Temperature control and mixing Frequently Asked Questions 
Select the product group below to get answers to common product questions. If you need additional help, our Scientific Support group is ready to assist you. Your feedback will help us provide products and services that respond to your needs. Please select the category your comments are most closely related to, so we can direct your comments appropriately. How can I check the temperature accuracy of my Thermomixer comfort? How can I test the temperature accuracy of my Eppendorf thermomixer? Can I order a block without boreholes? I would like to arrange the block myself. At which frequency (rpm) does the Thermomixer 5432 mix? At which frequency (rpm) does the Thermomixer 5433 mix? Is there a 2.0 ml exchangeable thermoblock available for the Thermomixer 5436? Is there a deepwell plate adapter for the Thermomixer 5437? How can the temperature of the Thermomixer 5437 be tested? Can the beeping that occurs when the Thermomixer comfort is turned on be switched off? Can I use the Thermomixer comfort in an environment of 5% CO2? Can I let a Thermomixer comfort run for more than 8 hours at 20-45°C and 350 rpm? Can tubes with a diameter of 17 mm and a volume of 15 ml be used in Thermomixer comfort? Can the thermoblocks of the Thermomixer comfort be autoclaved? Is the Thermomixer comfort a linear shaker? Does the Thermomixer comfort have UV-stable housing? Can the temperature of the Thermomixer comfort be re-adjusted? Can the Thermomixer comfort be used for 384-well plates? At which point does time counting starts with Thermomixer comfort? Which tubes can be used in the Thermomixer comfort? What is the maximum mixing time which can be set on the Thermomixer comfort? What is the absolute minimum temperature that can be set on the Thermomixer comfort? How is the temperature regulated with the Thermomixer comfort? What are the tolerances for the shaking frequency of the Thermomixer comfort? How can I check the temperature accuracy of my Thermomixer compact? Is there a Thermomixer compact adapter for 0.2 ml or 0.5 ml test tubes? The Thermomixer compact 5350 is making a beeping noise. How can I solve it? For which applications is the ThermoStat plus optimally suited? Is the ThermoStat plus suitable for PCR? Can the temperature of the ThermoStat plus be validated? Can the ThermoStat plus be used for 384-well plates? Can the IsoSafe insulation box of the IsoTherm-System be autoclaved? Can the IsoSafe be cleaned in a dishwasher? Can the IsoSafe be cleaned in a dishwasher? Can you tell me the depth and the diameter of the bores of the exchangeable thermoblocks? Does the thermoblock for microtest plates have a lid? Can 24-well cultivation plates be used in the exchangeable thermoblock for MTPs and deepwell plates? Which slides fit into the exchangeable thermoblock for 4 slides (Order no. 5368 000.010)? Is the exchangeable thermoblock for slides compatible with the Eppendorf DualChip Microarrays? Can the IsoRack be centrifuged? Are the cool packs (Isopack) of the IsoTherm-System available individually? Can the IsoSafe be cleaned in a dishwasher? Can the IsoSafe insulation box of the IsoTherm-System be autoclaved? Are the IsoPacks resistant to sodium hypochloride (NaOCl)? How long do IsoPacks (white, blue) maintain their temperature? Do the IsoRacks fit upon the SmartBlocks for microreaction tubes (0.5 mL; 1.5 mL; 2.0 mL)? Do all types of Cryo tubes (1.5 to 2.0 ml) fit in the exchangeable thermoblock for cryo tubes? At which speed is vortexing possible? During continuous vortexing the speed dropped suddenly and "TOO FAST" appeared in the display, why? MixMate suddenly reduced my mixing rate and "TOO FAST" appeared in the display, why? My tube holders rattle when I use MixMate, why? I would like to check the accuracy of the mixing rate. How do I do it? Can MixMate be used in automated systems or integrate into an automated pipetting system? Can I program MixMate to run different mixing steps sequentially? Can MixMate be used as a magnetic stirrer? Is MixMate able to heat or cool samples? Can MixMate be operated in an incubator at 37°C? Can MixMate be operated in a cold room at 4°C? Will using MixMate heat my sample? Can I switch off the acoustic signal during operation, or at least turn down the volume? Can I use the Eppendorf IsoRack (of the IsoTherm-System) on MixMate? Can I control MixMate using a computer? Can I order the tube holders individually as replacement parts? Can I order the vortex mat as a replacement part? Can I vortex several micro test tubes simultaneously? Can 6-, 12-, 24-, or 48-well cell culture plates be used on MixMate? Are the tube holders autoclavable? Can the tube holders withstand temperatures of –20°C? Can the parameters of the direct select buttons be reprogrammed? Can several plates be mixed simultaneously? Can semi-skirted PCR plates be used with MixMate? Can unskirted PCR plates be used with MixMate? Is the mixing rate reduced when MixMate is fully loaded? Are MixMate and the tube holders resistant to UV radiation? Despite using the soft keys, lid wetting has occurred, why? Despite the imbalance sensor, my plate suddenly jumps out of MixMate, why? What does the term 2DMix-Control technology describe/stand for? What other special features does MixMate have in addition to 2DMix-Control technology? What is the SBS Standard for Microplates? Which soft keys should I use for deepwell plates? Which tubes can I mix with MixMate? Which