Culture Club

What better way to create the ideal in vivo environment, in vitro, than via CO2 incubation? In 1885, Wilhelm Roux kept the medullary plate of a chicken embryo alive for several days in saline solution. Since CO2 incubators became commercially available in the late 1960s, manufacturers have been given the opportunity to improve their incubators and introduce cell culturing to the age of high-tech biotechnology. With numerous options available for most CO2 incubators, it is important to determine what your own laboratory requirements are before investing in a CO2 incubator. Here are a few items to keep in mind as you read about products that are available. Size. CO2 incubators range from small (~1 cu. ft.) desktop models to larger (>30 cu. ft.), refrigerator-sized machines. Many models are available as side-by-side or stackable units (which maximize use of floor or bench space in the laboratory). Most importantly, the amount of shelf space available inside for cultures should be considered. Type. Water-jacketed versus dry wall versus air draft? Proponents of water-jacketed incubators claim more stable temperature control and increased security in the event of power failure (due to water's natural insulation abilities). Proponents of dry wall incubators claim they can better adapt to ambient changes and require less maintenance. Air draft incubators are popular among larger-volume models designed to allow for quicker recovery times. Air draft (or forced draft) incubators circulate air throughout the interior of the incubator to maintain constant temperatures. Interior. As an added deterrent against contamination, several manufacturers provide seamless interiors (as opposed to welded). Stainless steel interiors aid in the prevention of corrosion, while copper interiors are designed to utilize copper's inherent quality of microbial inhibition, at an added cost. Sensors. The two most common sensors seen in today's generation of CO2 incubators are thermal conductivity (TC) and infrared (IR). Thermal conductivity sensors measure changes in temperature internally and have proven their effectiveness through time. These sensors, however, are sensitive to changes in humidity. Infrared CO2 sensors measure diffraction of CO2 internally and are purportedly impervious to relative humidity and less susceptible to drift over time because they have auto-zero calibration cycles every few hours. For applications requiring several door openings, IR sensors will provide accurate CO2 readings without having to wait for humidity to stabilize. Incubators with IR sensors will generally cost slightly more than the same incubator with a TC sensor. Currently, many sensors are constructed of platinum, which some manufacturers claim stands up to corrosion quite well. Some manufacturers utilize flowmeters, which are generally less expensive than TC or IR sensors, and are suited for applications where precise CO2 regulation is not vital. Controls. As opposed to simpler electronic controls, many newer models come equipped with microprocessors or PID (proportional, integrated and differential) controls, which act as the "brains" of the incubator, assisting in maintaining desired preset environmental parameters. Touted advantages of microprocessors are more precise temperature control and more rapid recovery after a door opening. Other Features. The range of temperatures, relative humidities, and CO2 concentrations for your specific applications should be considered, as these ranges may vary among manufacturers. Although most applications require only 5 percent CO2, most incubators can provide atmospheres up to nearly 20 percent. Wall thickness may vary between models (smaller-gauge number stainless steel is thicker than larger-gauge number). Some CO2 incubators even have decontamination cycles that superheat the interior (and sometimes elevate relative humidity) to eliminate bacteria, spores, and other unwanted organisms. Several manufacturers have incorporated battery backups into their incubators to prevent failed experiments in the event of a power failure. Estimated time spent cleaning/decontaminating an incubator, as well as recovery time, may be important aspects. HEPA and interior air filtration systems, auto-calibration/auto-zero functions, audio/visual alarms, heated doors (which prevent condensation and contamination associated with condensation allowing for clear viewing through glass doors), and RS232 link-ups are a few more extras of CO2 incubation one should bear in mind before investing in an incubator. LabConsumer asked manufacturers to submit information profiling their CO2 incubators. Qualified technical and marketing staffs provided the following information. Bellco Glass 7727 IR Bellco Glass, Inc. 7727 Series Water-Jacketed Incubators Bellco's 