As patch-recording evolves, the need for more manipulation equipment for multiple recording experiments is becoming increasingly common.  Previous micromanipulator designs allowed for easy placement of a single manipulator on the right and left sides of the microscope, but they did not allow for multiple manipulators on either side.  The MX7800 series crossed roller bearing micromanipulator uses the time-tested design of our 7600 and 7700 series stages along with a new folded Y-axis stage that narrows the footprint of the manipulator by half.  This narrow design enables the mounting of as many as six micromanipulators in a semicircle from side to side around the front of the microscope.

   The MX7800s’ XYZ axes have 20mm of travel, while the tilted axial axis has a full 50mm of travel to facilitate electrode change-out in tight quarters.  This micromanipulator works in either right- or left-hand configuration and comes with both MXC and MXC-D style headstage mounts.  Unlike our popular MX7600 series manipulators the MX7800 has the headstage mount located to rotate the headstage up in a vertical plane.  This simple design change allows placement of multiple manipulators close together…  other designs swing the electrode out in a horizontal plane that will interfere with closely positioned manipulators.  To further improve on the ease of use, we recommend our MC1100e or New MC1000e-R/T controllers, both with simple electrode “targeting” for the 50mm tilted axis.  The long travel (50mm) of the 4th axis and its ability to be placed at ANY angle, when combined with one of our targeting controllers make electrode change quick and simple…  push “retract”, 4th axis retracts 50mm, swing electrode/headstage “up”, change electrode, swing electrode/headstage back down into position, push “target” and the electrode returns to its preprogrammed position!

   Like our other DC servo motor driven manipulators, the MX7800s are compatible with all of our e series and MC2000 controllers and are driven through a closed loop interface between the controller and the motor encoder.  This closed loop connection ensures 0.2μm resolution with the e series controllers and 0.1μm resolution with the MC2000.  The encoder coupling enables the use of the DR1000 digital readout for repeated or relative positioning requirements.  All cables are shielded to ensure noise-free operation during sensitive electrophysiology experiments.  High-speed versions available upon request.