PatchJet - Overview
works of Carl C Pisaturo
A Tool for Electrophysiology -
Pushbutton Control of Pipette Pressures
The PatchJet system (photo at right) provides easy control and monitoring of micropipette pressures for patch clamping experiments as well as micro-application of drugs. Backlighted tactile switches and tactile references allow operation by feel and in any lighting conditions.
Rationale:
Typically, pipette pressures are controlled with a hodge podge of valves, syringes, manometers, etc.
PatchJet integrates precision pressure regulators, gauges, electronically controlled valves, lighted pushbuttons, pressure sensors, quality connectors and a pulse generator into one reliable unit. To the physiologist, the resulting simple interface reduces errors & hassles while increasing repeatability and productivity.
Parts of PatchJet System:
Inputs (rear, not visible in photo) -
House compressed air & house vacuum via pair of 1/4" push-to-connect fittings.
Pressure Source Section (upper panel) -
Control and monitor the 4 source pressures, 2 positive and 2 negative (suction). Buffer reservoirs are present to improve response.
Pressure Selector Modules (middle 2 panels) -
User selects pipette pressure mode with lighted pushbuttons
NEU = "neutral", open to atmosphere
POS = low positive, to keep pipette clear while moving
NEG = low suction, to cling to cell and make seal
BRK = higher suction for "break-in" pulses
PUF = higher positive for "puffing" drug from pipette
User may monitor and record output pressure, available as analog 0-5 volt signal.
Pulse Generator (bottom panel) -
User easily sets pulse duration (25 to 999mS) and fires pulses to any module set to BRK or PUF. 2 memories provided. Pulses may also originate from external device.
Outputs (rear, not visible in photo) -
Air lines to pipettes via 1/8" OD push-to-connect fittings;
Pushbutton Control of Pipette Pressures
The PatchJet system (photo at right) provides easy control and monitoring of micropipette pressures for patch clamping experiments as well as micro-application of drugs. Backlighted tactile switches and tactile references allow operation by feel and in any lighting conditions.
Rationale:
Typically, pipette pressures are controlled with a hodge podge of valves, syringes, manometers, etc.
PatchJet integrates precision pressure regulators, gauges, electronically controlled valves, lighted pushbuttons, pressure sensors, quality connectors and a pulse generator into one reliable unit. To the physiologist, the resulting simple interface reduces errors & hassles while increasing repeatability and productivity.
Parts of PatchJet System:
Inputs (rear, not visible in photo) -
House compressed air & house vacuum via pair of 1/4" push-to-connect fittings.
Pressure Source Section (upper panel) -
Control and monitor the 4 source pressures, 2 positive and 2 negative (suction). Buffer reservoirs are present to improve response.
Pressure Selector Modules (middle 2 panels) -
User selects pipette pressure mode with lighted pushbuttons
NEU = "neutral", open to atmosphere
POS = low positive, to keep pipette clear while moving
NEG = low suction, to cling to cell and make seal
BRK = higher suction for "break-in" pulses
PUF = higher positive for "puffing" drug from pipette
User may monitor and record output pressure, available as analog 0-5 volt signal.
Pulse Generator (bottom panel) -
User easily sets pulse duration (25 to 999mS) and fires pulses to any module set to BRK or PUF. 2 memories provided. Pulses may also originate from external device.
Outputs (rear, not visible in photo) -
Air lines to pipettes via 1/8" OD push-to-connect fittings;