7727 CO2 Water-Jacketed Incubator is capable of 0 to 20 percent CO2 control with a dual flow meter and automatic purge timer for rapid CO2 recovery. With the outer shell, interior, and "no sag" stainless steel shelves, electrolysis is eliminated in that no dissimilar metals are placed in contact with each other. A heated, positive magnetic catch outer door prevents condensation on the positive-seal inner glass door. Digital temperature control allows accurate regulation of the inner environment. Gas samples and water jacket additions are accessed at the front of the incubator. An alternative to the 7727 CO2 Water-Jacketed Incubator is the 7727 Infrared Automatic CO2 Water-Jacketed Incubator, which boasts a solid-state digital control panel and microprocessor controller for control of temperature and CO2 concentrations. A digital high-limit safety switch prevents thermal runaway in the event of temperature control failure, and a stainless steel humidity pan assists in maintaining high RH levels within the chamber. Additional features include visual and audio alarms for temperature and CO2. CEDCO® Model 1500 CEDCO® 1100, 1500, 1600, and 2100 Series Water-Jacketed Incubators CEDCO's most popular incubator series is the 1500, which features microprocessor control and thermal conductivity sensors to maintain CO2 uniformity at +/- 0.3 percent of set-point. The 2100 Series uses microprocessor-controlled, passive IR sensors to detect CO2 and maintain uniformity to +/- 0.1 percent of setpoint, while the microprocessor provides temperature control of +/- 0.15°C at 37°C. A relative humidity display provides valuable information. RS232 capability allows remote data acquisition or logging. The CEDCO 1600 Series uses thermal conductivity gas sensors and provides temperature control of +/- 0.25°C at 37°C. All other features in this series are the same as in the 2100 Series. CEDCO completes its CO2 incubator offering with a Flowmeter unit (the 1100 Series) at an economical price. All CEDCO incubators have 16-gauge stainless steel interiors, triple-wall construction, high-density fiberglass insulation for thermal stability, and easily removable interior door gaskets. Every incubator is stackable without the need for additional accessories or racks. Additionally, all vertical units have totally independent circuit boards and sensors for all functions to provide an extra measure of safety and security. All units are shipped with six shelves per chamber and a standard accessory package that includes a stainless humidity pan and necessary tubing and filters to complete installation. Cooling systems for below-ambient cell culture, Tank Tender® Tank Switching systems, extra shelving, and magnetic shielding devices (to reduce AC magnetic fields inside the incubator) are accessories available to owners of CEDCO CO2 incubators. Cole-Palmer Cole-Parmer Water-Jacketed Continuous Flow and Automatically Controlled CO2 Incubators Due to an oversight, Cole-Parmer is a late addition to this article, and was not included in the table. However, all table information can be found in the following paragraph. Cole-Parmer's water-jacketed CO2 incubators are available with flowmeter CO2 control or thermal conductivity sensor. The continuous flow model has two individually adjustable flowmeters for CO2 and air, while the automatically controlled model adjusts the CO2/air ratio through the use of a thermal conductivity sensor. The 161/2 gallon water jacket and heated outer door provide optimum temperature uniformity and control. These incubators feature a small footprint (23"W x 24"D x 38.5"H) and spacious chamber (18"W x 18.25"D x 24.5"H). Chambers and shelves (6 standard, 20 maximum) are constructed of stainless steel and the exterior is powder-coat painted. Proportional temperature control and an independent overtemperature safety thermostat prevent temperature overshoot on all models. Other standard features on Cole-Parmer CO2 incubators are full-length inner glass doors, resettable circuit breakers, and adjustable leveling legs. The automatically controlled CO2 incubator features audio/visual high- and low-level CO2 alarms and a recorder output. Available accessories include additional stainless steel shelving, a caster platform, a high-purity brass two-stage gas regulator, a stacking rack, an in-line filter, tubing, and tubing clamps. The list price for the continuous flow model is $2550, while the automatically controlled incubator is listed at $3900. All Cole-Parmer CO2 incubators are covered by a one-year warranty. For more information, contact: Cole-Parmer Instrument Company, 625 East Bunker Court, Vernon Hills, Illinois, 60061. Phone (800) 323-4340, Fax (847) 549-7676, web site (http://www.coleparmer.com) and e-mail (info@coleparmer.com). Fisher IsotempTM Fisher