Overview #

Click to view CAD model

This is the documentation for building and using a nosepoke. This project was developed in the Karpova Lab at HHMI’s Janelia Research Campus for use in rodent behavioral experiments.

Features #

Useful interface for rat

• Controllable overhead LED for lighting up the inside of the nosepoke
• Infrared beam break for detecting nose insertion
• Shelf for liquid reward to accumulate instead of dripping onto floor

Easy installation and maintenance

• Designed to be press fit into 1.5" hole for easy installation and removal
• Backside push-to-connect tube fitting for quick connection/disconnection when replacing liquid reward tubing

Robust and manufacturable

• Designed to be machined out of hard plastic or aluminum by a typical machine shop. A less durable version could be 3D printed
• Zero exposed wires, all connections are integrated into the PCB or made with solder joints.
  • Removes possibility of connections coming loose or wires becoming damaged over time.
• Electronics can be easily scaled to larger quantities
  • Single sided PCB with surface mount components is ideal for a PCB assembly service or manual assembly with a toaster oven/hot plate/heat gun.

Open source

• All files are available on GitHub and can be modified to meet custom needs