Introduction

Since temporal measurements and error scoring are the key variables monitored during maze-based experiments, the RAPC System is designed to eliminate the need for visual monitoring and manual scoring by the attending observer, resulting in more reliable and accurate data collection.

Automated Chamber Description

The “RAPC” consists of a rectangular acrylic chamber with the ‘start house’ and reward compartment at opposite ends. The chamber is divided into five compartments of equal size separated by four transparent panels, each equipped with three electronically monitored one way doors.

RAPC Features:

• Highly sensitive door sensors detect even minute door motion.
• Automated data collection results in high data accuracy.
• Acrylic construction allows for easy animal observation.
• Local electronic controller provides clear operator instruction.
• Single personal computer can collect data from up to 15 chambers operating simultaneously.
• RAPC Edit™ software application is used to design and configure the experiments.
• RAPC Experiment™ application controls the experiment flow and data collection.
• Experiment data is stored in tab delimited text file ready to be imported into Excel or similar program for analysis.
• RAPC Graph™ (under development) application presents experiment data in a graphical format.