Neurotechnology Research Systems
Optogenetic Controller
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0 in level mode. Care should be taken when changing polarity as it is possible to inadvertently start
stimulation. For example, the digital inputs are pulled low, so if the polarity is set to negative with
no input connected all channels that are ready will start when the polarity is changed from positive
to negative.
6.6
Defining a pattern with a .txt file
Stimulation patterns can be defined in simple text files using any text editor software (Microsoft
Word, Notepad, etc.). More advanced users can programmatically create files using software such
as Matlab or Labview.
The text file is simply a list of amplitudes that is updated every 100µs. To maintain a value longer
than 100µs, the value is repeated. Several sample files are included in the installation package.
The amplitude units can be binary (0-255), mA, mV, or mW. The user specifies the units when
loading the text file.
6.7
Loading a pattern from a .txt file
First set the Output device as LASER, output mode as Voltage (mV), and Voltage Output Limit (mV)
to 5000.
Begin by selecting File from the Pattern Source drop down menu.
Next click on the folder in the field next to Load from File.
A dialog box will pop up. There are two types of files (.opt and .txt). A .opt file has a header that
defines stimulation parameters such as units, while a .txt file is just a series of amplitudes.