norms and standards are fulfilled by MixMate? What are the ideal parameters for resuspension of bacteria pellets? Which plates can be used on MixMate? For which plates/tubes have the soft keys been optimized? If fluid is inadvertently spilled on MixMate, should I worry about it entering the device? How can I disinfect MixMate and its tube holders? How can I remove DNA contamination from MixMate and the tube holders? To which chemicals are MixMate and the tube holders resistant? How can I determine the ideal mixing parameters for my application? Why does the control-LED go out when I change the parameters of a soft key? Why do you recommend that I mix deepwell plates at max. 2,000 rpm? Why do you recommend mixing at max. 2,000 rpm when using the tube holders? How can MixMate mix samples in a controlled manner, without any lid wetting? My plate does not fit into the Universal Holder, why? Is the housing of ThermoMixer C, FP, F1.5 and ThermoStat C stable against UV irradiation? Are start and end position of the SmartBlocks the same? How can the temperature accuracy be verified? Can cell culture plates be used in the SmartBlock plates? Can ThermoMixer C, F1.5, FP & ThermoStat C be operated with remote controle? Can ThermoMixer C, F1.5, FP & ThermoStat C be used in a cold room? Is it possible to put the SmartBlocks for a rapid cool down into a -20°C freezer? ThermoMixer C; ThermoStat C: Is it possible to run more than one program in automatic succession? Which SmartBlocks and vessels can be used with ThermoMixer F1.5 and FP? The ThermoMixer / ThermoStat shows the error message “ThermoTop not recognized”. Can PCR plates be used in SmartBlock plates respectively ThermoMixer FP?
When the maximum temperature of 99 °C is entered, the metallic adapter plate for 0.2 ml tubes in the thermoblock for microtiter plates reaches a temperature of at least 97 °C. The temperature in the tubes will reach the final temperature ca. 12 min. after 99 °C appears on the display.
It could be that the - possibly bent - microtiter plate had a bad contact with the thermoblock. A low temperature measured by a customer could, for example, be due to an over large sensor, or temperature loss over a long path to the measurement device.
Detailed information you can find in our temperature test protocol (downloadable from the homepage) and in the operating manual.
The maximum temperature of exchangeable thermoblock for MTPs and deepwell plates was limited to 70°C due to safety reasons. As many plates can not withstand temperatures above 70°C this limiting value will prevent plates, their contained samples and the thermoblock from being damaged.
All Cryo tubes with a diameter from 11.0 - 12.5 mm are suitable, regardless of the bottom shape (for example, conical or flat).
The device can only be tested with calibrated temperature sensors with low heat dissipation. Such a testing and calibration system is at the disposal of the service departments of our marketing partners. In order to recalibrate, the sensor is placed in a bore of the exchangeable thermoblock and sends its signal to the thermomixer electronics via the RS 232 interface. The calibration can then be carried out within the framework of the service program. Significant deviations can be anticipated when measuring with simple testing devices, especially when the insulation and the cable used (diameter, length) cause heat dissipation. Our testing devices are manufactured according to the PTB (physical-technical federal institute) standard, which is in turn traceable to NIST.
There is no difference. They have the same design. 5360 000.011 = international order no., 5360 000.020 = order no. for USA.
The device can only be tested with calibrated temperature sensors with low heat dissipation. Such a testing and calibration system is at the disposal of the service departments of our marketing partners. In order to recalibrate, the sensor is placed in a bore of the exchangeable thermoblock and sends its signal to the thermomixer electronics via the RS 232 interface. The calibration can then be carried out within the framework of the service program. Significant deviations can be anticipated when measuring with simple testing devices, especially when the insulation and the cable used (diameter, length) cause heat dissipation. Our testing devices are manufactured according to the PTB (physical-technical federal institute) standard, which is in turn traceable to NIST.
In case the customer wants to perform the calibration by himself, please contact the Application-Hotline (support@eppendorf.com) and we will sent you a validation procedure.
No, this is not possible.
The mixing frequency is 1,450 rpm (plus/minus 30 rpm).
The mixing frequency is 1,450 rpm (plus/minus 30 rpm).
No. Please note that the old Thermomixer 5436 has a fixed 1.5 ml exchangeable thermoblock that cannot be unscrewed.
No.
It can be measured and tested using a temperature measuring device, e.g. Testo 900 from the Testo company in Lenzkirch.
No. There are too many different shapes of base contour for microtiter plates. They are not standardized and therefore have large tolerances.
No. You can control the temperature of your samples regardless of the form of your tubes, because the contact surface of the tube with the block transfers sufficient heat with any well form. Please note that in order to achieve homogeneous temperature distribution, it is necessary to close the exchangeable thermoblock with its supplied lid.
