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Automated 8 Arm Radial Maze
SKU ME-1901 / ME-1902
$10,790.00
IncludesStandard care
Automated 8-arm radial maze for spatial working and reference memory assessment in rodents, featuring automated door control and video tracking integration.
Scientist guidance
Louise Corscadden, PhD
Director of Science · ConductScience
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Key Specifications
Full details →- Model fit
- ['ANY-Maze', 'EthoVision', 'BehaviorCloud']
- SKU family
- ME-1901 / ME-1902
- Sizing
- Mouse: Arm length 35 cm · Arm width 5 cm; Rat: Arm length 50 cm · Arm width 10 cm
- Ordering
- Online checkout and quote request available
- Category
- Automated Mazes
- Build notes
- Acrylic, Aluminum
The Automated 8 Arm Radial Maze is a sophisticated behavioral apparatus designed for assessing spatial working memory, reference memory, and navigation strategies in rodents. This system features eight radial arms extending from a central platform, with automated door control enabling precise experimental protocols. The maze integrates with video tracking software including ConductVision, ANY-Maze, and EthoVision, providing comprehensive behavioral analysis capabilities.
Available in configurations optimized for mice (ME-1901) and rats (ME-1902), the system incorporates 25 detection zones for automated tracking and door control. The apparatus supports both working memory protocols, where subjects must avoid re-entering previously visited arms within a session, and reference memory tasks using consistent baited arm patterns across sessions. This dual capability makes it essential for studies examining hippocampal function, age-related cognitive decline, and pharmacological effects on spatial cognition.
How It Works
The radial arm maze operates on the principle that rodents possess an innate tendency to explore novel environments while avoiding recently visited locations. This spatial working memory system relies on hippocampal-dependent cognitive processes that enable subjects to maintain a mental representation of visited locations within a testing session.
The automated system uses 25 detection zones integrated with video tracking software to monitor subject position and movement patterns. When a subject enters an arm, sensors detect the presence and can trigger automated door closure to prevent re-entry, depending on the experimental protocol. The central platform serves as the decision point where subjects choose which arm to explore next, allowing researchers to quantify working memory errors (revisiting previously entered arms) and reference memory errors (entering never-baited arms in reference memory protocols).
Data collection encompasses multiple behavioral measures including arm entry sequence, latency to complete trials, total errors, and movement patterns. The integration with tracking software enables analysis of speed, distance traveled, and dwell time in specific zones, providing comprehensive assessment of both cognitive performance and motor function during spatial navigation tasks.
Features & Benefits
Eight automated arms with door control
Enables precise control over arm access for working memory protocols and prevents re-entry errors during testing sessions.
25-zone detection system
Provides detailed spatial tracking throughout the maze with high-resolution position monitoring and automated behavioral scoring.
Video tracking software integration
Compatible with ConductVision, ANY-Maze, and EthoVision for comprehensive behavioral analysis and automated data collection.
Species-specific dimensions
Mouse and rat configurations ensure optimal arm dimensions for natural locomotion and reliable behavioral performance.
Automated data logging
Records arm entry sequences, timing, and movement patterns automatically, reducing operator bias and improving data consistency.
Central platform design
Standardized starting position ensures consistent trial initiation and provides clear decision point for behavioral analysis.
Modular construction
Individual arm components allow for easy cleaning, maintenance, and potential protocol modifications as needed.
