Eppendorf 5402 Manual Updated -

The Eppendorf Centrifuge 5402 is a legacy refrigerated benchtop microcentrifuge known for its reliability in molecular biology applications. While newer models like the Centrifuge 5420 have succeeded it, maintaining the 5402 requires adhering to original technical specifications and updated maintenance standards. Core Technical Specifications Maximum Speed: 14,000 RPM (approx. 16,000 x g). Temperature Range: -4∘Cnegative 4 raised to the composed with power C 40∘C40 raised to the composed with power C , providing stable cooling for sensitive samples.

Capacity: Typically holds 18 tubes (1.5 mL or 2.0 mL) using the standard fixed-angle rotor.

Timer Control: Digital adjustment from 1 to 99 minutes, plus a "momentary" button for short spins. Updated Maintenance & Safety Guidelines

Eppendorf has updated general centrifuge care protocols that apply to legacy models like the 5402 to ensure operational safety: Centrifuge 5420 - Eppendorf eppendorf 5402 manual updated


The original manual required complex menu diving. The updated quick-reference suggests:

If you currently have an old printed manual, here is a table of the most significant changes found in the updated 5402 documentation.

| Feature / Parameter | Original Manual (Pre-2005) | Updated Manual (2020+) | Action Required | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Maximum Rotor Speed | 14,000 rpm (F-45-30-11) | 13,200 rpm (derated due to fatigue) | Reduce max speed by 5% for old rotors | | Temperature Range | -9°C to +40°C | -5°C to +40°C (below -5°C only with pre-cooling) | Avoid running below -5°C for >2 hours | | Imbalance Cut-off | >50g difference | >30g difference (stricter tolerance) | Balance buckets within 0.5g | | Lid Lock Mechanism | Manual release via hex key | Emergency release via pull-cord (behind front panel) | Practice emergency release quarterly | | Aerosol Sealing | "Not certified" | "No aerosol-tight certification for 5402" (explicit warning) | Do not use for pathogenic samples without biosafety buckets | The Eppendorf Centrifuge 5402 is a legacy refrigerated

  • Warning: The original manual understates this risk. Imbalance at >10,000 rpm can permanently bend the motor shaft.
  • The centrifuge features an electromechanical interlock.

    Best for buy/sell groups or lab technician forums.

    Post: Heads up to anyone maintaining an Eppendorf 5402! 🛠️ The original manual required complex menu diving

    I was looking for a troubleshooting code today and realized the manual for the 5402 has been updated. If you have an old saved copy on your desktop, you might want to swap it out. The new version is much cleaner regarding the technical specs and error codes.

    If you have a link to the new PDF, feel free to drop it in the comments to help out the group! 👇


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