"The wells in the thermoblock (for test tubes with a diameter of 11-11.9 mm and a height of 30-76 mm) have a diameter of 12 mm, so that tubes with a diameter of max. 11,9 mm can really fit (measured at a height of 30 mm from the base). In our experience, many test tube manufacturers do not give a tolerance for the diameter of their tubes. This means that a 12 mm test tube, depending on production, could have a slightly larger diameter and then it is unfortunately too big for our thermoblock.
The 5 ml; 12 x 75 mm test tubes made of PS or PP from Nunc, Greiner, Brandt, Ohmicron fit in the above-mentioned block."
The wells in the thermoblock (for test tubes with a diameter of 11-11,9 mm and a height of 30-76 mm) have a diameter of 12 mm, which means that test tubes with a diameter of 11 mm have a lateral play in the holes. This leads to slight rattling during mixing, but this is not a problem for test tubes made of PS or PP. It may be necessary to use a lower mixing frequency for glass test tubes. The block has holes of a depth of 30 mm (30 mm is the maximum filling height for correct tempering). Therefore test tubes with a height of 35 mm or more must be used to prevent them sinking down and to be able to remove the tubes with the fingers.
That refers to a total error of ± 0.5°C, consisting of precision, measurement error, and block homogeneity.
Typically, this thermoblock is designed for the incubation of 5.0 ml tubes. The incubation of 1.5 and 2.0 ml micro test tubes in this thermoblock cannot be recommended for the following reasons:
- The temperature transfer into the sample takes longer due to the loose fit of the 1.5 or 2.0 ml tubes.
- At higher mixing frequencies the tubes can rattle in the block. This is because the silicone brakes in the block bore can no longer function properly due to the loose fit.
- Especially in the case of 2.0 ml tubes at particular mixing frequencies, tubes can "unscrew" themselves from the block. This can be prevented by placing the tubes in the IsoRack on the exchangeable thermoblock and sealing the rack with the appropriate lid.
No. This is not possible.
Our service department can readjust your thermomixer. If you wish that please contact your local Eppendorf service partner.
Unfortunately we have no results. The material of the Thermomixer comfort will probably not corrode under these environmental conditions. However, due to lack of experience, we are unable to guarantee this to the customer.
Yes.
No, to ensure homogeneous temperature control, the lid of the exchangeable thermoblock must be closed. This is not possible when using two microtiter plates.
No. At the moment we have no thermoblock for this tube.
Yes they fit in the thermoblock for tubes with a diameter of 11-11.9 mm (order number: 5364 000.016) and in the CombiBox (order number: 5352 100.007) with the corresponding stand.
No.
Depending upon the filling level, it can take up to 15 minutes after reaching the nominal temperature of 99 °C, or considerably less for lower nominal temperatures. When the tubes/plates are set on the already preheated Thermomixer, less time is required to heat to the nominal temperature.
No. The coding of the exchangeable thermoblocks and the resulting automatic limitation of the rotational speed to 750 rpm is not recognized. However, if a user would nonetheless like to use these exchangeable thermoblocks on a device with a software version < 2.0, he/she must be instructed to pay attention to the set rotational speed.
No.
No. Thermomixer comfort mixes circular (orbital) with a diameter of 3 mm.
Yes, to a certain extent. However, large doses of irradiation may lead to discoloration of the material. The Thermomixer comfort is not suitable for regular irradiation under the UV lamp.
Yes, please contact your local Eppendorf service or Marketing Partner.
Yes. For incubation of 384-well plates the exchangeable thermoblock for MTPs and deepwell plates is required (order no. 5363 000.012).
As Thermomixer comfort is optimized for temperature control (heating and cooling) during long-time incubations and was not developed for rapid mixing of small volumes in 96- and 384-well plates, complete mixing within those plate formats might take some time. For fast and efficient mixing within 96- and 384-well plates we therefore recommend the use of Eppendorf MixMate.
Depending on the selected mode there are two possiblities:
1) If "time control" is selected, the time counting begins immediately after pressing the Start/Stop key, irrespective of whether the nominal temperature has been reached.
2) If "temp control" is selected, the time counting first begins when the set temperature value has been reached.
To switch between "time control" and ""emp control" (or vice versa): Hold Progr. key when switching on the device until either "time control" or "temp control" appears in the display.
The "temp. control" mode was changed to "time control" on your device. In the "temp. control" mode, the Thermomixer only starts mixing when the set nominal temperature has been reached. Switch off the device, press and hold the Progr. key, and simultaneously switch on the device to switch over into the "temp. control" mode. Hold the Progr. key down until "temp. control" appears in the display.