Sizes by model
| Measurement | Mouse | Rat |
|---|---|---|
| Arm length | 35 cm | 50 cm |
| Arm width | 5 cm | 10 cm |
| Wall height | 10 cm | 20 cm |
- Automated Doors (8)
- 25 Zones or more detection
- Can be Integrated with Video Tracking
Behavioral Construct
- Spatial Working Memory
- Reference Memory
- Spatial Navigation
- Cognitive Flexibility
- Hippocampal Function
Automation Level
- fully-automated
Software
- Adapter software (For video tracking integration)
- Standalone (without video tracking integration)
Customizable Colors
- Yes
Door Type
- Downward facing pneumatic doors
Door Operation
- Quiet pneumatic movement
Number of Arms
- 8
Copper Shielding Available
- Yes (for reduced electromagnetic interference)
Software Options
- ['Adapter software (For video tracking integration)', 'Standalone (without video tracking integration)']
Detection Zones
- 25
Customizable Dimensions
- Yes
Software Compatibility
- ['ANY-Maze', 'EthoVision', 'BehaviorCloud']
Maze Inserts Available
- ['Y Maze', 'T Maze', 'Plus Maze']
Optional Accessories
- ['Lickometers ($250-$1095)', 'Pellet Dispensers ($1095)', 'Cue Lights', 'Lids']
Research Domain
- Aging Research
- Behavioral Pharmacology
- Learning & Memory
- Neurodegeneration
- Neuroscience
- Toxicology
Compatible Tracking Software
- ConductVision
Shipping weight
- 135.0 lb
Shipping box
- L: 166.0 cm
- W: 66.0 cm
- H: 91.0 cm
| Feature | This Product | Typical Alternative | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arm Control System | 8 fully automated doors with software integration | Manual door control or no door control in basic models | Enables precise working memory protocols by preventing re-entry into visited arms during testing sessions. |
| Detection Zones | 25 discrete detection zones throughout maze structure | Basic entry/exit detection or manual observation in standard mazes | Provides detailed position tracking and movement analysis beyond simple arm entry counts. |
| Software Compatibility | Integration with ConductVision, ANY-Maze, and EthoVision | Limited to single software platform or no automation integration | Offers flexibility to use existing lab software systems and enables comprehensive behavioral analysis. |
| Species Configuration | Dedicated mouse and rat size configurations with species-optimized dimensions | One-size-fits-all design with suboptimal dimensions for smaller species | Ensures appropriate scaling for natural locomotion patterns and reliable behavioral performance across species. |
This system provides comprehensive automation and detailed behavioral tracking capabilities through its 25-zone detection system and 8 automated doors. The dual species configurations and multi-software compatibility offer flexibility for diverse research applications requiring precise spatial memory assessment.
| Model | Size | SKU | Listed price | Status | Shipping box |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mouse | Arm length 35 cm · Arm width 5 cm · Wall height 10 cm | ME-1901 / ME-1902 | $10,090.00 – $10,490.00 | Available | 116.0 x 65.99 x 91.01 cm |
| Rat | Arm length 50 cm · Arm width 10 cm · Wall height 20 cm | ME-1901 / ME-1902 | $10,390.00 – $10,790.00 | Available | 116.0 x 65.99 x 91.01 cm |
Learning & Memory
Assessment of spatial working memory capacity by measuring arm entry patterns and errors during radial maze navigation tasks.
Neuroscience
Investigation of hippocampal function and spatial navigation strategies through automated tracking of exploration patterns and choice sequences.
Behavioral Pharmacology
Evaluation of cognitive effects of pharmaceutical compounds by comparing pre- and post-treatment performance in spatial memory protocols.
Neurodegeneration
Longitudinal monitoring of cognitive decline in transgenic disease models through standardized radial arm maze testing protocols.
Aging Research
Characterization of age-related changes in spatial memory performance by comparing young and aged subjects in working memory tasks.
Toxicology
Assessment of neurotoxic effects on cognitive function through standardized behavioral testing following exposure to test compounds.
Practical Tips
Calibration
Verify detection zone boundaries weekly by walking a test object through each zone and confirming accurate position reporting in the tracking software.
Why: Maintains spatial accuracy essential for reliable working memory error classification.
Maintenance
Clean arm surfaces and door tracks daily with mild detergent to prevent scent cue accumulation that could bias subject behavior.
Why: Eliminates olfactory cues that could provide unintended navigation assistance and confound spatial memory assessment.
Best Practices
Randomize arm baiting patterns across subjects and sessions while maintaining consistent reference memory arm assignments within subjects.
Why: Prevents systematic biases in arm selection while preserving the reference memory learning component of the protocol.
Troubleshooting
If doors fail to close properly, check for debris in tracks and verify sensor alignment before adjusting mechanical tension.
Why: Ensures reliable working memory protocol implementation by preventing unintended arm re-entry.
Data Quality
Monitor trial completion times and movement patterns to identify subjects showing perseverative behavior or apparatus avoidance.
Why: Maintains data integrity by identifying potential confounding factors that could affect spatial memory performance measures.
Safety
Test automated door closing force to ensure gentle contact that guides without startling or injuring subjects.
Why: Prevents stress responses that could interfere with cognitive performance and ensures animal welfare compliance.
Best Practices
Conduct habituation sessions with all doors open before implementing working memory protocols with door control.
Why: Allows subjects to become familiar with maze navigation before introducing the cognitive demands of working memory testing.
Setup Guide
Unpack and Inspect
Remove maze components from packaging and inspect for damage. Verify all eight arms, central platform, and automated door mechanisms are included and undamaged.
Assemble Maze Structure
Connect the eight arms to the central platform ensuring secure attachment and proper alignment. Verify arm heights match specifications for target species.