Scientific IsotempTM Air-Jacketed and Water-Jacketed CO2 Incubators The Fisher Isotemp family of air-jacketed and water-jacketed CO2 incubators maintains desired conditions throughout the chamber by way of a patented internal air heater system. To further ensure specified growth conditions, Isotemp incubators incorporate a variety of safety features such as self-diagnostic software (which continually monitors all control and operational functions) and temperature and CO2 deviation alarms with audio and visual indicators. A programmable, high-limit temperature cutoff prevents thermal runaway, and a low water alarm visually signals the user when water levels are below normal. As an added feature, a built-in HEPA filter on the CO2 supply inlet prevents particulate and other potentially harmful contaminants from entering the chamber via CO2 supply lines and cylinders. Fisher Isotemp incubators allow for high (up to 98 percent) relative humidity. Temperature and CO2 concentration are controlled with the Isotemp System Monitor, an onboard computer set via push-button membrane switches that combine with a sensor to supply temperature and CO2 control. Fisher Isotemp incubators are available with either thermal conductivity or infrared sensors. The thermal conductivity sensor is recommended for applications in which chamber temperature and humidity remain relatively constant; the infrared sensor or the humidity display model is more suitable for applications where temperature and humidity levels frequently change. Models are available as single or dual (stacked) units. A relative humidity display is optional on water-jacketed models. Forma Scientific Forma Scientific 3110/3111 Series Universal Water-Jacketed Incubators In 1996, Forma Scientific introduced the 3110/3111 Series Universal Water-Jacketed Incubators. Forma's cellular manufacturing methods enable all incubators to be assembled individually to meet the exact specifications for required applications. Four types of automatic CO2/O2 gas control methods are available on Forma Scientific's incubators. Time-proven thermal conductivity CO2 sensor or reliable infrared CO2 sensor, and O2 Fuel Cell, allow the end user to select the gas control method that provides the best in vitro modeling of in vivo environments for their work. The Universal Water-Jacketed Incubators offer a number of unique features. All interior, chamber air is continuously drawn through the interior mounted HEPA filter (99.97 percent efficient at 0.3 mm) to provide an aseptic culturing atmosphere. This unique airflow system ensures the entire chamber air volume is HEPA filtered within one minute after a door closing. Replacing the HEPA filter requires no tools. Another feature is the heated, dual-pane, inner glass door that eliminates condensation (patent pending). The Universal Water-Jacketed Incubators also feature a 6.5 cu. ft. (184.1 liters) polished, mirror-finish, stainless steel chamber with coved corners for easy cleaning. To further enhance the cleaning process, a removable, autoclavable, inner door gasket is provided, and the stainless steel shelf assembly can be removed without the use of tools. Other standards include an Enviro-Scan Microprocessor Control/Monitoring System, field reversible doors, dual stacking capability, water jacket drain, and microbiological filters on all gas inlets and sample ports. Optional accessories include a built-in Gas Guard, copper shelf and ductwork system, roller base, multiple inner glass door kit, RH display and recorders. The Universal Water-Jacketed Incubators are UL Listed, CSA Certified, carry the CE Mark, and were designed, manufactured, and tested according to a quality system registered to ISO 9001-1994. Heraeus BBD6620 Heraeus Instruments Models BB16, BB6060, and BB6220 Cell/Tissue Culture Incubators Model BBD6620 Self-Disinfecting Cell Culture Incubator Heraeus Instruments offers several incubator designs that, according to Heraeus, are designed to be easy to clean and maintain, feature a 2-year warranty, and are available in a variety of chamber capacities. Intended for cell and tissue culture and in vitro fertilization facilities, the Heraeus BB16 CO2 Incubator offers a 5.4 cu. ft. chamber capacity in a small footprint. Designed to provide high relative humidity to prevent cultures from desiccation, the BB16 also features adjustable overtemperature protection (with an independent sensor) and alarm functions, to further ensure targeted growth conditions for valuable samples. The Model BB6060 offers all the advantages of Heraeus's larger models in a 2.1 cu. ft. chamber capacity unit. This model features a patented air-jacketed heating system that provides temperature uniformity without the maintenance and condensation associated with water-jacketed designs. "Auto-Start" and "Auto-Zero" functions automatically calibrate important parameters upon start-up and throughout operation, simplifying installation and eliminating the need for recalibration. The Model BB6220, incorporating a spacious 7.5 cu. ft. chamber capacity, was designed for researchers with high sample volumes. The BB6220 may also be obtained with O2 control capability, when required for optimization of cell growth. Similar to Model BB6060, the BB6220 offers "Auto-Start" and "Auto-Zero" functions to automatically calibrate important parameters upon start-up and throughout operation. Model BB16, BB6060, and BB6220 incubators offer stainless steel or copper interiors. Heraeus's new BBD6620 features a programmable, fully automatic 180¡C hot air disinfection routine, which can be conducted with all fixtures and sensors in place within the incubator. Following disinfection, the system automatically resets to the user's selected parameters. With a spacious, surgical stainless steel chamber (7.5 cu. ft.), the BBD6620 simulates the natural environment of cells through microprocessor-based control of temperature, CO2 level, and humidity. Water vapor required for humidification is first directed through a pyrolytic barrier where it is sterilized at 500°C, and then directed into the chamber where it further protects the system from contamination. Hotpack Hotpack Dry Wall and Large Capacity Dry Wall CO2 Incubators Automatic Water-Jacketed CO2 Incubators Hotpack offers water-jacketed and dry wall CO2 incubators, available with various chamber sizes. Hotpack's Dry Wall CO2 Incubators (Models 3063D, 3103D, and 351921) feature microprocessor controls and an automatic self-decontamination cycle that, when programmed, automatically decontaminates the chamber using 121°C temperature and elevated humidity. The dry wall design is available in refrigerated and nonrefrigerated models and features an external steam generator that boils the water outside the chamber to provide clean humidity. For high-capacity incubation, Hotpack offers researchers 33 cu. ft. (Models 317562, 317563, 317572, and 317573) and 50 cu. ft. (Models 305522 and 305532) models. All models feature top-mounted controls with LED display. A programmable, automatic self-decontamination cycle is standard on all 33 cu. ft. models, as well as sliding stainless steel shelves and an all-stainless exterior. All 50 cu. ft. models have a corrosion-resistant fiberglass interior, double-glass doors, and an illuminated work area. Hotpack's CO2 water-jacketed incubators (Models 740 and 750) feature a triple-wall water jacket with 10-year warranty. A unique multiple heater system (patent pending) and chamber fan provide temperature uniformity of ±0.25°C and CO2 uniformity of ±0.25 percent with minimum air flow. A microprocessor controller features digital set-points with digital LED display for temperature and CO2. Hotpack's water-jacketed CO2 incubators are available in both single and double-chamber models and feature all stainless steel interiors, including shelving, chamber, shelf supports, and air plenum. An air heater inside the chamber helps provide quick recovery from temperature loss due to door opening, and an exterior door heater reduces condensation on the inner glass door. All units have an audible disable feature, as well as alarm and temperature recorder output jacks. Jouan IG150 Jouan IG150 Infrared Controlled CO2 Incubator The IG150 utilizes an infrared detection system to measure and control the chamber CO2 content, as well as a self-calibration feature (auto-zero), to help ensure long term stability of the chamber CO2 environment. The filtration system of the IG150 constantly recycles the chamber air through a HEPA filter, allowing for the introduction of sterile air/CO2, maximizing temperature stability, CO2, and relative humidity environment. The IG150's microprocessor controls CO2 content via a thermostated infrared photometer. Permanent checking and self-calibration (auto-zero) help ensure long-term stability of the CO2 concentration. Since the IG150 accepts a CO2 input pressure of 4.4 to 146 psi, a double-stage gas pressure regulator is not necessary. The alphanumerical displays give all information about the CO2 and temperature controls, including the alarm thresholds, the indication of CO2 injection, heating status, and improper door locking. It also includes an intelligent self-diagnosis routine. A separate control for glass door temperature ensures condensation-free operation. The IG150 can operate as a single benchtop unit, dual stacked unit, or with optional caster stand. As a separate option, cooling coils are available for CO2 incubation at subambient temperatures. Lab-Line Automatic Incubator Lab-Line Instruments Air- and Water-Jacketed Automatic CO2 Incubators ACCIS® Water-Jacketed