Thomas Matrix

(224 Channel Recording System for Thomas Fiber Microelectrodes)

The multielectrode manipulator “Thomas Matrix System” is the latest development of Thomas RECORDING engineering department and a new generation of multielectrode Microdrive systems on the world market. This system uses the very precise Thomas rubber tube drive for parallel independent insertion of up to 32 fiber microelectrodes (single electrodes, tetrodes or heptodes, diameter=80-100µm) through the intact dura into the brain of chronically prepared animals.

The max. electrode travel distance of each fiber microelectrode is up to 35mm (electrode travel extensions are possible and available on request!).

A 224-channel low noise preamplifier is integrated in the microdrive metal chassis. The microelectrodes are completely shielded by the microdrive chassis (working like a Faraday cage) so that electrical interference from the laboratory environment does not cause noise problems. Due to the rubber tube driving principle of the Thomas Matrix it is possible to record neural signals while the electrodes are moving in brain tissue!

Product Description

Key Features

Axial resolution better than 1μm, x-y-Positioning with a grid and special holder
Patented rubber-tube drive, no hysteresis, slick or free motion due to patented rubber tube drive (avoids drawbacks of cable, direct or hydraulic driven systems)
Electrode travel range up to 35.000μm
Variable speed range from 0…250μm/s, higher velocity on request
32-Motors and 224 recording channels
Drive can be used with electrodes, tetrodes, heptodes, injection cannulas, optical fibers
No electrode connection cables free in air! Complete metal shield around all microelectrodes
Suitable for cortical and deep brain recordings
Very close electrode spacing available (down to 80μm)
Different electrode arrangements available (linear, 4x8, 2x16, concentric, etc.)
Integrated 224 channel low noise digital pre- and main amplifier with data acquisition
Optogenetic and microinjection extension available