The ethoscope comes alongside a series of accessory modules that allow experimentalists to perform closed-loop feedback experiments. These modules connect to the ethoscope via USB and are controlled through the web interface during tracking.
All current-generation modules share a common electronics platform based on a custom PCB with an Arduino microcontroller and Darlington transistor arrays, providing up to 20 independently controllable output channels. For details on the shared electronics, see New modular structure and new electronics.
The modular system uses a standardized firmware that supports five MODULE types. The same PCB and Arduino can be reconfigured for different applications by changing the firmware MODULE setting and the physical components.
| MODULE | Name | Outputs | Use Case | Python Stimulator Class |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | SD (Sleep Deprivation) | 10 motors | Mechanical sleep deprivation via tube rotation | SleepDepStimulator |
| 1 | mAGO (Motor + AGO) | 10 motors + 10 valves | Sleep deprivation + odour delivery | SleepDepStimulator |
| 2 | AGO (Odour only) | 10 valves | Odour delivery without motors | IsMovingOdourStimulator |
| 3 | Motor + LED | 10 motors + 10 LEDs | Mechanical + optogenetic stimulation | OptomotorSleepDepriver |
| 4 | LED only | 20 LEDs | Optogenetic stimulation (e.g. CsChrimson) | OptoSleepDepriver |
These older modules use different electronics and are documented separately. They remain functional but are not based on the current modular PCB platform.
Air/Gas/Odour Delivery Module (AGO)