Axon MultiClamp 700A User manual

MultiClamp 700A
COMPUTER-CONTROLLED
MICROELECTRODE AMPLIFIER
Theory and Operation
Part Number 2500-129 Rev D November 2001 Printed in USA
Copyright 2000, 2001 Axon Instruments, Inc.
No part of this manual may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted,
in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, microfilming,
recording, or otherwise, without written permission from Axon Instruments, Inc.
QUESTIONS? See www.moldev.com for how to contact Axon Instruments, Inc.

i
Copyright, Verification, Warning, Disclaimer
COPYRIGHT
THE CIRCUITS AND INFORMATION IN THIS MANUAL ARE COPYRIGHTED
AND MUST NOT BE REPRODUCED IN ANY FORM WHATSOEVER WITHOUT
WRITTEN PERMISSION FROM AXON INSTRUMENTS, INC.
VERIFICATION
THIS INSTRUMENT IS EXTENSIVELY TESTED AND THOROUGHLY
CALIBRATED BEFORE LEAVING THE FACTORY. NEVERTHELESS,
RESEARCHERS SHOULD INDEPENDENTLY VERIFY THE BASIC ACCURACY
OF THE CONTROLS USING RESISTOR/CAPACITOR MODELS OF THEIR
ELECTRODES AND CELL MEMBRANES.
WARNING
IF THIS EQUIPMENT IS USED IN A MANNER NOT SPECIFIED BY THE
MANUFACTURER, THE PROTECTION PROVIDED BY THE EQUIPMENT MAY
BE IMPAIRED.
DISCLAIMER
THIS EQUIPMENT IS NOT INTENDED TO BE USED AND SHOULD NOT BE
USED IN HUMAN EXPERIMENTATION OR APPLIED TO HUMANS IN ANY
WAY.

ii •Declaration of Conformity
MultiClamp 700A Theory and Operation, Copyright 2000, 2001 Axon Instruments, Inc.
Declaration of Conformity
Manufacturer: Axon Instruments, Inc.
3280 Whipple Road
Union City, CA 94587
USA
Type of Equipment: Computer-Controlled Microelectrode Amplifier
Model Number: MultiClamp 700A
Year of Manufacture: 2000
Application of Council Directives:
EC EMC Directive 89/336/EEC as amended
EC Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC as amended
Harmonized Standards to which Conformity is Declared:
EMC: EN 55011: 1991 (CISPR11: 1992 Amd. 1 & 2: 1996) AS/NZS 2064: 1997
EN 50082-1: 1997
Safety: EN 61010-1: 2001
I, the undersigned, hereby declare that the equipment specified above conforms to the
above Directives and Standards.
Authorized Signature and Date: (Signature on file)

Important Information •iii
Important Information
DISCLAIMER
THIS EQUIPMENT IS NOT
INTENDED TO BE USED AND
SHOULD NOT BE USED IN HUMAN
EXPERIMENTATION OR APPLIED TO
HUMANS IN ANY WAY.
WARNING
IF THIS EQUIPMENT IS USED IN A
MANNER NOT SPECIFIED BY THE
MANUFACTURER, THE
PROTECTION PROVIDED BY THE
EQUIPMENT MAY BE IMPAIRED.
Power-Supply Voltage Selection
and Fuse Changing
Supply Voltage
The MultiClamp 700A can be
directly connected to all international
supply voltages. The input range is
from 100 to 240 V~. No range
switching is required. Alternatively,
the instrument can be powered by a
DC voltage of 120 to 310 V.
Changing the Fuse
The MultiClamp 700A uses a
250 V~, T2A, 5 x 20 mm fuse.
In the event of fuse failure,
disconnect the power cord.
Before changing the fuse investigate
the reason for its failure.
To change the fuse:
1. Disconnect the power cord.
2. Use a screwdriver or a similar
