This document describes the N-BIOTEK Touch Panel Mini Shaker and Mini Remote Shaker, models NB-T101S and NB-T101SRC, respectively. This operations manual provides comprehensive information on the installation, operation, and maintenance of these devices.
The N-BIOTEK shakers are designed for laboratory use, providing controlled shaking for various applications. The Mini Shaker (NB-T101S) is a standalone unit, while the Mini Remote Shaker (NB-T101SRC) is designed for remote operation, often integrated into incubators or other controlled environments. Both models feature an orbital motion, ensuring efficient mixing and aeration of samples.
Function Description:
The primary function of these shakers is to provide orbital shaking for samples in flasks, tubes, or other containers. This is crucial for applications such as cell culture, microbial growth, hybridization, and general mixing in biological, chemical, and research laboratories. The touch panel interface allows for easy control and monitoring of shaking parameters.
The Mini Remote Shaker (NB-T101SRC) is particularly useful when shaking needs to occur within a controlled environment, such as a CO2 incubator, where direct access to the shaker's controls might be limited. The remote control box allows users to adjust settings without disturbing the internal environment of the incubator. The "Vibration Free System" mentioned in the manual suggests that the shakers are designed to minimize unwanted vibrations, which is important for sensitive biological samples and to prevent damage to the surrounding equipment.
Important Technical Specifications:
The manual provides detailed specifications for both models. Here are the key technical parameters:
- Motion: Orbital
- Speed Range: 30 to 300 rpm
- Accuracy: ±1 rpm
- Increment: 1 rpm
- Time Range: Up to 99 hours, 59 minutes, 59 seconds, or continuous operation
- Time Accuracy: ±1 second
- Time Increment: 1 minute
- Control: Microprocessor digital (PID)
- Operating Panel: Touch Control Display (3.2")
- Motor: Plate type BLDC Motor
- Orbit Diameter: 22 mm
- Platform Size: 300(W)x330(D) with Rubber pad
- Load Capacity:
- 100/16: 250/9
- 500/5: 1000/4
- 2000/1 (This likely refers to the number of flasks/capacity in ml)
- Dimensions: 300(W)x345(D)x75(H) mm for both models
- Power: 100-120V or 210-230V / 50 or 60Hz
- Weight: 8 Kg (NB-T101S), 9.5 Kg (NB-T101SRC)
- Cable: Flat type (NB-T101SRC)
- Permissible Ambient Temperature Range for Transport: -10°C to 60°C
The use of a BLDC (Brushless DC) motor suggests a durable and efficient motor with a long lifespan and precise speed control. The PID control ensures stable and accurate maintenance of the set shaking parameters. The 3.2" touch control display offers a user-friendly interface for setting and monitoring operations.
Usage Features:
The shakers are equipped with several features to enhance usability and safety:
- Touch Panel Interface: The 3.2" touch screen allows for intuitive control of shaking speed, time, and other parameters.
- Digital Microprocessor Control: Ensures precise and stable operation.
- Magnetic Induction Drive & Brushless DC Motor: Provides less vibration and maintenance, contributing to a longer lifespan and quieter operation.
- Uniformity for Cell Culture: The design aims for uniform shaking, which is critical for cell culture applications.
- User-Friendly, Intuitive LCD Touch Panel: Simplifies operation.
- Moisture Resistant Structure: The epoxy-coated exterior provides resistance to moisture, making it suitable for laboratory environments.
- Wire Remote Control Box: For the NB-T101SRC, this allows for remote operation, ideal for use inside incubators.
- No Access Port Needed: The flat cable design for the remote shaker allows it to be placed inside an incubator without requiring a dedicated access port, as the cable can pass through the door gap.
- Selectable Control Box Position: The remote control box can be attached or hung, offering flexibility in placement.
- Non-Volatile Memory: Retains the last set operation parameters even after power loss, ensuring continuity of experiments.
- Alarm Functions:
- Alarm Mute: Allows muting of audible alarms.
- Alarm Disabled: Disables all audible alarms.
- Shaker Alarm: Displays "low" or "high" if the measured value deviates from the set value.
- Step Cycle Ending Screen: Indicates the completion of a shaking step.
- Shaker Step Setting: Allows for programming multi-step shaking protocols with different RPM, time, and cycle settings. Up to 4 linked speeds are possible, and up to 10 steps can be programmed.
- Basic View and Advanced View Screens: Provides different levels of detail for monitoring and setting parameters, catering to both quick adjustments and complex protocols.
- Accessory Description: A wide range of accessories are available, including different flask holders (100ml, 250ml, 500ml, 1000ml), a universal platform, spring rack, microplate rack, and tube rack. This modularity allows users to customize the shaker for various experimental needs.
Maintenance Features:
The manual emphasizes several precautions and general maintenance guidelines to ensure the longevity and safe operation of the device:
- General Information and Precautions:
- Warning, Caution, Compliance, Prohibition, No Disassemble, Remove Plug, Ground: These safety symbols highlight critical aspects of device handling.
- Power Cable Precautions: Always use the electrical plug supplied, ensure the power cable is not wet, and remove the plug if smoke or a burning smell occurs.
- Usage Precautions: Never use a damaged power cord or outlet. Do not attempt to disassemble the instrument. Avoid operating near flammable sprays or substances like benzene, alcohol, or LP gas. Prevent foreign substances from contacting the door seal.
- Environmental Conditions: Operate within permissible ambient temperature ranges (-10°C to 60°C for transport).
- Installation: Ensure the instrument is connected to an outlet with specifications that match the serial number label. Install on a flat and stable surface, free from vibration, and in a well-ventilated location.
- Placement for Remote Shaker: Choose a location free from rapidly changing temperature conditions (heating or cooling vent). Ensure a minimum 5 cm clearance from the rear and sides of the unit.
- Cable Connection: Ensure the remote control box cable is properly connected to the shaker.
- Strap Installation: The remote shaker can be secured with a plastic strap through vent holes or attached with magnets or hung with a hook (hook is not a standard component).
- Maintenance:
- Cleaning: The platform of both shakers should be cleaned regularly with a soft cloth dampened with water or alcohol.
- Spillage: In case of spillage, power down the unit, remove the platform, and dry the internal chamber with a soft cloth. Do not operate the unit until the spillage has been properly dried.
- Service and Contact: N-BIOTEK provides technical support and service. Users are encouraged to contact N-BIOTEK representatives for any service or technical support.
- Warranty: The warranty covers defective material and workmanship for one year from the date of installation or 18 months from the date of shipment. It does not cover user error, improper operation, excessive use, or incorrect voltage.
Overall, the N-BIOTEK Touch Panel Mini Shaker and Mini Remote Shaker are versatile and user-friendly devices designed for reliable and precise shaking in various laboratory applications, with a strong emphasis on safety and ease of maintenance.