Specifications
Will the RoboRocker™ work with different voltages (in different countries)?
Yes. The RoboRocker uses 24V DC supplied by a small external power supply that plugs into a wall outlet. Next Advance will supply the appropriate power supply for the local power and wall outlet configuration.
How many plates can the RoboRocker™ hold?
The platforms have 6 plate positions. Plates can be stacked, but that limits aeration. The racks hold 3 plates per level, so 2-level racks hold up to 6, and 4-level racks hold up to 12 plates, all with plenty of aeration.
Can plates tilt along either axis?
Yes. The platforms have a docking bar for positioning plates. This bar can be positioned so that the plates will tilt along their length or along their width (or the bar can be removed altogether). The Plate Racks are mounted facing to the side – for typical rocking of culture plates, or facing forwards – for rocking culture plates tilting across their width. Select the RoboRocker model with the desired rack orientation at time of purchase.
How long can the RoboRocker™ run?
The RoboRocker can run indefinitely. It is designed for continuous use. The program does not time out.
Can the RoboRocker™ hold labware other than well plates?
Yes, the docking bar can be removed, so the platform becomes a general purpose platform typical of most laboratory rockers.
What is the maximum load?
The 210 series has a weight capacity of 5 kg (11 lbs.) It is designed to be used with well plates and light loads, such as T25 and T75 culture flasks. The Heavy Duty 310 series can hold up to 10 kg (22 lbs.)
What makes the 310 series heavy duty?
The 310 series has a heavy duty transmission designed for much heavier loads.
What is the range for the tilt angle?
The platform can tilt as much as ±30°.
What is the rocking rate?
The RoboRocker is designed for tilt angle control, not for rocking quickly. For a rocker that moves more quickly, please look at our Infinity Rocker.
What is the surface of the platform made of? Does it have some resistance or is it smooth?
The surface of the platform itself is smooth. It comes with a textured neoprene rubber mat.
Incubators and Cold Rooms
Can the RoboRocker™ be used in a cell culture incubator?
Yes. The RoboRocker can be kept in an incubator with commonly used temperature, humidity and CO2 conditions.
Can I use the RoboRocker™ in a cold room?
Our rockers can operate in incubators (down to 4°C) if the temperature is kept constant and the humidity is not excessive. Temperature swings which cause condensation will damage the electronics and void the warranty.
Platforms, Stacking Platforms, and Racks
How many levels of stacking trays can be used?
We recommend one stacking tray for a second level. Stacking trays can be added and removed by our customers – make sure you have additional clearance on both sides of the rocker prior to installation. Alternatively, our 4-level racks can securely hold up to 12 well plates / culture pates.
What is the clearance space between stacked platforms?
The clearance space between the platforms is about 6.5 cm (2.5 in.).
Program Features
What are the different program feature levels?
There are 3 program feature levels: Basic, Standard, and Advanced.
The Basic level is for standard rocking with or without pauses. The speed, tilt angle, and pause time can be programmed by the user using the touch screen display.
The Standard level can store 3 programs, travel at ultra slow speeds, and rock “assymetrically”. For example, it can travel quickly in one direction, to a steep angle, return slowly to a shallow angle and pause, then repeat, or any combination you want.
The Advanced level can store 6 programs. It includes pulsatile motion to enable flow of the culture medium in culture plates to closely mimic in vivo flow. It can also be set to start with one program, then after a period of time, switch to another program (and switch again and again if so desired).
Can the program feature level be upgraded at a later date?
No. The program software is factory installed.
Maintenance
Can I clean the rubber mat?
Yes. You can remove the rubber mat from the platform and clean it with soap and water. Let it dry before placing it back on the platform.