A general-purpose implantable multichannel telemetry system for physiological research

The majority of physiologically significant parameters can be accurately measured with relatively simple transducers and with a minimum of sophisticated electronics; such parameters include temperature, pressure, and electrical activity and generally require less than a 200 Hz bandwidth. In most experiments, however, measurements at multiple sites are needed to characterize fully a particular response, and the use of totally implantable telemetry systems becomes attractive as the problems of percutaneous leads in conscious animals are compounded in proportion to the number of sensors. These systems have been produced in limited quantities because a large number of components and long assembly times are necessary to provide simple amplifications and signal processing in a small implantable package. A new six-channel system incorporates all signal processing on a single integrated circuit, and only one CMOS divider chain and an integrated telemetry transmitter are required for support. This high level of integration accelerates assembly time and increases reliability by minimizing the interconnections. Such advancements are essential before the full potential of implantable telemetry can be realized. This paper details the performance of this system during initial applications requiring pressure, bioelectrical, or temperature telemetry.