Depending on the type of exchangeable thermoblock being used the Thermomixer comfort can accommodate the following kind of tubes: 96 x 0,2 ml tubes 24 x 0,5 ml tubes 24 x 1,5 ml tubes 24 x 2,0 ml tubes 24 x tubes with 11-11,9 mm diameter and an height of 30-76 mm 24 x Cryo tubes 8 x 15 ml Falcon® tubes 4 x 50 ml Falcon® tubes 1 x Mikrotiter plates (MTP), PCR-plates or deepwell plates (DWP) 4 x Glass slides 4 x Eppendorf DualChip microarrays
The maximun time is 99 h 59 min but Thermomixer has a setting for unlimited mixing time. Just set the time with the cursor key to "--.--" on the display. Mixing will continue until interrupted by pressing the Start/Stop key.
In general, the minimum temperature that can be set is 13°C below the respective ambient temperature. The absolute minimum temperature is 1°C, applicable for ambient temperatures below 14 °C (e.g. in a cool room).
We recommend the use of Eppendorf Safe-Lock tubes, because the tube lids do not accidentally open at high temperatures. If tubes with "unsecured" lids are used, we recommend placing the tubes in the IsoRack on the exchangeable thermoblock and closing the lid of the IsoRack.
The heating platform of the Thermomixer comfort has a high-quality temperature sensor that is kept in contact with the thermoblock. It measures the temperature.
Depending on the number of test tubes and on the filling volume of the individual tubes, a maximum tolerance of ± 20 revolutions may occur at a shaking frequency of 300 rpm. This decreases as the shaking frequency increases. This tolerance can be determined in the lab by using a stroboscope.
According to our experience, 1400 rpm is optimal as mixing speed during hybridization. However, depending upon the application and the type of microarray, other mixing speeds might also suitable. We therefore recommend determining the optimum rpm through step by step experimentation.
No, because homogeneous block movement cannot be generated at an rpm of less than 300. 300 is the minimum rotational speed required in order to swing an exchangeable thermoblock homogeneously.
We do not have exact information about temperature differences from top to bottom of both the inside of one well of the block, and inside of the reagent within a tube. Nevertheless, we guarantee a high temperature homogeneity across the thermoblock with maximum difference of 0.2°C.
Please note that longer screws are supplied with the adapter plate for 0.2 ml PCR tubes. The screws to fasten the MTP thermoblock (alone) are 14 mm in length and for the MTP thermoblock plus adapter plate, 24 mm long screws are required.
Please inform your customers that these tubes are so short that they fall into the bores of the exchangeable thermoblock and can only be removed again with tweezers.
In the Thermomixer compact, using 1.5 ml micro test tubes (24 tubes), water cools down from 80 °C to 60 °C (measured in the block) in 23 minutes, and oil (viscosity of 100 mPa*s) in 18 minutes.
In the Thermomixer compact, using 1.5 ml micro test tubes (24 tubes), water heats from room temperature to 80 °C (measured in the block) in 13 minutes, and oil (viscosity of 100 mPa*s) in 9 minutes.
Detailed information you can find in our temperature test protocol (downloadable from the homepage) and in the operating manual.
No, since the use of adapters in the existing blocks means that a correct heat transfer cannot be guaranteed, we do not supply adapters.
Please contact your local Eppendorf service partner.
Yes they fit in the thermoblock for tubes with a diameter of 11-11.9 mm (order number: 5364 000.016).
No, without the thermoblock, the temperature control does not work efficiently. The adapter plate for 96 x 0.2 ml is placed in the thermoblock. After the microtiter plate is inserted the lid must be placed on.
When filling the PCR tubes with 100 µl or 200 µl of water respectively and incubating for 5 hours at 65 °C in the ThermoStat plus, this results in a loss of app. 1 µl water per tube.
The ThermoStat plus is suitable for all applications for which one or a sequence of two or more temperature steps is important. For example, enzyme reactions, transformation, denaturation of DNA, RNA, or proteins. In addition, it is generally suitable for the gentle defrosting of sensitive reagents such as dNTPs or for all defrost or temperature steps that could be carried out in a water bath or icebox.
No. Because the thermoblock for the ThermoStat plus has a large mass (in order to keep set temperatures stable), fast temperature changes generally required for PCR cannot be achieved. For PCR cycling we recommend to use our Eppendorf Mastercycler devices instead.
Yes, please contact our Service or your local Eppendorf partner.
Yes. For this, the thermoblock for microplates (MTP) and deepwell plates is required (order no. 5363 000.012).
For incubations of plates we recommend using the exchangeable thermoblock for MTPs and deepwell plates (order no. 5363 000.012). This thermoblock is by standard supplied with a light impermeable plastic lid. The lid guarantees optimal temperature transfer and protects sensitive samples from light irradiation.
The ThermoStat plus should keep the selected temperature as stable as possible. The large mass of the block is a contributing factor and energy consumption can be kept low.
A thermocycler is designed to change the temperature as quickly as possible. Here the small mass of the block is a contributing factor and a higher (app. 5 times) energy consumption is necessary for both heating and cooling.
These factors lead to the result that reaching the desired temperature occurs more slowly with the ThermoStat plus than with a thermocycler.
No.
No.
No.
The specification can be found within Userguide 001: "Applications for Thermomixer comfort, Thermomixer compact and ThermoStat plus".
