Commutator System -
Headstage Cable Management System for Neuroscience Research

Features
Motorized

• No need for stiff headstage cables to transmit torque
• Up to 96 data channels for high-channel count recording
• Extremely low torque of less than 300 µNm on the input-signal connector block required to engage motor
• Motorized Commutator utilizes a magnetic Hall-effect sensor, which detects angular displacement of the input wires and signals the motor to rotate the input signal connector block and untwist the wires
• Three motor speed ranges with variable step sizes and maximum speed control
• Contactless actuation, which eliminates switching noise on data channel

Non-Motorized

• Manages twisted cables
• Unique slip ring design ensures signal integrity from headstage to data acquisition system
• Low torque design for small animals

Description
Neuroscience research involving behavioral tests using small animals often requires the animals to be able to move freely in their environment. A commutator is an electrical swivel that allows the animal to move freely and unimpeded by keeping the headstage cables untangled and torque free.

Motorized Commutators. The Plexon Motorized Commutator is a highly sensitive electromechanical device designed for animal experiments requiring rotating electrical contacts.

A magnetic Hall-effect sensor in the input signal connector block recognizes when torque is exerted as the input wires are being twisted. The sensor then signals a stepper motor to rotate the commutator rotor relative to the position of the input signal connector block. This action allows the commutator to track the movement of the animal and untwist the wires.

The commutator’s highly precise stepper motor has three step sizes with adjustable response and variable speed controls. These controls allow tuning of the commutator operation to more closely match the animal’s behavior. The optimum settings can also reduce noise produced acoustically by the motor vibrating the experimental enclosure as well as electrically by mechanical vibration of the commutator’s components.

Technical Specifications - Motorized Commutator