Active floating micro electrode arrays (AFMA)

Neuroscientists have widely used metal microelectrodes inserted into the cortex to record neural signals from, and provide electrical stimulation to, neural tissue for many years. Recently, the demand for implanting electrode arrays within the cortex, for both stimulation and recording, has rapidly increased. We are developing Active-floating-micro-electrode-arrays (AFMA) that are intended for use as a multielectrode cortical interface while minimizing the number of wires leading from the array to extra-dural circuitry or connectors. When combined with a wireless module, these new microelectrode arrays should allow for simulation and recording within free-roaming animals. This paper mainly discusses the design, fabrication, and packing of the first generation AFMA. Our long-term vision is a wireless-transmission electrode system, for stimulation and recording in free-roaming animals, which uses a family of modular active implantable electrode arrays.