Equipment Preparation for CMOS-HD-MEA Experimentation

Before starting chip preparation, designate transfer pipettes for various tasks. Fill the well of the micro electrode array or MEA chip with 190 proof ethanol so that the bottom of the chip well is completely covered. Let the ethanol sit for 30 to 60 seconds, then remove it with a discard pipette.

Fill the well of the MEA chip with aCSF and remove it with a discard pipette to rinse residual ethanol out of the chip well. Then, add aCSF, and let it stand for at least 30 seconds. Before docking the MEA chip, wet an anti-static wipe with 190 proof ethanol, and use it to wipe the chip's pins.

Gently slide the MEA chip into the MEA platform and engage the docking mechanism to lock the chip into place. Check the recording and reference electrodes for bubbles. If bubbles are present, take a clean paintbrush, and lightly sweep over the electrodes to remove them.

Check the chip for noise using the CMOS HD-MEA software, and visually scan the false color map for bubbles, non-biological oscillations, or spikes caused by electrical interference. Ground the MEA system appropriately to negate any encountered noise.