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MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus

Operating manual
Copyright © 2015 Eppendorf AG, Germany. All rights reserved, including graphics and
images. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior permission of the
copyright owner.
Microtainer® is a registered trademark of Becton Dickinson, USA.
Eppendorf® and the Eppendorf logo are registered trademarks of Eppendorf AG,
Germany.
MiniSpin® is a registered trademark of Eppendorf AG, Germany.
Registered trademarks and protected trademarks are not marked in all cases with ® or ™
in this manual.

Operating
MiniSpin®/MiniSpin®
on
see
p.
Tab.
Fig.
p.
English
Operating manual
(EN)
manual plus

5452 900.035-00/072015
 Table of contents
MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus 3
English (EN)

Table of contents

1 Operating instructions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.1 Using this manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.2 Danger symbols and danger levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.2.1 Danger symbols. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.2.2 Danger levels. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.3 Symbols used . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.4 Abbreviations used . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

2 Safety .............................................................7
2.1 Intended use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.2 User profile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.3 Information on product liability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.4 Application limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.4.1 Declaration concerning the ATEX directive (94/9/EC) . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.5 Warnings for intended use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.5.1 Personal injury or damage to the equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.5.2 Incorrect handling of the centrifuge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2.5.3 Incorrect handling of the rotors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2.5.4 Extreme strain on the centrifuging tubes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
2.6 Safety instructions on the device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

3 Product description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
3.1 Product overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
3.2 Delivery package . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
3.3 Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

4 Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
4.1 Selecting the location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
4.2 Installing the instrument . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

5 Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
5.1 Operating controls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
5.2 Switching on the centrifuge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
5.3 Inserting and loading the rotor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
5.3.1 Inserting the rotor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
5.3.2 Loading the rotor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
5.3.3 Positioning the rotor lid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
5.3.4 Removing the rotor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
5.4 Centrifuging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
5.4.1 Closing the centrifuge lid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
5.4.2 Starting centrifugation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
5.4.3 Short spin centrifugation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
5.4.4 MiniSpin plus: Switching the display between speed and g-force . . 21
5.4.5 MiniSpin plus: Centrifuging in continuous operation. . . . . . . . . . . . 21
 Table of contents
4 MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus
English (EN)

6 Maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
6.1 Prepare cleaning/disinfection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
6.2 Cleaning/disinfection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
6.2.1 Cleaning and disinfecting the device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
6.2.2 Cleaning and disinfecting the rotor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
6.3 Decontamination before shipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

7 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
7.1 General errors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
7.2 Error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
7.3 Emergency release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

8 Transport, storage and disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

8.1 Transport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
8.2 Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
8.3 Disposal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

9 Technical data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
9.1 Power supply. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
9.2 Weight/dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
9.3 Noise level. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
9.4 Ambient conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
9.5 Application parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
9.6 Rotors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
9.6.1 Rotor F-45-12-11. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
9.6.2 Rotor F-55-16-5-PCR. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

10 Ordering information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
10.1 Centrifuge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
10.2 Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Certificates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
 Operating instructions
MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus 5
English (EN)

1 Operating instructions
1.1 Using this manual
 Read this operating manual completely before using the device for the first time. Also
observe the instructions for use of the accessories.
 This operating manual is part of the product. Thus, it must always be easily accessible.
 Enclose this operating manual when transferring the device to third parties.
 You will find the current version of the operating manual for all available languages on
our webpage under www.eppendorf.com.

1.2 Danger symbols and danger levels

The safety instructions in this manual appear with the following danger symbols and
danger levels:

1.2.1 Danger symbols

Biohazard Explosive substances

Electric shock Risk of crushing

Hazard point Material damage

1.2.2 Danger levels

DANGER Will lead to severe injuries or death.

WARNING May lead to severe injuries or death.
CAUTION May lead to light to moderate injuries.
NOTICE May lead to material damage.
 Operating instructions
6 MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus
English (EN)

1.3 Symbols used

Depiction Meaning
1. Actions in the specified order
2.
 Actions without a specified order
• List
Text Display text or software text
Additional information

1.4 Abbreviations used

rcf
Relative centrifugal force – relative centrifugal force: g-force in m/s2
rpm
Revolutions per minute – revolutions per minute
 Safety
MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus 7
English (EN)

2 Safety
2.1 Intended use
The MiniSpin/MiniSpin plus is used for the separation of aqueous solutions and
suspensions of different densities in approved sample tubes.
The MiniSpin/MiniSpin plus is exclusively intended for use indoors. All country-specific
safety requirements for operating electrical equipment in the laboratory must be
observed.

2.2 User profile

The device and accessories may only be operated by trained and skilled personnel.
Before using the device, read the operating manual carefully and familiarize yourself with
the device's mode of operation.

2.3 Information on product liability

In the following cases, the designated protection of the device may be compromised.
Liability for any resulting property damage or personal injury is then transferred to the
operator:
• The device is not used in accordance with the operating manual.
• The device is used outside of its intended use.
• The device is used with accessories or consumables which are not recommended by
Eppendorf.
• The device is maintained or repaired by people not authorized by Eppendorf.
• The user makes unauthorized changes to the device.

