Beckman Coulter has introduced its centrifuge Microfuge 16. With a more compact design than previous models, it has a smaller footprint, weighs just 6.4 kg and is less than 176 mm tall. This instrument spins quietly at 16,163 x g (14,800 RPM) for fast pelleting or isolation of DNA, RNA, proteins and viruses. It can operate in a cold-room environment, as an alternative to refrigerated microcentrifuges. The systems 24-place rotor delivers high-throughput capability and spins microtubes from 0.2 to 2.2 mL in volume. An auto-lock system provides hands-free closure and opening and ensures that the centrifuge run will not start until the unit is properly closed.