device to rotate the fuse holder
counterclock-wise.
3. Replace the fuse with another
fuse of the same rating.
4. Reconnect the power cord.
Basic Equipment Setup and Safety
1. Connections: Use the included
IEC power cord to connect the
instrument to a GROUNDED
power receptacle.
2. Mounting: Table or rack.
3. Assembly: The headstage
connects to the instrument
through the rear panel, 25 pin
D-sub connector marked
"Headstage".
4. Use: Do not operate this
equipment with covers or
panels removed.
5. Cleaning: Wipe the headstage
connector with a damp cloth to
clean salt spills. Avoid spilling
liquids on the headstage.
The Teflon input connector
should be kept very clean.
Effective cleaning can be done
by spraying with alcohol or
swabbing carefully with
deionized water. If possible,
avoid the use of Freon since it
is thought to be detrimental to
the environment.
Safe Environmental Conditions
1. Indoor use.
2. Mains supply fluctuations: not
to exceed ±10% of the nominal
voltage.
3. Temperature: between 5 ºC
and 40 ºC.
4. Altitude: up to 2000 m.
5. This instrument is designed to
be used under laboratory
conditions. Operate in a clean,
dry environment only. Do not
operate in a wet or damp
environment.
Static Precautions
The headstage can normally be
safely handled. However, if you are
in a laboratory where static is high
( i.e. , you hear and feel crackles
when you touch things), you should
touch a grounded metal object
immediately before touching the
headstage.
You should
not switch off power to
the MultiClamp 700A when handling
the headstage input since this will
upset the thermal equilibrium.
Shipping the MultiClamp 700A
The MultiClamp 700A is a solidly
built instrument designed to survive
shipping around the world.
However, in order to avoid damage
during shipping, the MultiClamp
700A must be properly packaged.
In general, the best way to package
the MultiClamp 700A is in the
original factory carton. If this is no
longer available, we recommend that
you carefully wrap the MultiClamp
700A in at least three inches (75
mm) of foam or "bubble-pack"
sheeting. The wrapped MultiClamp
700A should then be placed in a
sturdy cardboard carton. Mark the
outside of the box with the word
FRAGILE and an arrow showing
which way is up.
We do not recommend using loose
foam pellets to protect the
MultiClamp 700A. If the carton is
dropped by the shipper, there is a
good chance that the MultiClamp
700A will shift within the loose pellet
packaging and be damaged.
If you need to ship your MultiClamp
700A to another location, or back to
the factory, and you do not have a
means to adequately package it,
Axon Instruments can ship the
proper packaging material to you for
a small fee. This may seem like an
expense you would like to avoid, but
it is inexpensive compared to the
cost of repairing an instrument that
has sustained shipping damage.
It is your responsibility to package
the instrument properly before
shipping. If it is not, and it is
damaged, the shipper will not honor
your claim for compensation.