CO2 Incubators Automatic and Radiant Warm Wall Compact CO2 Incubators Large Capacity Automatic and Flo-Thru CO2 Incubators Lab-Line Instruments offers water- and air-jacketed designs with Flo-Thru or automatic microprocessor control systems. Temperature and CO2 are calibrated on the front control panels on all automatic models. A total of thirty-four models are available from Lab-Line, and incubators are available with chamber sizes from 1.2 to 34 cu. ft. Lab-Line CO2 incubators feature bright-finish stainless steel interiors and shelves, silicone door gaskets, and automatic fan and CO2 shutoff when the door is opened. The compact, Flo-Thru Model 317 offers a fungus- and bacteria- resistant copper chamber. According to Lab-Line, the exclusive SMART GAS¨ system, available on automatic control units, maintains CO2 control at ±0.1 percent and provides fast rise and recovery times. Air-jacketed models with thermal conductivity sensors feature an exclusive decontamination cycle that allows the temperature to be set to 100°C for 12 hours. Incubator exteriors are constructed of corrosion-resistant stainless steel with an enamel finish. A digitally adjustable door heater on automatic control models eliminates condensation on the inner door glass and provides an unobstructed view of chamber contents without disturbing the chamber atmosphere. Temperature is controlled from slightly above ambient temperature to 60°C (55°C on units with infrared sensors). LED and LCD readouts indicate temperature and CO2 levels. Flo-Thru models are controlled by a hydraulic thermostat and have independent flowmeters that control air and CO2 tension. Reduced-oxygen CO2 incubators are ideal for research and testing applications involving tissue cells. Since ambient atmospheric oxygen levels are far higher than those normally experienced by most tissue cells, the toxic effect of oxygen and cell-damaging oxygen radicals can have adverse results on research outcomes. By decreasing oxygen levels 5 to 10 percent, in vivo cell incubation conditions are simulated. Lab-Line's ACCIS water-jacketed CO2 incubators utilize microprocessor controls that Lab-Line reports are easy to use. Password protection provides security and constant self-checks of critical system parameters help guarantee a uniform incubation environment. NuAire NuAire Inc. GP, CF, IR, TS, US, and DH Autoflow CO2 Incubators NuAire offers laboratory professionals a wide selection of water-jacketed incubators and introduces the new DH Autoflow Direct Heat Incubator. The GP Autoflow (Models NU-1000, 1100, and 1200) utilizes a control center microprocessor, which NuAire reports improves temperature stability, CO2 recovery time, and activation of all systems. NuAire also reports double redundant temperature sensors and power-fault tolerance increase the assurance of long-term reliability and environment stability. The CF Autoflow (Models NU-1500, 1600, and 1700) utilizes Precision Instrument-Grade Gas Flowmeters to control CO2 and air concentrations. NuAire's IR Autoflow (Models NU-2500, 2600, and 2700) offers a microcomputer-based control system, infrared CO2 sensing, memory and back-up systems, and a temperature control system that incorporates triple redundant sensing. These units are equipped with add-on expansion included in the incubator. The TS Autoflow (Models NU-3500, 3600, and 3700) utilizes a Timed Sequence Gas Control System to achieve desired CO2 and O2 concentrations. The integrated Main Microprocessor Control board performs all functions, including main temperature control, overtemperature set-point, door heater, autopurge control, and gas control. The US Autoflow (Model NU-4500) is run by a programmable microcontroller that samples input sensors, sets control outputs, makes corrections through the use of fuzzy logic, and displays status on the control panel. Relative humidity control and display are two of the available options on this model. The new DH Autoflow (NU-5500) features HEPA filtration, an infrared sensor, NICE microcomputer electronics, and, according to NuAire, quick temperature recovery times. NapCO2TM from Precision Precision Scientific NapCO2TM Water-Jacketed CO2 Incubators NapCO2 water-jacketed automatic flow CO2 incubators were designed to promote fast and productive cell growth for cell culture applications. The chamber environment temperature and CO2 (and O2 in the 7001 series) are controlled with a microprocessor, and relative humidity is maintained up to 98 percent. All NapCO2 incubators are available with both thermal conductivity and infrared sensors. All units are also available with a standard left hinge opening and an optional right hinge, as well. The space-saving design allows all units to be either factory or field stackable. The NapCO2 patented internal air heater