Frequently Asked Questions: The Gyro™ S & Gyro™ Max Microcentrifuges

New to miniPCR bio are the updated Gyro™ Microcentrifuges—perfect for quick spin-downs and standard sample prep in the lab and classrooms. Compact and versatile, both tabletop Gyro™ Microcentrifuges feature a 2-in-1 rotor that fits 12 microtubes and four 8-well PCR strips at once.

The Gyro™ S Microcentrifuge is a fixed-speed 7,000 RPM microcentrifuge that offers a single, one-press operation. The Gyro™ Max Microcentrifuge is a variable-speed 1,000 to 12,000 RPM microcentrifuge with an LCD display and memory storage of up to 9 custom preset protocols. 

Here’s a quick comparison table between the Gyro™ Microcentrifuges, as well as answers to FAQs below:

Technical Specifications

Frequently asked questions about the Gyro™ Microcentrifuges:

Shipping & Ordering

When will the Gyro™ S and Gyro™ Max be available? The Gyro™ S and Gyro™ Max will be available for shipping starting November 10th, 2026. All pre-orders placed before November 10th will be processed through the standard checkout.

Operation & Safety

What molecular biology procedures are the Gyro™ Microcentrifuges capable of?

• Gyro™ S:
  • Quick spin-downs
  • PCR and reagent preparation
  • Basic spin columns
  • Pelleting cells and insoluble precipitate
• Gyro™ Max: 
  • Quick spin-downs
  • PCR and reagent preparation
  • Spin column washes
  • Pelleting bacteria, protein, cells, and insoluble precipitate
  • Educational minipreps
  • DNA/RNA extraction

How do I operate the Gyro™ S?

1. Ensure the power switch on the back is OFF, then connect the power cable.
2. Press down on the “PRESS” marking on the lid to open it.
3. Load tubes symmetrically into the rotor to keep the load balanced.
4. Close the lid firmly until you hear an audible click.
5. Turn the power switch to ON; the rotor will automatically spin up to full operating speed.
6. When finished, turn the switch to OFF, wait for the rotor to stop completely, press “PRESS” to open the lid, and remove your samples.

How do I operate the Gyro™ Max? The Gyro™ Max offers two ways to set up a run: Manual (Single-Use) Mode and Saved Program Mode (P01–P09).

• Option 1: Manual Run (Single-Use Setup)

1. 1. Ensure the power cable is connected and set the power switch on the back to ON.
   2. Press the MENU key directly to access parameter settings.
   3. Use the keys to adjust your desired run time, speed (RPM), and safety temperature threshold.
   4. Load your balanced tubes, close the lid firmly until it clicks, and press START/STOP to run without saving.

• Option 2: Saved Program Mode (P01–P09 & Speed-Ramping)

1. 1. Ensure the power cable is connected and set the power switch on the back to ON.
   2. Press the P key to select program mode, then press the MENU key to enter parameter settings.
   3. Adjust your desired run time, speed (RPM), and safety temperature threshold.
   4. Save your parameters to an onboard memory slot (programs P01–P09). (Note: To recall a saved program later, press the P key and use the Up and Down keys to browse P01–P09.)
   5. For two-speed gradient (speed-ramping) operation, press and hold the P key, press MENU, and follow the on-screen prompts using the Up and Down keys to configure the ramp profile.
   6. Load and balance your tubes in the rotor, close the lid firmly until it clicks locked, and press START/STOP to start your program.

How do I load and remove the adaptors in the Gyro™ S and Gyro™ Max?

1. Press the desired adaptor firmly into the rotor.
2. Load 0.2 / 0.5 ml tubes in the compatible adaptor symmetrically into the rotor so the load is balanced.
3. When finished, remove your samples from the adaptor.
4. Grab the lip of the adaptors or push them from below such that they smoothly slide out of the rotor.

Note: The adaptors must be symmetrically placed to ensure the rotor is balanced.

How do I stop the centrifuge as quickly as possible? Pressing the “PRESS” marking on the lid for the Gyro™ S or the “START/STOP” button on the Gyro™ Max while the unit is running will activate the automatic safety stop, which decelerates the rotor.

Maintenance & Troubleshooting

How do I clean and maintain the Gyro™ S and Gyro™ Max? Always turn off and unplug the unit prior to cleaning.

• After each use: Inspect the rotor for damage, wipe the interior chamber and rotor with a damp, lint-free cloth, and dry completely. Clean up spills immediately.
• Weekly: Clean exterior surfaces using a mild laboratory-grade detergent and inspect the power cable for damage.
• Monthly: Inspect the lid latch mechanism for proper engagement and verify that the rubber feet are intact.

Note: Never immerse the instrument in liquid, do not apply direct spray or harsh solvents, and do not autoclave the instrument or rotor.

What should I do if the unit experiences excessive vibration or noise? Stop operation immediately and turn off the power. Check for the following:

• Tubes are not symmetrically balanced or are underfilled/overfilled.
• Rotor is cracked, deformed, or not seated properly on the base.
• Rotor buckle is loose or damaged.

If the issue persists after correcting these factors, contact miniPCR bio™ technical support before resuming operation.

Why won’t the lid open after a run? The rotor may still be in motion or the lid latch interlock is engaged. Wait until the rotor comes to a complete stop, then press the “PRESS” mark on the lid for the Gyro™ S or the “OPEN” button on the Gyro™ Max. Never force the lid open.

Upgrade your lab’s sample prep routine today! Schedule a demo or visit our product pages to see how the Gyro Microcentrifuges can fit into your experiments’ workflow.

Related resources:

• Gyro™ S Microcentrifuge
• Gyro™ Max Microcentrifuge
• Bundle Up! Get Your Life Science Classrooms Lab-Ready with miniPCR bio’s Equipment Bundles!