iv •Renseignments Importants
MultiClamp 700A Theory and Operation, Copyright 2000, 2001 Axon Instruments, Inc.
LIMITE DE RESPONSABILITE
CE MATERIEL N'A PAS ETE CONCU POUR
DES EXPERIENCES SUR LES ETRES
HUMAINS; ET NE DOIT DONC PAS ETRE
UTILISE A CETTE FIN.
ATTENTION
L'EMPLOI DE CE MATERIEL D'UNE
MANIERE DIFFERENTE A CELLE
SPECIFIEE PAR LE FABRICANT
AFFECTERA LE NIVEAU DE PROTECTION
FOURNIT PAR L'APPAREIL.
Sélection du voltage et changement du
fusible
Voltage d'alimentation
Le MultiClamp 700A peut être directement
branché sur toutes alimentations
comprises entre 100 et 240 V~. Aucun
changement n'est nécessaire afin de
sélectioner le voltage de l’appareil. En
outre, l'appareil peut être aussi alimenté en
courant continu (DC) de 120 à 310 V.
Changement du fusible
Le MultiClamp 700A emploie un fusible de
250 V~, T2A, 5 ×20 mm.
En cas de rupture du fusible, débrancher la
prise de courant.
Avant de changer le fusible, chercher la
raison de la panne.
Pour changer le fusible:
1. Débrancher la prise de courant.
2. A l'aide d'un tournevis ou autre outil
de ce genre, faire tourner le support
du fusible dans le sens opposé des
aiguilles d'une montre.
3. Remplacer le fusible par un fusible de
même valeur.
4. Rebrancher la prise de courant.
Installation du matériel et sécurité
1. Branchement: Employer le fil
electrique IEC fourni pour brancher
l'appareil a une prise de courant
comprenant UNE TERRE.
2. Pose: Table ou rack.
3. Montage: La tête de l'amplificateur
(“headstage”) est connectée à
l'appareil sur le panneau arrière, par
l'intermediere d'une prise D-sub à 25
fiches portant l'indication
“Headstage”.
4. Emploi: Ne pas utiliser ce matériel
sans son couvercle et ne pas le
couvrir lors de son utilisation.
5. Nettoyage: Essuyer la prise du
“headstage” avec un linge humide
pour nettoyer les traces de sel. Eviter
de renverser des liquides sur le
“headstage”.
La prise d'entrée en Téflon doit être
maintenue trés propre. Un nettoyage
efficace consiste à vaporiser de
l'alcool ou á essuyer soigneusement
avec de l'eau désionisée Si possible,
éviter l'emploi de Fréon, ce produit
étant considéré comme nuisible pour
l'environnement.
Conditions à respecter pour un emploi
sans danger
1. Emploi à l'intérieur.
2. Fluctuations du réseaux
d'alimentation: ne doivent pas
dépasser ±10% de la tension
nominale.
3. Température: entre 5 °C et 40 °C.
4. Altitude: jusqu'à 2000 m.
5. Cet appareil a été étudié pour l'emploi
en laboratoire et il doit être situé dans
un environnement sec et propre. Ne
pas l'utiliser dans un environnement
mouillé ou humide.
Précautions statiques
Le “headstage” peut être maniée sans
danger. Cependant, dans un laboratoire
avec un niveau élevé d'electricité statique
(c'est-à-dire lorsque vous sentez et voyez
des décharges électriques), touchez un
objet métallique pour une mise à la terre
avant de toucher le “headstage”.
Ne pas d'ébrancher le MultiClamp 700A
lors de la manipulation de l'entrée du
“headstage”, ceci risque de déranger son
équilibre thermique.
Expédition du MultiClamp 700A
Le MultiClamp 700A est un appareil de
construction robuste, étudié en vue
d'expéditions dans le monde entier.
Cependant, l'appareil doit être
correctement emballé pour éviter tout
domage pendant son transport.
En général, la meilleure façon d'emballer le
MultiClamp 700A est de le mettre dans
son carton d'origine. Si celui-ci n'est plus
disponible, il est recommandé
d'envelopper soigneusement le MultiClamp
700A dans au moins trois inches (75 mm)
de mousse ou de feuilles d'emballage à
bulles. Le MultiClamp 700A ainsi protégé
devra alors être placé dans un carton
solide. Indiquer la mention FRAGILE sur
l'extérieur de la boîte ainsi qu'une flèche
vers le haut montrant la position verticale.
Il n'est pas recommandé d'employer des
boulettes de mousse pour protéger le
MultiClamp 700A. En cas de chute de la
boîte durant son transport, le MultiClamp
700A pourrait se déplacer à l'intérieur et
être endommagé.
Si vous devez expédier le MultiClamp
700A à un autre endroit, ou le renvoyer au
fabricant, et si les matériaux d'emballage
nécessaires corrects ne sont pas
disponibles, ces derniers peuvent être
obtenus chez Axon Instruments pour un
prix minime. Bien que ceci puisse sembler
être une dépense que vous pourriez éviter,
elle est cependant insignificante en
comparaison à celle que coûterait la
réparation d'un appareil endommagé
pendant le transport.
La responsabilité vous incombe de bien
emballer l'appareil avant son expédition.
Si ceci n'est pas fait, le transporteur ne
pourra pas satisfaire vos réclamation de
compensation en cas d'avaries.