returns the chamber environment to setpoint after a door opening. For humidity control, NapCO2 6001C and 7001C series incubators have a patented integral steam generator that provides automatic control over a 65 percent to 98 percent humidity range. All units feature audio/visual deviation alarms, front panel calibration, password protection, overtemperature protection, a low water indicator, a built-in contamination (HEPA) filter, five shelves, and a humidity pan. The NapCO2 5420 series is designed for the most basic CO2 cell culturing applications. It comes with all the standard operating specifications of the 6001 and 7001 series but without the added features that add cost, to make this Precision Scientific's most affordable and easy-to-operate CO2 incubator. The NapCO2 6001 series introduces more features for more advanced applications, such as relative humidity display (6001H series) and relative humidity control (6001C series). It also comes standard with an internal gas shuttle switch, an access port (hole), and external electrical outlet for use of auxiliary equipment inside the chamber. The NapCO2 7001 series includes all features from the 6001 series and allows for a third gas (oxygen) to be controlled for applications that need to duplicate in vivo conditions, such as in vitro fertilization and hypoxic cell studies. It also comes standard with RS232 capability. Queue Systems Dry Wall Stabil-ThermTM CO2 Incubators Water-Jacketed CO2 Incubators Tabletop CO2 Incubators The newest innovation from Queue is the Stabil-Therm incubator, a dry wall incubator. Heat is applied directly to the chamber walls on the Stabil-Therm, eliminating the potential for cross contamination that comes with forced draft models. According to Queue Systems, the Stabil-Therm is quick to respond to ambient changes and door openings. The optional built-in battery backup has the ability to maintain temperature, humidity, and CO2 level for up to 4.5 hours during power failures. Queue reports that when subjected to ambient changes of 10°C, the Stabil-Therm maintains set-point ± 0.2°C. Also, after a short door opening, the Stabil-Therm returns to within 0.5°C from set-point in about five minutes. Because there is no water jacket, annual water changes and water jacket set-up are avoided. Stabil-Therm incubators are available in a variety of chamber configurations, including standard welded (QNW), seamless (SNW), and seamless copper-plated (CNW), and have either thermal conductivity or infrared CO2 sensors. Stabil-Therm full-size incubators are also stackable to minimize consumption of floor space. Queue also offers CellstarTM compact CO2 incubators. These bench-top-sized incubators are available with 0.65 cu. ft. and 1.4 cu. ft. chambers. Like the Stabil-Therm series, the Cellstar compact line uses a warm wall with radiant convection to maintain uniform temperature. Full size incubator features such as microprocessor control, digital display, and temperature and CO2 alarms are standard on these compact models. The 1.4 cu. ft. incubator is also available as a constant flow model for situations where CO2 control is not vital. Revco Scientific Revco Scientific Tabletop CO2 Incubators Water-Jacketed Elite CO2 Incubators Seamless Water-Jacketed Ultima CO2 Incubators Revco Scientific offers researchers the choice of tabletop CO2 incubators or full size water-jacketed CO2 incubator designs. The inner chamber of Revco's deep drawn seamless Ultima incubator is made from one piece of stainless steel without any welded edges. By being truly seamless, Revco Ultima incubators are able to eliminate the concern about corrosion. The ability to clean the chamber of Revco Ultima incubators is made simple by the wide-radius, coved corners found inside the seamless chamber. Revco Ultima incubators have a 5.8 cu. ft. chamber and are available with thermal conductivity or infrared CO2 sensors. Both single-chamber and dual-chamber incubators are available, as is a copper-plated chamber option. Revco Ultima incubators use the IntrLogicTM microprocessor to control temperature, gas level, alarms, door heat, unit calibration, and advanced diagnosis of any potential errors. The advanced alphanumeric display indicates performance set-points, alarm parameters, operating conditions, and user warnings. Sanyo Scientific MCO 175 Sanyo Scientific MCO Series Air-Jacketed Incubators MCO Series Water-Jacketed Incubators Sanyo offers both air- and water-jacketed models, incorporating a dehumidifier in all models, which senses and controls the CO2 level. Temperature control is facilitated through the use of PID control and chamber-air sensing systems. Comprehensive countermeasures against contamination, including a fan motor, a CO2 valve automatic stop upon door opening, a stainless steel chamber with