2.4 Application limits

2.4.1 Declaration concerning the ATEX directive (94/9/EC)

DANGER! Risk of explosion.

 Do not operate the device in areas where work is completed with explosive
substances.
 Do not use this device to process any explosive or highly reactive substances.
 Do not use this device for processing any substances which could generate an
explosive atmosphere.

Due to its design and the environmental conditions inside the device, the MiniSpin/
MiniSpin plus is not suitable for use in a potentially explosive atmosphere.
The device may only be used in a safe environment, such as in the open environment of a
ventilated laboratory or an extractor hood. The use of substances that may contribute to a
potentially explosive atmosphere is not permitted. The final decision on risks associated
with the use of such substances lies with the user.
 Safety
8 MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus
English (EN)

2.5 Warnings for intended use

2.5.1 Personal injury or damage to the equipment

WARNING! Electric shock due to damage to device or mains cable.

 Only switch on the device if the device and mains cable are undamaged.
 Only use devices that have been properly installed or repaired.
 In case of danger, disconnect the device from the mains supply by pulling the
power plug from the device or the mains socket or, by using the isolating
device intended for this purpose (e.g., emergency stop switch in the
laboratory).

WARNING! Lethal voltages inside the device.

Touching parts which are under high voltage may cause an electric shock. An
electric shock injures the heart and causes respiratory paralysis.
 Ensure that the housing is closed and undamaged.
 Do not remove the housing.
 Ensure that no liquid can penetrate into the device.
Only authorized service staff may open the device.

WARNING! Risk from incorrect supply voltage

 Only connect the device to voltage sources which correspond to the electrical
requirements on the name plate.
 Only use sockets with a protective earth (PE) conductor and suitable power
cable.

WARNING! Damage to health due to infectious liquids and pathogenic

germs.
 When handling infectious liquids and pathogenic germs, observe the national
regulations, the biological security level of your laboratory, the material safety
data sheets, and the manufacturer's application notes.
 Wear personal protective equipment.
 For comprehensive regulations about handling germs or biological material
of risk group II or higher, please refer to the "Laboratory Biosafety Manual"
(source: World Health Organization, Laboratory Biosafety Manual, in its
respectively current valid version).
 Safety
MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus 9
English (EN)

WARNING! Risk of injury when opening or closing the centrifuge lid.

There is a risk of crushing your fingers when opening or closing the centrifuge
lid.
 When opening or closing the centrifuge lid, do not reach between the lid and
device or into the latching mechanism of the lid.
 Always open the centrifuge lid completely to prevent it from falling.

WARNING! Risk of injury from chemically or mechanically damaged

accessories.
Even minor scratches and cracks can lead to serious internal material damage.
 Protect all accessory parts from mechanical damage.
 Inspect the accessories for damage before each use. Replace any damaged
accessories.
 Do not use any accessories whose maximum service life has been exceeded.

CAUTION! Risk of burns to the fingers.

The base of the centrifuge becomes very hot during the run.
 Check the temperature at the bottom of the centrifuge before lifting the
centrifuge.
 Only hold the centrifuge at the sides.

CAUTION! Poor safety due to incorrect accessories and spare parts.

The use of accessories and spare parts other than those recommended by
Eppendorf may impair the safety, functioning and precision of the device.
Eppendorf cannot be held liable or accept any liability for damage resulting from
the use of incorrect or non-recommended accessories and spare parts, or from
the improper use of such equipment.
 Only use accessories and original spare parts recommended by Eppendorf.

NOTICE! Damage to device due to spilled liquids.

1. Switch off the device.
2. Disconnect the device from the power supply.
3. Carefully clean the device and the accessories in accordance with the
cleaning and disinfection instructions in the operating manual.
4. If a different cleaning and disinfecting method is to be used, contact
Eppendorf AG to ensure that the intended method will not damage the device.
 Safety
10 MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus
English (EN)

NOTICE! Damage to electronic components due to condensation.

Condensate can form in the device after it has been moved from a cool
environment to a warmer environment.
 After installing the device, wait at least for 3 h. Only then connect the device
to the mains.

2.5.2 Incorrect handling of the centrifuge

NOTICE! Damage from knocking against or moving the device during

operation.
If the rotor bangs against the rotor chamber wall, it will cause considerable
damage to the device and rotor.
 Do not move or knock against the device during operation.

2.5.3 Incorrect handling of the rotors

WARNING! Risk of injury from improperly attached rotors and rotor lids.
 Only centrifuge with rotor and rotor lid firmly tightened.
 If there are any unusual noises when the centrifuge is started up, the rotor or
rotor lid may not be properly attached. Immediately press the start/stop key
to stop centrifuging.

CAUTION! Risk of injury due to asymmetric loading of a rotor.

 Load rotors symmetrically with identical tubes.
 Only load adapters with suitable tubes.
 Always use the same type of tubes (weight, material/density and volume).
 Check symmetric loading by balancing the adapters and tubes used with
scales.

