Thumbtack Probe

The 24 channel Thumbtack Probe* is a linear probe for chronic use designed to span cortical layers running parallel to the surface of the brain. It is effective for both field potential and single-unit recordings, and is often used in medium to large animals like primates.

 

 

Description

The microelectrode array is embedded in a polyimide-epoxy substrate with a total outer diameter of 500µm. The polyimide-epoxy composite shaft provides the structural integrity to penetrate neural tissue and hold the electrode contacts in precise alignment. A thin, circular silicone sheet is attached at the top of the microelectrode, perpendicular to the axis the probe, to hold the Thumbtack Probe in place, while surface tension between the silicone sheet and the cortical surface assists in securing the probe in position. Output leads are bent at 90° at the top part of the anchoring sheet, and are then embedded in a 10cm silicone cable/tube which terminates in a 36-pin 0.25” pitch Omnetics connector.

The Thumbtack Probe is designed with a rounded tip to minimize the chance of blood vessel perforation. The precise linear arrangement of the electrode sites enables current source density analysis of the field potential signals as recorded from laminar neural structures.

The platinum/iridium electrode recording sites are available in 15 and 40µm diameter options. The small electrode site diameter (15µm) enables effective single-unit recording, while a unique etching process of the electrode surface results in lowered impedances without significantly changing the overall surface area of the exposed recording site. The result is a small site suitable for resolving single units coupled with low impedance for a better signal-to-noise ratio.

If you would like to learn more about our Thumbtack Probe, we invite you to contact a Plexon Sales Engineer.

Technical Specs

The Thumbtack Probes are customizable according to the options detailed in the table 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 3mm
Shaft diameter 210μm or 500μm
Electrode Sites 15μm or 40μm diameter, platinum/iridium
Tip profile Rounded, dome-shaped
Inter-electrode spacing 50 to 500μm Spacing is customizable within range provided, however 100μm is typical.
Distance from tip to electrode 450μm
Silicone tube length between connector and probe 10cm Other lengths available upon request.
Silicone disk dimensions 8mm diameter disk,
0.15mm 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.