34
PhenoMaster | Hardware Operating Instructions
•
We recommend that after an experiment has been stopped, the system is allowed to continue
running for about 30min in order to replace the test air at the O2 and CO2 sensor by fresh air
and to prevent contaminants from being deposited on the sensor.
•
Make a backup of the measured data.
NOTICE
- Instrument damage!
In long-term experiments, the animals will require at least liquids. Contact between the litter
material and the animal’s secretions could generate CO2.
•
Supply the animals with the necessary amount of water. Connect a drinking bottle if required.
•
Use suitable litter materials and exchange as required.
Drinking and feeding measurements
•
As a result of the construction of the drinking nipple mounted on the drinking vessel, which
can be different from other drinking bottles, it is recommended that the animals are trained on
the apparatus for one or two days before the first test is carried out.
•
The drinking and feeding dispensers are filled, and the sensors are calibrated.
•
When refilling before or during an experiment, the drinking/feeding dispenser may be removed
from the sensor. However, we recommend that the dispenser is left attached to the hook
during this process. This means that it isn´t necessary to readjust the position of the sensor or
dispenser. To refill the dispenser, select the "Refill Sensor" menu in the system software.
•
The easiest way to refill food is to use a small scoop to fill it into the basket attached to the
sensor. Care should be taken that the pieces of food are large enough so that they don´t fall
through the basket mesh.
Activity measurements via InfraMot sensors
•
The InfraMot sensor must NOT be used where it is subject to the effects of heating, cooling, or
ventilation devices.
•
Closed materials (sheets of plastic, glass, etc.) prevent heat detection. This means that -
provided that the assembly height is suitable - animals (= sources of heat) in adjacent cages
don´t interfere with the registration. However, in order to completely rule out any interference,
we recommend that the cages are placed about 10cm apart. Individual tests should be carried
out to determine a suitable distance.
•
The wide detection angle of the sensors and the great thermal mass of human bodies means
that movements by the operator could also be detected. This depends upon the way, in which
the individual experiment is set up. Additional shielding may be necessary.
•
If large sensor unit mounting heights are necessary, it is possible to increase the sensitivity of
the sensor within certain limits. However, a higher sensitivity means that the interference from
other heat sources also increases. Please contact
configuration.
Activity measurements via running wheel
Ensure that…
•
…no litter can penetrate the area around the rotary sensor.
•
…the sensor cable is attached in such a way that it cannot be damaged by the animal.
