The PDMI-2 operates equally well under static or perfused conditions. When operated with perfusion, the micro-incubator’s unique design places flexible tubes carrying inflowing perfusate in contact with a temperature regulated Peltier heat pump driven plate, thus heating or cooling the incoming fluid to a command temperature. This eliminates the need for auxiliary preheating or cooling. The Peltier plate heats or cools the cell carrying central chamber uniformly when no perfusate is flowing.

Flexible Temperature Range
The operating temperature range of the PDMI-2 Open Perfusion Micro-Incubator is nominally ~5° to 50°C when used with the TC-202A Temperature Controller. Lower temperatures can be achieved (approximately 10º below ambient) by using an optional cool tube water-carrying coil which attaches to the perimeter of the PDMI-2. Temperatures stabilize quickly throughout the operating range; temperature uniformity across the chamber is excellent.

Optimal and Flexible Perfusion
Two temperature controlled perfusion lines deliver perfusates through the micro-incubator into the chamber a nominal rate of 3 ml per minute each. Fluid level is maintained by placing an aspirator (model LU-ASP) in the chamber. Fluid height is easily adjusted via a simple screw mechanism; a cleverly designed suction port eliminates fluid flutter thus making aspiration quiet; a magnetic base secures the aspirator to the micro-incubator at a user selectable convenient location.

Excellent pH Control
The PDMI-2 also provides gas flow over the top of the chamber for pH control and improved temperature uniformity. The open design provides excellent mechanical and optical access to the media.

Low Noise Conditions
A teflon well is provided with an Ag/AgCl electrode at its base to allow for the formation of a salt bridge when making low noise electrophysiological recordings.