QUAD® 4-axis Motorized Micromanipulator

QUAD® — 4-Axis Motorized Micromanipulator

The QUAD® from Sutter Instrument is the latest generation of motorized micromanipulators, featuring four fully independent axes with intuitive ROE (Rotary Optical Encoder) control. Three axes provide standard X, Y, Z orthogonal movement; the true fourth diagonal axis moves the electrode coaxially at the exact approach angle required — ideal for in vivo electrophysiology.

Key Features

• Four independent axes: 25 mm travel on X, Y and Z; 30 mm travel on the diagonal coaxial axis
• Sub-micron resolution: 100 nm step size for ultra-precise positioning
• True diagonal axis: Ensures genuine coaxial pipette movement at the user-defined approach angle
• Compact, fan-free controller: Minimal bench footprint using high-frequency current switching technology
• Intuitive ROE control: One ROE knob per axis; position displayed digitally in relative or absolute coordinates
• Quiet mode: Eliminates electrical noise during recording; locks ROE knobs to prevent accidental movement; LED turns red to indicate inactive state
• Five function buttons: WORK, HOME, QUIET, PULSE, and RELATIVE for full workflow control
• WORK position memory: Press and hold to store; press again to return instantly — ideal for fast pipette exchange
• HOME function: Returns manipulator to any user-defined initial location
• PULSE mode: Rapid bursts of small motion to facilitate sharp electrode cell penetration
• USB interface: Full computer control capability for automated and robotic workflows
• Logarithmic acceleration: Smooth speed ramp-up proportional to ROE knob turn speed — no manual speed switching needed
• Dual voltage: 115/230 V, 50/60 Hz; CE certified

Applications

• In vivo electrophysiological recording (sharp electrode, extracellular)
• Patch clamp experiments (whole-cell, cell-attached)
• Multi-electrode recordings requiring coaxial pipette approach
• Any application requiring automated or computer-controlled micromanipulation