CAUTION! Risk of injury from overloaded rotor.

The centrifuge is designed for the centrifugation of material with a maximum
density of 1.2 g/mL at maximum speed and filling volume and/or load.
 Do not exceed the maximum load of the rotor.
 Safety
MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus 11
English (EN)

NOTICE! Damage to rotors from aggressive chemicals.

Rotors are high-quality components which withstand extreme stresses. This
stability can be impaired by aggressive chemicals.
 Avoid using aggressive chemicals, including strong and weak alkalis, strong
acids, solutions with mercury, copper and other heavy metal ions,
halogenated hydrocarbons, concentrated saline solutions and phenol.
 Due to the manufacturing process, color variations may occur on rotors
marked "coated". These color variations do not effect service life or resistance
to chemicals.

2.5.4 Extreme strain on the centrifuging tubes

CAUTION! Risk of injury from overloaded tubes.

 Note the loading limits specified by the tube manufacturer.
 Only use tubes which are approved by the manufacturer for the required
g-force (rcf).

NOTICE! Risk from damaged tubes.

Damaged tubes must not be used, as this could cause further damage to the
device and the accessories and loss of the samples.
 Before use, visually check all of the tubes for damage.

NOTICE! Risk from open tube lids.

Open tube lids can brake off during centrifugation and damage the rotor and the
centrifuge.
 Carefully seal all tube lids before centrifuging.

NOTICE! Hazard to plastic tubes from organic solvents.

The density of plastic tubes is reduced when organic solvents (e.g., phenol,
chloroform) are used, i.e. the tubes could become damaged.
 Observe the manufacturer's specifications for chemical resistance of the
tubes.
 Safety
12 MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus
English (EN)

NOTICE! Micro test tubes heat up.

In uncooled centrifuges, the temperature in the rotor chamber, rotor and sample
can increase to above 40 °C, depending on the run time, g-force (rcf)/speed and
ambient temperature.
 Please note that this will reduce the resistance to centrifugation of the micro
test tubes.
 Please note the temperature resistance of the samples.

2.6 Safety instructions on the device

Symbol Meaning Location
Hazard point Rear of the device
 Observe the operating manual.
 Product description
MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus 13
English (EN)

3 Product description
3.1 Product overview

2
speed x 1000
time

min rcf

open
start short
stop

3 4 5 6 7 8

1 Monitoring glass 5 Suction foot

2 Motor Shaft 6 Name plate (bottom of the device)
3 Emergency release  7 Mains/power switch
(bottom of the device)
8 Mains/power cord socket
4 Control panel
 Product description
14 MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus
English (EN)

3.2 Delivery package

1 Centrifuge MiniSpin
or Centrifuge MiniSpin plus
1 Rotor F-45-12-11 incl. rotor lid
1 Rotor nut
1 Mains/power cord
1 Operating manual

 Check the delivery for completeness.

 Check all parts for damage in transit.
 To safely transport and store the device, keep the transport box and packing
material.

3.3 Features
The high-power and user-friendly microcentrifuges MiniSpin and the MiniSpin plus are
so small that each workstation can be equipped with a "personal" centrifuge. For the
MiniSpin and the MiniSpin plus, 2 rotors are available:
Fixed-angle rotor F-45-12-11
Capacity: 12 tubes
• Micro test tubes 0.2 mL to 2.0 mL
• Microtainers
Fixed-angle rotor F-55-16-5-PCR
Capacity: 16 PCR tubes
• 0.2 mL PCR tubes
• PCR strips
 Installation
MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus 15
English (EN)

4 Installation
4.1 Selecting the location

NOTICE! If an error occurs, the objects in the immediate proximity of the

device will be damaged.
 In accordance with the recommendations of EN 61010-2-020, leave a safety
clearance of 30 cm around the device during operation.
 Please remove all materials and objects from this area.

NOTICE! Damage from overheating.

 Do not install the device near to any heat sources (e.g., heating, drying
cabinet).
 Do not expose the device to direct sunlight.
 Ensure unobstructed air circulation. Keep free a clearance of at least 30 cm
(11.8 in) around all ventilation grilles.

Select the device location according to the following criteria:

• Mains connection as specified on name plate
• Resonance free table with horizontal even work surface
• Surrounding area must be well ventilated.
• The location must be protected against direct sunlight.
 Installation
16 MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus
English (EN)

4.2 Installing the instrument

Prerequisites
• The centrifuge is standing on a suitable lab bench with a smooth surface.
• The suction feet are fixed to the surface.

WARNING! Risk from incorrect supply voltage

 Only connect the device to voltage sources which correspond to the electrical
requirements on the name plate.
 Only use sockets with a protective earth (PE) conductor and suitable power
cable.

NOTICE! Damage to electronic components due to condensation.

Condensate can form in the device after it has been moved from a cool
environment to a warmer environment.
 After installing the device, wait at least for 3 h. Only then connect the device
to the mains.