Wichtige Informationen •v
Wichtige Informationen
UNZULÄSSIGE VERWENDUNG
DIESER APPARAT IST NICHT
VORGESEHEN, BEI MENSCHLICHEN
VERSUCHEN VERWENDET ZU WERDEN
UND AUCH NICHT AN MENSCHEN IN
IRGENDEINERWEISE ANWENDBAR.
WARNUNG
WEN DIESER APPARAT IN EINER ART
UND WEISE ANGEWENDET WIRD, DIE
NICHT VOM HERSTELLER SPEZIFISCH
ERWÄHNT WIRD, KANN DIE
SCHUTZVORRICHTUNG DES APPARATES
BEEINTRÄCHTIGT WERDEN.
Spannungswahl für die Stromversorgung
und Auswechseln der Sicherung
Netzspannung
Der MultiClamp 700A kann direkt an alle
internationalen Netzspannungen
angeschlossen werden. Die
Eingangsspannung reicht von 100 bis 240
V~. Ein Umschalten des
Spannungsbereichs ist nicht erforderlich.
Das Instrument kann auch mit
Gleichstromspannungen von 120 bis 310
V betrieben werden.
Auswechseln der Sicherung
Der MultiClamp 700A verwendet eine
250V~, T2A, 5 x 20 mm Sicherung.
Im Falle des Ausfalls der Sicherung das
Netzkabel ausschalten.
Vor dem Auswechseln der Sicherung den
Grund für ihren Ausfall untersuchen.
Schritte zum Auswechseln der Sicherung:
1. Das Netzkabel ausschalten.
2. Die Fassung der Sicherung mit einem
Schraubenzieher oder einem
ähnlichen Werkzeug entgegen dem
Uhrzeiger drehen.
3. Die Sicherung mit einer anderen
Sicherung mit gleicher Nennleistung
ersetzen.
4. Das Netzkabel wieder anschließen.
Grundlegende Hinweise zu Installation
und Sicherheit der Ausrüstung
1. Netz- und Erdungsanschlüsse: Das
Instrument mit dem beigefügten IEC
Netzkabel an einen Erdungsschalter
anschließen.
2. Anbringung: Tisch oder
Rahmengestell.
3. Montage: Der Vorverstärker
(“headstage”) wird über einen mit der
Aufschrift “Headstage”
gekennzeichneten 25 Pin D-
Unterstecker an der Rückwand des
Instrumentes verbunden.
4. Gebrauch: Dieser Apparat darf nicht
mit abgenommenen Abdeckungen
oder Platten in Betrieb gesetzt
werden.
5. Reinigung: Zur Reinigung von
verschüttetem Salz den
Vorverstärkeranschluß mit einem
feuchten Tuch abwischen. Das
Verschütten von Flüssigkeiten auf
den “headstage” ist zu vermeiden.
Der Teflon-Eingangsstecker sollte in
sehr sauberem Zustand gehalten
werden. Durch Besprühen mit
Alkohol oder vorsichtigem Abtupfen
mit entionisiertem Wasser ist eine
wirksame Reinigung möglich. Die
Benutzung von Freon ist nach
Möglichkeit zu vermeiden, da diese
Substanz als umweltschädigend
angesehen wird.
Umweltsichere Betriebsbedingungen
1. Verwendung in Innenräumen.
2. Netzschwankungen: darf nicht
±10% der Nennspannung
überschreiten.
3. Temperatur: zwischen 5 °C und
40 °C.
4. Höhe: bis zu 2000 m.
5. Dieses Instrument ist für den
Gebrauch unter Laborbedingungen
vorgesehen. Nur in sauberer,
trockener Umgebung in Betrieb
setzen. Nicht in nasser oder feuchter
Umgebung in Betrieb setzen.
Schutzmaßnahmen gegen statische
Aufladung
Der “headstage” kann normalerweise
sicher gehandhabt werden. Falls Sie sich
jedoch in einem Labor mit höher statischer
Aufladung befinden (
D.h. Sie hören und
fühlen beim Berühren von Objekten ein
Knacken), sollten Sie unmittelbar vor dem
Berühren der “headstage” ein geerdetes
Objekt aus Metall anfassen.
Bei Handhabung des
Vorverstärkereingangs sollten Sie die
Stromzufuhr zum MultiClamp 700A
nicht
abschalten, um das
Temperaturgleichgewicht nicht zu stören.
Versand des MultiClamp 700A
Bei dem MultiClamp 700A handelt es sich
um ein solide gebautes Instrument, das
beim weltweiten Versand keinen Schaden
nehmen sollte. Um jedoch
Versandschäden zu verhindern, muß der
MultiClamp 700A ordnungsgemäß
verpackt werden.
Im allgemeinen läßt sich der MultiClamp
700A am besten im Originalkarton des
Werks verpacken. Ist dieser nicht mehr
vorhanden, empfehlen wir, den MultiClamp
700A vorsichtig in mindestens 75 mm
starkem Schaumstoff oder
Bubblepackungen einzuwickeln. Der so
eingewickelte MultiClamp 700A sollte
dann in einen festen Pappkarton gesetzt
werden. Die Außenseite des Kartons ist
mit dem Worten ZERBRECHLICH
(FRAGILE) und einem Pfeil, der auf die
Oberseite des Kartons weist, zu
kennzeichnen.
Sollte der Karton vom Spediteur
fallengelassen werden, besteht eine gute
Möglichkeit, daß der MultiClamp 700A
innerhalt der losen
Schaumstoffkugelverpackung bewegt wird
und dadurch beschädigt werden kann.
Wenn Sie den MultiClamp 700A an einen
anderen Ort oder zurück ans Werk senden
müssen und Ihnen kein angemessenes
Verpackungsmaterial zur Verfügung
stehen, kann Axon Instruments Ihnen das
geeignete Verpackungsmaterial gegen eine
kleine Gebühr zustellen. Sie mögen dies
zwar als unnötige Zusatzkosten
betrachten, doch ist dieser Aufwand im
Vergleich zu den Reparaturkosten fur ein
während des Transports beschädigtes
Instrument gering.
Sie sind selbst für das richtige Verpacken
des Instruments vor dem Versand
verantwortlich. Bei einer nicht
ordnungsgemäßen Verpackung, die eine
Beschädigung zur Folge hat, wird der
Spediteur ihren Schadensersatzanspruch
nicht anerkennen.