Install Detection System
Mount sensors for the 25 detection zones according to the provided diagram. Test each zone to confirm proper detection range and sensitivity.
Connect Automation Hardware
Install and connect automated door mechanisms to each arm. Test door operation to ensure smooth opening and closing without noise that might startle subjects.
Configure Tracking Software
Install and configure video tracking software (ConductVision, ANY-Maze, or EthoVision). Calibrate detection zones and establish communication with door control system.
Conduct System Test
Run a complete system test with dummy trials to verify sensor detection, door automation, and data logging function correctly together.
Environmental Setup
Position maze in testing room with consistent lighting and minimal visual cues. Ensure video camera placement provides clear view of all arms and central platform.
What’s in the Box
- Central platform assembly
- Eight radial arm modules
- Automated door mechanisms (8)
- Detection sensor system (25 zones)
- Control interface unit
- Power supply and cabling
- Assembly hardware kit
- User manual and protocol guide (typical)
- Software installation media (typical)
Warranty
ConductScience provides a standard one-year manufacturer warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship, with comprehensive technical support for setup, calibration, and operation throughout the warranty period.
Compliance
IACUC GuidelinesCommonly used in behavioral studies conducted under institutional animal care and use committee protocols for cognitive assessment research.
NIH Guidelines for Animal ResearchSupports behavioral testing workflows in NIH-funded research programs investigating spatial cognition and memory function.
ARRIVE Guidelines 2.0Facilitates standardized behavioral data collection and reporting in accordance with animal research reporting guidelines.
References
Background reading relevant to this product:
1.Jennifer Alamed et al. (2006) “Two-day radial-arm water maze learning and memory task; robust resolution of amyloid-related memory deficits in transgenic mice” Nature Protocols doi:10.1038/nprot.2006.275
2.Herbert Schwegler et al. (1990) “Hippocampal mossy fibers and radial-maze learning in the mouse: A correlation with spatial working memory but not with non-spatial reference memory” Neuroscience doi:10.1016/0306-4522(90)90139-u
3.Charles V. Vorhees et al. (2006) “Morris water maze: procedures for assessing spatial and related forms of learning and memory” Nature Protocols doi:10.1038/nprot.2006.116
4.Rudi D'Hooge et al. (2001) “Applications of the Morris water maze in the study of learning and memory” Brain Research Reviews doi:10.1016/s0165-0173(01)00067-4
Q
What is the difference between working memory and reference memory protocols in the radial arm maze?
A
Working memory protocols assess the ability to avoid re-entering arms within a single session, while reference memory protocols use consistently baited arms across sessions to evaluate long-term spatial learning. The automated system supports both by controlling door access and tracking entry patterns.
Q
How does the 25-zone detection system improve data quality compared to manual scoring?
A
The detection zones provide precise position tracking throughout the maze, enabling automated calculation of entry times, movement patterns, and error classification. This eliminates observer bias and provides more detailed behavioral metrics than manual scoring methods.
Q
Can the maze be used for both acquisition and retention testing?
A
Yes, the automated door control enables flexible protocol design for initial learning sessions, retention testing after delays, and reversal learning paradigms. Software integration allows programming of different door control patterns for various experimental phases.
Q
What maintenance is required for the automated door mechanisms?
A
Regular cleaning of door tracks and sensors is recommended to prevent debris interference. Door mechanisms should be tested weekly for smooth operation, and sensor calibration should be verified monthly to maintain detection accuracy.
Q
How does the system handle data synchronization between video tracking and door control?
A
The integrated control system maintains synchronized timestamps between behavioral tracking data and door operation events, ensuring accurate correlation of movement patterns with experimental manipulations for comprehensive analysis.
Q
What behavioral measures are automatically calculated by the tracking software?
A
Standard measures include total errors, working memory errors, reference memory errors, trial completion time, inter-arm intervals, and movement velocity. Advanced analysis can include path efficiency, exploration patterns, and zone-specific dwell times.
Q
Can the arm dimensions be modified for different experimental requirements?
A
The system comes in fixed configurations optimized for mice or rats. While individual arm modules are replaceable for maintenance, dimensional modifications would require custom fabrication and may affect the detection system calibration.
Have a question about this product?
Track rodents with ConductVision
ConductVision is our video-tracking software. Record your sessions on video, and it scores standard rodent tests, such as those listed below.
Examples of tests it scores
To check whether ConductVision scores your protocol in this apparatus, ask in your quote request.
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Automated 8 Arm Radial Maze
$10,790.00
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