Microelectrode Multidrive
Catalog Number: Multidrive
The advantages of hydraulic coupling of microelectrode movement can now be extended to 4 and 8 channel systems allowing independent movement of each microelectrode along parallel or nonparallel tracks. Unique manifold concept also permits customization of electrode grid arrangement. Variety of microelectrode types can be accommodated.
The MCM-4 controller module and MCU-5/MCU-4 hydraulic coupling units are used to expand the 50-16-1-01 MCM of the Motorized Drive to position up to 8 electrodes in independent and synchronous combinations. Future expansions will be possible as technology develops.
The MCM-4 controller easily connects to the MCM with the provided communication cable through ports on the rear of the unit. The MCM-4 is used to control the four electrode positioning motors of the MCU-5, or an MCU-4 when more than four channels are used. A dedicated cable from the MCU-5 is connected to the motor port on the MCM to control a main drive channel for positioning all the electrodes and guide tube simultaneously.
The MCU-5 consists of a remote motor unit containing 5 encoderread stepper motors that drive five hydraulic master cylinders. The master cylinders are connected to the 5 cylinders of the electrode positioning stage by 2.4 m (8') of hydraulic tubing. The MCU-5 is separated from the control module by 3.1m (10') of cabling. (Other lengths of cable and tubing may be specified.) The remote separation of the MCU-5 eliminates artifacts due to mechanical vibration and electrical noise from the motors. Another advantage of this setup is that the electronic cable can be connected through a commutator if the apparatus holding the preparation must be able to move, e.g. rotate.
The MCU-4 is identical to the MCU-5 except for an absence of the main drive channel. The MCU-4 is used to add an additional four drives directly to the MCU-5 setup. The electrode positioning stage of the MCU-4 directly attaches to the face of the MCU-5 electrode positioning stage. An additional MCM-4 controls these drive channels.
The components are operated using one of the three MCM hand-held remote controls. The DRC-01 remote can be used to control the mode, direction, and rate of travel, as well as setting the zero reference point utilizing membrane-type push buttons. The DRC-01 is also capable of enabling and disabling the drives on the remote in the Special Function mode. The ARC-01 Remote uses a spring-loaded knob to position the drive. Rotating the knob from its center position causes the drive to retract or advance. The distance from center determines the rate up to 500 microns/sec. The "Zero" button on the remote sets the reference position. Enabling and disabling the individual drives can be accomplished using switches on the front panel with either remote. Computer operated positioning and selecting can be accomplished via our VRC-01 virtual remote software kit. The VRC-01 performs all the functions of the DRC-01 through a PC (Windows 95, 98, 2000,NT compatible).
FHC offers as an accessory the SAF rack frame (cat # 55-11-0) for conveniently installing the Multidrive components into a standard instrument rack.
MCM-4:
Display: 8 characters, 1cm height, red, 1 micron resolution
Power Requirements: 85-265 VAC
Dimensions: Height: 13cm (5.22") Width: 10cm (4.20") Length: 25cm (9.75") Weight: 1.48 Kg (3.26 lbs)
Mounting Options: Tabletop, 4 rubber feet prevent sliding. Rack mountable with SAF-08 Frame (Cat. #55-11-0 Available separately)
Mode of Operation: Step or Continuous (Selectable) Continuous only when using ARC-01 Remote
Software: Windows 95, 98, 2000, NT compatible
Cable: Noise shielded 9 pin female DIN (both ends), straight through, 3m (9.8')
MCU-5:
Dimensions: Height: 2.5cm (1") Width: 8cm (3") Length: 15cm (6") Weight: .57 Kg (1.26 lbs)
Cable Length/Diameter: 3m length (9.8') X .35cm O.D. (0.14")
Connector: 9 pin indexed, color coded Blue with strain relief
MCU-4:
Dimensions: Height: 2.5cm (1") Width: 8cm (3") Length: 15cm (6") Weight: .57 Kg (1.26 lbs)
Cable Length/Diameter: 3m length (9.8') X .35cm O.D. (0.14")
Connector: 9 pin indexed, color coded Blue with strain relief
For 4 electrode systems
1 ea. 50-16-1-01 MCM Controller Module
1 ea. 50-16-4-01 MCM-4 Controller Module
1 ea. 50-16-4-02 MCU-5 Coupling Unit
1 ea. Remote Control option from the following:
50-16-1-03 DRC-01 Push Button Remote
50-16-1-04 ARC-01 Knob Function Remote
50-16-1-05 VRC-01 Virtual Remote Software Kit
1 ea. 55-00-1 12V Desktop Power Supply
1 ea. 55-XXX Line cord, specify country codes from chart
1 ea. 50-15-4(iin) Manifold
For 8 electrode systems
1 ea. 50-16-1-01 MCM Controller Module
2 ea. 50-16-4-01 MCM-4 Controller Module
1 ea. 50-16-4-02 MCU-5 Coupling Unit
1 ea. 50-16-4-03 MCU-4 Coupling Unit
1 ea. Remote Control option from the following:
50-16-1-03 DRC-01 Push Button Remote
50-16-1-04 ARC-01 Knob Function Remote
50-16-1-05 VRC-01 Virtual Remote Software Kit
1 ea. 55-00-1 12V Desktop Power Supply
1 ea. 55-XXX Line cord, specify country codes from chart
1 ea. 50-15-5(iin) Manifold
Available Accessories:
55-11-0 SAF Rack Frame (pictured below)