1. Let the centrifuge warm up to ambient temperature.

2. Connect the centrifuge to the mains and switch it on using the mains/power switch.
• The display is active.
• The centrifuge lid opens.
 Operation
MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus 17
English (EN)

5 Operation
5.1 Operating controls
Abb. 5-1:Operating controlsMiniSpin/MiniSpin plus

1 2 3

time speed x 1000

min rpm

8 4

start short open

stop

7 6 5
Fig. 5-1: Operating controls MiniSpin/MiniSpin plus

1 Centrifugation time 5 open key

Open the centrifuge lid.
2 Centrifuge status
The centrifuge lid is open. 6 short key
The bar flashes alternately at the top and Short run centrifugation
bottom: centrifugation in progress.
7 start/stop key
3 Centrifugation speed Start and stop centrifugation.
MiniSpin: speed (rpm)
8 time arrow keys
MiniSpin plus: speed (rpm) or g-force
Adjust centrifugation time.
(rcf)
Keep the arrow key pressed: quick
4 Arrow keys speed setting
Set centrifugation speed.
Keep the arrow key pressed: quick
setting
Change rpm/rcf display (MiniSpin plus):
Press both speed arrow keys.
 Operation
18 MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus
English (EN)

5.2 Switching on the centrifuge

 Switch the centrifuge on using the mains/power switch at the rear of the device.
• The lid opens.
• The display shows the parameters of the last run.

5.3 Inserting and loading the rotor

WARNING! Risk of injury from chemically or mechanically damaged

accessories.
Even minor scratches and cracks can lead to serious internal material damage.
 Protect all accessory parts from mechanical damage.
 Inspect the accessories for damage before each use. Replace any damaged
accessories.
 Do not use any accessories whose maximum service life has been exceeded.

5.3.1 Inserting the rotor

1. Fit the rotor on the motor shaft.
2. Fit the rotor nut on the motor shaft.
3. Rotate the rotor nut clockwise and tighten it.

5.3.2 Loading the rotor

CAUTION! Risk of injury due to asymmetric loading of a rotor.

 Load rotors symmetrically with identical tubes.
 Only load adapters with suitable tubes.
 Always use the same type of tubes (weight, material/density and volume).
 Check symmetric loading by balancing the adapters and tubes used with
scales.

1. Check maximum load (adapter, vessel, and contents) for each rotor bore.
2. Load rotors and adapters only with the tubes intended for them.
3. To ensure symmetrical loading, insert sets of two tubes in opposite bores.
Tubes located opposite each other must be of the same type and contain the same
filling quantity.
 Operation
MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus 19
English (EN)

5.3.3 Positioning the rotor lid

 Position the rotor lid on the rotor.
The rotor lid audibly engages.

5.3.4 Removing the rotor

1. Pull up the knob of the rotor lid and remove the rotor lid.
2. Turn the rotor nut counterclockwise and remove it.
3. Remove the rotor.

5.4 Centrifuging

WARNING! Risk of injury from improperly attached rotors and rotor lids.
 Only centrifuge with rotor and rotor lid firmly tightened.
 If there are any unusual noises when the centrifuge is started up, the rotor or
rotor lid may not be properly attached. Immediately press the start/stop key
to stop centrifuging.

5.4.1 Closing the centrifuge lid

WARNING! Risk of crushing due to the device lid.

 When closing the device lid, do not place your finger between the lid and the
device, or in the lid locking mechanism.

1. Check the correct attachment of the rotor and rotor lid.

2. Press the centrifuge lid down until it is gripped by the lid latch.
 Operation
20 MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus
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5.4.2 Starting centrifugation

Setting the centrifugation parameters
1. Set the centrifugation time with the time arrow keys.
2. Set the centrifugation speed with the speed arrow keys.
Starting the centrifugation run
3. To start the centrifugation run, press the start/stop key.
Display during centrifugation
• The bar in the center of the display flashes alternately at the top and bottom.
• Remaining cycle time in minutes. The last minute is counted down in seconds.
• Current speed (rpm) or g-force (rcf) (MiniSpin plus).
During the run, you can change the centrifugation time and the centrifugation
speed. The new parameters are adopted immediately.

5.4.3 Short spin centrifugation

• MiniSpin: Short run centrifugation at maximum speed (13 400 rpm)
• MiniSpin plus: The speed of the short run centrifugation can be set.
1. Start short run centrifugation: Keep the short key pressed.
• The bar in the center of the display flashes alternately at the top and bottom.
• The cycle time is counted up.
2. Stop short run centrifugation: Release the short key.
• During the braking process, the elapsed running time flashes on the display.
• The centrifuge lid opens automatically.

