RWD 68215 Ceramic Ferrule Holder for Optogenetics
| Brand | RWD |
|---|---|
| Origin | Shenzhen, China |
| Manufacturer Type | OEM Manufacturer |
| Regional Category | Domestic (China) |
| Model | 68215 |
| Pricing | Available Upon Request |
| Compatible Ferrule Diameters | 1.25 mm and 2.5 mm |
| Material Compatibility | Zirconia ceramic ferrules and stainless steel metal ferrules |
| Function | Post-implantation retrieval of optical cannulas/ferrules in chronic optogenetic preparations |
Overview
The RWD 68215 Ceramic Ferrule Holder is an engineered mechanical interface designed specifically for stereotactic optogenetic experiments requiring precise, repeatable, and non-damaging handling of optical implant components. It operates on a precision-machined collet-based clamping principle—applying uniform radial force around the outer circumference of standard 1.25 mm or 2.5 mm optical ferrules—ensuring secure grip without micro-scratching or deformation of delicate zirconia or stainless steel surfaces. Unlike generic pliers or improvised fixtures, this holder integrates calibrated torque-limiting mechanics to prevent over-tightening during insertion or extraction procedures, thereby preserving both the structural integrity of the ferrule and the optical alignment of the underlying fiber-optic assembly. Its application is grounded in established neuroscientific workflows where chronic optical access must be maintained across multiple behavioral sessions while allowing controlled removal for histological verification or device replacement.
Key Features
- Interchangeable collet inserts supporting two standardized ferrule diameters: 1.25 mm and 2.5 mm—both conforming to IEC 61754-20 (fiber optic connector interface standards)
- Machined from medical-grade anodized aluminum alloy, offering high stiffness-to-weight ratio and resistance to autoclave-compatible disinfection protocols (up to 134 °C, 2 bar)
- Integrated tactile feedback mechanism that provides audible and haptic confirmation upon achieving optimal clamping force—minimizing risk of overtightening-induced microfractures in zirconia ferrules
- Non-magnetic construction compatible with MRI-compatible surgical setups and electromagnetic interference-sensitive electrophysiology rigs
- Ergonomic handle geometry optimized for single-handed operation under stereotactic frame constraints, reducing procedural fatigue during multi-animal surgeries
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The RWD 68215 is validated for use with industry-standard ceramic (zirconium dioxide, Yttria-stabilized) and stainless steel (316L) optical ferrules commonly employed in chronically implanted optogenetic cannulas (e.g., Doric Lenses, MFC, or custom-fabricated assemblies). It maintains dimensional compatibility with ISO 13485–certified implant manufacturing tolerances (±5 µm outer diameter tolerance per ferrule grade). While not a regulated medical device itself, its design adheres to GLP-aligned handling principles for preclinical neural interface instrumentation—supporting traceability through batch-numbered packaging and material certification documentation upon request. The holder does not contact biological tissue directly and is intended solely for ex vivo manipulation of implant hardware prior to or following craniotomy procedures.
Software & Data Management
As a purely mechanical tool, the RWD 68215 requires no firmware, drivers, or software integration. However, it is routinely referenced in SOPs documented within electronic lab notebooks (ELNs) compliant with 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when used in GLP-regulated behavioral pharmacology or translational neuroscience studies. Its model number (68215), batch identifier, and calibration status (if subjected to periodic torque verification per institutional metrology policy) are logged alongside implant coordinates, fiber coupling efficiency measurements, and post-hoc histology correlation data. No proprietary data export or cloud synchronization functionality is associated with this device.
Applications
- Secure extraction of chronically implanted optical cannulas for post-experiment histological assessment of fiber track integrity and glial scarring
- Repositioning or re-implantation of ferrule-mounted fibers during longitudinal optogenetic interrogation across developmental or disease progression timepoints
- Quality control verification of ferrule seating depth and axial alignment prior to dental cement fixation in rodent stereotaxic surgery
- Handling of dual-ferrule configurations (e.g., combined opto-electrode probes) where independent mechanical decoupling of optical and electrical interfaces is required
- Training platform for surgical technicians in standardized optogenetic hardware manipulation techniques under IACUC-approved skill acquisition protocols
FAQ
Is the RWD 68215 compatible with tapered or non-cylindrical ferrules?
No—it is dimensionally optimized only for straight-walled, ISO-compliant 1.25 mm and 2.5 mm cylindrical ferrules. Tapered or custom-profiled ferrules require bespoke collet solutions.
Can this holder be sterilized using ethylene oxide (EtO)?
Yes; the anodized aluminum body and stainless steel internal components are EtO-compatible. Validation data for residual gas limits is available upon request.
Does RWD provide torque calibration certificates for the 68215 series?
Calibration is not performed at point-of-sale, but users may implement in-house torque verification using ISO 6789–compliant torque testers. RWD supplies recommended torque ranges (0.12–0.18 N·m) in the technical manual.
Is there a version with integrated depth-stop functionality?
Not currently. Depth control remains the responsibility of the stereotactic frame’s micromanipulator or external depth gauge systems.
What is the expected service life under typical academic lab usage?
With proper cleaning and avoidance of corrosive solvents, mechanical fatigue testing indicates >5,000 insertion/extraction cycles before measurable wear onset in the collet mechanism.
