Two-Channel Ultima IV with
Uncaging and High-Speed Optics

The Ultima IV System Uncaging and High Speed Optics includes:

Ultima-IV – In Vivo Laser Scanning Microscope with Uncaging Optics
This scanner, base, and platform is designed to include two independent sets of X-Y galvanometer mounted mirrors in its optical path: the standard set to provide raster scan imaging, and the second set to provide precise programmable fixed point positioning of a laser beam to a location referenced to the standard set. A unique automated method for ensuring co-localization of the laser beams from the two sets of galvanometers is provided. The system is capable (when purchased with optional equipment) of integrating electrophysiology recording with imaging and uncaging.

Includes:

• Upgraded Imaging Galvanometers and Beam Expander Lens Set Replacement of 3 mm standard imaging galvanometer mirrors with larger 6 mm mirrors.
• Additional set of X-Y Scanners added to Ultima Scan Head and electronics for simultaneous control of imaging and uncaging paths.
• Scan Control Electronics.
• Single objective nosepiece
• Laser safe trinocular with 10x eyepieces
• Motorized Z-Focus with motor controller
• Multi-Channel Analogue Integration Electronics with 12 Bit A/D.
• High Performance Imaging Workstation
• Dual Top Mounted External Detectors (Hamamatsu multi-alkali PMTs) designed to optimize collection efficiency and dual emission filters for simultaneous viewing and acquisition from both detectors. PMTs are individually hand selected for low dark current (≤ 10 nA) and sensitivity (> 8500 A/lumen)
• PrairieView Software Package for the Ultima PrairieView provides control of scanning and image acquisition for optimization of data collection (includes control of image size, scan rate, camera settings, laser wavelength and power levels).
• TriggerSync software for Functional Mapping and the integration of the collection of PMT based fluorescence data with cell based electrical recording. Multiple inputs and outputs are independently programmable for customized experimental protocols designed by the user. All data (PMT and electrical) are recorded by a single computer for accurate time synchrony.
• Fluorescence light source; X-Cite 120 for BX2 with iris and 3m LLG and epi-fluoresence cubes
• Water Immersion M Plan Fluorite10x Objective (UMPLFL10XW)
• High NA Long WD 20x Objective Lens (XLUMPLFL20XW)
• 40X Long Working Distance Water Immersion objective (LUMPLFL40XW/IR-2)
• 60X Long Working Distance Water Immersion objective (LUMPLFL60X W/IR-2)

High Speed Optics Set adds AOD scanning in place of the X-axis galvo for high speed imaging (i.e. 25 fpsat 512x512) scan electronics controller. The imaging beam is redirected via software control through an optimized AOD light path, and then directed through the Ultima scanner.

Includes High Speed Optics Set with Acousto-Optics Deflector (AOD), high speed scan electronics controller, beam conditioning/delivery optics and Bragg angle prism to correct pulse distortion (broadening) of femtosecond pulses.

Z-Axis Piezo Drive for Objective Threaded objective lens holder with piezo-electric elements enclosed. Allows for high speed z-positioning of objective lenses. Capacitance feedback algorithm used to assume positioning accuracy of 0.1 um.

Pockels Cells and Laser Input Optics for Imaging and Uncaging Optical Paths to efficiently couple ultrafast imaging and uncaging lasers to scanner while providing high-speed shuttering, continuous power control and beam blanking of the lasers.

Automated Specimen Stage – Moving Platform with manual Z height adjustment range of ~ 2 inches. Designed for electrophysiology experiments. Large platform stage on X-Y cross roller bearings to move attached electrodes (not included) and specimen in X and Y with respect to a fixed microscope. Height is adjustable over approximately 1.5 inches. Includes Prairie X-Y automation controller.

Microscope Light Box / Faraday Cage and Laser Safety Covers for ultrafast laser beam path.

Installation and Training on use of Ultima IV system

The price for the system described above is approximately $375,000.00 (USD). Choice of objectives, filters, lasers and other options may affect this price.

Please contact Prairie for more information.