Mouse Telemetry System Product Features - Kaha Sciences

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Mouse Telemetry System Features
- presented by Sarah-Jane Guild, Scientific Consultant at ADInstruments

The Kaha Sciences Mouse Telemetry System is the ideal solution for researchers looking to record continuous, high-resolution, biopotential data (ECG, EEG, or EMG) from freely moving animals. This video provides an overview of some of the key components of the mouse telemetry system including the tBase, mouse telemeter, plus some helpful troubleshooting tips.

Related: Mouse Telemetry system overview »


tBase

  • The tBase is both a wireless receiver and power provider for the mouse telemeter
    • Electromagnetic power field extends ~5cm above and below the tBase
    • For this reason, it is important that the tBase is NOT placed on a metal surface. We recommend using plastic or wooden shelving where possible
Pro Tip

Tip: To avoid the electromagnetic power fields of different units interacting, we suggest a minimum of 10cm horizontal and 40cm vertical separation between tBases.

Once set up, if the SmartPad shows a solid red light, then it is likely that it is too close to metal or to each other (i.e., in co-housing mode). Try moving them further away from any metal brackets, supports, cables or power packs and then disconnect and reconnect the power cable.

  • Indentation on top of tBase for animal housing placement
  • LED indicator light on front of device
    • GREEN: tBase is communicating with a telemeter on the same channel
    • ORANGE: tBase is turned on but is not communicating with a telemeter
    • RED: tBase has detected an issue with the telemetry setup and has disabled the charging field
  • Outputs standard analog voltage via BNC to a PowerLab data acquisition unit

Mouse Telemeter

  • Designed to be placed subcutaneously in mice >20g
  • Concave surface for placement against muscle
  • Convex surface for placement against skin
  • Biopotential leads (EEG, EMG or ECG) designed to be tunneled to site or recording
  • Powered directly from the tBase - no internal battery

Troubleshooting Tips

  • Always change the channel of your mouse telemeter before implanting it in the animal or changing the channel on your tBase. This can be done using ConfigSoft.
  • The telemeter must be within 7cm of the tBase in order to be powered and transmit physiological signals. If the animal moves outside of this 7cm range i.e. climbing on equipment in the cage, the telemeter will no longer be powered and signals will not be recorded until the animal returns within the 7cm range.

Find out more: How to change the channel on your telemeter and tBase using ConfigSoft » 

For more troubleshooting tips, check out our support articles or contact your nearest ADInstruments representative who would be happy to help. 

Related: Getting Started with Kaha Sciences Telemetry »

Additional Resources:

Benefits of using telemetry in research »
Kaha telemeters: Surgical Videos and Webinars »
Cardiovascular applications using telemetry »
Five neuroscience applications using Kaha Sciences Telemetry »