IKA launches new generation of smart magnetic stirrers with integrated safety and digital connectivity
Engineered with the 'Integrated Safety' concept and 100% tested via the automated RoboMAG production line, IKA’s new stirrers set a new global standard for laboratory protection
21 May 2026Product news
New magnetic stirrer series by IKA
IKA has launched a new generation of magnetic stirrers, including the RCT basic and RET basic models, designed for laboratories worldwide that require efficient, safe, and reliable sample mixing and heating. Developed in Germany and available to customers globally, the new series sets updated standards for magnetic stirring technology by combining advanced safety concepts, powerful performance, and enhanced digital connectivity.
Integrated safety concept for users, samples, and labs
The latest generation of IKA magnetic stirrers is built around an 'Integrated Safety' concept. The devices comply with DIN IEC EN 61010-1, DIN IEC EN 61010-2-010, DIN EN IEC 61010-2-051, and DIN IEC EN 61326-1, and carry CE marking as well as NRTL (TÜV SÜD) certification.
The Integrated Safety concept is designed to protect not only the sample, but also the user and the laboratory environment through multiple coordinated features:
- Adjustable independent safety circuit: An independently operating safety circuit helps prevent overheating and protects the sample, user, and lab environment. It is designed to function even in a single-fault condition and operates separately from other control systems.
- Locking function: Users can lock in speed and temperature settings to prevent accidental changes that could compromise sample quality or damage sensitive materials.
- RoboMAG production and 100% testing: The fully automated RoboMAG production line ensures that every magnetic stirrer is 100% tested, supporting long service life and consistent performance.
- Hot plate warning: A hot plate warning feature activates when the plate temperature exceeds 50°C and remains active even when the device is switched off, helping to prevent accidental contact and overheating incidents.
- Continuous stirring in case of error: In the event of an error or safety shutdown, the magnetic stirrer is designed to continue stirring, helping to maintain sample integrity and improve reliability.
- Self-monitoring: The models automatically monitor all safety-relevant components, reducing the risk of human error and supporting consistent, safe operation.
Digitalization and connectivity for modern labs
The two new models, RCT basic and RET basic, are equipped with digital interfaces and connectivity options to support integration into modern laboratory workflows.
The RCT basic and RET basic can be controlled via USB-C or RS232 interfaces using software, enabling software-based control and integration into digital lab management systems.
In addition, the RET basic model offers Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity, allowing users to connect wirelessly and manage data, software, and lab systems from a central location.
The IKA Lab Assistant App enables convenient cross-device monitoring for RET basic or for RCT basic when used with the USB.WD dongle. Users of the RET basic can also store and access data through cloud integration, supporting traceability and data-driven process optimization.
Efficiency and ergonomics for space-limited benchtops
Despite having one of the smallest footprints on the market, the new IKA magnetic stirrer models can accommodate standard 200 x 200 mm lifting platforms, freeing up valuable benchtop space.
The redesigned units deliver up to 800 W of heating power, enabling rapid heat-up even for large sample volumes. Depending on the model, stirring speeds reach up to 1700 rpm, ensuring even and consistent mixing across a wide range of applications.
For applications that require precise temperature control, users can select from four heating-rate steps to tailor the heating profile, including gradual reaction setups. A 14-segment LED display provides clear visualization of parameters and allows easy adjustment of advanced settings without complex key combinations.
A brushless EC motor provides a maintenance-free drive system, combining precision, innovation, and long-term durability in a single device.
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Frequently asked questions
What are the key features and safety standards of the new IKA RCT basic and RET basic magnetic stirrers?
The new IKA RCT basic and RET basic magnetic stirrers are built around an Integrated Safety concept that protects the user, sample, and laboratory environment. They comply with DIN IEC EN 61010-1, DIN IEC EN 61010-2-010, DIN EN IEC 61010-2-051, and DIN IEC EN 61326-1, and carry CE marking as well as NRTL (TÜV SÜD) certification.
Safety features include an adjustable independent safety circuit that operates even in single-fault conditions, a locking function to prevent accidental changes to speed and temperature, a hot plate warning that activates above 50°C and remains active when the device is switched off, continuous stirring in case of error or safety shutdown, and automatic self-monitoring of all safety-relevant components. In addition, every magnetic stirrer is 100% tested on the fully automated RoboMAG production line to support long service life and consistent performance.
How do the IKA RCT basic and RET basic magnetic stirrers support digitalization and connectivity in modern laboratories?
The IKA RCT basic and RET basic magnetic stirrers are designed for integration into digital laboratory workflows through multiple connectivity options. Both models can be controlled via USB-C or RS232 interfaces using software, enabling software-based control and integration into digital lab management systems. The RET basic model additionally offers Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity, allowing wireless connection and centralized management of data, software, and lab systems.
The IKA Lab Assistant App enables convenient cross-device monitoring for RET basic, or for RCT basic when used with the USB.WD dongle. Users of the RET basic can also store and access data through cloud integration, supporting traceability and data-driven process optimization.
What performance and ergonomic advantages do the latest IKA magnetic stirrers offer for space-limited benchtops?
The latest generation of IKA magnetic stirrers, including the RCT basic and RET basic, combine high performance with a compact design for laboratories with limited benchtop space. Despite having one of the smallest footprints on the market, these models can accommodate standard 200 x 200 mm lifting platforms, helping to free up valuable workspace.
They deliver up to 800 W of heating power for rapid heat-up of large sample volumes and offer stirring speeds up to 1700 rpm, depending on the model, to ensure even and consistent mixing across a wide range of applications. For precise temperature control, users can choose from four heating-rate steps to tailor the heating profile, including gradual reaction setups.
A 14-segment LED display provides clear visualization of operating parameters and easy adjustment of advanced settings without complex key combinations, while a brushless EC motor delivers a maintenance-free drive system that combines precision, innovation, and long-term durability.