vi •Informacion Importante
MultiClamp 700A Theory and Operation, Copyright 2000, 2001 Axon Instruments, Inc.
LÍMITE DE RESPONSABILIDADES
ESTE EQUIPO NO ESTÁ DISEÑADO PARA
USO EN HUMANOS Y NO DEBE USARSE
PARA EXPERIMENTACIÓN O APLICACIÓN
EN SERES HUMANOS BAJO NINGUNA
CIRCUNSTANCIA.
ADVERTENCIA
SI ESTE EQUIPO SE USA DE MANERA NO
ESPECIFICADA POR EL FABRICANTE SE
PODRÍA PERDER LA PROTECCIÓN
PROVISTA POR EL EQUIPO.
Selección del suministro de corriente y
cambio de fusibles
Voltaje de entrada
El MultiClamp 700A puede conectarse
directamente a todos los suministros de
energía. El límite de voltaje va entre 100 y
240 V~. No es necesario efectuar
cambios en el selector. Además, el
instrumento puede ser alimentado a partir
de una fuente de corriente continua con
voltajes entre 120 y 310 V.
Cambio de fusible
El MultiClamp 700A utiliza un fusible de
250 V~, T2A, 5 ×20 mm.
En el caso de que un fusible falle,
desconecte el cordón eléctrico.
Antes de cambiar el fusible investigue la
causa de la falla.
Para cambiar el fusible:
1. Desconecte el cordón eléctrico.
2. Use un destornillador o un dispositivo
similar para girar el portafusibles en
sentido contrario al de las manecillas
del reloj.
3. Reemplace el fusible existente con
otro de la misma capacidad.
4. Conecte nuevamente el cordón
eléctrico.
Instalación básica y seguridad del
equipo
1. Suministro de corriente y conexión a
tierra: Use el cordón eléctrico IEC
incluido para conectar el instrumento
a una toma de corriente CON
CONEXIÓN A TIERRA.
2. Montaje: Sobre una mesa o en un
estante.
3. Ensamblaje: El cabezal
(“headstage”) se conecta al
instrumento en el tablero posterior
con el conector de 25 clavijas D-sub,
marcado “Headstage” .
4. Uso: No utilice este equipo sin las
cubiertas o paneles.
5. Limpieza: Limpie el conector del
“headstage” con un paño húmedo a
fin de quitar los derrames de sales.
Evite derramar líquidos sobre el
“headstage”.
El conector de entrada fabricado de
Teflon debe mantenerse muy limpio.
Puede hacerse una limpieza efectiva
rociando con alcohol o con un
algodón humedecido con agua
desionizada. En la medida de lo
posible evite el uso del gas freón,
puesto que es dañino para el medio
ambiente.
Condiciones de seguridad ambiental
1. Para uso interior.
2. Fluctuaciones eléctricas en la fuente
de suministro: no deben exceder
±10% del voltaje nominal.
3. Temperatura: entre 5 °C y 40 °C.
4. Altitud: hasta 2.000 m
5. Este instrumento está diseñado para
ser usado en condiciones de
laboratorio. Debe operarse
únicamente en un ambiente limpio y
seco. No lo use en un ambiente
húmedo ni mojado.
Precauciones contra la estática
El “headstage” puede manejarse con
seguridad, bajo condiciones normales.
Sinembargo, si usted se encuentra en un
laboratorio donde la estática es alta (por
ejemplo, si escucha y percibe chispas
cuando toca los objetos), usted debería
tocar inmediatamente un objeto metálico
que esté en contacto con tierra, antes de
tocar el “headstage”.
No apague el interruptor principal del
MultiClamp 700A cuando manipule la
entrada del “headstage” ya que esto
afectará el equilibrio térmico.
Envío del MultiClamp 700A
El MultiClamp 700A es un instrumento de
construcción sólida, diseñado para
soportar el transporte a cualquier parte del
mundo. Sinembargo, para evitar los
daños que pudieran ocurrir durante su
envío, el MultiClamp 700A debe
empacarse adecuadamente.
En general, la mejor manera de empacar el
MultiClamp 700A es en la caja original de
fábrica. Si ésta ya no se encuentra
disponible, le recomendamos que
envuelva cuidadosamente el MultiClamp
700A en una funda o sábana de espuma o
de “empaque de burbujas” con un espesor
mínimo de 3 pulgadas (75 mm). El
MultiClamp 700A, envuelto así, deberá
colocarse en una caja de cartón
resistente. Marque el exterior de la caja
con la palabra FRÁGIL y una flecha que
indique la posición hacia arriba.
No recomendamos el uso de bolitas de
espuma sueltas para proteger el
MultiClamp 700A. Si la caja se cae
accidentalmente durante el transporte, es
muy probable que el MultiClamp 700A se
desplace dentro del contenedor con las
bolitas de espuma sueltas y se dañe.
Si necesita enviar su MultiClamp 700A a
otra localidad, o de regreso a la fábrica, y
no posee el empaque adecuado, Axon
Instruments puede enviarle el material
necesario por un cargo mínimo. Esto
podría parecerle un gasto superfluo que
preferiría evitar, pero es económico
comparado con lo que costaría la
reparación de un instrumento que ha
sufrido daños durante el envío.
Es su responsabilidad empacar el
instrumento adecuadamente antes de
enviarlo. Si no lo hace así y resulta
dañado, el transportista no será
responsable ni aceptará su reclamo de
indemnización.