5.4.3.1 MiniSpin plus: Setting the speed of the short spin centrifugation
Prerequisites
The centrifuge lid is open.
 Keep the short key pressed until the display changes.
• 14t: Short run centrifugation at maximum speed (14 500 rpm)
• 1 – 14t: Short run centrifugation at set speed (rpm) or g-force (rcf)
 For 1 – 14t, set the speed (rpm) or g-force (rcf) with the speed arrow key.
 Operation
MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus 21
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5.4.4 MiniSpin plus: Switching the display between speed and g-force
 Press both speed ▼ and ▲ arrow keys simultaneously.
The display changes from rpm (speed) to rcf (g-force) and vice versa.
It is possible to switch the display between speed and g-force during a
centrifugation run.
For the MiniSpin, you can use the following formula to calculate the g-force for the
displayed speed according to DIN 58 970:
rcf = 1.118 ·10-5 · n2 · rmax
n: speed in rpm
rmax: maximum centrifugation radius in cm
Example: The maximum centrifugation radius of the rotor F-45-12-11 is 6 cm. At a speed
of 10 200 rpm, a maximum g-force of 7 000 × g is reached.

5.4.5 MiniSpin plus: Centrifuging in continuous operation

Setting up continuous operation
1. In order to centrifuge without any time limits, use the time arrow keys to select the
setting oo (▼ below 15 s or ▲ above 99 min).
2. Set the speed (rpm) or the g-force (rcf) with the speed arrow keys.
3. To start the centrifugation run, press the start/stop key.
• The bar in the center of the display flashes alternately at the top and bottom.
• The cycle time is counted up.
• Current speed (rpm) or g-force (rcf).
4. Press the start/stop key to end the centrifugation.
• During the braking process, the elapsed running time flashes on the display.
 Maintenance
22 MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus
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6 Maintenance
6.1 Prepare cleaning/disinfection
 Clean all accessible surfaces of the device and the accessories at least weekly and
when contaminated.
 Clean the rotor regularly. This way the rotor is protected and the durability is
prolonged.
 Furthermore, observe the notes on decontamination (see Decontamination before
shipment on p. 25) when the device is sent to the authorized Technical Service for
repairs.
The procedure described in the following chapter applies to the cleaning as well as to the
disinfection or decontamination. The table below describes the steps required on top of
this:

Cleaning Disinfecting/decontamination
1. Use a mild cleaning fluid to clean the 1. Choose the disinfection method which
accessible surfaces of the device and the corresponds to the legal regulations and
accessories. guidelines in place for your range of
2. Carry out the cleaning as described in application. For example, use alcohol
the following chapter. (ethanol, isopropanol) or alcohol-based
disinfectants.
2. Carry out the disinfection or
decontamination as described in the
following chapter.
3. Then clean the device and the
accessories.

If you have any further questions regarding the cleaning and disinfection or
decontamination or regarding the cleaning fluid to be used, contact the
Eppendorf AG Application Support. The contact details are provided on the back
of this manual.
 Maintenance
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6.2 Cleaning/disinfection

DANGER! Electric shock as a result of penetration of liquid.

 Switch off the device and disconnect the power plug before starting cleaning
or disinfection work.
 Do not allow any liquids to penetrate the inside of the housing.
 Do not spray clean/spray disinfect the housing.
 Only plug the device back in if it is completely dry, both inside and outside.

NOTICE! Damage from the use of aggressive chemicals.

 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 has been contaminated by aggressive chemicals, immediately
clean it by means of a mild cleaning agent.

NOTICE! Corrosion from aggressive cleaning agents and disinfectants.

 Do not use corrosive cleaning agents, aggressive solvents or abrasive
polishes.
 Do not incubate the accessories in aggressive cleaning agents or disinfectants
for a longer period of time.

NOTICE! Damage from UV and other high-energy radiation.

 Do not use UV, beta, gamma, or any other high-energy radiation for
disinfecting.
 Avoid storage in areas with strong UV radiation

Autoclaving
All rotors, rotor lids and adapters can be autoclaved (121 °C, 20 min).
 Maintenance
24 MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus
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6.2.1 Cleaning and disinfecting the device

If you have any additional questions on disinfection, decontamination, cleaning
and the cleaning agents to be used, please contact Eppendorf AG Application
Support. The contact details are provided on the back of this manual.
1. Open the lid. Switch off the device with the mains/power switch. Disconnect the power
plug from the power supply.
2. Loosen the rotor nut. To this purpose, loosen the rotor nut by turning it
counterclockwise.
3. Remove the rotor.
4. Clean and disinfect all accessible surfaces of the device, including the power cable,
using a damp cloth and the recommended cleaning agents.
5. Clean the motor shaft with a soft, dry and lint-free cloth. Do not lubricate the motor
shaft.
6. Check the motor shaft for damage.
7. Inspect the device for corrosion and damage.
8. Leave the centrifuge lid open when the device is not being used.
9. Only connect the device to the power supply if it is fully dry inside and out.

