Overview

The CMOS-MEA5000-System is the in vitro recording system from Multi Channel Systems for extracellular recordings and stimulation at the highest resolution. Based on complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) technology, it opens up new possibilities in electrophysiological research. With more than 4000 recording sites — each sampled at 25 kHz — the chip allows extracellular recordings at a very high spatio-temporal resolution. On-chip amplification minimises noise and guarantees high signal quality.

CMOS Chip: 4225 Recording Sites

The chip features a 65×65 electrode grid with 16 µm or 32 µm interelectrode distance (center to center), delivering a recording area of 1 mm² (@ 16 µm) or 4 mm² (@ 32 µm). Between the recording electrodes sits a 32×32 grid of stimulation sites, providing 1024 dedicated stimulation points. The chip is coated with planar oxide — similar to glass — for enhanced biocompatibility and biostability. This resolution allows visualisation of signals from every single cell and even signal propagation along individual axons.

IFB-C Multiboot Interface Board

As part of the system, the IFB-C Multiboot is a new-generation interface board compatible with MEA2100(-Mini), Multiwell-MEA, CMOS-MEA5000, ME2100, and W2100 headstages — enabling cost-effective multi-system combinations with a single interface board. Key features include real-time signal detection and feedback, a freely programmable DSP, multiple digital/analog/audio I/Os, and SuperSpeed USB 3.0 connectivity.

CMOS-MEA Headstage with Integrated Stimulator

The headstage houses the CMOS chip and samples all 4225 channels simultaneously at 25 kHz with 14-bit A/D conversion. It integrates a 3-channel stimulator, allowing freely programmable stimulation patterns across all 1024 stimulation sites. A key advantage: recording resumes in less than 1 ms after a stimulation pulse — even on electrodes adjacent to the stimulation site.

Dark Chamber

The included dark chamber enables experiments under stable, dark light conditions while still allowing optional access for reference electrodes and perfusion. It consists of a snap-on ring and a shielding lid, and is included with every CMOS-MEA5000-System.

Software: CMOS-MEA-Control

The system is controlled by the CMOS-MEA-Control software package, which provides a real-time activity overview of the complete chip. Researchers can define regions of interest, zoom into high-activity areas, and selectively disable regions to reduce file size. The software also fully controls the integrated 3-channel stimulator with drag-and-drop stimulus pattern design. Free software updates are included.

Expert Support

Multi Channel Systems provides PhD-level scientific support in neuronal and cardiac electrophysiology, Xenopus oocyte research, and Patch Clamp. A dedicated sales and applications team is available for system demonstrations, installation, and on-site training.