Table of Contents •vii
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION .............................................................................1
CHAPTER 2: INSTALLATION AND BASIC OPERATION ...............................3
Installation .................................................................................................................3
Check List..............................................................................................................3
Installing Hardware ...............................................................................................4
Installing the MultiClamp Commander .................................................................4
Functional Checkout..................................................................................................6
Communication with the MultiClamp 700A .........................................................6
Setting Parameters in the MultiClamp Commander ..............................................6
Toolbar Buttons in the MultiClamp Commander..................................................8
Test the Noise ........................................................................................................9
Calibration ...........................................................................................................10
Getting Help in the MultiClamp Commander .....................................................11
CHAPTER 3: USING THE MULTICLAMP 700A – TUTORIALS...................13
Check List................................................................................................................13
Tutorial 1 – Electrode in the Bath: Voltage Clamp .................................................14
Tutorial 2 – Electrode in the Bath: Current Clamp..................................................17
Tutorial 3 – Giga Seal Configuration ......................................................................18
Tutorial 4 – Whole-Cell Configuration: Voltage Clamp.........................................23
Tutorial 5 – Whole-Cell Configuration: Current Clamp .........................................27

viii •Table of Contents
MultiClamp 700A Theory and Operation, Copyright 2000, 2001 Axon Instruments, Inc.
CHAPTER 4: A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO ELECTROPHYSIOLOGICAL
RECORDING USING THE MULTICLAMP 700A ....................31
General Advice........................................................................................................32
Chamber Design ..................................................................................................32
Interfacing a Computer........................................................................................34
Patch Clamping .......................................................................................................35
Headstage and Holder Considerations.................................................................35
Forming a Gigaseal..............................................................................................36
Whole-cell Voltage Clamp Recording ................................................................39
Perforated-patch Recording.................................................................................42
Low Noise Techniques ........................................................................................43
Sharp Microelectrode Recording.............................................................................47
Sharp Microelectrode or Patch Electrode? ..........................................................48
Microelectrode Properties ...................................................................................48
Filling Solutions ..................................................................................................52
Impaling Cells .....................................................................................................52
CHAPTER 5: REFERENCE SECTION................................................................55
Audio Monitor.........................................................................................................56
Bath Headstage and Electrodes ...............................................................................60
Bridge Balance ........................................................................................................63
Buzz.........................................................................................................................66
Capacitance Compensation......................................................................................67
Capacitance Neutralization......................................................................................73
Clear ........................................................................................................................76
Electrochemistry......................................................................................................77
External Command Inputs.......................................................................................79
Feedback Resistor....................................................................................................81
Filters.......................................................................................................................83
Grounding and Hum................................................................................................87
Headstage ................................................................................................................89
Help .........................................................................................................................94
Holders ....................................................................................................................95

Table of Contents •ix
Table of Contents
Input/Output Connections .......................................................................................99
Leak Subtraction....................................................................................................102
Mode......................................................................................................................104
Model Cell .............................................................................................................105
Noise......................................................................................................................107
Oscilloscope Triggering ........................................................................................110
Output Zero ...........................................................................................................111
Overload ................................................................................................................112
Polarity Conventions .............................................................................................113
Power Supply.........................................................................................................115
Select Device .........................................................................................................116
Series Resistance Compensation ...........................................................................117
SoftPanel Configuration ........................................................................................130
Status .....................................................................................................................131
Zap.........................................................................................................................132
CHAPTER 6: TROUBLESHOOTING ................................................................133
CHAPTER 7: SPECIFICATIONS .......................................................................135
REFERENCES ........................................................................................................141
WARRANTY AND REPAIR SERVICE...............................................................143
SHIPPING................................................................................................................145
INDEX ......................................................................................................................149

Introduction •1
Chapter 1
Chapter 1
Introduction
The MultiClamp 700A is a computer-controlled microelectrode current and voltage
clamp amplifier for electrophysiology and electrochemistry. It is a versatile instrument
capable of single-channel and whole-cell voltage clamping, current clamping, ion-
selective electrode recording, voltammetry and amperommetry.
The design of the MultiClamp 700A allows it to support one or two headstages (CV-
7A), each of which contains circuitry that is virtually equivalent to an Axopatch-1D
and the “bridge” mode of an Axoclamp 2B. Each CV-7A headstage contains a current-
to-voltage converter for patch voltage clamp and a voltage follower for current clamp.
This allows the user to remotely switch between low-noise patch-clamp recording
(using the Axopatch-like headstage circuit) and true, fast current-clamp recording
(using the Axoclamp-like headstage circuit). With two headstages the MultiClamp
700A effectively provides four amplifiers in one unit.
The MultiClamp 700A is essentially an analog in/analog out instrument, like
conventional amplifiers by Axon Instruments. Thus, BNC-type input and output
connections to communicate with a digitizing interface, oscilloscope or other recording
device are no different than conventional amplifiers. The MultiClamp 700A, however,
dispenses with the usual array of front panel knobs and switches. Instead, the
instrument is operated using a control panel program, the MultiClamp Commander,
which runs on a host computer and communicates with the amplifier via a serial cable
(though USB-to-serial converters are available).

