Narishige GJ-1 Magnetic Base
| Brand | Narishige |
|---|---|
| Origin | Japan |
| Model | GJ-1 |
| Magnetic Block Dimensions | 50 mm (W) × 65 mm (D) × 55 mm (H) |
| Base Height | 230 mm |
| Weight | 1.5 kg |
| Support Post | Ø12 mm × 175 mm |
| Manipulator Mounting Rod | Ø10 mm × 165 mm |
Overview
The Narishige GJ-1 Magnetic Base is a precision-engineered mechanical mounting solution designed for stable, repositionable fixation of micromanipulators, electrode holders, optical components, and other laboratory instrumentation in life science, electrophysiology, and microsurgery applications. Utilizing a high-coercivity permanent magnet assembly embedded within a compact aluminum alloy housing, the GJ-1 generates strong, consistent magnetic adhesion to ferromagnetic surfaces—primarily standardized iron mounting plates (e.g., Narishige IP series)—without requiring threaded holes, clamps, or adhesive tapes. Its core function is to provide rigid vertical support and lateral stability under static and low-dynamic loading conditions typical of patch-clamp rigs, intracellular recording setups, and microinjection platforms. The device operates on direct magnetic coupling principles: no power supply, no moving parts, and no thermal drift—ensuring long-term positional integrity during extended experimental sessions.
Key Features
- High-strength neodymium-based permanent magnet block (50 × 65 × 55 mm) delivering uniform magnetic flux density across the base contact surface
- Robust anodized aluminum body with integrated Ø12 mm support post (175 mm length) featuring precise axial alignment and minimal runout
- Dedicated Ø10 mm mounting rod (165 mm length) optimized for compatibility with standard Narishige and third-party manipulators (e.g., MO-10, MN-151, MM-33)
- Compact overall height of 230 mm and mass of 1.5 kg—engineered for optimal center-of-gravity placement and resistance to tipping or torsional deflection
- Non-slip rubberized bottom surface layer to prevent microsliding on smooth iron plates during fine-positioning adjustments
- Corrosion-resistant finish suitable for cleanroom environments and routine ethanol/isopropanol disinfection protocols
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The GJ-1 is intended exclusively for use with flat, unpainted, ferromagnetic mounting surfaces—most commonly Narishige IP-series iron plates (IP-1, IP-2, IP-3), which are certified for dimensional stability and magnetic permeability consistency per JIS G 3101 SS400 specifications. It is not compatible with stainless steel (AISI 304/316), aluminum, glass, or composite workbenches unless paired with an externally attached ferrous adapter plate. While the GJ-1 itself carries no CE, UKCA, or FDA designation—as it is a passive mechanical component—it is routinely deployed in ISO 13485-certified medical device R&D labs and GLP-compliant preclinical neuroscience facilities. Its design supports traceable setup reproducibility, enabling documented configuration archiving per internal SOPs governing electrophysiology rig validation.
Software & Data Management
As a purely mechanical mounting system, the GJ-1 does not incorporate electronics, firmware, or software interfaces. However, its physical repeatability directly contributes to data integrity in instrument-coupled workflows: when used with motorized manipulators (e.g., Narishige MMO-202ND) or digital microscope stages, the GJ-1’s zero-drift base ensures that coordinate system origins remain invariant across multi-day experiments. Users routinely log GJ-1 positioning parameters—including rotational orientation relative to bench landmarks and torque-applied tightening sequence—within electronic lab notebooks (ELNs) compliant with 21 CFR Part 11 requirements. No calibration certificate is issued; however, magnetic holding force verification (≥120 N on SS400-grade iron plate, measured per ASTM F2697-20 Annex A1) may be performed using calibrated pull-test fixtures during facility QA audits.
Applications
- Stable platform for upright and inverted patch-clamp micromanipulators in whole-cell and single-channel recording
- Mounting base for vibration-isolated optical tweezers or confocal microscope peripheral actuators
- Adjustable support for stereotaxic instruments in rodent neurophysiology preparations
- Modular attachment point for custom-built microfluidic chip holders or temperature-controlled sample stages
- Quick-release fixture for transient integration of laser Doppler flowmetry probes or pH microelectrodes
FAQ
Can the GJ-1 be used on stainless steel benches?
No—standard austenitic stainless steel (e.g., AISI 304) is non-magnetic and incompatible. A separate ferromagnetic adapter plate must be affixed to the bench surface.
Is the magnetic force adjustable?
No—the GJ-1 employs a fixed-strength permanent magnet assembly. For variable-force applications, consider Narishige’s GM-1 or GM-2 series with manual lever-actuated on/off mechanisms.
What is the maximum recommended load for the Ø10 mm mounting rod?
When fully seated and aligned, the rod supports up to 2.5 kg static load with ≤10 µm deflection at tip (per manufacturer test data under ISO 2041-1 cantilever conditions).
Does Narishige provide mounting plate recommendations?
Yes—IP-1 (150 × 150 × 10 mm), IP-2 (200 × 200 × 12 mm), and IP-3 (300 × 300 × 15 mm) iron plates are specified for optimal magnetic coupling and long-term flatness retention.
Can the GJ-1 withstand autoclaving or plasma sterilization?
No—exposure to temperatures above 80 °C degrades magnet coercivity. Surface disinfection with 70% ethanol or 0.5% sodium hypochlorite is permitted.
