Boekel MicroCooler II 260010-2: Precision refrigerated incubator for microcentrifuge tubes
The Boekel Scientific MicroCooler II, model 260010-2, is a refrigerated well incubator designed for laboratory environments that require precise temperature control below ambient temperature. Compact and quiet, it is an affordable and space-saving alternative to traditional refrigerated water baths, while providing reliable performance for a variety of biological and molecular applications.
Thanks to its integrated cooling system, the MicroCooler II can reach temperatures as low as 18°C below ambient temperature, typically around 4°C. This makes it particularly useful for applications that require stable sub-ambient temperatures, such as heat-sensitive enzyme reactions or the storage of reproductive cells at specific temperatures (e.g., 14°C for ligation reactions or 17°C for oocyte preservation).
The MicroCooler II well is designed as a single piece to ensure optimal temperature uniformity. It can be filled with water or another non-volatile liquid to optimise heat transfer. Filling to a depth of approximately 3 cm is recommended for optimal performance. The case comes with a rack that can hold up to 21 x 1.5 mL tubes, making the unit immediately ready for standard laboratory use.
The user interface is simplified thanks to an intuitive "press to set" control system with digital temperature display, control buttons and cooling indicator light. The set temperature is stored in memory when the unit is restarted, facilitating repeated work cycles. Once the desired temperature is reached, the unit maintains it with a typical fluctuation of ±1°C.
The MicroCooler II is designed for optimal operation under standard laboratory conditions (10 °C to 35 °C, humidity <80%). However, it is recommended to use it in a cool, dry environment for best performance. When used at high ambient temperatures or in a humid atmosphere, cooling efficiency may be reduced.
Boekel also ensures a high level of safety with IEC-compliant components and clear operating instructions. Maintenance is minimal, limited to surface cleaning and occasional replacement of fuses.
The Boekel MicroCooler II, in its 260010-2 version, combines compactness, performance and ease of use, making it a valuable tool for molecular biology, genetics or biomedical research laboratories.
