Passive Electrical Rotary Joints – 12 contacts

We have developed a passive Electrical Rotary Joint usable for electrophysiological experiments that can be combined with fiber-optic rotary joints (1×1 or 1×2) to bring light to and/or from the sample. Its 7.2 mm through hole in the center is sufficient for passing fiberoptic patch cords with M3 connectors or ferrule/sleeve type connectors. It is also convenient for fluid tubing allowing drugs administration during electrophysiological experiments with freely-moving animals. Our Electrical Rotary Joint has a torque of 1.8 mN·m for 12 electrical contacts, this is acceptable for use with rats or larger animals. They are optimized to offer the best electric signal with the lowest torque, given that stable electrical transmission with small resistivity variations during rotation requires the increase of contact areas between each electrical contact. For small animals like mice, we recommend our Assisted Electrical Rotary Joints to remove the torque originating from the friction of the electrical contacts.