An Open Source Platform for Presenting Dynamic Visual Stimuli

Abstract Operant behavior procedures often rely on visual stimuli to cue the initiation or secession of a response, and provide means for discriminating between two more simultaneously available responses. While primate human studies typically use Liquid-Crystal Display (LCD) Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED) monitors touch screens, rodent variety methods present cues ranging from traditional incandescent light bulbs, single LEDs, and, recently, screen monitors. Commercially systems stimulus presentation are costly, challenging customize, closed source. We developed an open-source, highly-modifiable platform that can be combined with 3D-printed operant response device. The device uses 8 × matrix expanded control much larger LED matrices. Implementing is low-cost (<$70 USD per in year 2020). Using platform, we trained rats make nosepoke responses discriminate distinct location-independent manner. This cost-effective way implement complex visually-guided behavior, including moving dynamically changing stimuli.