Over the past two decades, researchers using arrays like the Utah array have faced limitations in recording large populations of neurons, including an inability to reach deep brain structures and low-dimensional recordings.

Neurons aren't exclusively arranged laterally on a 2D space, so why should that be all an electrode array can cover? 

We teamed up with Modular Bionics to address these limitations with the N-Form array. 

The N-Form is a customizable 3D array exclusively offered by Plexon. It is compatible with non-Plexon systems, and is priced similar to standard linear arrays.

With the N-Form, neuroscientists have the power to chose from a number of recording sites in a three-dimensional space.

High channel-count: Up to 100 channels can be defined within a three-dimensional space

Shank width: 125 microns in diameter per 8 channel shank

Shank length: Up to 10 mm (minimum length: .75mm)  

Customizable designs: Specify length and location of recording sites

Sound useful for your work? Start your order today:

What makes the N-Form superior to the Utah array?

1. Utah Array: limited to 1.5mm in length. N-Form: up to 10mm.

2. Utah Array: limited to one recording site per shank. N-Form: allows you to define specific recording locations at multiple points on each shank (see graphics below)

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Utah: Forced to record from only one site for each shank. Two-dimensional:

N-Form: You define the location of electrode sites on each probe. Three-dimensional, with ability to have 8 sites on each shank:

Example above demonstrates N-Form with 32 recording sites at varying depths across four shanks up to 3.5mm in length

Arrays currently available for up to 100 channels with a maximum length of 10mm

Adopted by leading neuroscientists

Investigators are excited by this new 3D probe. In the past year, many labs across several institutions have adopted the N-Form. Their research includes:

Simple Insertion 

The insertion tool is easily adaptable to many types of microdrives / inserters. N-Form's insertion is a straightforward procedure:

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Real Data: long-term chronic reliability and 3D recording performance

Stable recordings in the auditory cortex have demonstrated long-term duration chronic reliability and 3D recording performance:

Compatible Connectors: Omnetics, Zif, and Samtec

Interested in this array beyond standard specifications?

It's possible. Discuss your needs with a Plexon Sales Engineer to determine the best configuration.

Considering purchasing a Utah array?

Consider the N-Form. This is very much like the Utah array, without the limitation of recording at only one site per shank. With the N-Form you have the ability to place multiple sites on each shank and the N-form offers a three dimensional array which is not available with the Utah array.

Want to learn more about why researchers are excited about the N-Form?

We're happy to discuss why people are choosing the N-Form and how they are using this new technology:

Other Electrodes from Plexon

Plexon offers a suite of other electrodes, probes and arrays including Penetrating Cortical probes, U-Probes, V-Probes, S-Probes, and Thumbtack probes

If you enjoyed reading and have friends or colleagues who may be interested in this, forward this email to them! They can sign up to receive future newsletters here: plexon.com/newsletter-signup

Thanks for reading. Until next time,

- The Plexon Team

N-Form and Modular Bionics are trademarks of Modular Bionics Inc. U.S. Patent No. 9,095,267 and patents pending