Page 3 of 23 BIOPAC Systems, Inc.
10166_Rev08 WWW.BIOPAC.COM 9.09.2019
System Overview
How to Use This Manual
This manual provides an overview of the Epoch wireless dual-channel in vivo recording system for small animal
research and how to set up the system in AcqKnowledge software. The specifications and diagrams that are provided
in this manual are to assist users in understanding the capabilities of the Epoch system. This document is not
intended as a service manual. Only authorized BIOPAC employees and representatives are qualified to repair any
component of the system. All rights of the warranty for said component are voided if any other party modifies any
component without the written consent of BIOPAC.
The Epoch Wireless System
The Epoch wireless system is comprised of three components that can be used for the acquisition of biopotential
signals from naturally or freely-behaving, small animals:
• The wireless sensor, which is affixed to the head of the animal, Figure 1.
• The wireless receiver base, Figure 2.
• The Faraday shield used to reduce the amount of noise interference from the ambient environment if present,
shown in Figure 15. (Page 14)
Dual-Channel EEG Sensor Implant
The dual-channel EEG wireless sensor implant, Figure 1, contains a small amplifier, sensor, and a battery
encapsulated in medical-grade epoxy. Each electrode is made of Platinum-Iridium (Pt90/Ir10) material
insulated with Teflon, with a 0.127 mm diameter (0.005 in.). Two of these leads are for acquiring
independent biopotentials with the third lead being the common reference electrode. Spacing for these leads
are detailed on the following page. The sensor is shipped deactivated, and is available with a two-month
battery life (2 mo) commonly used for mouse studies, or a six-month battery life (6 mo) commonly used for
adult rat studies only. A sensor activator must be used to activate sensors on-site.
The output gain of the sensor is set at 2000x during production (±1.0 mV range), but can be set to the
following gains depending on your needs: 800x (Status-Epilepticus in adult animals) or 2000x (EEG, ECoG,
LFP). A sensor activator and tester must be used to activate sensors on-site.
Dual-Channel Differential Sensor Implant
Epoch Differential Sensors resemble Dual-Channel EEG Sensor Implants but additionally enable wireless
recording of two different biopotentials with their own reference. Record long-term EEG+EEG, EEG+ECG,
EEG+EMG, or ECG+EMG. Sensors amplify biopotentials and wirelessly transmit data to a receiver tray
placed under each animal cage for continuous wireless recording of rats, mice, or pups. There is no
crosswalk between cages, unlike other types of implantable sensors that use RF. Sensors ship deactivated—
activate with EPOCH-ACTI when ready to start recording.
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