Knowledge Base

Problem

Researchers setting up EthoVision XT 18 with a Basler GigE camera alongside an Inscopix nVoke 2.0 calcium imaging system need guidance on synchronizing behavioral tracking TTL/trigger signals between the two systems.

Details

The setup involves a coaxial cable from the Inscopix DAQ trigger port, a Noldus USB mini I/O box, and a Basler GigE camera connected to EthoVision XT 18 on a Dell Mobile Precision laptop. The goal is to synchronize behavioral video tracking in EthoVision with calcium imaging events from the Inscopix system via TTL signals. This requires proper cable connections between the I/O box and the Inscopix DAQ, and correct configuration of hardware trigger inputs/outputs in EthoVision's Trial & Hardware Control settings.

Solution

1. Connect the Inscopix nVoke DAQ trigger port to the Noldus USB mini I/O box using a coaxial-to-appropriate-adapter cable (BNC or equivalent; see 'Connecting USB I/O Box (PTIO-0020) to Third-Party Devices – Cable and Adapter Options for BNC/RJ45' for cable options).
2. In EthoVision XT, open the Hardware Settings and configure the USB I/O box as your TTL input/output device.
3. In Trial & Hardware Control, set up rules to respond to TTL input events from the Inscopix system (e.g., start/stop trial recording when the imaging system sends a trigger) or to send TTL output to the Inscopix system from EthoVision.
4. Verify the signal polarity (active high/low) matches between the Inscopix DAQ output and the EthoVision I/O box input expectations.
5. Perform a test acquisition with both systems running to confirm synchronization: check that EthoVision trial start/stop timestamps align with Inscopix recording events.
6. For detailed wiring diagrams and I/O box specifications, refer to the Noldus USB I/O box documentation provided by Noldus support.
7. Contact Noldus support if synchronization timing is inconsistent; they can provide system-specific documentation for this hardware combination.