The industry’s highest-density mouse caging system — engineered for research efficiency, airflow precision, and quiet, motor-free operation.
The ARES OptiMice II is a next-generation individually ventilated caging (IVC) system designed to dramatically increase vivarium capacity while improving airflow performance and animal welfare. With the ability to house 110 mouse cages within just one square meter, OptiMice II delivers unmatched density and operational efficiency for research programs that need more capacity without expanding their physical footprint.
Why Choose the ARES OptiMice II
Built upon the proven airflow technology of the original OptiMice, the OptiMice II uses convection-assisted, low-velocity, one-pass ventilation to deliver consistent, gentle air exchange to every cage. The system operates without motors, blowers, heat, or vibration, maintaining a quiet, stable, low-stress environment for both animals and research personnel. OptiMice II is also fully backward compatible with existing OptiMice cages and accessories, making upgrades seamless and cost-effective.
Key Points
ARES OptiMice II Specifications at a Glance
Capacity & Cage Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Cage Capacity | 110 mouse cages |
| Cage Floor Area | 75 in² (485 cm²) |
| Cage Height | 5 in (13 cm) |
| Water Bottle Capacity | 13 oz (400 mL) |
| Feeder Capacity | 17 oz (510 mL) |
| Cage Material Options | Polysulfone, amber or clear |
Weights
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Water Bottle Rack | 675 lb (307 kg) |
| Auto-Water Rack | 700 lb (318 kg) |
| Empty Water Bottle Rack | 373 lb (170 kg) |
| Empty Auto-Water Rack | 381 lb (173 kg) |
Rack Dimensions
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| With Cages Installed | |
| Width | 41.03 in (1029 mm) |
| Depth | 41.03 in (1029 mm) |
| Height | 80.70 in (2050 mm) |
| Height with Auto-Water | 81.63 in (2073 mm) |
| Empty Rack | |
| Width | 41.03 in (1001 mm) |
| Depth | 33.68 in (856 mm) |
Ventilation & Airflow Requirements
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Recommended Airflow per Rack | 60 CFM |
| Minimum Airflow | 40 CFM (1,275 L/min) |
| Required Static Pressure | 0.10 – 0.15 in H₂O |
| Filter Type | High-flow Reemay flat filters |
| Exhaust Connection | Single 4-inch hose, magnetic quick-disconnect |
*Custom configurations available. Contact ARES Scientific for facility-specific options.
What’s so great about ARES Optimice II?
- Maximize Floor Space with the Highest-Density IVC System
OptiMice II delivers 110 mouse cages per rack, the highest cage-density available in any IVC platform. Facilities gain significant capacity increases in the same footprint, supporting larger colonies and expanded research output without additional construction. - Motor-Free Operation for a Quiet, Low-Stress Environment
Unlike blower-based IVCs, OptiMice II requires no electricity, motors, or fans. Benefits include:
No mechanical noise
No added heat load
No vibration
No moving parts to maintain
This creates a stable environment that supports improved breeding and reduced stress. - Proven One-Pass, Low-Velocity Airflow
Each cage receives controlled, low-draft airflow engineered for comfort, welfare, and consistency across all levels of the rack. The one-pass system avoids turbulence and prevents hot or cold zones. - Autoclave-Ready & Designed for Biosecurity
OptiMice II racks and components withstand autoclave and dry-heat sterilization, making routine decontamination cycles simple, reliable, and compliant with vivarium sanitation standards. - Advanced Auto-Watering Integration
Auto-water configurations include a stainless steel manifold system, individual valves for each cage, and tool-less valve removal for steam sterilization. Fixed components remain in place during rack sterilization, streamlining workflow and reducing error potential. - Smooth, Safe Transport
Low-noise, anti-vibration casters ensure quiet movement through the vivarium while minimizing disturbance to the animals. Two locking casters provide stability during cage changing and maintenance.
Optimice Products
Animal Care Systems Optimice Rack
Quote• Ultra-high density
• Fits through standard 36-inch (91 cm) door with cages removed
• Small footprint
• Complete bio-containment and isolation
• Also suitable for invertebrates
• Available single-use caging, interchangeable wit…
Animal Care Systems Ergo50 Rack
Quote• Ultra-high density
• Fits through standard 36-inch (91 cm) door with cages removed
• Small footprint
• Complete bio-containment and isolation
• Also suitable for invertebrates
• Available single-use caging, interchangeable wit…
Who Benefits from OptiMice II?
Ideal for facilities such as:
- Academic and research institutions
- Pharmaceutical and biotech companies
- Government and contract research organizations
- GLP/AAALAC-accredited vivariums
- High-density breeding colonies
- Transgenic and phenotyping programs
Frequently Asked Questions About ARES Move
Its circular rack design holds 110 cages in just one square meter, maximizing capacity without adding room space.
No. It operates without motors or blowers.
It uses convection-assisted, low-velocity, one-pass airflow to deliver uniform ventilation to each cage.
Yes. All standard OptiMice cages, feeders, bottles, and accessories fit seamlessly.
Yes. The system is engineered for both sterilization methods.
A single 4-inch hose connection with a magnetic quick-disconnect.
Yes—via stainless steel manifolds and individual cage valves.
60 CFM recommended, with a minimum of 40 CFM per rack.
They are anti-vibration, low-noise, and high-temperature rated.
Polysulfone cages, available in amber or clear.
Request ARES Move Recommendations, Pricing, or Layout Guidance
ARES Scientific can help you align cart selection with your workflow (bedding routes, cage-wash staging, clean/dirty segregation, and corridor constraints). If you are building a new space, we can also provide product guidance for facility planning and procurement.