feedback temperature control with up to 9-point calibration support for traceable accuracy across the full range (ambient +5°C to 100°C)
• Digital VFD display with intuitive touch-key interface for real-time monitoring and parameter adjustment
• Programmable multi-step operation: store up to 10 independent protocols, each containing up to 10 sequential steps with configurable temperature, speed, duration, and pause intervals
• Two start modes: “Time 1” initiates shaking only after target temperature is reached; “Time 2” starts immediately upon program activation
• Intermittent mixing mode enables defined rest periods during agitation cycles—ideal for sensitive cell suspensions or antibody binding steps
• Corrosion-resistant polypropylene housing with low-noise rubber isolation feet and optimized thermal coupling between heating plate and interchangeable modules
• Modular design supports rapid exchange of standardized accessories—including 96-well PCR plates, 0.5 mL, 1.5 mL, and 50 mL tube carriers—each validated for specified speed ranges

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The WS-350B accommodates standard ANSI/SLAS-compliant microplates (96-, 384-well) and common centrifuge tube formats via dedicated, snap-in modules. All modules are designed to maintain mechanical stability at maximum rated speeds while ensuring even heat distribution across the sample footprint. The instrument meets IEC 61010-1 safety requirements for laboratory equipment and incorporates dual-level thermal protection: PCB-based overtemperature cutoff and independent current-limiting circuitry. While not certified under FDA 21 CFR Part 11, its programmable memory and parameter logging support GLP/GMP-aligned documentation practices when integrated into validated workflows. Temperature performance data (±0.3°C uniformity at 80°C) aligns with ASTM E2252–20 guidelines for thermal uniformity assessment in incubated shakers.

Software & Data Management

The WS-350B operates as a standalone unit with no proprietary software dependency. All configuration, execution, and recall functions are managed locally via the front-panel interface. Parameter settings—including temperature setpoint, speed, ramp profiles, dwell times, and step sequencing—are retained in non-volatile memory following power loss. Audit-ready operation is supported through manual logbook entry of protocol IDs, operator initials, and run timestamps. For laboratories requiring electronic records, optional RS-232 or USB-to-serial adapters (sold separately) enable ASCII-based command-line communication for integration into LIMS or custom scripting environments. No firmware updates or cloud connectivity are provided; all operational logic resides in hardened embedded firmware.

Applications

• ELISA and other immunoassay plate washing and incubation steps requiring simultaneous temperature control and gentle agitation
• Cell culture maintenance during transfection, staining, or viability assays where uniform suspension and thermal stability are essential
• PCR/qPCR plate pre-incubation prior to thermal cycling to minimize condensation and ensure reagent homogeneity
• Bacterial and yeast growth studies involving timed shaking at defined temperatures (e.g., 30°C, 37°C, or 42°C)
• Protein solubilization and antigen-antibody binding kinetics under controlled thermal-agitation conditions
• High-throughput screening workflows using 96- or 384-well formats with automated liquid handlers

FAQ

What is the maximum load capacity for the 96-well plate module?
The 96-well plate module supports standard flat-bottom, U-bottom, and V-bottom microplates weighing up to 200 g.
Can the WS-350B be used for applications requiring precise temperature ramping?
No—it does not offer programmable ramp rates; temperature changes occur at the instrument’s inherent thermal response rate (~1.2°C/min from ambient to 80°C).
Is the heating plate surface compatible with aluminum-block-based accessories?
No—only WIGGENS-certified polymer modules (W5012451–W5012453) are mechanically and thermally validated for use with this model.
Does the device include validation documentation for IQ/OQ protocols?
Factory calibration certificates are available upon request; users must perform site-specific OQ using NIST-traceable thermometers and tachometers.
What safety mechanisms prevent overheating during extended operation?
Dual redundant safeguards: hardware-based thermal fuse on the heating element and software-enforced upper limit (105°C) that halts heating if exceeded.