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Automated Hole Board
SKU ME-4503/4504
$3,995.00
IncludesStandard care
Automated behavioral testing apparatus for quantitative assessment of exploratory behavior in rodents, featuring modular hole configurations with infrared nose poke detection and real-time data integration.
Scientist guidance
Louise Corscadden, PhD
Director of Science · ConductScience
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Key Specifications
Full details →- Model fit
- Mouse, Rat
- SKU family
- ME-4503/4504
- Sizing
- Mouse: Length 40 cm · Width 40 cm; Rat: Length 60 cm · Width 60 cm
- Ordering
- Online checkout and quote request available
- Category
- Automated Mazes
- Build notes
- Confirm accessories, station layout, and support needs before purchase
The Automated Hole Board is a specialized behavioral testing apparatus designed for quantitative assessment of exploratory behavior in rodents. The system features modular perforated floor configurations (16, 9, or 4 holes) with automated infrared or capacitive nose poke detection, enabling precise measurement of investigative behaviors in controlled environments.
Available in species-specific configurations for mice (40×40×35cm, 3cm hole diameter) and rats (60×60×45cm, 5cm hole diameter), the apparatus integrates with Neuralynx and Ethovision software platforms for comprehensive data collection. The modular design includes interchangeable wall sets (clear standard, black and white optional) to modify environmental conditions and test parameters according to experimental requirements.
How It Works
The Automated Hole Board operates on the principle of quantifying natural investigative behaviors through precise detection of nose poke events. When rodents explore the perforated floor, infrared or capacitive sensors positioned within each detection cup register contact events with submillimeter precision and millisecond timing resolution.
The modular floor system allows researchers to configure 4, 9, or 16 hole patterns to manipulate spatial complexity and cognitive demands. Each nose poke event is timestamped and spatially coded, generating datasets that reflect exploration strategies, habituation patterns, and spatial preferences. Integration with video tracking systems provides synchronized behavioral analysis combining automated detection with visual confirmation.
The escape-preventing wall system creates controlled environmental conditions while the modular design enables systematic manipulation of visual and spatial cues. Real-time data transmission to analysis software allows immediate feedback and experimental monitoring through SMS and email notification systems.
Features & Benefits
Modular floor configurations (16, 9, 4 holes)
Enables systematic manipulation of spatial complexity to assess different cognitive demands and exploration strategies within the same apparatus.
Infrared or capacitive nose poke detection
Provides precise, non-contact detection of investigative behaviors with millisecond timing resolution and minimal false positive rates.
Species-specific dimensional configurations
Optimized chamber dimensions and hole sizes for mice (3cm) and rats (5cm) ensure appropriate scale for natural exploratory behaviors.
Neuralynx and Ethovision integration
Seamless data integration with established analysis platforms for comprehensive behavioral quantification and statistical analysis.
Real-time video tracking compatibility
Synchronized automated detection with visual behavioral analysis through ConductVision integration for enhanced data validation.
No I/O boxes required
Simplified setup and reduced system complexity while maintaining full automated detection and data transmission capabilities.
SMS and email notification system
Remote monitoring capabilities allow researchers to track experimental progress and receive alerts for system status or data collection milestones.
Multi-chamber configuration options
Scalable system design supports simultaneous testing of multiple subjects for increased experimental throughput and statistical power.
Add-ons and modifications
| Add-on | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Odor Boxes | $500 | Digging Odor Kit comes with the following odors (500 Trials): - Nutmeg - Rosemary - Cinnamon - Clove - Red Thyme - Ginger - Vanilla - Lemon - Raffia - Foam |
| Odor Boxes | $500 | Digging Odor kit comes with the following odors (500 Trials): Nutmeg, Rosemary, Cinnamon, Clove, Red thyme, Ginger, Vanilla, Lemon, Raffia, Foam |
Add any of these to your quote request.
