Thumbtack Multielectrode Array
Chronically implantable multielectrode arrays designed for field potential and single-unit recordings in neural structures.
These chronically implantable Multielectrode Arrays are linear probes having multiple recording sites with a choice of 4, 8, 16, 24 and 32 electrode channels.
Electrode sites are numbered from connector to tip. These Thumbtack Multielectrode Arrays are expertly handcrafted and made to order with many finished options available.
The platinum/iridium recording sites are available in 15, 20, 25 and 40 µm diameter options. The probe is effective for both field potential and single-unit recordings.
The precise linear arrangement of the electrode sites enables current source density analysis of field potential signals as recorded from laminar neural structures.
The inter-electrode spacing can be 50, 75, 100, 150 or 200 µm along the length of the probe. The precise arrangement makes the probe effective for recording from laminar neural structures.
Probe Design
Deeper Structures
For recording from deeper structures, probes can be manufactured with a longer shaft and electrode sites starting further from the silicone disc.
Silicone Anchor
A thin circular silicone sheet is attached at the top of the microelectrode to hold the Steel Shaft Thumbtack Probe in place.
Silicone Cable
Output leads are bent at 90° at the top part of the anchoring sheet and embedded in a 10 cm silicone cable/tube terminating in an Omnetics connector.
Connector Interface
24 channel, 36-pin Omnetics connector with 0.025″ pitch (CON/32m-V). A Nickel-free option is also available for MRI-compatibility.
Custom Configurations Available
The tip of the probe is according to customer requirement. It may also be possible to manufacture these probes beyond the listed parameters to facilitate the most ideal setup for your research needs.
The Thumbtack Probes are customizable according to the options detailed below. It may also be possible to produce arrays beyond the specifications listed.
It is recommended that you discuss your needs with a Plexon Sales Engineer to determine if your unique request can be accommodated and/or the most ideal configuration for your research needs.
| Feature | Specifications and Options | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Applications | In vivo; chronic or acute | — |
| Electrode channels | 8, 16, or 24 | — |
| Probe length | 3 mm | — |
| Shaft diameter | 210 μm or 500 μm | — |
| Electrode Sites | 15 μm or 40 μm diameter, platinum/iridium | — |
| Tip profile | Rounded, dome-shaped | — |
| Inter-electrode spacing | 50 to 500 μm | Spacing is customizable within range provided, however 100 μm is typical. |
| Distance from tip to electrode | 450 μm | — |
| Silicone tube length between connector and probe | 10 cm | Other lengths available upon request. |
| Silicone disk dimensions | 8 mm diameter disk, 0.15 mm thick | Other dimensions available upon request. |
| Connector interface | CON/32m-V | 24 channel, 36-pin Omnetics connector with 0.025″ pitch. Also available in Nickel-free for MRI-compatibility. |
*Thumbtack Probes are manufactured by Neuronelektród.