Multichannel Systems Roboocyte2 Manual - Manual (Page 30)

Roboocyte2 Manual
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3.5.3 Testing the Amplifier with the Test Model Cell
You can use the provided test model cell (TMC) to test the integrated digital TEVC amplifier.
For initial testing, you can measure the resistance and run a voltage step protocol. This is also
a good way to make your first experience with the recording features. The TMC mimics the
electrical (passive) properties of a real oocyte impaled with microelectrodes (electrode resistance
~450 kOhm, membrane resistance 100 kOhm, membrane capacitance ~ 200 nF).
Connecting the Test Model Cell
1. Plug the current electrode connector (red) and the corresponding reference (black) of the test
model cell into the sockets on the left side of the z-axis (red to front, black to back).
2. Plug the voltage electrode connector (blue) and the corresponding reference (black) of the
test model cell into the sockets on the right side of the z-axis (blue to front, black to back).
Measuring the Electrode Impedance of the Test Model Cell
On the "Movement" tab of the "Manual mode", click button "Check" in the "Resistance"
window.
The electrode resistances for current and voltage electrode are displayed in the two small
windows beside. Both impedances should be approximately 500 kilohms.
Performing Voltage-Clamp with the TMC
You can run a test recording with the test model cell in order to check the speed and accuracy of
the voltage-clamp either in continuous recording mode or by a applying a voltage-step protocol.