The A-M Systems 3600 Model 16-Channel Extracellular Amplifier is a dedicated instrument for extracellular electrophysiological recording, delivering 16 independent channels optimized for microvolt-level signal amplification in neural research. The system combines front-panel touchscreen control with USB-based Windows software command, supporting external TTL triggering for flexible experimental protocols. Built-in calibration and dual-channel oscilloscope monitoring enable real-time signal verification, while multi-unit networked control from a single PC accommodates large-scale recording arrays.
Technical Specifications
Signal Chain
• 16 independent extracellular amplifier channels
• Input noise: 2.0 µV (rms) typical
• Input impedance: 10¹² Ω || 4 pF
• Bias current: ±1 pA maximum
• Common mode rejection: 100 dB
• Inter-channel crosstalk: −70 dB at 1 kHz
Frequency Response
• Passband: 10 Hz to 10 kHz
• Low-pass filter: 8 selectable cutoffs from 0.3 Hz to 500 Hz (40 dB/decade)
• High-pass filter: 8 selectable cutoffs from 0.1 kHz to 20 kHz (40 dB/decade)
• Notch filter: 50 Hz or 60 Hz center, >35 dB rejection
Output & Electrical
• Rated output voltage: ±11 V
• Output impedance: >100 Ω
• Offset voltage: ±4.0 µV/°C typical, ±30.0 µV/°C maximum
– Key Features
• Two headstage styles supported: Record-Only Miniature and Stimulating/Recording configurations
• Built-in calibration signal source for verification
• Dual-channel real-time monitoring via external oscilloscope or front-panel BNC outputs
• Windows-compatible control software supplied; MATLAB and LabVIEW drivers available
• TTL-based mode switching for automated protocol execution
• Multi-instrument daisy-chain control from single PC application
– Typical Applications
Multielectrode extracellular neural recording, in vivo and in vitro electrophysiology, network activity mapping, and stimulus-response studies requiring simultaneous multi-site acquisition with independent gain and filter configuration per channel.
– Compatibility & Integration
USB connectivity to Windows PCs. External oscilloscope BNC inputs. TTL control lines for protocol synchronization. Compatible with Record-Only Miniature and Stimulating/Recording headstages.
