The atlas multipurpose synthesis tools offers a modular automated solution for a range of functions including heating, stirring, cooling and automated reagent addition. The intelligent atlas base can work as either a simple or programmable reaction stirrer when used as a stand-alone unit, or as a controlled lab reactor when connected to a PC. Multiple units can be connected and operated in master-slave fashion. The atlas allows either magnetic stirring of reactions or a clip-in overhead stirrer for more viscous solutions. Different base inserts enable the accommodation of a range of round-bottomed flask sizes, from 50 to 1000 ml, or of three flasks in parallel (50-250 ml), per atlas unit. Jacketed vessels from 100 ml to 1 liter are supported for scale-up investigations.