Giga-8dd EPG measuring systems

The Electrical Penetration Graph (EPG) system measures and analyzes the feeding behavior of piercing-sucking insects (particularly aphids and other homopterans) on plants, as well as plant resistance

  • Product Name:EPG measuring systems
  • Model:Giga-8dd
  • Maunufactor:EPG Systems
  • Country:Netherlands

The Electrical Penetration Graph (EPG) system measures and analyzes the feeding behavior of piercing-sucking insects (particularly aphids and other homopterans) on plants, as well as plant resistance to insects.

During the penetration and feeding process, insects generate minute voltage fluctuations. The system amplifies these electrical signals to make them visualizable. Distinct voltage patterns correspond to specific stages—ranging from initial probing to active feeding—allowing researchers to identify precise insect behaviors based on waveform characteristics.

Designed on a direct current (DC) principle to eliminate interference typical of alternating current (AC) systems, the EPG system ensures high-resolution signal detection. It features a straightforward operation workflow, supports simultaneous analysis of up to 8 insects, and connects to a computer via USB interface.


Features:

  • 8-Channel Capacity & Ease of Use: User-friendly operation allowing simultaneous measurement of up to 8 insects.

  • High-Magnification Signal Amplifier: Magnification range of 50× to 100×.

  • DC-Based Potentiostat: Utilizes a direct-current (DC) design to prevent AC interference.

  • Adjustable Input Impedance: Set to 1 GΩ by default, adjustable up to 10 TΩ.

  • Independent 8-Channel Controls: Features 8 dedicated plant electrode channels, each equipped with its own toggle switch, voltage adjustment dial, calibration pulse knob, and gain adjustment knob.

  • Intuitive EPG Waveform Analysis: Clear and straightforward waveform visualization to easily distinguish insect feeding from non-feeding behaviors.

  • USB-Powered System: Powered directly via computer USB connection.

  • Built-In USB Interface: Analog-to-digital (A/D) converter includes an integrated USB port for direct PC connectivity.

  • Cross-Platform Compatibility: Software supports multiple Windows operating systems (Windows XP, 7, 8, and 10).


Technical specifications
EPG probe (pre-amplifier)
amplification (gain)50x
input resistance1 GΩ*
input bias current~ 1 pA
Giga8d control unit
2nd stage amplification (gain)1x to 2x (resulting in 50-100x total gain)
calibration pulse-50 mVolt (circa)
max. Vplant adjustment± 0.5 Volt
max. output± 5.85 Volt
Stylet+ scale range limits± 5 Volt
AD converterresolution 14 bit; sample rate 100Hz (default)
Power supply220 or 110* Volt AC / ± 8Volt DC (300 mA)

* A special probe option with a switchable 1GΩ/1TΩ (10-12Ω) input resistance.