2 •Introduction
MultiClamp 700A Theory and Operation, Copyright 2000, 2001 Axon Instruments, Inc.
The MultiClamp Commander allows much greater functionality, without the limits
imposed by the amount of space available on the front panel for knobs and switches.
Also, computer control permits “smart” features, such as automatic capacitance
compensation and automatic bridge balance. Telegraph information, performed
through software messaging, includes Gain, Filter and Capacitance, as well as other
useful information such as Scaling Factors and recording Mode.
The Commander interface is completely independent of other software. Thus, the
MultiClamp 700A can be used with any data acquisition package. It is, of course,
compatible with all Digidata series digitizers and with pCLAMP 7 (and above)
software. (However, telegraphing is only supported in pCLAMP versions 8 and
higher.) For third-party software, see our webpage “Developer Info” for a detailed
Software Development Kit that describes how to read telegraph information.
We recognize that software control of an amplifier is an unusual step forward for some
users. If computer mouse control is unsettling, consider the optional SoftPanel device
to control the MultiClamp 700A. The SoftPanel is essentially a hardware extension of
the MultiClamp Commander software. Knobs and buttons replace the mouse “glider”
and clicks. For more information, visit our website or call Axon Technical Support.
The MultiClamp 700A is a sophisticated instrument. Experienced and inexperienced
researchers alike are advised to read this manual thoroughly and to familiarize
themselves with the instrument using model electrodes (i.e. resistors) and model cells
(i.e. parallel RC circuits) before attempting experiments with real microelectrodes and
cells. PATCH -1U model cells are provided for performing the Functional Checkout
(see page 6), and Tutorials (see page 13).
We will be pleased to answer any questions regarding the theory and use of the
MultiClamp 700A. Any comments and suggestions on the use and design of the
MultiClamp 700A will be much appreciated. We welcome reprints of papers
describing work performed with the MultiClamp 700A. Keeping abreast of research
performed helps us to design our instruments to be of maximum usefulness to those
who use them.

Installation and Basic Operation •3
Chapter 2
Chapter 2
Installation and Basic Operation
Installation
Carefully unpack all parts, retaining packing materials in case the instrument needs to
be returned to the factory. Use the enclosed shipping list to verify that all parts have
been received.
For the initial checkout, the MultiClamp 700A should be situated on a bench top away
from other equipment. Do not install it in a rack until the checkout is complete.
Check List
These installation and checkout procedures require the following:
1. MultiClamp 700A main unit.
2. Two CV-7A headstages (the MultiClamp 700A with one headstage is optional).
3. Serial control cable (RS232 null modem) and DB9 to DB25 adapter (if necessary).
4. MultiClamp Commander host software (from CD or website).
5. A PC running Windows 95, 98, 2000 or NT, with the display set to at least 800 x
600. The PC should have one spare serial port (USB-to-serial converters

4 •Installation and Basic Operation
MultiClamp 700A Theory and Operation, Copyright 2000, 2001 Axon Instruments, Inc.
available). In order to use on-line Help, the PC should have Internet access and a
web browser with JavaScript (Internet Explorer v. 4 or later, or equivalent).
Installing Hardware
1. Connect one end of the RS232 “Null Modem” cable to the RS232 IN connector on
the MultiClamp 700A main unit and the other end to a free serial port on your PC.
Use the DB9 to DB25 adapter if the computer port is a 9-pin type.
2. Connect the CV-7A headstages to HEADSTAGE 1 and HEADSTAGE 2 rear
panel connectors.
3. Power up the MultiClamp 700A. The front panel POWER light (light emitting
diode or LED) should illuminate, as well as either the VOLTAGE CLAMP or
CURRENT CLAMP LED for each channel.
Installing the MultiClamp Commander
1. Run the MultiClamp Commander installer. This will install all necessary files into
a directory (‘Axon\MultiClamp1’) on your hard drive and generate a shortcut on
your desktop.
2. Run MULTICLAMP.EXE by double clicking on the MultiClamp icon on the
desktop. The first time the program is run the following panel will appear:
Figure 1.1

