An inexpensive videoprojection/digitization system for behavioral research

We present an inexpensive approach to image analysis of spatial coordinates for behavioral research. Image analysis of still video images (freeze frames) with current technology can be prohibitively expensive, as well as time consuming. The system outlined here provides an accurate, inexpensive, and fast approach to acquiring information from videotape. It consists simply of a video monitor, bellows, large diameter lens, and a digitizing tablet. The images are projected onto a digitizing tablet, and data acquisition is controlled with a series of three functions written in APL. We used this system to acquire positional information on fish responding to the threat of aerial predation. We discuss several approaches to design and construction of this system, as well as provide computer listings for initiation of communication with digitization boards.     

An inexpensive reinforcement dispenser

An inexpensive (less than $35) solid food reinforcement dispenser was developed using commercially available parts for commonly found vending machines. This device proved to be reliable and efficient in repeated use with laboratory primates in a video task testing situation.     

An inexpensive silent unlocking device for manipulanda

An electromagnetically controlled armature was developed which silently unlocks manipulanda (shuttle box doors, wheels, levers) for response control in discrete trial situations. The device was found to produce no cue to Ss as to when responding was possible in a shuttlebox situation.     

An inexpensive contact-sensing device

A detector is described that utilizes phase-shift techniques for the measurement of contact responses.     

An inexpensive retraction mechanism

An electric retraction mechanism, which is adaptable to a wide range of operant manipulanda, was developed. Miniaturized, inexpensive toy railroad equipment was used to simplify construction. The mechanism, utilized as a retractable rat lever, has operated reliably and uniformly over a range of independent retraction and extension times.     

An inexpensive liquid dispenser

An inexpensive liquid reinforcement dispenser was developed from a commercially available automobile windshield washer fluid pump. When tested on laboratory primates, this device proved to be as efficient and reliable as far more expensive models.     

An inexpensive,efficient cage for small birds

A simple cage system is described which is particularly applicable for housing small birds such as sparrows and finches that have been trapped in the wild. The cages are constructed of inexpensive, readily available materials.     

An inexpensive activity measuring device for small animals

A satisfactory device for measuring activity of rats or other small animals has been a difficult problem. Several types of instruments have given incorrect measurements or are prohibitively expensive. Photocells give the same readout to a bobbing head as for a walk over a considerable distance requiring only the interruption of a light beam. Other devices require rotation of wheels or complex integrating circuits which must be replicated or scanned and recorded for simultaneous activity measurement of many animals. The device reported here utilizes the tilting of balanced cages to actuate a single microswitch coupled to an impulse counter for each cage. The system has functioned well for several years.     

An inexpensive pure-tone pattern generator

A low-cost sound pattern generator that is remotely programmable has been developed to produce pure-tone auditory patterns. The device, which is compatible with relay programming equipment, can generate either of two auditory patterns in the sequence ABA or BAB. The generator features an independently settable range of ON and OFF durations (0.1 to 1.0 sec) for pure-tone bursts and a selectable range (0.2 to 2.0 sec) of intercycle intervals. The inexpensive construction cost coupled with the flexibility of the timing characteristics of the generator should make it of interest to a wide variety of auditory researchers.