Sizes by model
| Measurement | Mouse | Rat |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 40 cm | 60 cm |
| Width | 40 cm | 60 cm |
| Height | 35 cm | 45 cm |
| Diameter holes | 3 cm | 5 cm |
- 16, 9, 4 floor Hole Board included in order
- 16 Nose poke detection cups included in your order
- Clear wall set is included in your order. Black and white wall sets are optional
Shipping weight
- 21.0 lb
Shipping box
- L: 43.2 cm
- W: 38.0 cm
- H: 27.9 cm
| Feature | This Product | Typical Alternative | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Detection Method | Infrared or capacitive sensors with automated digital recording | Manual video scoring or simple beam-break detection systems | Eliminates observer bias and provides precise temporal resolution for complex behavioral analysis. |
| Floor Configuration Options | Three interchangeable patterns (4, 9, 16 holes) included | Single fixed configuration requiring multiple apparatus purchases | Enables within-subject experimental designs and systematic complexity manipulation using one system. |
| Software Integration | Native Neuralynx and Ethovision compatibility with real-time tracking | Limited software support or proprietary analysis platforms | Seamless integration with established research workflows and comprehensive analysis capabilities. |
| Species Configurations | Dedicated mouse and rat versions with optimized dimensions | Single-size systems requiring adaptation for different species | Species-appropriate scaling ensures natural behavior expression and optimal detection sensitivity. |
| Setup Complexity | No I/O boxes required for operation | Multiple interface boxes and complex wiring configurations | Simplified installation reduces setup time and minimizes potential connection failures during experiments. |
| Environmental Modification | Modular wall system with clear, black, and white options | Fixed wall configurations or manual modification requirements | Enables systematic environmental manipulation for anxiety and cognitive testing paradigms. |
The Automated Hole Board combines automated detection precision with modular experimental flexibility, offering researchers standardized behavioral quantification across multiple testing paradigms. The system's integration capabilities and species-specific design optimize data quality while simplifying experimental workflows.
| Model | Size | SKU | Listed price | Status | Shipping box |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mouse | Length 40 cm · Width 40 cm · Height 35 cm · Diameter holes 3 cm | ME-4503/4504 (+1) | $3,490.00 | Available | 43.2 x 38.0 x 27.9 cm |
| Rat | Length 60 cm · Width 60 cm · Height 45 cm · Diameter holes 5 cm | ME-4503/4504 (+1) | $3,995.00 | Available | 43.2 x 38.0 x 27.9 cm |
Neuroscience
Assessing hippocampal-dependent spatial exploration patterns in transgenic mouse models to evaluate cognitive function and memory formation capabilities.
Behavioral Pharmacology
Quantifying dose-response effects of anxiolytic compounds on investigative behavior by measuring nose poke frequency and duration across treatment groups.
Learning and Memory
Evaluating spatial working memory through hole-specific exploration patterns and investigating habituation rates across multiple test sessions.
Anxiety and Depression
Measuring anxiety-related behaviors by analyzing exploratory activity patterns, with reduced exploration indicating heightened anxiety states.
Aging Research
Documenting age-related changes in exploratory motivation and spatial investigation strategies in longitudinal studies of cognitive decline.
Neurodegeneration
Monitoring progressive changes in exploratory behavior as functional biomarkers in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease models.
Practical Tips
Calibration
Test each nose poke sensor with a standardized probe before each experimental session to verify consistent detection thresholds.
Why: Environmental factors like humidity and temperature can affect sensor sensitivity over time.
Maintenance
Clean detection cups weekly with 70% ethanol and allow complete drying before reassembly to prevent sensor contamination.
Why: Residual cleaning solutions or moisture can interfere with infrared and capacitive detection accuracy.
Best Practices
Allow 10-minute habituation period before data collection begins to minimize neophobia effects on exploratory behavior.
Why: Initial anxiety responses to novel environments can mask natural exploration patterns and reduce data reliability.
Troubleshooting
If detecting false positives, check for loose floor connections and verify that sensor cups are properly seated in floor configurations.
Why: Mechanical vibrations from loose connections can trigger sensors without actual nose poke contact.
Data Quality
Synchronize video recording with automated detection to validate ambiguous nose poke events during data analysis.
Why: Visual confirmation helps distinguish genuine investigative behaviors from incidental contact events.
