Knowledge Base

Problem

User wants to connect a running wheel (PhenoWheel) to EthoVision XT to record wheel rotations alongside behavioral tracking. They are unsure of the hardware chain, cabling, and how the data is captured.

Details

The PhenoWheel system uses a magnetic sensor on the cage wall to detect wheel rotations. The signal passes through a PhenoCount counter module before reaching the USB I/O box. Users may be unfamiliar with the required hardware chain or the connector types used. Compatible with EthoVision XT systems that include the USB I/O box and SDI interface. Relevant for PhenoTyper setups with optional running wheel attachment.

Solution

1. Mount the magnetic sensor on the cage wall adjacent to the wheel magnet as specified in the PhenoWheel hardware documentation.
2. Connect the magnetic sensor output to the PhenoCount counter module.
3. Connect the PhenoCount counter module to the USB I/O box using the SDI interface port. The required hardware chain is: Magnetic sensor → PhenoCount module → USB I/O box (SDI port).
4. Note: Connections in this chain commonly use RJ45 plugs (same physical connector as Ethernet, but used here for signal, not networking).
5. In EthoVision XT, configure the External Data / SDI input to read from the PhenoCount channel. Consult the EthoVision Help guide section on SDI input for parameter mapping.
6. Verify the wheel rotation count is being recorded in real time during a test trial before beginning your experiment.