Three-dimensional tracking requires a minimum of two cameras. However, CinePlex 3D is capable of handling up to four simultaneously recording video feeds. The optimal number of cameras depends on the complexity of the experimental arena and the objects’ expected movements.

Placement of the cameras is exceptionally flexible allowing for various overhead, as well as broadside, positions. Up to 12 colored markers can be simultaneously tracked generating three-dimensional reconstructions of movement using the projections as captured from the multiple cameras. For example, markers can be placed at strategic locations on a monkey’s leg or arm to capture movement metrics.

In a typical recording environment supporting three-dimensional behavioral research, cameras are permanently affixed to specific locations in a dedicated recording chamber. This rigid design is primarily due to the extreme complexity and extensive effort required to perform the system’s intricate calibration. As a result, options are limited, and funds that could have been directed elsewhere are sunk into a single-purpose, immovable recording facility. CinePlex 3D changes the game altogether.

CinePlex 3D embeds a highly sophisticated – yet easy to execute – RapidGrid protocol within the program to reduce calibration time to only minutes per camera. Researchers are free to establish experiments wherever they deem appropriate – any room, building or facility most conducive to eliciting the results desired for their immediate purpose. CinePlex 3D’s almost “mobile” approach redefines the possibilities for the behaviorist.

Also working with the OmniPlex^® or MAP System online, tracking coordinates are also available to online user-written programs via MATLAB^® and C/C++ software development kits (SDKs). The SDKs permit further automation of the data manipulation, reducing human error and time required to manually analyze the data.

CinePlex 3D is a specialized program within CinePlex Studio that builds on the CinePlex Tracking functionality and is not sold separately. To access the CinePlex 3D functionality, a special license is required.

You may also be interested in the other specialized application-specific options available within CinePlex Studio – CinePlex Basic Behavior. Beyond the CinePlex System, and if your freely behaving animal experiments involve neural data acquisition, other products such as our PlexBright^® Optogenetic Stimulation System, commutators and specialized headstage cables with ultra-fine wire and/or protective wraps may be of value to you.

You are invited to contact a Plexon Sales Engineer for more information and to assist you in determining how to best configure the CinePlex System suite of programs to most effectively support your research.