6.2.2 Cleaning and disinfecting the rotor

1. Inspect the rotor and accessories for damage and corrosion. Do not use any damaged
rotors or accessories.
2. Clean and disinfect the rotors and accessories with the recommended cleaning agents.
3. Use a bottle brush to clean and disinfect the rotor bores.
4. Rinse the rotors and accessories thoroughly with distilled water. Rinse the rotor bores
of fixed-angle rotors particularly thoroughly.
Do not immerse the rotor in liquid as liquid can get trapped inside the cavities.
5. Place rotors and accessories on a cloth to dry. Place fixed-angle rotors with the rotor
bores facing downwards to allow the bores to also dry.
6. Clean the rotor cone with a soft, dry and lint-free cloth. Do not lubricate the rotor cone.
7. Inspect the rotor cone for damage.
8. Place the dry rotor onto the motor shaft.
9. Tighten the rotor nut firmly by turning it clockwise.
10.Leave the rotor lid open when the rotor is not being used.
 Maintenance
MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus 25
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6.3 Decontamination before shipment

If you are shipping the device to the authorized Technical Service for repairs or to your
authorized dealer for disposal please note the following:

WARNING! Risk to health from contaminated device

1. Follow the instructions in the decontamination certificate. You find it as a PDF
file on our website (www.eppendorf.com/decontamination).
2. Decontaminate all the parts you would like to dispatch.
3. Include the fully completed decontamination certificate in the packing.
 Troubleshooting
26 MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus
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7 Troubleshooting
If you cannot remedy an error with the recommended measures, please contact your local
Eppendorf partner. The contact addresses can be found on the Internet at
www.eppendorf.com.

7.1 General errors

Problem Cause Solution

No display. No mains connection.  Check the mains connection.
 Check the mains fuse of the
laboratory.
Power failure.  Check the mains connection.
 Check the mains fuse of the
laboratory.
The centrifuge Rotor is still running.  Wait for the rotor to stop.
lid cannot be
opened.
Error message with locking time.  Wait for the locking time to
Locking period still running. elapse.
The centrifuge Centrifuge lid is not closed.  Close the centrifuge lid.
cannot be
started.
Centrifuge Rotor loaded unsymmetrically. 1. Stop the centrifuge and load
shakes when it the rotor symmetrically.
starts up. 2. Re-start the centrifuge.

7.2 Error messages

Key lock after error message
• If an error message occurs, the keys remain locked as long as the rotor is moving.
• For some errors, the remaining blocking time and the error message are alternately
shown on the display. The blocking time also remains active if the centrifuge is
disconnected from the mains/power line.
If an error message appears, proceed as follows:
 Remedy the fault as described in the “Remedy" column.
 Wait for the blocking time to elapse or the rotor to stop.
 To clear the error message from the display, press the open key.
 Troubleshooting
MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus 27
English (EN)

Problem Cause Solution

Er 3.1 Error in speed measuring system.  Tighten rotor.
Er 3.2  Wait for the blocking time to
Er 3.3 elapse.
Er 3.4  Press the open key.
Er 3.5
Er 6.1 • Error in the drive electronics.  Repeat the run.
Er 6.2 • The drive is overheated. If the error message appears
Er 6.3 again:
Er 6.4
1. Switch off centrifuge and wait
for 20 s.
2. Switch on the centrifuge.
If the error message appears
again:
 Let the drive cool down for at
least 15 min.
Er 10.0 Electronics fault. 1. Switch off centrifuge and wait
Er 10.1 for 20 s.
Er 10.2 2. Switch on the centrifuge.
Er 15.1 Electronics fault. 1. Switch off centrifuge and wait
Er 15.2 for 20 s.
Er 16.2 2. Switch on the centrifuge.
Er 16.3
Er 16.4
Int Mains/power failure during a run.  Check the power supply.
 Press the open key.
Lid Centrifuge lid will not lock.  Press the open key.
 Try again to close centrifuge
lid.
Centrifuge lid cannot be released.  Switch off centrifuge and wait
for 20 s.
 Switch on the centrifuge.
 Press the open key.
If the error occurs again:
1. Switch off centrifuge.
2. Activate the emergency lid
release.
Emergency release was actuated  Wait for the rotor to stop.
during a run.  Press the open key.
 Troubleshooting
28 MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus
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7.3 Emergency release

If the centrifuge lid cannot be opened during a power failure, you can activate the
emergency release manually.

WARNING! Risk of injury from rotating rotor.

If the emergency release of the lid is operated, the rotor may continue rotating
for several minutes.
 Wait until the rotor stop before operating the emergency release.
 Check the monitoring glass in the centrifuge lid.

CAUTION! Risk of burns to the fingers.

The base of the centrifuge becomes very hot during the run.
 Check the temperature at the bottom of the centrifuge before lifting the
centrifuge.
 Only hold the centrifuge at the sides.

