Scientifica MicroStar Micromanipulator
Scientifica MicroStar Micromanipulator
Scientifica MicroStar Micromanipulator

Scientifica MicroStar Micromanipulator

A slimline motorised micromanipulator designed for complex multi-patch experiments

The Scientifica MicroStar is a motorised micromanipulator with three axes of mechanical movement and a virtual ‘approach’ axis, designed for intricate in vitro electrophysiology. Its slimline design enables multiple manipulators to be positioned around the preparation, making it ideal for multi-patch experiments. Electrical and audible quietness also supports sensitive recordings, including single-channel recordings.

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Product benefits

Fine movement control

The high electronic resolution of the MicroStar creates smooth movement, without any uncontrolled motion, making the MicroStar perfect for accurate patching of small cells or dendrites.

Detect small signals

Zero electrical noise means the MicroStar will not produce any noise that interferes with or masks the signal. This makes the MicroStar extremely sensitive and able to detect small signals, for example during single channel recordings.

Perform demanding long-term research

Long-term potentiation studies on small cells and dendrites are made easy, thanks to the high stability of the MicroStar, with minimal drift.

Maximised reach of cells in your sample

The long travel in X, Y and Z axes means you can easily reach cells, and don’t need to worry about running out of travel when patching.

Easy speed adjustment

For greater control of pipette positioning and patching, switch between fast speed for coarse positioning and patch speed for making the patch. The speeds of each setting can also be adjusted within LinLab software.

Simply switch configurations

The modular design of the MicroStar means it is quick and simple to switch between left and right-handed configurations. This makes it easy to mount the micromanipulator on both sides of the sample.

Customise to suit your experiments

The large range of accessories available with the MicroStar means you can fully customise the micromanipulator to suit your specific research.

Effortlessly adjust your approach angle

The rotary stage and wide range of brackets available make it simple to adjust your approach angle and height to suit your application and sample.

Virtual 4th approach axis

The approach axis is truly calculated using the angle sensor in the axis and moves the X and Z axes in the required proportions. This maximises accuracy and prevents the need for manual calculations.

Easy and repeatable pipette exchange

Fast pipette movement and exchange is made easy by the sliding bracket and rotational stages. You can exchange pipettes without moving the manipulator, preventing other patches from being disrupted when performing multiple recordings, as well as enabling pipette access when space is limited.

Suitable for multipoint network studies

Due to the slimline nature of the MicroStar, you can fit several manipulators around your sample, making multiple patching set-ups easier.

Scientifica MicroStar Micromanipulator

Suitable for multipoint network studies

The slimline micromanipulator

Designed for network experiments, the slimline design of the MicroStar means multiple manipulators can be placed around a single sample. By patching multiple cells simultaneously, connections between cells can be identified and data can be collected faster. The compact design is also ideal for setups with limited space.

Scientifica PatchPad Evo and Control Cube

Advanced control options

Operate the MicroStar via our ergonomically designed remote control options or through LinLab software.

Pair the MicroStar with PatchPad Evo to control multiple manipulators from a single device. View XYZ coordinates and access key functions, including speed control and memory positions, directly from the controller.

For more advanced control and customisation, LinLab software lets you tailor your setup to your experiment. The Follow Function synchronises multiple Scientifica motorised devices, providing streamlined control when coordinating complex multi-manipulator setups.

Testimonials

“The MicroStar micromanipulators are incredibly solid and easy to install. The slim design allowed us to install four different MicroStars with room for more. We consistently manage to maintain the patched cell for up to two hours, while applying stimulation through a separate electrode attached to another MicroStar.”

Dr Vincenzo Mastrolia
Kings College London

"The low drift of these manipulators allows us to hold patches for over an hour and the noise-free electronics enables us to record the smallest of connection signals better."

Dr Thomas Mrsic-Flogel
UCL

"The small size of the MicroStar manipulators allowed us to fit more manipulators around the rig, improving the yield of the experiments."

Dr Ho Ko
UCL

Scientifica services for this product

Free Lab Consultations

Your Scientifica specialist can help optimise your lab through a free lab consultation, providing advice on the equipment best suited to your planned experiments and lab space.

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Demonstrations

Scientifica offer product demonstrations, allowing you to ask questions, learn about the product and its applications, and see it for yourself.

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Customisations

Customisable microscopes and systems for unique electrophysiology experiments. Our expert team ensures your setup is tailored to your experiments. Contact us to learn more!

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Warranty & Exchange Programme

Scientifica offers a two-year warranty on our products and a one-year warranty on third-party goods. Our Exchange Programme minimises lab disruption and keeps costs down.

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