Revision as of 12:00, 31 October 2018

OvalDrive36 is a chronically implantable microdrive for rat neurophysiology experiments. Up to 36 individually movable probes (including single-unit recording electrodes, cyclic voltammetry probes, optical fibers, or fluid injection cannulae) can be targeted at multiple sites throughout the entire extent of the rat brain. With the Ovaldrive18-ES configuration, up to 18 individually moveable probes can be implanted alongside the UCLA miniscope for simultaneous electrophysiological recording and calcium imaging. A shuttle-in-groove design assures micrometer stability of probe tips over days or weeks during long-term recording experiments. OvalDrive36 is well suited for experiments employing convergent methods of electrophysiology, optogenetics, fast-scan cyclic voltammetry, and intracranial infusions of drugs or viral vectors.

• NEW!!!!! OvalDrive18-ES holds 18 driveable probes + UCLA miniscope
• for information about obtaining drives and parts contact blairlab@gmail.com with subject heading 'OvalDrive36' or 'OvalDrive18-ES'
• developed at UCLA by Hugh (Tad) Blair, Rose M. DeGuzman, Andrew Howe, & Garrett Blair

TASK 1: DESIGN AND PRINT THE TARGETING CONE

1) Download a SolidWorksTM targeting cone template file

2) Design your targeting cone using SolidWorksTM

3) Fabricate the targeting cone on a 3D printer

TASK 2: BUILD AND INSTALL THE GUIDE TUBE BUNDLES

1) Cut and store the guide tubes

2) Cut and store the bundle collars

3) Assemble the guide tube bundles

4) Construct the sighting pin

5) Install the guide tube bundles

6) Check alignment of the guide tubes