It Just Makes Scents…Odor delivery with the 220A Olfactometer

During this Tech Cast, Chris Rand discusses our updated odor delivery system, the 220A – Olfactometer, a lab tested piece of equipment with proven performance that provides reliable odor generation for even the most demanding olfaction experiments.  He highlights the specific hardware and how it works, configurations and modifications that can be made, and how the olfactometer is used.  For each section of the tech cast, Chris walks viewers through some demonstrations to identify best practices as well as sharing tips and tricks for optimal performance.

To watch the entire 30 minute tech cast, head to the link here.  Or scroll down to watch the section that you are most interested in…

  1. Introduction to the 220A Olfactometer and associated hardware set up
  2. Overview of configuration and modifications
  3. How to use the 220A Olfactometer

1.  Introduction to the 220A Olfactometer and hardware set up

Meet the Aurora Scientific 220A Olfactometer…In this 6 minute video, Chris dissects the hardware for the system, explaining in more detail the mass flow controllers, why there are 3, what they do, and how to control them.  Next, he talks about the various connections, from ethernet to in/out valves to DIO2 input and output, before briefly pointing out the numerous LED indicators and what each signify.  In the last portion of this chapter, Chris details the valve manifold, specifically outlining the Vial Valves, Mixing Valve, and the Final Valve.

2.  Overview of configurations and modifications

Endless configuration options…almost!  In the second chapter of this tech cast, Chris details the various modifications and configuration changes that can be made to the 220A Olfactometer to meet your unique research needs.  He begins by sharing a quick start guide to setting up the system in its original 4-vial configuration, before showing how additional sets of 4 vials may be added to the system, up to 16 total vials.  Next, he demonstrates the 3 different methods for filling the vials with odorants, how to handle each one and best practices for executing the filling, removing and replacing of the vials.  And finally, there is a brief description and demonstration of how to replace the tubing in the system.

3.  How to use the 220A Olfactometer

In this final chapter, Chris walks viewers through the Olfactometer Control software, making special mention of key software functions and features.  He demonstrates how to configure the system and vials, set and assign flow rates, generate set and custom sequences, and finally, how to successfully execute odor delivery.