Setting Up of the MouseWalker (MW) Apparatus

Begin by assembling the MouseWalker Apparatus, as described elsewhere, or customize it to the specific needs of the experimental design. Set up the high-speed camera with a fast lens and a large aperture to capture more light, which helps record the Frustrated Total Internal Reflection or FTIR signals. With the room lights off, verify the light intensity of the background light box and walkway.

Adjust the intensity if necessary by adding semi-opaque plastic or using a potentiometer. Position the lens correctly at the same height in the center of the 45 degree reflecting mirror and perpendicular to the walkway. Adjust the image contrast of the walkway by reducing or increasing the lighting.

Then focus the lens on the surface of the plexiglass.