WPI-118 is a fast, high-resolution data acquisition system suitable for most data recording studies in the research laboratory. It offers eight analog input channels, eight digital outputs, four digital inputs and two DACs. The hardware connects to PC-compatible computers via the popular USB interface, so setup is plug-and-play easy. The small physical size of the WPI-118 requires very little bench space.
System Requirements
WPI-118 requires a minimum Pentium II-level computer running Windows 98, ME, 2000 or XP with at least 64 megabytes of RAM, and at least 10 megabytes of free space on the hard drive. Internet connection is required for free automatic upgrades.

Key Hardware Features
Analog Outputs
WPI-118 offers two +/- 10V Analog Outputs (DACs). Each is independently programmable and can be synchronized to work together. Basic stimulus parameters for each DAC, such as pulse width, frequency and amplitude, can be changed on-the-fly using handy controls located in the Data-Trax software toolbar. Standard protocols include pulse, train, and step waveforms. Each standard protocol allows the quiescent state to be a holding voltage, thereby making it ideal for voltage clamping applications.

Resolution and Noise
WPI-118 employs a 16-bit A/D converter to sample data over its 10-Volt input range. Typical noise on any input is less than 1 millivolt. This allows the recording of signals from 10 mV to 10 V without the need for additional external gain.

Digital Input/Output
Eight digital output lines are available. The digital output connectors are industry standard BNC, eliminating the need for custom cables. Programming the output lines is point-and-click easy as well, no complicated scripting language is required. Four digital input lines are also provided, with one configured as an external trigger.

Speed
The WPI-118 is a fast recorder. At top speed it can collect 100,000, 16-bit samples per second on a single channel. With eight channels enabled, it can collect data at 10,000 samples per second on each of the open channels.

USB Connection
Connection to the computer is accomplished over the popular USB port. This eliminates the need to install special interface cards and even makes the WPI-118 compatible with notebook computers. The WPI-118 has a small footprint, so it fits in even the tightest rack spaces.

Supported Applications
Organ/Tissue Bath Studies
Data-Trax’s smooth data recording interface and available eight channels are a perfect fit for tissue and organ bath studies. Real-time displays of force in grams, as well as real-time annotations, make review of data easy too. In addition, the on-board stimulator and digital outputs make automation of tasks like filling and draining baths or delivering drugs very straightforward. WPI can provide all glassware, hardware and documentation to equip your lab for this application.

Oocyte Clamp
Data-Trax’s gain telegraph feature automatically calibrates the software to whatever model Warner Instruments Oocyte clamp you are using, allowing the main display to present calibrated current and voltage. The on-board stimulator includes a flexible voltage clamp protocol, so an external stimulator is not required. Finally, the digital output capability of the 118 adds the ability to automate your Oocyte rig.

Epithelial Voltage Clamp
Output from Warner Instruments or other epithelial voltage clamps can be fed directly into the WPI-118. The voltage clamp protocol in the Data-Trax program’s stimulator section makes recordings of four to six channels of epithelial data a snap.

Cardiac Hemodynamics
Blood pressure signals from available transducer amplifiers can be fed directly into WPI-118’s eight channels of input. Analytical features in the Data-Trax software can display beat-to-beat rate, systolic, diastolic and mean pressures as well as dP/dt. Its high speed and resolution make the WPI-118 ideal for use with rapid heart rate animals such as mice.

Electrophysiology
The high speed performance of WPI-118 makes it perfect for studies involving blood pressure and sympathetic nerve activity, as well as all kinds of cardiac electrophysiology — even in high heart rate animals like mice, where extra speed is required.