What is the Sensapex Multiprobe in vivo Rig?

The Sensapex Multiprobe in vivo Rig is a modular, high-precision recording platform designed for demanding multi-probe extracellular recording experiments. Built around a spherical coordinate system, it enables simultaneous positioning and insertion of multiple silicon probes — including Neuropixels, Neuronexus, and similar high-density probes — into precise brain targets with reproducible accuracy and stability.

Unlike conventional stereotaxic frames, the multiprobe rig uses 90-degree ring segments (uMp-RNG) and elevation arms (uMp-ARM) as the structural foundation, allowing azimuth and altitude angles to be set and locked independently for each probe cluster. A dedicated version of the Sensapex uMp-3 manipulator (uMp-3-NP) handles the final, high-precision insertion at speeds as slow as 1 µm/s — ensuring high yield recordings with minimal tissue disturbance.

Key Features

• Spherical Coordinate Architecture: Azimuth and elevation adjustment is centered on the brain, making it intuitive to target deep structures from multiple angles simultaneously.
• Up to Four Arms, Multiple Probes per Arm: Ring segments support up to four azimuth arms, and each arm can carry multiple independently-controlled probes at the same azimuth — enabling unprecedented recording density.
• uMp-3-NP Precision Manipulators: Each probe is driven by a dedicated Sensapex uMp-3-NP manipulator with 5 nm resolution, 20 mm travel on all axes, and smooth insertion speeds down to 1 µm/s for the best possible recording quality.
• Legible Angle Scales: High-contrast graduated scales allow angle settings to be read accurately even in low-light environments, with elevation resolvable to 0.1° via the manipulator's built-in accelerometer.
• Easy Probe Exchange: A flip-action mechanism retracts the arm to provide clear access for probe insertion or replacement, then returns the probe holder to its registered position with a single motion.
• Pinpoint Software Integration: Full support in the Pinpoint brain atlas software for multi-probe insertion planning, visualization, and automated insertion execution directly from the manipulators.
• Compact Touch Screen Control: The uMp-TSC touch screen unit provides intuitive stand-alone control for all manipulators, including 1-click smooth insertions with defined speed and depth — no PC required for basic operation.