1. Pull out the mains/power plug and wait for the rotor to stop.
2. Lift up the centrifuge. Use a ball pen to move the disk behind the opening of the
bottom panel clockwise until the centrifuge lid opens.
 Transport, storage and disposal
MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus 29
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8 Transport, storage and disposal

8.1 Transport
 Remove the rotor from the centrifuge before transport.
 Use the original packing for transport.
Air temperature Relative humidity Atmospheric
pressure
General transport -25 °C – 60 °C 10 % – 75 % 30 kPa – 106 kPa
Air freight -20 °C – 55 °C 10 % – 75 % 30 kPa – 106 kPa

8.2 Storage

Air temperature Relative humidity Atmospheric

pressure
In transport packing -25 °C – 55 °C 10 % – 75 % 70 kPa – 106 kPa
Without transport -5 °C – 45 °C 10 % – 75 % 70 kPa – 106 kPa
packing

8.3 Disposal
In case the product is to be disposed of, the relevant legal regulations are to be observed.
Information on the disposal of electrical and electronic devices in the European
Community:
Within the European Community, the disposal of electrical devices is regulated by
national regulations based on EU Directive 2012/19/EU pertaining to waste electrical and
electronic equipment (WEEE).
According to these regulations, any devices supplied after August 13, 2005, in the
business-to-business sphere, to which this product is assigned, may no longer be
disposed of in municipal or domestic waste. To document this, they have been marked
with the following identification:

Because disposal regulations may differ from one country to another within the EU,
please contact your supplier if necessary.
 Technical data
30 MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus
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9 Technical data
9.1 Power supply

MiniSpin MiniSpin plus

Mains/power connection 230 V, 50 Hz – 60 Hz 230 V, 50 Hz – 60 Hz
120 V, 50 Hz – 60 Hz 120 V, 50 Hz – 60 Hz
100 V, 50 Hz – 60 Hz 100 V, 50 Hz – 60 Hz
Power consumption 60 W 68 W
Current consumption 0.45 A (230 V) 0.6 A (230 V)
0.9 A (120 V) 1.2 A (120 V)
0.9 A (100 V) 1.2 A (100 V)
Overvoltage category II
EMC: Interference emission. EN 61326-1 – Class B (230 V)
(radio interference) EN 61326-1 – Class A (120 V), FCC15 – Class B (120 V)
EN 61326-1 – Class A (100 V), FCC15 – Class B (100 V)
EMC: Noise immunity EN 61326 - category B
Fuses 1.6 AT (230 V)
3.15 AT (120 V)
3.15 AT (100 V)
Degree of pollution 2

9.2 Weight/dimensions

MiniSpin MiniSpin plus

Dimensions Width: 22.5 cm (8.86 in)
Depth: 24.0 cm (9.45 in)
Height: 12.0 cm (4.72 in)
Weight without rotor 3.7 kg (8.16 lb)

9.3 Noise level

The noise level was measured according to (DIN EN ISO 3745) frontally in a sound
measuring room with accuracy class 1 at a distance of 1 m from the device and at lab
bench height.

MiniSpin MiniSpin plus

Noise level < 49 dB(A) < 52 dB(A)
 Technical data
MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus 31
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9.4 Ambient conditions

Ambience Only for use indoors.

Ambient temperature 10 °C – 40 °C
Relative humidity 10 % – 75 %, non-condensing.
Atmospheric pressure 79.5 kPa – 106 kPa

9.5 Application parameters

MiniSpin MiniSpin plus
Cycle time 15 s – 30 min • 15 s – 99 min
• unlimited (oo)
• 15 s – 1 min: can be set in increments of 15 s
• from 1 min: can be set in increments of 1 min
Rotational speed 800 rpm – 13 400 rpm 800 rpm – 14 500 rpm
can be set in increments of 100 rpm
Tolerance at maximum rotational speed: 3 %
Relative centrifugal force 100 × g – 12 100 × g 100 × g – 14 100 × g
can be set in increments of
100 × g
Maximum load 12 × 2.0 mL
Maximum kinetic energy 728 Nm 852 Nm
Permitted density of the 1.2 g/mL
material for centrifuging
(at maximum g-force (rcf)
and/or speed (rpm) and
maximum load)
Tolerance at maximum 13 s
rotational speed
Deceleration time from 12 s
maximum rotational speed
 Technical data
32 MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus
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9.6 Rotors
Eppendorf centrifuges may only be operated with rotors that are intended for
use with the centrifuge.
 Only use rotors that are intended for use with the centrifuge.

9.6.1 Rotor F-45-12-11

Fixed-angle rotor for 12 tubes

Maximum g-force: MiniSpin 12 100 × g

MiniSpin plus 14 100 × g
Maximum speed: MiniSpin 13 400 rpm
MiniSpin plus 14 500 rpm

Rotor F-45-12-11 Maximum load (tubes and contents): 12 × 4 g

Tube Tube Adapter Bottom Maximum g-force:

shape
Capacity Order no. Tube Maximum speed:
Tubes per (international) diameter Radius
adapter/rotor
PCR tube conical MiniSpin 7 830 × g
MiniSpin plus 9 170 × g
0.2 mL Ø 11 mm MiniSpin 13 400 rpm
MiniSpin plus 14 500 rpm
1/12 5425 715.005 3.9 cm
Tube conical MiniSpin 12 100 × g
MiniSpin plus 14 100 × g
0.4 mL Ø 6 mm MiniSpin 13 400 rpm
MiniSpin plus 14 500 rpm
1/12 5425 717.008 6.0 cm
Tube conical MiniSpin 9 840 × g
MiniSpin plus 11 520 × g
0.5 mL Ø 6 mm MiniSpin 13 400 rpm
MiniSpin plus 14 500 rpm
1/12 5425 716.001 4.9 cm
 Technical data
MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus 33
English (EN)