Best Practices
Randomize hole configurations across subjects and test days to prevent position bias in spatial exploration data.
Why: Animals may develop location preferences based on environmental cues rather than genuine exploratory motivation.
Safety
Ensure all electrical connections are secure and positioned away from animal access areas to prevent damage or safety hazards.
Why: Rodents may chew on exposed cables, creating safety risks and disrupting data collection during experiments.
Data Quality
Record ambient temperature and lighting conditions for each session as these factors can influence baseline activity levels.
Why: Environmental variables affect rodent behavior and should be documented for proper interpretation of exploration data.
Setup Guide
Unpack and Inspect Components
Remove all components including main apparatus, floor configurations (4, 9, 16 hole), 16 nose poke detection cups, and wall sets. Verify all parts against packing list.
Assemble Detection System
Install nose poke detection cups into selected floor configuration ensuring secure sensor connections. Connect infrared or capacitive sensor cables to detection interface.
Configure Wall System
Install clear wall set (standard) or optional black/white walls based on experimental protocol. Ensure secure mounting and proper escape prevention.
Establish Software Integration
Connect apparatus to Neuralynx or Ethovision software platform via provided interface. Configure detection parameters and spatial calibration settings.
Calibrate Detection Sensitivity
Test each nose poke sensor using standardized calibration protocol to ensure consistent detection threshold across all positions.
Validate System Performance
Conduct test session with known behavioral parameters to verify accurate detection, timing precision, and data transmission functionality.
Initialize Environmental Controls
Set up video tracking integration with ConductVision if required and configure notification systems for experimental monitoring.
What’s in the Box
- Main apparatus chamber (species-specific dimensions)
- Three floor configurations (16, 9, and 4 hole patterns)
- 16 automated nose poke detection cups
- Clear wall set (standard)
- Detection interface and sensor cables
- Software integration cables
- User manual and setup guide
- Calibration protocol documentation
Warranty
ConductScience provides a one-year manufacturer warranty covering all electronic components and detection systems, with comprehensive technical support for software integration and calibration procedures.
Compliance
ARRIVE Guidelines 2.0Supports standardized reporting of animal research by providing automated, quantitative behavioral data collection for transparent methodology documentation.
IACUC Protocol StandardsFacilitates compliance with institutional animal care protocols through automated monitoring that reduces handling stress and provides objective behavioral measurements.
FDA Good Laboratory Practice (GLP)Commonly used in regulated preclinical studies where automated data collection and audit trail capabilities support GLP documentation requirements.
Q
What is the detection accuracy of the nose poke sensors across different environmental conditions?
A
The infrared and capacitive sensors provide reliable detection under standard laboratory lighting and humidity conditions. Consult product datasheet for specific sensitivity specifications and environmental operating ranges.
Q
Can the apparatus accommodate juvenile or aged animals with different mobility characteristics?
A
Species-specific dimensions are optimized for adult animals. The 3cm (mouse) and 5cm (rat) hole diameters accommodate natural nose dimensions across age groups, though detection sensitivity may require adjustment for very young subjects.
Q
How does the system handle simultaneous nose pokes at multiple holes?
A
Each detection cup operates independently with individual sensor channels, enabling simultaneous detection and recording of multiple nose poke events with precise spatial and temporal resolution.
Q
What data formats are exported for statistical analysis?
A
The system integrates with Neuralynx and Ethovision platforms which support standard research data formats. Consult software documentation for specific export options and statistical analysis capabilities.
Q
How frequently does the detection system require calibration?
A
Regular calibration verification is recommended before each experimental session to ensure consistent detection thresholds. Full system calibration should be performed monthly or when environmental conditions change significantly.
Q
Can the hole configurations be modified beyond the standard 4, 9, and 16 patterns?
A
The system includes three standard configurations optimized for different experimental paradigms. Custom hole patterns may be available through special order, consult ConductScience for modification options.
Q
What is the maximum recording duration and data storage capacity?
A
Recording duration depends on the integrated software platform (Neuralynx or Ethovision). The apparatus itself provides continuous real-time data transmission without internal storage limitations.
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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