Yes. When the exchangeable thermoblock for MTP block is ordered, the lid is delivered in the same packaging. It can also be ordered separately (order no.: 5363 000.217).
No. The thermoblock for MTP is designed for the globally recognized standard microplate with dimensions of 127 x 86 mm. The microtiter plates for cultures have larger dimensions (132 x 88 mm) and therefore do not fit in this block.
The exchangeable thermoblock 'slides' can be used for all glass slides of 75-76.5 mm length, 25-26 mm width and a height of up to 1.2 mm. This thermoblock is well suited for all types of hybridization reactions such as microarray hybridization or fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Application notes descibing the use of thermoblock 'slides' for those kind of applications can be found on our homepage
No. For the DualChip Microarrays, an exchangeable thermoblock is required that applies additional pressure to the hybridization frames. This reduces potential evaporation to a minimum.
Please note that we offer a special IsoRack adapter for our 5810/R (swing-bucket rotor type A-4-81, flex buckets). In addition, the IsoRacks can also be centrifuged in the A-2-DWP and in the A-4-62-MTP. In this case, centrifugation is limited to a max. rotational speed of 3,700 rpm (max. 1,000 centrifugations).
No.
No.
Nein.
They are made of polyethylene and filled with a special, non-toxic liquid. The bottom is covered with an aluminum foil.
NaOCl attacks the aluminum foil (for both packs sizes) slightly. Over a period of eight hours or more, this may lead to damage. The IsoPack polyethylene housing is chemically resistant to NaOCl. Even if a leak occurs, the liquid in the IsoPack is non-toxic.
They are made of polycarbonate.
If IsoPacks (in an IsoRack) are sealed in an insulating box (IsoSafe), a temperature of 0 °C (in the white packs) can be maintained for at least 6 hours and –21 °C (in the blue packs) for > 3 hours.
If the IsoPacks are in an open insulating box, 0 °C can be maintained for roughly 4 hours and –21 °C for 1–2 hours.
If the IsoPacks/IsoRacks are not placed in an insulating box, a temperature of 0 °C can be held for 1.5–3 hours and –21 °C can be held for 0.5–1 hour.
No. The IsoRacks fit only upon the Thermoblocks for the older devices Thermomixer comfort, Thermomixer compact & ThermoStat plus.
No. Standard 1.5 to 2.0 ml micro test tubes have a diameter of approx. 11 mm and are therefore too small for the exchangeable thermoblock for cryo tubes (diameter of boreholes approx. 12.7 mm).
All Cryo tubes with a diameter from 11.0 - 12.5 mm are suitable, regardless of the bottom shape (for example, conical or flat).
Diameter = approx. 12.7 mm Depth: Total = approx. 33 mm Bottom shape: flat
You can use either the touch vortexer at 3,500 rpm, or vortexing can be set to continuous by setting the mixing rate and mixing period to a range between 300 and 3,000 rpm. In continuous vortexing mode vortexing at mixing frequencies between 2,000 rpm and 3,000 rpm may occasionally activate the automatic imbalance detector.
MixMate's automatic imbalance sensor, which prevents plates and tubes from jumping out during the mixing process, may be occasionally initiated during continuous vortexing at speeds between 2,000 and 3,000 rpm. Safety when mixing plates is of utmost priority, therefore this feature cannot be technically altered.
MixMate's automatic imbalance sensor determined irregularities during the mixing process and, for safety reasons reduced the mixing rate to prevent the plate or tubes from jumping out of the holder. This may be attributed to one or more of the following This may be attributed to one or more of the following reasons: - Plates are not correctly seated, or they do not comply with the SBS format - tube holders have not been properly inserted, or they have been unequally loaded - the mixing rate has been set too high for the weight of the mixing material - In continuous vortexing mode vortexing at frequencies between 2,000 rpm and 3,000 rpm may occasionally activate the automatic imbalance detector.
The tube holders may not have been properly inserted into the Universal Holder. Check to make sure that the lugs on the rear side of the tube holder are properly latched into the holes of the Universal Holder.
We recommend using a calibrated stroboscope or a calibrated flash lamp with a systematic error of
No, because MixMate is not equipped with an interface.
No. MixMate is not programmable.
No.
No, MixMate is a mixing device. For tempering (heating, cooling) of plates or tubes we recommend the Eppendorf Thermomixers or Eppendorf ThermoStat plus.
Yes, MixMate can be operated at ambient temperatures of 2 – 40°C and a relative air humidity of 10 – 75 %.
Yes, MixMate can be operated at ambient temperatures of 2 – 40°C and a relative air humidity of 10 – 75 %. A note of caution: Condensate formation may damage electronic components! After using MixMate in a cold room, wait one hour before reconnecting the device to the power supply.
MixMate's ventilation concept enables the installed fans to take in cool air from above while dissipating the heated air from the bottom of the device. Thus, waste heat does not come into contact with the sample material. Internal tests have shown that even after 3 hours of continuous operation at 3,000 rpm, a sample will be heated by no more than max. 2-3°C.
