Coulbourn Instruments | Animal Acoustic Startle

Acoustic Startle Software

An example of this design approach is the inclusion of a separate routine for conducting the training trials needed for fear-potentiated startle protocols.

The response sensors in the platforms are strain gage load cells. This type of sensing eliminates the major problems associated with other transducers. The platforms can be easily and automatically calibrated with static weights. A calibration routine is included in the Startle System software.

Product Number: AASS

The Coulbourn Instruments Animal Acoustic Startle System provides a completely automated environment in which to implement all of the commonly employed startle protocols. Procedures such as habituation, pre-pulse, inhibition and fear-potentiated startle are easily accomplished.

The system is computer-based and all stimulus parameters are specified by completing entries in Windows available from a single screen. Experiment protocols are saved to disk files.

The V85-05 Audio Source Module is used to provide acoustic stimuli. The software allows the use of either stimulus type, (tone or noise) in either or both stimulus positions. For tone stimuli, amplitude, frequency and duration are computer controlled; rise/decay time is switch selectable on the V85-05. Amplitude and duration of noise bursts are computer controlled. Calibration routines for noise and tone stimuli are included.

During an experimental session, the software displays both numeric and response waveform data. A post-hoc viewer is included for critical examination trial-by-trial response data.

In addition to acoustic stimuli, outputs are available for stimuli in other modalities. The software allows programming of these events in the same scheme used for acoustic stimuli, and they may be used in lieu of acoustic stimuli in startle designs.
The user also maintains complete control of such experimental details as the characteristics of the adaptation period, the use of the ventilation fan in the chamber, and the nature of the acquired data. The system offers a sophisticated level of control combined with an intuitive user interface.

Controller

Product Number: A10-21

For 1 to 4 stations

Chambers

E10-21

E10-24

Product Number: E10-21 & E10-24

One per subject

One per four subjects

Response Sensors and Holders

E05-15

E45-11

Product Number: All E05-Series products & E45-Series Products

E05-15 (Weighs 200 gm, for sub's to 400 gm)

Any type of cage, restrainer or animal holder may be placed on the platform in accordance with the measurement objectives. Large area cages, such as plastic home (living) cages, may be used if ambulatory behavior is to be included in the measure. Restrainers like our startle response animal holder may be used to limit response topography when desired.

Since the load cell is AC coupled into the Transducer Monitor after balancing, the actual force change associated with each movement is independent of the total mass on the platform provided the dynamic range of the sensor is not exceeded. Make sure the weight of the animal, plus the weight of the cage or restrainer, plus the expected response force, which can be several times the weight of the animal, does not exceed the weight specifications for the platform selected.

E05-20 (Weighs 250 gm, for sub's to 1 kg)

E45-11 (For 450 gm subject)

(1 LB) FOR SUBJECTS UP TO 450 GM

E45-12 (For 900 gm subject)

These platforms are listed in our animal behavior catalog in the startle response system section and with the ergometric activity monitor. They are also used for the measurement of tremor. A large size and a small size are available in a variety of sensitivity ranges.

E45-15 (For 2250 gm subject)

(5 LB) FOR SUBJECTS UP TO 2250 GM