Tube Tube Adapter Bottom Maximum g-force:

shape
Capacity Order no. Tube Maximum speed:
Tubes per (international) diameter Radius
adapter/rotor
Microtainers open MiniSpin 12 100 × g
MiniSpin plus 14 100 × g
0.6 mL Ø 8 mm MiniSpin 13 400 rpm
MiniSpin plus 14 500 rpm
1/12 5425 716.001 6.0 cm
Tube MiniSpin 12 100 × g
MiniSpin plus 14 100 × g
1.5 ml/2.0 mL Ø 11 mm MiniSpin 13 400 rpm
MiniSpin plus 14 500 rpm
–/12 6.0 cm
 Technical data
34 MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus
English (EN)

9.6.2 Rotor F-55-16-5-PCR

Fixed-angle rotor for 16 PCR tubes

Maximum g-force: MiniSpin 9 840 × g

MiniSpin plus 11 520 × g
Maximum speed: MiniSpin 13 400 rpm
MiniSpin plus 14 500 rpm
Rotor Maximum load (tubes and 16 × 0.43 g
F-55-16-5-PCR contents): (2 × 3.5 g)

Tubes Tube Bottom shape Maximum g-force:

Capacity Tube diameter Maximum speed:
Tubes per Centrifugation radius
adapter/rotor
conical MiniSpin 9 840 × g
MiniSpin plus 11 520 × g
0.2 mL Ø 6 mm MiniSpin 13 400 rpm
MiniSpin plus 14 500 rpm
–/16 4.9 cm
PCR strips conical MiniSpin 9 840 × g
MiniSpin plus 11 520 × g
0.2 mL Ø 6 mm MiniSpin 13 400 rpm
MiniSpin plus 14 500 rpm
–/2 × 8 4.9 cm
 Ordering information
MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus 35
English (EN)

10 Ordering information
10.1 Centrifuge
Order no. Order no.  Description
(International) (North America)
Centrifuge MiniSpin
incl. rotor F-45-12-11
5452 000.018 022620151 230 V/50 – 60 Hz
5452 000.131 022620100 120 V/50 – 60 Hz, with US plug
5452 000.034 – 100 V/50 – 60 Hz
Centrifuge MiniSpin plus
incl. rotor F-45-12-11
5453 000.011 022620258 230 V/50 – 60 Hz
5453 000.135 022620207 120 V/50 – 60 Hz, with US plug
5453 000.038 – 100 V/50 – 60 Hz

10.2 Accessories
Order no. Order no.  Description
(International) (North America)
Rotor F-45-12-11
angle 45°, 12 places, max. tube diameter 11 mm,
incl. rotor lid and rotor nut
5452 725.000 022668501 MiniSpin
5452 720.008 022668498 MiniSpin/MiniSpin plus
Rotor lid for rotor F-45-12-11
5452 702.000 022668510 stainless steel, with rotor nut
Rotor F-55-16-5-PCR
angle 55°, 16 places, max. tube diameter 5 mm,
incl. rotor lid (aluminum)
5452 727.007 022665821 MiniSpin/MiniSpin plus
Rotor lid for rotor F-55-16-5-PCR
5452 730.008 022665847 aluminum, with rotor nut
Rotor nut
5452 729.000 022668455 for MiniSpin, MiniSpin plus
 Ordering information
36 MiniSpin®/MiniSpin® plus
English (EN)

Order no. Order no.  Description

(International) (North America)
Adapter
used in FA-45-48-11, F-45-48-11, FA-45-30-11,
F-45-30-11, F-45-48-11, F-45-70-11, FA-45-24-11,
FA-45-24-11-Special, FA-45-24-11-HS and
FA-45-24-11-Kit
for 1 sample tube (0.5 mL, max. Ø 6 mm) or 1
5425 716.001 022636227 Microtainer (0.6 mL, max. Ø 8 mm), set of 6
5425 715.005 022636260 for 1 PCR tube (0.2 mL, max. Ø 6 mm), set of 6
Adapter
used in FA-45-48-11, F-45-48-11, F-45-12-11,
FA-45-18-11, FA-45-30-11, F-45-30-11,
F-45-48-11, F-45-70-11, FA-45-24-11-HS,
FA-45-24-11-Kit and S-24-11-AT
5425 717.008 022636243 for 1 sample tube (0.4 mL, max. Ø 6 mm), set of 6
Mains/power cord
0013 563.934 – 230 V/50 Hz, Europe
0013 594.490 – 230 V/50 Hz, GB/HK
0013 613.952 – 230 V/50 Hz, CN
0013 592.454 – 230 V/50 Hz, AUS
0013 613.973 – 230 V/50 Hz, ARG
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