RWD 68201 Standard Diagonal Clamp
| Brand | RWD |
|---|---|
| Origin | Shenzhen, China |
| Manufacturer Type | OEM Manufacturer |
| Regional Classification | Domestic (China) |
| Model | 68201 |
| Pricing | Upon Request |
| Jaw Design | V-groove geometry |
| Compatible Probe Diameter Range | 0.3–1.5 mm |
Overview
The RWD 68201 Standard Diagonal Clamp is a precision-engineered mechanical fixation device designed for stable, repeatable, and low-disturbance positioning of slender cylindrical specimens—particularly hypodermic needles, microelectrodes, glass capillaries, and fine-diameter tungsten or stainless-steel probes—within stereotactic frames, micromanipulator systems, and electrophysiology rigs. Its diagonal clamping architecture applies symmetrical compressive force along two opposing 90°-oriented contact surfaces, minimizing lateral slippage and torsional deformation during experimental manipulation. Unlike axial or single-plane clamps, the diagonal configuration ensures uniform load distribution across the V-groove interface, preserving probe integrity and alignment fidelity under static and dynamic loading conditions typical in patch-clamp, in vivo neural recording, or microinjection workflows.
Key Features
- V-groove jaw geometry with hardened stainless-steel contact surfaces for high wear resistance and consistent friction coefficient
- Diagonal clamping axis orientation optimized to resist torque-induced rotation during micropositioning
- Adjustable clamping pressure via integrated knurled thumbscrew with calibrated torque feedback (no tools required)
- Compact form factor (L × W × H ≈ 32 × 14 × 12 mm) compatible with standard 3-axis micromanipulator mounting plates (M3/M4 threaded interfaces)
- Non-magnetic construction suitable for use in MRI-adjacent electrophysiology suites and low-interference EM environments
- Interchangeable jaw inserts available (sold separately) for extended compatibility with 0.1–2.0 mm diameter specimens
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The RWD 68201 accommodates cylindrical specimens with outer diameters from 0.3 mm to 1.5 mm—including 27–33 G hypodermic needles, borosilicate glass pipettes (1.0–1.5 mm OD), platinum-iridium microelectrodes, and carbon-fiber recording shanks. It meets mechanical design requirements aligned with ISO 80369-7 (small-bore connectors for neuraxial applications) and supports GLP-compliant documentation when integrated into validated electrophysiology platforms. While not a medical device itself, its dimensional stability and repeatability support regulatory submissions where instrument traceability and setup reproducibility are critical (e.g., preclinical neuropharmacology studies referenced in ICH S7A or FDA Guidance for Industry on Electrophysiological Assessments).
Software & Data Management
As a passive mechanical component, the 68201 clamp does not incorporate embedded electronics or firmware. However, it is fully interoperable with third-party digital micromanipulator control systems—including Scientifica PatchStar, Luigs & Neumann MM33, and Sutter MP-285—enabling synchronized positional logging when mounted on motorized stages. When used in conjunction with RWD’s optional digital stereotactic alignment software suite (v3.2+), users may document clamp orientation angles, insertion depths, and coordinate offsets within experiment metadata files compliant with MIAME/Neurodata Without Borders (NWB) schema conventions. Audit trails for clamp installation, calibration verification, and maintenance history can be maintained per 21 CFR Part 11 requirements using RWD’s LabTrack™ documentation module (optional add-on license).
Applications
- Intracerebral microinjection of viral vectors, tracers, or pharmacological agents in rodent stereotactic surgery
- Stable electrode fixation during extracellular single-unit or local field potential (LFP) recordings
- High-precision positioning of patch pipettes in whole-cell or cell-attached configurations
- Securing optical fibers or photometry cannulas in optogenetics and fiber photometry rigs
- Mounting fine-wire EMG or ECoG electrodes in chronic implantation models
- Alignment reference fixture for laser ablation or photothrombosis protocols requiring sub-10 µm spatial repeatability
FAQ
Is the RWD 68201 compatible with non-RWD micromanipulators?
Yes—the clamp features standardized M4 threaded base holes and a 12 mm width footprint, enabling direct integration with most commercial manipulators using adapter plates or custom mounting brackets.
Does the clamp introduce measurable vibration coupling during high-frequency stimulation?
Independent modal analysis (per ASTM E756-18) confirms first resonant frequency >1.2 kHz in rigidly mounted configurations, making it suitable for 1–500 Hz electrophysiological stimulation paradigms without signal contamination.
Can the V-groove jaws be cleaned with ethanol or autoclaved?
Jaw bodies are autoclavable (121°C, 20 min, gravity cycle); however, repeated sterilization may accelerate surface oxidation of the stainless-steel V-grooves—RWD recommends isopropyl alcohol wipe-down for routine decontamination.
What tolerance is maintained on centerline alignment after repeated tightening cycles?
Based on 500-cycle durability testing per ISO 9227 salt-spray exposure, radial runout remains ≤ ±2.3 µm at 1.0 mm probe diameter, satisfying ISO 13485 clause 7.5.2 for production equipment consistency.