You can either deactivate the signal tone (VOL0) or choose between three different volume settings (VOL1 – VOL3). To do so use the arrow key to select "M-1 VOL" in the menu. After pressing the "Menu/Enter" button you can edit the settings.
Yes, the Eppendorf IsoRacks for 1.5/2.0 ml and 0.5 ml micro test tubes can be used in combination with the 1.5/2.0 ml or 0.5 ml tube holders.
No. MixMate is not equipped with an interface, therefore it cannot be controlled by external devices.
Yes, to do so please contact your local Eppendorf dealer. The catalog numbers for the tube holders are: - Tube Holder PCR 96: 5353 040.113 (Eppendorf North America: 022674005) - Tube Holder 0.5 ml: 5353 040.121 (Eppendorf North America: 022674021) - Tube Holder 1.5/2.0 ml: 5353 040.130 (Eppendorf North America: 022674048)
Yes, to do so please contact your local Eppendorf dealer. The order number for the vortex mat is: 5353 863.004 (Eppendorf North America: 022674105)
Yes, during continuous vortexing: Set the required mixing rate (300 – 3,000 rpm) and mixing period (15 s – 99.5 h; continuous) using the keypad, and then start the vortexing process using the "start/stop" key. You can use the complete rubber mat in the MixMate's Universal Holder for vortexing. Touch-vortexing mode is inactivated during continuous vortexing. In continuous vortexing mode vortexing at mixing frequencies between 2,000 rpm and 3,000 rpm may occasionally activate the automatic imbalance detector.
Yes, cell culture plates can be used on MixMate – as long as they comply with the SBS Standard for Microplates, and they can be mixed at a minimum mixing rate of 300 rpm.
No.
Yes.
No.
No.
Yes, with the aid of the Tube Holder PCR 96, semi-skirted PCR plates can also be fitted onto MixMate.
Yes, with the aid of the Tube Holder PCR 96, unskirted PCR plates can also be used.
The applied mixing frequency is too high for your experimental setup. To determine the optimal mixing frequency for your experiment please proceed as follows: Reduce the mixing frequency by approx. 500 rpm and insert a PCR plate with samples at the bottom of the wells (no bubbles). Increase the mixing frequency gradually until bubbles are formed. The optimal mixing speed is 50 – 100 rpm below this value.
No. Even at maximum capacity, the mixing rate is not affected.
They have a limited resistance against UV light. Whereas the proportion of UV light within daylight does not harm the material, exposure to special UV lamps will damage the material and lead to discoloration. Therefore, we do not recommend disinfecting MixMate.
Yes, 96-well skirted PCR plates can be mixed both directly – using MixMate's Universal Holder – or with the aid of the Tube Holder PCR 96.
The risk of lid wetting depends on factors such as tube size, chosen mixing speed, filling volume and the properties of the sample material (e.g., buffer composition, viscosity, density). To easily configure your optimum mixing parameters, despite this multitude of variables, MixMate is equipped with preprogrammed soft keys for fast and controlled mixing in the majority of standard applications. If the parameters for your particular application are not ideal, then use the soft keys as a basis for determining the optimum conditions for your applications.
Possible reasons: - The plate does not comply with the SBS Standard for Microplates. - The plate is extremely worn or deformed.
2DMix-Control technology describes MixMate’s ability to mix small sample volumes from 5 µl to 2 ml in various plate and tube formats quickly and in a controlled manner. It has to do with the way MixMate’s features for efficient and controlled mixing interplay, resulting in: - Generation of sufficient mixing energy: MixMate’s orbital mixing movement at a high mixing speed (max. 3,000 rpm) and a relatively large mixing radius (1.5 mm) generates enough mixing energy (analogous to g-force in centrifuges) to mix even the smallest volumes efficiently. - Minimized loss of mixing energy: During MixMate’s development, special attention was paid to reducing inherent vibration. Its smooth operation combined with its reliable stability ensures that all the mixing energy is available for mixing and not wasted through transmission of vibrations to the device or its surroundings. - Controlled transmission of energy from the device to the sample: Minimizing vertical movements enable a plane, 2-dimensional (2D) mixing stroke. This, in conjunction with the reliable plate and tube holders, prevents uncontrolled chaotic movements and allows all formats to be held securely, even at high mixing frequencies.
In addition to the 2DMix-Control technology, which enables fast and controlled mixing of small volumes from 5 µl to 2 ml, MixMate also provides these safety & convenience benefits: - 3-in-1 format: Mixes plates, tubes and vortexes - Soft keys, make it easier to configure the optimum mixing parameters - Digital display for maximum reproducibility of experimental conditions - Automatic imbalance detection, prevents plates from jumping out - Remarkably silent: noise level <50 dB(A)
The Society for Biomolecular Sciences (SBS; www.sbsonline.org/msdc) collaborates with other institutions to develop standards for micro test plates – the objective is to standard the various formats for easier automation. For use with MixMate the footprint of plates should meet the following specifications: - Rectangular plate - Length = 127.76 mm +/- 0.5 mm; width = 85.48 mm +/- 0.5 mm - The footprint must be continuos and uninterrupted around the base of the plate.
