DST micro-T - Implantable temperature sensor monitor

Overview
Dimensions (diameter x length): 8.3mm x 25.4mm
Weight: 3.3 g
Sensor: Temperature
Standard temperature range: 0 to +45C
Temperature accuracy: +/- 0.2 C
Memory size: 43,000 measurements
Battery life: 18 months
Housing material: Alumina (implantable, biocompatible ceramic material)

Description
DST micro-T is a very small temperature probe. It measures and records temperature automatically with a customer defined interval. Recorded data is stored in the loggers internal memory with a real-time clock reference for each measurement and is retrieved after the study using a Communication Box. The temperature monitor can store up to 43,000 temperature measurements and has a battery life of circa 12 months (with sampling interval of 10 min). DST micro-T logger is easy to sterilize (e.g. gas sterilizer or 70% ethanol) and can be reused as long as the battery lasts, which makes the loggers very cost efficient. Each DST micro-T has its own five digit serial number permanently marked on the logger housing as well as placed in the logger's memory and provided with all downloaded data. DST micro-T is especially useful when you wish to record a comprehensive data set throughout your research with no disturbance to the animal or subject.

The DST micro-T is supported by the Mercury (or SeaStar) software and the Communication Box which serves as an interface between the logger and a PC computer. Communication between the logger and the Communication Box is wireless when logger is placed in the Communication Box.

In the software, the user programs the start time, start date and sampling interval before the logger is implanted/deplolyed. A single interval is defined in seconds, minutes and hours. Optionally up to seven different intervals can be used within the same measurement sequence. The user defines the number of measurements they wish to record with each set interval at one time and the order these intervals are repeated in. This is especially useful when more frequent or rare measurements are needed at certain time periods.

After recovering the DST, recorded data is uploaded in the software where the results are displayed both in graphic and tabular form. The software also provides the user with some basic statistic information on the data such as minimum and maximum values on defined area, median, average, distribution of values etc. When recorded data has been retrieved, the DST can be re-programmed and reused as long as the battery lasts.

A set of Communication Box and Mercury (or SeaStar) software needs to be purchased with the first order.

Applications
DST micro-T was designed to be used as an implantable temperature logger for wild and captive animals. DST micro-T is made of biocompatible materials (alumina and biocompatible epoxy) and its size and shape are ideal for implantation in small animals. The logger can also be fitted in tight spaces, small packages or vials, for e.g. heat studies. With its waterproof housing, carefully chosen materials and great pressure tolerance (100 bar), the DST micro-T can be used for collecting temperature data underwater or in other liquids (tolerates chemicals well).

The DST micro-T temperature logger is suitable for studies within e.g.:

• Laboratory animal science (antiretroviral, virology, toxicology)
• Preclinical research, stability and safety studies
• Packaging and quality control of medecine
• Tagging of small fish and marine animals
• Cattle temperature monitoring
• Any use where small size and accurate temperature measurements are of importance

Technical Specifications