The heart of the X-Headstage™ is a custom system-in-package (SiP) like chip package based on Intan RHD and RHS 2000 series IC. The multi-die and double sided IO architectures enable the X-Headstage™ to achieve minimal footprint by scaling across all 3 dimensions. KonteX's custom chip packs in more channel, more function per given area.

Every detail of X-Headstage™ is carefully considered and crafted to minimize size and maximize utility. Only the smallest components are sourced or they are custom made. A special module on module SMT manufacturing process is developed to fully take advantage of the 3D chip design.

Each X-Headstage™ is coated with a thin layer of Parylene-C, commonly used to protect implantable devices, is highly resistant to chemical and moisture. It enables the X-Headstage™ to be dental cemented with the electrode and recovered for reuses. With the tailor-made protective armor, X-Headstage™ achives IP68 certification validated by a third party.

X-Headstage™ is a high fidelity bidirectional neural interface for delivering electrical stimuli and recording from large number of electrodes. The advanced headstage design results in volume reduction of more than 70% comparing to conventional designs. The size advantage significantly reduces stress, enhances the welfare of the animals, and improves experimental outcome.

Smallest Recording Headstage

Switchable Stimulation Recording Headstage

High Channel Recording Headstage

We don't just give you a super small headstage and leave you to figure out the rest. Instead, we provide a comprehensive set of accessories to make adoption as easy as possible. If existing designs don't work, we work with you to come up with a tailored solution together.

Interfacing X-Headstage™ with your custom build electrode is easy. KonteX offers several EIB designs that follow common technique/protocol so they can be easily adopted. If you can't find a suitable solution for your application, contact us for a cost effective custom design tailored to your prep.

KonteX created an adapter based solution to interface with common connectors used in commercially available electrodes such as silicon probes or microwires. In most cases, X-Headstages™ are smaller even with adaptors installed. With this approach, when pins do break, X-Headstages™ can be easily and inexpensively repaired instead of being thrown away. We plan work with commercial probe vendors for direct interface to X-Headstage™. Ask your probe vendors for KonteX compatible probe packages.

KonteX understands deeply how demanding and complicated surgery can be. We designed our accessories to leverage standardized interfaces whenever possible to ensure compatibility across modules. Modules sharing same interface can be interconnected. For example, an adapter can be used to connect to an existing electrode with a 16ch Omnetics connector. If surgical planning requires the electrode to be positioned away from the headstage, one can use our extension cable to do that easily. The cables can also be daisy-chained to provide even more flexibility and reach. We are constantly adding new adaptor, cable, and EIB designs to make surgery as easy and as intuitive as possible.

X-Headstage™ can be used with Intan compatible controller, accessories, and software. No need to upgrade the entire workflow to take the advantage of the supercharged headstage technology. X-Headstage™ can also be configured with Omnetics connector for direct interface with existing Intan-based controller. Adaptors are also available to bridge between X-Headstage™ and other proprietary solutions.

At <5x10mm in relevent dimensions, it is possible to embed, or dental cement, the headstage with the electrodes as part of the implant. Having amplifying and digitizing electronics right by the electrode dramatically improves signal quality. Lower implant height minimizes mechanical stress, thus minimizes motion artifact. Reduced disturbance on sensitive neural interface from daily plug-in/out of headstage-electrode improves long term signal quality, longevity and stability.

X-Headstage™ when configured with µHDMI connector and embeded enables quick connect to the animal in un-anathematized state. This seemingly small improvement has profound improvement to the experiment: increased throughput, reduced animal and operator stress during plug in, and improved animal performance, especially in learning related tasks. Untrained staff can easily run the experiment without worrying about breaking the headstage or even the headcap. µHDMI connector configuration also enables the use of consumer-tech’s ultra flexible, low cost cables.

X-Headstage™ has been tested and validated for reusability. Obtaining parylene-C coating and IP68 rating for a headstage shows you how far we are willing to go. Glue the X-Headstage™ with dental acrylic with the electrode for better signal and usability. Rest assured that it can be safely recovered in the subsequent acetone soak release.

In case the connectors on the X-Headstage™ do break down due to wear and tear, send it back to have the connector modules replaced. KonteX team is experienced in complex electronics repair and has developed the technique to perform rework on such delicate device. More on repair and service.