Due to the fact that deepwell plates accommodate a variety of different vessel geometries (based on height of plate, maximum fill volume, shape of the wells) and can be used with different fill volumes, it is not possible to make a general statement about the most suitable soft keys or the ideal mixing parameters for them.
Basic rules are: - DWP (96-well) with 2,000 µl, 1,000 µl and 500 µl filling volumes: - With most solutions try setting a mixing rate of 1,400 rpm (soft key 1.5/2.0), as many of these DWP have a mixing rate similar to 1.5 ml and 2.0 ml micro test tubes. - For resuspension of bacteria pellets try a mixing rate of 2,000 rpm, approx. 1 min. - DWP (384-well) - Try mixing at 2,000 rpm; when using the 384 soft key visually check the process to ensure the mixing period is sufficient for complete mixing.
MixMate can be used to mix 0.2 ml PCR tubes, and PCR strips as well as 0.5 ml, 1.5 ml and 2.0 ml micro test tubes (using the tube holders included in the delivery package).
The MixMate fulfills the following directives and standards (as of April 2006): 73/23/EWG, EN 61010-1, EN 61010-2-051, 89/336/EWG, EN 55011/B, EN 61000-6-1, EN 61000-3-2, EN 61000-6-6, EN 61326, 98/79/EG, EN 14971, EN 591, EN 980)
The compact bacteria pellets require a relatively high mixing energy for efficient resuspension. Internal tests have shown that bacteria pellets with buffer volumes like those used for plasmid isolation undergo resuspension within max. 1 min at 2,000 rpm – without any lid wetting.
All plate formats that comply with the SBS Standard for Microplates, for example: MTPs (up to 384-well), 96- and 384-well PCR plates (skirted, semi-skirted, unskirted), deepwell plates (up to 384-well), cell culture plates (6-, 12-, 24-, 48-, 96- and 384-wells).
- 384 (15 s/2,000 rpm): MTP (384-well) - PCR 384 (15 s/2,600 rpm): PCR plates (384-well) - 96 (30 s/1,000 rpm): MTP (96-well) - PCR 96/0.5 (30 s/1,650 rpm): PCR plates (96-well), 0.2 PCR tubes and PCR strips, 0.5 ml micro test tubes - 1.5/2.0 (1 min/1,400 rpm): 1.5 and 2.0 ml micro test tubes.
MixMate is designed such that small quantities of fluid cannot penetrate the device. If fluid is spilled on it, disconnect the mains plug and clean the device thoroughly; follow the instructions in the Operating Manual accordingly.
To avoid a short-circuit follow these safety instructions: - Before cleaning or disinfecting the housing, switch off MixMate and disconnect the mains plug/power cord. - Do not allow any liquids to penetrate the inside of the housing. - Only reconnect the the device to the power supply and turn it back on when it is completely dry. To disinfect MixMate we recommend using alcohol (e.g., ethanol, isopropanol) or alcohol-containing disinfectants. Do not use UV radiation, as this will damage the plastics.)
Please follow the instructions within the operating manual. To avoid a short-circuit follow these safety instructions: - Before cleaning or disinfecting the housing, switch off MixMate and disconnect the mains plug/power cord. - Do not allow any liquids to penetrate the inside of the housing. - Only reconnect the device to the power supply and turn it back on when it is completely dry. If necessary, remove the Universal Holder per the operating manual instructions and wipe off DNA contamination with a moistened tissue. Change tissues repeatedly. The Universal Holder, vortex mat and tube holders should then be rinsed with running water, followed by distilled water. For stubborn DNA contamination, the different parts can be cleaned by wiping off with commercially available DNA decontamination solutions.
For questions regarding the resistance against chemicals, radiation and temperature please contact the Eppendorf Application Hotline (support@eppendorf.com).
We recommend dyeing the solution with the highest density or the highest viscosity with a color (e.g., Patent Blue V, Ponceau 4R), and then pipetting it as the last component on the bottom of the tube. You should try various mixing rates to determine the speed at which the sample material can be mixed quickly without any lid wetting. After several mixing periods (e.g., 5 s, 15 s, 30 s, 45 s, 1 min, 3 min) check your sample visually to ensure that the color has been completely distributed throughout. You can use the soft key settings as a reference/starting point when optimizing the mixing rate.
The display flashes on and off symbolized by the two adjacent circles “oo” in order to draw your attention to the fact that the mixing period has been set to infinite.
Because the altered values no longer match the parameters assigned to that soft key the control-LED light goes out. This prevents any confusion bewteen the mixing parameters.
Depending on geometry and filling volume, DWPs might have a high balance point and heavy weight, respectively. Due to safety reasons, the imbalance detector may be activated at mixing frequencies above 2,000 rpm and automatically reduce the mixing frequency (to avoid plates jumping out of the Universal Holder).
