Narishige SM-25HE Precision Micro-Manipulator Mounting Bracket

Overview

The Narishige SM-25HE is a compact, high-precision mounting bracket engineered for stable, repeatable positioning of microscale instrumentation in electrophysiology, neurophysiology, and microsurgical applications. Designed specifically for integration with Narishige’s line of motorized and manual micromanipulators—including the MO-10, MN-151, and HR-series—the SM-25HE serves as a rigid mechanical interface between the manipulator’s dovetail carrier and delicate sample-holding or probe-guiding components such as fiber-optic cannulas, glass micropipettes, stainless-steel electrodes, and polymer-based neural probes. Its operational principle relies on passive mechanical constraint rather than active actuation; stability is achieved through tight-tolerance aluminum alloy construction, precision-machined dovetail engagement, and optimized moment-arm geometry to minimize cantilever deflection under static and dynamic loading conditions. The bracket’s low mass (30 g) and minimal footprint (11 × 36 × 167 mm) ensure compatibility with space-constrained rig configurations—particularly multi-electrode recording setups, two-photon imaging stages, and patch-clamp workstations—without compromising structural integrity or introducing resonant artifacts during fine-positioning tasks.

Key Features

• High-accuracy mechanical alignment: Integrated scale markings and fine-thread adjustment capability enable sub-millimeter reproducibility in vertical and lateral positioning when used with compatible Narishige micromanipulators.
• Optimized tubing retention geometry: Internal bore profile accommodates outer diameters from 0.2 mm to 4.0 mm, with enhanced clamping performance and visual access to the distal tip of inserted devices (e.g., guide cannulas or optical fibers) within the 1.25–2.5 mm OD range—critical for stereotactic targeting verification prior to insertion.
• Robust anodized aluminum construction: Provides long-term dimensional stability, resistance to thermal drift, and immunity to common lab solvents and cleaning agents used in sterile or biosafety-level environments.
• Standardized dovetail interface: Ensures full backward and forward compatibility with Narishige’s modular micromanipulator ecosystem, including both legacy and current-generation controllers and drive units.
• Ergonomic single-sided access design: Facilitates rapid tool exchange and in-situ adjustments without requiring disassembly of adjacent instrumentation or reconfiguration of optical paths.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The SM-25HE supports a broad spectrum of microfabricated and commercially available neural interfacing tools, including but not limited to silica capillary tubes, polyimide-coated tungsten electrodes, silicon shanks (e.g., Neuropixels probes), and custom-fabricated optrodes. It meets mechanical interface requirements specified in ISO 80000-4 (quantities and units — mechanics) and conforms to general laboratory equipment safety guidelines per IEC 61010-1. While the bracket itself does not constitute a medical device or diagnostic instrument, its use in preclinical research aligns with GLP-compliant experimental workflows when integrated into validated electrophysiology platforms. No electrical certification (e.g., CE, UL) applies, as it is a passive mechanical component.

Software & Data Management

As a purely mechanical mounting solution, the SM-25HE requires no firmware, drivers, or software integration. Positional data generated during experiments is captured indirectly via the host micromanipulator’s control system (e.g., Narishige’s MHW-200 controller or third-party DAQ interfaces). When used in systems compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11, audit trails for positional settings are maintained at the manipulator-controller level—not by the bracket—and must be configured accordingly within the associated acquisition software (e.g., Spike2, OpenEphys, or Plexon Offline Sorter).

Applications

• Stereotactic delivery of viral vectors or pharmacological agents via chronically implanted guide cannulas.
• Stable positioning of silicon-based multielectrode arrays during acute in vivo recordings in rodent or non-human primate models.
• Co-registration of optogenetic stimulation fibers with electrophysiological recording sites in layered cortical or subcortical structures.
• Support of tapered glass micropipettes in single-cell patch-clamp experiments requiring precise depth control and minimal vibration coupling.
• Modular expansion of existing Narishige rigs for dual-probe or multi-modal interrogation (e.g., simultaneous LFP + calcium imaging).

FAQ

Is the SM-25HE compatible with non-Narishige micromanipulators?

Yes, provided the host manipulator features a standardized 12-mm or 15-mm dovetail rail matching Narishige’s mechanical interface specification; adapter plates may be required for proprietary rail geometries.
Can the bracket be sterilized for in vivo surgical use?

It is autoclavable at 121°C for 20 minutes; however, repeated sterilization cycles may affect surface finish and tolerance over time—validation per institutional biosafety protocols is recommended.
Does the SM-25HE include locking screws or fasteners?

Yes, it ships with two M2.5 × 8 mm stainless-steel set screws for secure fixation onto the dovetail carrier and one M2 × 5 mm screw for cannula clamping.
What is the maximum recommended load capacity?

While not formally rated, empirical use indicates safe operation up to 150 g total suspended mass when mounted vertically on a rigid baseplate; exceeding this may compromise positional repeatability under vibration.
Is technical documentation available in English?

Yes—Narishige provides bilingual (English/Japanese) operation manuals and dimensional drawings upon request through authorized distributors or directly via Narishige International support channels.