Sciospec CSX-64 64-Channel Bio-Impedance Analyzer
| Brand | Sciospec |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Model | CSX-64 |
| Channel Count | 64 (8 simultaneously sampled) |
| Electrode Configurations | 2-, 3-, and 4-electrode |
| Frequency Range | DC to 250 kHz (optional up to 1 MHz) |
| Impedance Range | 1 mΩ to 10 GΩ |
| Voltage Range | ±10 V |
| Current Range | 100 pA to 20 mA |
| Sampling Architecture | True parallel, time-synchronized acquisition across 8 channels |
| Connector Interface | 98-pin 1 mm pitch edge-card MEC1-150-02-F-D-EM2 |
| Signal Generation Options | DDS-based sine, 16-bit high-speed arbitrary waveform generator, 20-bit low-speed DAC |
| Compliance | CE, RoHS, ISO 9001-manufactured design |
Overview
The Sciospec CSX-64 is a high-density, research-grade 64-channel bio-impedance analyzer engineered for precision electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and electrical impedance tomography (EIT) applications in life science and biomedical engineering. Built upon a fully integrated, chip-based architecture, the CSX-64 implements true parallel acquisition across eight independent analog front-end (AFE) groups—each comprising eight synchronized measurement channels—enabling simultaneous, phase-coherent complex impedance measurements at up to 250 kHz (extendable to 1 MHz with optional firmware and hardware configuration). Its core measurement principle relies on four-quadrant current sourcing and synchronous lock-in detection, delivering real and imaginary components of impedance (Z′ and Z″) with sub-millidegree phase resolution. Designed for experimental scalability and reproducibility, the system supports both conventional EIS cell characterization and advanced multi-electrode array (MEA) studies—including tissue impedance mapping, organ-on-chip monitoring, and real-time biosensor calibration—under controlled physiological conditions.
Key Features
- Eight independent AFE modules, each with full voltage/current sensing, programmable gain, and auto-ranging capability—ensuring optimal signal-to-noise ratio across diverse biological samples.
- Arbitrary-to-arbitrary channel mapping: Each of the 64 physical ports can be dynamically assigned as working, counter, reference, or sense electrode—supporting flexible 2-, 3-, or 4-terminal configurations per measurement loop.
- True parallel data acquisition: All eight active channels sample synchronously with <10 ps inter-channel skew, eliminating temporal aliasing in time-critical dynamic impedance tracking (e.g., cell barrier integrity assays).
- Integrated sliding-edge connector interface (MEC1-150-02-F-D-EM2, 98-pin, 1 mm pitch) enables direct PCB-level integration with custom biochip carriers, microfluidic cartridges, or commercial MEA platforms.
- Onboard composite signal generation: Includes a 16-bit, 10 MS/s arbitrary waveform generator (AWG) for pulsed EIS, step-scan protocols, and stimulus masking; plus a 20-bit, 100 kS/s low-noise DAC for slow-varying bias control.
- DC-coupled architecture supports zero-frequency (0 Hz) impedance assessment—critical for membrane potential drift analysis and low-frequency dielectric relaxation studies in hydrogels and extracellular matrices.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The CSX-64 accommodates a broad range of biological and electrochemical interfaces—from planar gold microelectrodes and screen-printed carbon sensors to 3D tissue scaffolds and perfused organ chips. Its galvanically isolated front-end ensures safe operation with conductive media (e.g., PBS, DMEM, whole blood) and eliminates ground-loop artifacts in multi-instrument setups. The system meets IEC 61010-1 safety requirements for laboratory equipment and conforms to electromagnetic compatibility standards EN 61326-1. Firmware architecture supports audit-trail-enabled operation compliant with GLP and FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when deployed with validated software environments (e.g., Sciospec’s Impedance Studio v4.x with electronic signature and user-role management).
Software & Data Management
Control and analysis are performed via Impedance Studio—a cross-platform application supporting automated frequency sweeps, multi-step potentiostatic protocols, and real-time Nyquist/Bode visualization. Raw binary data streams are stored in HDF5 format with embedded metadata (timestamp, temperature, electrode assignment, calibration coefficients), enabling FAIR-compliant data handling. APIs (Python, MATLAB, LabVIEW) allow integration into custom pipelines for machine learning–driven feature extraction (e.g., α/β dispersion modeling, Cole-Cole parameter fitting) or closed-loop stimulation-feedback systems. Export modules support ASTM E2774-compliant impedance reporting and ISO/IEC 17025 traceable calibration logs.
Applications
- Real-time monitoring of epithelial/endothelial barrier function using transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) across 64 independent cell culture wells.
- High-throughput label-free cytotoxicity screening via time-resolved EIS during drug exposure.
- Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) reconstruction of regional conductivity changes in 3D tumor spheroids or cardiac microtissues.
- Characterization of enzymatic biosensors (e.g., glucose oxidase electrodes) under flow conditions with simultaneous multi-analyte discrimination.
- Validation of printed flexible electrodes for wearable bioimpedance plethysmography (BIP) systems.
- Development and calibration of impedance-based point-of-care diagnostics requiring multiplexed sensor fusion.
FAQ
What is the maximum number of channels that can operate simultaneously?
Eight channels acquire data in true parallel mode with hardware-synchronized sampling; all 64 channels are addressable via programmable multiplexing for sequential or grouped measurement strategies.
Does the CSX-64 support 4-electrode (Kelvin) measurements for low-impedance biological samples?
Yes—each AFE group allows independent assignment of current drive and voltage sense terminals, enabling precise 4-terminal impedance quantification down to 1 mΩ with automatic lead compensation.
Can the system be integrated with third-party microfluidics or organ-on-chip platforms?
Absolutely—the standardized 98-pin edge connector and open pinout documentation facilitate direct PCB interfacing; custom adapter boards and carrier modules are available upon request.
Is firmware update and calibration traceability provided?
Sciospec delivers annual firmware updates with enhanced protocol libraries and provides NIST-traceable calibration certificates valid for 12 months from shipment.
What level of technical support is included post-purchase?
All CSX-64 systems include 24-month hardware warranty, remote configuration assistance, application-specific protocol development support, and access to Sciospec’s global network of application engineers specializing in bioimpedance metrology.