Because of their high balance point and their maximum capacity (e.g., Tube Holder 1.5/2.0 ml), the imbalance detector might be activated at mixing frequencies above 2,000 rpm. This automatically reduces the mixing frequency to prevent the tubes and the tube holder from jumping out of the Universal Holder.
The interplay of several factors that influence on the mixing motion has been optimized, in particular: The minimization of vertical motion, the operating smoothness and as well as the sturdy plate/tube holders. All serve to prevent any uncontrolled, chaotic movement and thus ensure an optimum transfer of mixing energy from the device to the sample.
Still, the risk of any lid wetting is dependent on outside factors such as tube size, chosen mixing speed, filling volume and the properties of the sample material (e.g., buffer composition, viscosity, density), etc. To easily configure your optimum mixing parameters despite such variations, MixMate is equipped with five preprogrammed soft keys to enable fast and controlled mixing of various plate and tube formats in standard applications.
This 2-second overrun makes the vortexing process more ergonomic, because the vortex mat need not be pressed continuously to keep the vortexer running. It also eases the process of performing vortexing in several tubes successively.
The Universal Holder can only accommodate plate formats that comply with the SBS Standard for Microplates
Do not use corrosive cleaning agents, aggressive solvents or abrasive polishes. Do not use any aggressive chemicals on the device or its accessories, such as strong and weak bases, strong acids, acetone, formaldehyde, halogenated hydrocarbons or phenol. If the device becomes contaminated with aggressive chemicals, clean it immediately with a mild cleaning agent. Use Lint-free cloth, mild, soap-based lab cleaner and dist. Water. Please refer to your operating manual chapter Maintenance. If you have further questions you might contact our Application Support Team under support@eppendorf.com
A disinfection by UV irradiation cannot be recommended, because discoloration of the housing materials can occur.
We tested DNA away and RNase away and we can recommend to use both agents.
We recommend to use Count off.
No. Start and end position are not identical.
The best possible temperature accuracy can be guaranteed by individually adjusting a SmartBlock. Optimized temperature control for each block type keeps temperature overshoots and deviations caused by external interferences to a minimum. To guarantee optimal performance over the entire period of use, Eppendorf offers a preventive maintenance program and certification services: your Eppendorf ThermoMixers, ThermoStat C as well as the SmartBlocks are regularly cleaned, checked and adjusted. Additional information is available at: www.eppendorf.com/epservices. Customers can also verify the temperature accuracy by themself. Eppendorf provides for that purpose the Temperature Verification SystemSystem – Single Well for Eppendorf Mastercyclers (0055 000.298) in combination with the 384 well Sensor (5331 233.007).
Also cell cultuture plates can be used in the SmartBlock plates in so far the dimensions of the plate comply to the SBS standard.
No. The devices can not be contolled remote via a PC.
Yes, one can use the devices in a cold room but some safety hints should be attended: Condensate can form in the device after it has been moved from a cool environment to a warmer environment. Wait at least 3 hours after positioning the device. Plug the device only after this time has elapsed. In case the device is positioned continually in a cold room and was switched off for a longer time – over night for instance - switch it on for at least 1 h before starting a mixing process.
The SmartBlocks can be used at ambient temperatures of 5°C – 40°C and can be cooled appropriate. Cooling down of SmartBlocks in a freezer should not be done.
No. Each program has to be chosen and run separately. But the 4 possible steps within a program run in automatic succession.
ThermoMixer F1.5 and FP possess a fix installed SmartBlock. ThermoMixer F1.5 has a fixed installed SmartBlock 1.5 mL and ThermoMixer FP has a fixed SmartBlock plates. Therefore with ThermoMixer F1.5 one can only use 1.5 mL tubes and with ThermoMixer FP only MTP’s, DWP’s or skirted plates complying the SBS standard. For using PCR plates our SmartBlocks PCR 96 and PCR 384 in combination with ThermoMixer C is the proper choice.
Please check if a compatible SmartBlock has been attached and the ThermoTop has been vertically placed from above. The centering pins behind the heating/cooling plate have to fit perfectly into the recesses of the ThermoTop. Place the ThermoTop once again upon the device. In case the device shows still the error message, please contact the technical service.
SmartBlock plates and ThermoMixer FP (with the fixed SmartBlock plates) are dedicated for using MTP’s, DWP’s and also other skirted plates which meet the SBS standard. For optimal usage of PCR plates the SmartBlock PCR 96 and PCR 384 in combination with ThermoMixer C or ThermoStat C is the proper choice. These SmartBlocks possess conical bores which surround the conical wells of PCR plates properly for a perfect temperature transition.
Yes, one can use the devices in a cold room but some safety hints should be attended: Condensate can form in the device after it has been moved from a cool environment to a warmer environment. Wait at least 3 hours after positioning the device. Plug the device only after this time has elapsed. |
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