This is where the third component in an electrophysiological measurement system becomes important: control and measurement software. Much of this equipment is fully functional, but not supported by the manufacturer’s newest electrophysiology software version anymore. Many university departments have storage spaces full of ‘outdated’ equipment. Another alternative that is often successful is looking through old departmental stock. The advantage of the general-purpose digitisers is that the user can choose a model that fits their experimental needs without paying for functionality they do not need. Often these tend to be more expensive than general-purpose digitisers such as those provided by, for example, National Instruments. Molecular Device’s Digidata series), in some cases as a single unit with the amplifier (e.g. There are dedicated electrophysiology digitisers available (e.g.

Most of these simpler amplifiers are not computer controlled, which makes them software independent.ĭigitisers have a wide range of prices. with low noise, fast voltage-clamp) amplifiers. But with a bit of effort, it is possible to find lower or zero cost alternatives.Īmplifiers for electrophysiology are available from a wide range of manufacturers, many providing simple but good (e.g. While the simplicity of these integrated systems justifies the price, not all researchers have that level of funds available. Often, amplifiers, digitisers and software are tied into bundles, which are often perceived as expensive. Looking through the websites of many suppliers that might not be the first impression a researcher has. One important aspect of electrophysiology is that it has become possible to set up a rig, or indeed an entire lab, on a very limited budget.

But even when not combined with any optical methods, electrophysiology is an extremely powerful toolset. Indeed, most imaging and optogenetics experiments rely on electrophysiology, either throughout the experiment or during characterisation and as control. The recent excitement over quickly developing imaging methods and optogenetics often hides the fact that electrophysiology is still the workhorse of neuroscience.

Getting free igor pro software