Product Development News
SPP-100 Extracellular Amplifier/Filter Launched
Digitimer is pleased to announce the availability of our new SPP-100 Extracellular Amplifier/Filter. Based on proven low-noise amplifier circuitry and specifications of existing Digitimer NeuroLog System amplifier/filter modules, the new standalone SPP-100 facilitates AC-coupled, differential electrophysiological recordings from animals or a variety of in vitro preparations, including isolated nerve preps and brain slices. The SPP-100 includes a remote, manipulator-mounted headstage and features a signal gain of up to x20k with flexible high-cut, low-cut and 50/60Hz notch filters.
Because the SPP-100 is a standalone extracellular amplifier, using an external DC power supply, it is a cost-effective alternative to the modular NeuroLog System, especially when only one biological signal is being recorded. The SPP-100 is equally at home within life science research labs or undergraduate teaching facilities and is compatible with commercially available data acquisition hardware/software. The amplifier is suitable for extracellular single-electrode recordings with high-impedance metal or glass micro-electrodes, but is wholly appropriate for differential recordings from pairs of gross electrodes, such as nerve hooks. Digitimer can supply a range of electrode adaptors and micro-pipette chambers. The SPP-100 is not a medical device and does not feature isolation, making it unsuitable for human applications.
The SPP-100 Extracellular Amplifier/Filter is the first device developed using Digitimer’s new Small Product Platform (SPP) concept. It and future SPP products will share modular hardware design principles enabling a common power supply, display and control interface to be rapidly reconfigured to create new life science research instruments, through the use of product-specific application circuit boards.
Pre-amplifier Headstage
The compact anodised metal headstage connects to the main amplifier/filter via the 4-pole Lemo connector at the end of the 2m long pre-wired cable.
The SPP-100HS headstage features a removable aluminium rod for micromanipulator mounting and input sockets for connection to the +INP electrode (2mm), -INP reference (inverting) electrode (1mm) and COM/Ground (1mm).
The supplied headstage accessory kit includes connectors for these three inputs as well as a “U”-shaped jumper that allows linking of the –INP and COM inputs when single-ended recordings are being made. The headstage is compatible with our NL04/NL08 tungsten microelectrode holders and glass microelectrode holders (NL111 or NL111A) which are available to purchase from Digitimer.
Main Amplifier/Filter Unit
The SPP-100 main amplifier/filter unit incorporates an external power supply input socket, a 4-pole headstage connection socket and a BNC connector for the amplified signal output.
There are five controls, a single multi-function rotary encoder/button, and four further push buttons. Gain and filter settings are displayed via an adjustable brightness colour LCD screen. A single LED next to the rotary encoder control indicates the power state of the amplifier.
The main amplifier unit includes two fold-out feet that offer an alternative viewing angle and the display brightness is also controllable.
Are you interested in trialling or purchasing the SPP-100?
We are delighted to be able to offer SPP-100’s for short-term loans and user evaluations. If you are interested in trialling one, there is no obligation to purchase, but we would request that any trial sites feedback their experiences of the SPP-100 to Digitimer, so we can consider potential improvements or additional features. Please contact Digitimer or your local Digitimer representative if you have an interest in trying out the SPP-100 for your particular extracellular recording application.
