Multichannel Systems MEA Manual - Manual (Page 51)

Recording with MEAs
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7.2 General Performance / Noise Level
You can test a MEA before use by filling it with a standard saline buffer, for example PBS (phosphate
buffered saline), and recording the noise level of the MEA and the amplifier.
MEA amplifiers have a maximum noise level of +/– 8 μV. The noise level on the MEA depends on the
electrode size and material. The smaller the electrode, the higher is the noise level. TiN electrodes have a
larger surface area due to their microfold structures, and therefore they have generally a lower impedance
and a lower noise level than electrodes of the same size that are made from other materials (for example,
Pt electrodes).
The total maximum noise level for a MEA and the amplifier should be about +/– 40 μV peak to peak
for 10 μm TiN electrodes and +/– 10 μV for 30 μm TiN electrodes.
The initial noise level may be higher if the MEAs are hydrophobic. New MEAs should be made hydrophilic
before use.
Typical noise level of a used standard 60MEA200/30iR-Ti (round 30 μm Tin electrodes)
This picture shows the typical noise level of a standard 60MEA200/30iR-Ti on most electrodes,
recorded with a MEA1060-BC amplifier.