Installation and Basic Operation •5
Chapter 2
3. Ensure that the MultiClamp Hardware option is selected. Set Serial Port: to the
number of the port to which the serial cable is connected (COM1 - 4). If you are
not sure about the port number, continue to the next step.
4. Figure 1.2Press the Scan button; the program will look for the correct Device
Number. (This value is set using the rotary switch on the back of the MultiClamp
700A; default setting is 1.)
5. If the program is unable to find a
valid Device Number, try the
following:
• Select a different Serial Port
and try scanning again.
• Check that the MultiClamp
700A is switched on and that
the serial cable is connected
properly.
6. Press the OK button; the main
MultiClamp Commander window
should appear. If installed
correctly, the COM port and
Device number appear in the
Commander window heading, but
NOT the word “Demo”.
Note: If you are using the optional
SoftPanel instrument, refer to the
specific installation instructions
mailed with that device.

6 •Installation and Basic Operation
MultiClamp 700A Theory and Operation, Copyright 2000, 2001 Axon Instruments, Inc.
Functional Checkout
The purpose of this section is to quickly check the correct operation of the MultiClamp
700A and to briefly describe the basic controls of the MultiClamp Commander. With
this information and the On-line Help, the experienced researcher should be able to
work comfortably with the features of the amplifier. However, we recommended that
the Tutorials (see page 13) and Calibration procedure (see page 10) be followed for
maximum benefit.
Communication with the MultiClamp 700A
1. Check that the STATUS LED on the front of the MultiClamp 700A is flashing.
This indicates that the MultiClamp Commander is polling the MultiClamp 700A,
updating its meter displays.
2. Toggle the Channel 1 Mode and Channel 2 Mode buttons, switching repeatedly
between Voltage Clamp (VC) and Current Clamp (I=0, IC) modes:
Figure 1.3
The tabs immediately below the mode switches will change appropriately. Also, the
VOLTAGE CLAMP and CURRENT CLAMP indicator lights on the front panel of
the MultiClamp 700A should switch correctly, confirming that the amplifier is
changing mode.
Setting Parameters in the MultiClamp Commander
Many parameter fields in the MultiClamp Commander can be set in three different
ways. To demonstrate this, press the V-Clamp 1 tab and try the following.

Installation and Basic Operation •7
Chapter 2
1. Glider control
• Position the cursor over the parameter field to the right of Holding, noting that
the cursor changes to a vertical double-headed arrow ( ). Hold down the
left mouse button and drag the mouse up and down; the holding potential
changes in 1 mV steps.
• Press the Shift key while dragging the mouse; the holding potential changes in
10 mV steps.
• Press the Ctrl key while dragging the mouse; the holding potential changes in
100 mV steps.
• Position the cursor over the button with the black dot (dual control) to the right
of Cp Fast, noting that the cursor changes to crossed double-headed arrows
(). Holding down the left mouse button and dragging the mouse vertically
changes the capacitance parameter (pF), while dragging horizontally changes
the time constant parameter (τs). Simultaneously pressing the Shift or Ctrl key
magnifies the effect 10-fold and
100-fold, respectively.
2. Entering text directly
• Position the cursor over the parameter field to the right of Holding and double
click. Type a number, and then press Enter.
Figure 1.4
3. Selecting from a list
• Position the cursor over the frequency parameter to the right of Seal Test and
press the right mouse button. A list of possible frequencies is displayed, one
of which can be selected by a mouse click.
Figure 1.5

8 •Installation and Basic Operation
MultiClamp 700A Theory and Operation, Copyright 2000, 2001 Axon Instruments, Inc.
• Repeat for the parameter Command Potential shown to the right of Raw
Output in the Output Signals section. In this case a text list of possible output
signals is displayed, selectable by a mouse click.
Figure 1.6
Toolbar Buttons in the MultiClamp Commander
At the top of the MultiClamp Commander main window is a row of toolbar buttons
that provide access to a number of special features.
Figure 1.7
Positioning the mouse cursor over each button will, after a short delay, display a Tool
Tip for the button. Most are self-explanatory, with the possible exception of the Save
Configuration ( ), Load Configuration ( ) and Quick Select buttons ( ).
These buttons allow the user to store and retrieve parameter settings for the
MultiClamp Commander. The Quick Select buttons can be assigned to a particular set
of parameter settings to facilitate rapid loading. This might be useful for experiments
that require different configurations, or when several users share the same recording
setup.
Quick Select buttons are assigned as follows.
1. After setting the MultiClamp Commander parameters to the desired values,
press the Save Settings toolbar button. Use the Save Settings dialog to enter a
file name and directory. The file name is given the extension MCC (for
MultiClamp Commander file).