Mini2P Silicon Photomultiplier

LABmaker

Accessories for Mini2P Silicon Photomultiplier

LABmaker


The Mini2P is a 2-photon miniscope for large-scale calcium imaging in freely moving mice. It enables stable, simultaneous recordings of over a thousand cells across multiple planes of densely active cortical regions during a wide range of behavioral tasks without affecting the animal's behavior.

EXPERIMENTAL CAPABILITIES

The Mini2P Silicon Photomultiplier (SiPM) detects fluorescence signals. Integrated into the Mini2P head-mounted scope, it replaces the original scope part (P3) with its attached collection fiber, external filter cube and two photomultipliers.

The SiPM features two detectors positioned atop the dichroic mirror of the Mini2P scope body. By placing the detectors directly on the scope and eliminating the collection fiber, the signal-to-noise ratio is significantly improved, resulting in higher sensitivity and cleaner signal acquisition.

The SiPM connects to the supporting system via thin, shielded wires and is supplied with an external amplifier and power supply. The existing SMA cables used for photomultipliers can be directly attached, requiring no additional software or modifications.

KEY FEATURES

  • Powerful yet lightweight: The compact and high-performing SiPM keeps the Mini2P Scope at just 2.6g in total, maintaining exceptional performance without added bulk.
  • Integrated detectors with enhanced signal-to-noise ratio: Two integrated light detectors provide a higher signal-to-noise ratio than traditional external photomultipliers by minimizing optical losses and improving the detection of weaker fluorescence signals.
  • Optimized spectral filtering: Carefully selected emission filters (Green: 520–550 nm, Red: 580–700 nm), tailored to common calcium indicators and fluorescent proteins.
  • Robust optical and ambient light shielding: Full shielding against ambient light and stray IR-laser reflections ensures precise emission detection.
  • Mechanical stability under motion: Stable electrical connections and detectors maintain signal integrity even during significant movement, making it ideal for behavioral experiments in freely moving mice.
  • Thermally stable electronics: The primary amplifier and processing circuits are housed externally, preventing heat build-up near the detectors and ensuring stable performance over long imaging sessions.
  • Streamlined cabling for greater mobility: The elimination of bulky fiber-optic bundles reduces system weight, enhances animal mobility, and allows for more naturalistic behavior studies.
  • Extended cable reach: A 2.5m cable offers convenience for flexible positioning of other Mini2P components.
  • Broad compatibility with existing platforms: Fully compatible with Mini2P Scopes from LABmaker and head-mounted systems based on Zong et al. (2022).

    CONTENTS 

    • Two-channel silicon photomultiplier mounted in customized Mini2P-P3 housing
    • Amplifier box
    • Power supply (12V)

    INSTALLATION SERVICE

    The Mini2P Silicon Photomultiplier (SiPM) replaces specific components of the head-mounted Mini2P scope. To install the SiPMs in place of the Mini2P scope body part P3, the seal between P1 and P3 must be broken. This process exposes the optics and laser path, posing a risk of damage.

    To ensure safe and precise installation, we offer a professional installation service, which includes:

    1. Functionality verification of the received Mini2P scope (detailed report provided).
    2. Breaking the seal between P1 and P3 (not possible if sealed with epoxy or similar).
    3. Replacing the P3 body part with the SiPM module.
    4. Resealing and testing functionality (final report provided).
    5. Returning the upgraded scope with all documentation.

    Please contact us for more details if you want to use this service.

    NOTE: If you perform the installation yourself, LABmaker does not provide a warranty for any resulting damage to the SiPM or your Mini2P scope.

    Documentation Source Code Forum


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