rounded corners, and an automatic control door heater are standard features. Utilizing a stacking kit allows single units to be stacked on top of one another. The MCO 17 models feature spacious chambers (5.8 cu. ft.), an efficient air-jacketed design, and both infrared and thermal conductivity sensing capabilities. The MCO 96 is a compact (2.8 cu. ft.) air-jacketed incubator that, according to Sanyo, quickly responds to temperature changes. The larger MCO 175/345 models incorporate a water-jacketed system that takes advantage of the heat-retention characteristics of water. Sanyo also offers a multi-gas, water-jacketed incubator (MCO 175M), allowing for control of nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide. Microprocessor PID temperature control and a chamber direct sensing system ensure stability in this model. A triple-door system maintains the inner-chamber environment and reduces gas consumption when doors are opened. A variety of accessories are available from Sanyo, including gas pressure regulators, a water preservative agent, stacking kits, and recorders. Shellab 2425Shellab 2310 Shellab SL-Series Shellab's SL-23 and SL-24 incubators are fully microprocessor-controlled for temperature, CO2, and relative humidity. Available with TC or IR sensors, each unit is equipped with six flat, star-designed shelves, which are capable of being removed without tools. These incubators are also available with single or double chambers. All models feature microprocessor CO2 and temperature controllers with large LED displays. According to Shellab, PID technology ensures precise temperature and CO2 control with virtually no under/overshoot. Keypads are utilized for setting of parameters, calibrating, and verifying set-points. Audio and visual alarms give immediate notification if set-points deviate. Each 18-gallon water jacket envelops the incubator chamber on five sides to ensure temperature uniformity and eliminates the possibility of cold spots within the chamber, which result in condensation and represent a primary source of contamination in incubators. Other key features include an RS232 Serial Port, remote alarm contacts, a parallel printer port, and a relative humidity display, which allow continuous monitoring of chamber conditions. The "Personal Incubator" Model SL-2/TC provides control and stability in a compact design ideal for small sample applications or limited laboratory space. The SL-2/TC is an automatically controlled and digitally displayed CO2 incubator. The 6-gallon water jacket and heated outer door eliminate chamber condensation often associated with air-jacketed units. To aid in decontaminating the seamless, stainless steel chamber, all models contain shelves, standards, and an autoclavable gasket that are removable without the need of tools. Shellab claims incubator exteriors have an environmentally safe, powder-coat finish. VWR Scientific Products VWRbrand Water-Jacketed Mini CO2 Incubator (Model 2310) VWR Scientific Products has designed a CO2 incubator for labs with low work volumes. The Mini CO2 Incubator provides control of both CO2 and temperature with automatic microprocessor control and thermal conductivity cell technology. Temperature uniformity is maintained to +/- 0.1°C at 37°C, while CO2 uniformity is kept at +/- 0.25 percent. The Mini's 6-gallon water-jacketed design assures uniformity within the 2.0 cu. ft. interior, which can hold up to six shelves. VWR reports simple operation is facilitated by a unified green LED panel and a large display showing the CO2 level and temperature. A heated outer door eliminates condensation, and a tempered glass interior door provides easy viewing of culture samples. An autoclavable door gasket aids in the cleaning of the Mini's seamless, stainless steel interior. Also standard on the Mini is an independent overtemperature audio/visual alarm. VWR also carries a complete line of full-sized CO2 incubators with infrared or thermal conductivity sensors. Should a CO2 incubator show up on your laboratory shopping list this year, several corporations are more than willing to equip your laboratory with an incubator that suits your needs. CO2 incubators, whether water-jacketed, dry wall, or air-jacketed, can take a major load off the shoulders of several people and place it on a reliable, automated machine at a reasonable price. The most important task for the consumer is to map out what's necessary, or what's going to be necessary in the future, prior to investing in an incubator. With the wide variety of styles, sizes, and options available, it should not be hard to find a CO2 incubator that is custom-made to fit specific laboratory applications. Comparison Chart The author can be reached online at sbeck@the-scientist.com

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