TEC Series Amplifier – Oocyte recording
The TEC series comprises high-performance dual-electrode amplifiers designed for the study of high-amplitude transmembrane currents (oocytes, invertebrate neurons, muscle cells, neuromuscular junctions, giant squid axons). Based on a separate potential/current electrode architecture, these devices offer full compensation of the injected current, ultra-stable PI (Proportional-Integral) control and advanced compensation of series resistances for fast, accurate measurements in voltage clamp (VC) and current clamp (CC) modes. The TECs incorporate electronic protection, automatic functions and digital I/O conditioning, making them reliable for demanding protocols and compatible with most acquisition systems.
Features of theTEC Series Amplifier – Oocyte recording
General (all TEC models)
- Dual-electrode technology (current/potential separation) for ultra-fast VC & CC recordings.
- Full compensation of injected current; no virtual mass required.
- PI controller for voltage clamp mode stabilisation and fast switching.
- Built-in automatic functions and protection circuits.
- Versatile I/O conditioning and telegraph outputs compatible with acquisition systems.
- Low frequency mode (10 Hz) available for multiple recordings.
- Compatible with microelectrodes and patch pipettes depending on configuration.
- Options and modules available (software interfaces, DHC extensions, VCcCC, etc.).
TEC-03X specifications
- Designed for accurate VC and DC recordings with PI controller.
- Automated measurement tests and electrode resistance cancellation.
- Digital displays for current, potential and electrode resistance.
- Double Bessel filtering (4-pole filter optional).
- Oscillation Shut-Off mode to protect the membrane in the event of overcompensation.
- Optional interface for CellWork©.
TEC-10CX specifications
- Optimised for oocyte electrophysiology; ultra-fast amplifier (among the fastest on the market).
- VC output limiting and precise control of filters and integrator.
- Enhanced series compensation for ultra-precise VC circuit tuning.
- Integrated 4-pole Bessel filters.
- Standard output range for oocyte systems: ±150 V (other ranges available on request).
TEC-05X specifications
- Ideal for medium-sized cells (invertebrate neurons, muscle cells, neuromuscular junction).
- Can be used with microelectrodes and patch pipettes (whole cell, perforated patch).
- Bridge mode for total cancellation of series resistance and electrode potential in single-electrode recording.
- Buzz (easy penetration) and Electrode Clear (tip cleaning) functions, activated by switch or foot pedal.
- Oscillation Shut-Off mode for membrane protection.
- Digital current/potential/resistance displays.
- Standard output range: ±15 V (other ranges on request).
- Options available: DHC (Dynamic Hybrid Clamp) and VCcCC (Voltage-Clamp controlled Current-Clamp).
Other points and options
- TEC-10SQ: dedicated configuration for giant squid axon (adapted ranges/performance).
- 2/4-pole Bessel filtering depending on model and options.
- Software and hardware compatibility with most acquisition systems and external interfaces.
- Numerous software/hardware protections to limit cell damage during aggressive procedures.