The PAS-Open Field is an effective solution for applications requiring qualitative examination of a subject's locomotor patterns.
The Photobeam Activity System (PAS)-Open Field provides the most accurate qualitative characterization of mouse or rat open field activity. The locomotor activity tests will be reliable and accurate, with ready format results in a statistics package.
PAS-Open Field stations include a 16×16 photobeam configuration with the option to use a rearing frame and/or floor pokes. Users can adjust the frame height on the posts to accommodate subjects of various sizes.
Furthermore, the PAS software utilized for the open field test reliably captures all beam interruptions, central peripheral activity, ambulation movements, fine movements, rearing, pokes, and time-stamped (x,y) positions, allowing users to do analyses at whatever level of detail is required. It will also save the data in a single file in a Microsoft Access database for simple export and analysis.
In addition, unlike competitors, all beam breaks are reported in real-time, requiring no additional calibrators.
Image Credit: San Diego Instruments, Inc.
Features
- Configure up to 32 test stations for the quick testing of large subject groups
- 16×16 photobeam configuration
- Accurately records ambulation motions, fine movements, rearing, pokes and time stamped (x,y) locations
- View and replay the subject’s path graphically
- Easy enclosure cleaning is made possible by detachable acrylic walls
Photobeam Activity System-Open Field highlights:
The most accurate, easy-to-use software available
The PAS software provides customers with greater freedom and accuracy than ever. In addition, all of the data is kept in a single, easily accessible file, but users may also define the entire study in advance by allocating animals to certain stations for each session and then giving a specified protocol for each test session.
The software will record and save the session data in the study's single file. When the user is ready, display the data directly on the computer screen or export it with a single click to Microsoft® Excel or a delimited file type. Additional software features include:
Define the study in advance
Defining each planned test session ensures users acquire the most accurate open-field test data. Users will be able to configure session parameters and subject identifiers, assign subjects to specific test stations, and specify subject parameters like dose level. Everything will be kept in a single file format to avoid losing any vital data.
Automatically run sessions
Determining the research beforehand by automating sessions not only saves users time but also removes potentially error-prone run-time decisions and data entry. Additionally, users can be guaranteed that the results are closely linked to the pre-established subject identifiers. To run the test session, adhere to the PAS software’s instructions.
Real-time beam break display
A real-time beam break display, which provides users with a visual depiction of the animal's movement patterns, ensures the operation's accuracy. Other systems that rely on blinking lights on the frames to notify users of their state do not provide a visual indication of the activity pattern or open field behavior.
To further ensure data accuracy, beam breaks are automatically classified as “ambulations,” “fine movements,” or “rearing” and are based on distance traveled rather than time.
Export directly to Microsoft® Excel (or any delimited file type)
The PAS software automatically identifies data by column headings and provides table formatted results for easy export to Microsoft® Excel or a delimited file type (TAB, CSV, etc.). Users will save time by not having to aggregate several single files and maybe reformat them again. They will not lose important information because the data is exported from a single file.
Design zone maps in both X and Y dimensions
Create as many zone maps as needed using a simple software application or a coordinate file directly, then save them for later use. In addition, users can use any zone map to reanalyze data files at any moment.
Study subjects of varying sizes
By simply placing the frames on the poles where necessary, users of PAS-Open Field can study subjects of varying sizes, thanks to the framed height adjustment feature.
Check results with auto-replay
With the Pathview Utility, you can replay the actual animal track and select whether to replay everything at once or at a different speed.
Quick and easy analysis
After users have completed their tests, they can use the PAS Reporter to assess the results. Users can quickly assess distance traveled, speed, resting time, zone entry, and time in zone data. Users can alter parameters in the PAS Reporter and then conduct the analysis with the new settings. There is no need to rerun the test on the actual animal to use the new settings.
Mistake-free setup
PAS-Open Field uses standard Ethernet cables that are color-coded yellow and blue, as well as color-coded frame and contact box connections, to help users connect PAS equipment without confusion.
PAS-Open Field System components
- PAS Distribution Box
- PC interface board
- Cables and connectors
- User manual
- Animal enclosure
- Frames with photobeams
- Adjustable vertical rods for frame height
- PAS application software
Specifications
- DFrame Dimensions
- 20”×20” (OD) 18” x18” (ID)
- Enclosure Dimensions
- 16” (W) x 16” (D) x 15” (H)
- Optional Rearing Fram
- 20”×20”(OD) 18”×18” (ID)
- 1” photobeam spacing
- Composition
- Stainless Steel Frames, Clear Plastic Animal Enclosure
- Standard Cable Length
- Maximum # Stations
- Certifications
- # of Photobeams
- 16 photobeams in each direction (16×16)
- Photobeam Spacing = 1”
Accessories
- Drop in Dark Box
- Isolation Cabinet
- Rearing Frames
- Floor Poke