Passive / Active Avoidance Box: PACS-30 - Columbus Instruments

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PACS-30 is an automated system employed in the testing of avoidance behavior. Each subject is housed within a cage that has been divided by a centrally located wall. The wall has an opening that allows the subject to pass between the compartments. The lid of each compartment contains an acoustic source. The light is on the center divider. The subject walks on a shocker grid assembly that spans the entire floor area of both compartments. A series of photocells detects the subject position within the cage.
When configured for active avoidance, PACS-30 presents a user-programmed sequence of stimuli to the subject. In response, the subject must relocate to the adjoining compartment within a preset time in order to avert the presentation of a mild shock. Controlling software coordinates stimulus presentation and behavioral responses in up to 30 avoidance cages. Latency from stimuli onset to transfer is recorded to a data file.

When configured for passive avoidance, each PACS-30 avoidance cage is equipped with an automated door that prevents inter-compartment transfers. A similar regime of stimulus presentation is sequenced during which the animal is offered the freedom to transfer to the adjoining compartment. Failure to transfer indicates success in the establishment of passive behavior. An animal that fails may be presented with a mild punishment.

The controlling software also incorporates features that allow the establishment of parameter files. A parameter file contains all controlling aspects of stimuli presentation (start times, durations and intensity, etc.) easing the set-up of subsequent tests that will follow a common testing protocol. PACS-30 allows independent control of up to 30 avoidance cages. Advanced features include the ability to delay the trial until after a preset amount of exploration time has lapsed and punishment for inter-trial transfers.

PACS-30 Brochure

Features / Specifications

Performs both Active and Passive Avoidance Testing
Supports operation of up to 30 boxes
Standard visual and acoustical stimuli
Cage made of Makrolon

Avoidance Cage Dimensions: 19"L x 9"W x 10.75"H (48cm x 23cm x 27cm)
Motion Detection Method: Multiple Infrared Beams
Stimulus Current Maximum: 1.0 milliampere continuously variable
Cage Material: Stainless Steel
Stimulus Voltage Maximum: 163 volts
Stimulus Current Regulation: 5% for 0-163 KOhms.
Audio Stimulus Frequency: 200Hz to 13KHz

Ordering Information

1371 PACS-30 Avoidance Chamber Master (inclusive of software, sound and light calibration kit)
1372 PACS-30 Avoidance Chamber Slave (connects to Master Box)