ZiQi ZQMO-2 Microplate Shaker Incubator

Overview

The ZiQi ZQMO-2 Microplate Shaker Incubator is an integrated benchtop instrument engineered for precise temperature-controlled orbital shaking of microplates in life science laboratories. It combines PID-regulated heating with digitally stabilized horizontal orbital motion (2 mm diameter orbit) to maintain uniform thermal conditions and consistent mixing across all wells—critical for assays requiring kinetic control, such as ELISA, antigen-antibody binding, cell-based assays, and nucleic acid hybridization. Unlike standalone shakers or incubators, the ZQMO-2 eliminates workflow fragmentation by enabling simultaneous incubation and agitation within a single compact footprint (270 × 300 × 158 mm). Its microprocessor-driven architecture ensures linear temperature response and minimal speed drift (<±1 rpm), supporting reproducible experimental conditions under GLP-aligned protocols.

Key Features

• Simultaneous dual-plate capacity: Accommodates two standard microplates (96-well, 384-well, or compatible formats) without cross-contamination risk or mechanical interference.
• PID-controlled heating system with top-and-bottom plate surface heating: Ensures ≤±0.5°C temperature uniformity across all wells—verified per ISO 17025 traceable calibration practices.
• Digital parameter interface: Real-time simultaneous display of setpoint/actual values for temperature (0.1°C resolution), speed (1 rpm increment), and remaining time (1 min–99 h 59 min).
• Low-noise DC motor drive and balanced eccentric mechanism: Delivers stable oscillation from 100 to 1200 rpm with <3 dB(A) acoustic emission at 1 m distance—suitable for shared lab environments.
• Auto-shutdown with audible alert: Programmable timer triggers end-of-run notification and power-down to prevent sample overheating or evaporation during unattended operation.
• Universal power input (100–230 V AC, 50–60 Hz): Compliant with IEC 61010-1 safety standards for laboratory equipment; no external voltage converter required for global deployment.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The ZQMO-2 supports all ANSI/SBS-standard microplates—including 96-well, 384-well, and deep-well formats—as well as cell culture plates (24-, 48-, and 96-well). Its heated platform design prevents edge-effect thermal gradients common in non-contact incubators. The instrument complies with key regulatory frameworks relevant to diagnostic and preclinical research: temperature stability meets ASTM E2234-22 criteria for incubator performance verification; timing accuracy aligns with CLSI EP26-A guidelines for assay reproducibility; and firmware architecture permits manual audit trail documentation required under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 for non-electronic record environments. While not certified for GMP manufacturing, it fulfills GLP-compliant validation requirements when paired with user-generated IQ/OQ protocols.

Software & Data Management

The ZQMO-2 operates via embedded firmware with no proprietary software dependency. All parameters are configured locally using the front-panel keypad and LCD. For integration into automated workflows, optional RS-232 or USB-to-serial adapters (sold separately) enable remote command transmission using ASCII-based SCPI-like syntax (e.g., “TEMP:SET 37.0”, “SPEED:SET 600”). Data logging requires external PC capture; however, the unit retains last-used settings after power cycle—reducing setup time between sequential experiments. No cloud connectivity or firmware OTA updates are implemented, preserving data sovereignty and minimizing cybersecurity exposure in regulated labs.

Applications

• Immunoassay optimization: Accelerated antigen-antibody binding kinetics in ELISA, CLIA, and lateral flow development.
• Molecular diagnostics: Hybridization enhancement in DNA/RNA probe-based assays and PCR plate pre-incubation.
• Cell-based screening: Gentle suspension of adherent or suspension cells during staining, transfection, or cytokine stimulation.
• Enzyme kinetics: Controlled thermal activation and mixing for colorimetric/fluorometric enzyme activity assays.
• Drug discovery: Dose-response curve generation requiring uniform thermal-mechanical perturbation across multiplate arrays.

FAQ

Does the ZQMO-2 support 384-well plates?
Yes—it accommodates any ANSI/SBS-compliant microplate up to 15.6 mm height, including full-skirted and low-profile 384-well formats.
Is temperature calibration traceable to NIST standards?
The unit ships with a factory calibration certificate referencing internal thermistor validation against NIST-traceable reference thermometers; users may perform field recalibration using external Class A PT100 probes.
Can the device operate continuously for >24 hours?
Yes—the 99 h 59 min timer allows uninterrupted runs; thermal management and motor duty cycle are rated for continuous operation at ≤60°C and ≤800 rpm.
What safety certifications does the ZQMO-2 hold?
It conforms to IEC 61010-1:2010 (Ed.3) for electrical safety and EN 61326-1:2013 for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC); CE marking is affixed per EU Directive 2014/30/EU.
Is there a protocol for cleaning and maintenance?
Wipe external surfaces with 70% ethanol; avoid solvents on display or control panel. Clean plate platform with lint-free cloth dampened with deionized water. No scheduled lubrication or filter replacement is required.