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FAQs - MARTA Ecosystem
At Vigilitech, all hardware and software is developed in-house, giving us the expertise to answer any of your questions about the MARTA ecosystem. Here, we’ve collected the most frequently asked questions about our products, their use, lab integration, and animal welfare. If something isn’t covered, we’re always happy to discuss your specific needs in a personal meeting.
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Skip ahead to what matters most, or take the grand tour and read them all.
MARTA Pad
MARTA App
Software & Updates
Users & Procedures
Anaesthesia Induction & Anaesthetics
Two-Photon in-vivo imaging
Animal Welfare, Refinement & Staff Wellbeing
Quotes & Pricing
Certification & Compliance
Onboarding & Training
Webinars & Demo Days
Surgery add-ons
Stereotaxic surgery add-ons
Rectal probes
Anaesthesia induction chambers
MARTA PAD
Which species can be monitored with the MARTA Pad?
The MARTA Pad is designed for mice and rats.
Can MARTA replace a traditional heating pad?
Yes. MARTA Pad is more than a standard heating pad. It combines precise thermal control with real-time monitoring of heart rate, respiratory rate, and body temperature.
How is temperature controlled?
MARTA continuously measures body temperature through integrated surface sensors and infrared heating. For direct feedback, the MARTA Rec rectal probe can be used.
Are vital signs displayed on the MARTA Pad?
Yes. The integrated display shows heart rate, breathing rate, and temperature, providing immediate visibility during procedures.
Can the MARTA Pad record vital signs?
No. The pad itself only displays vitals. To record and export data, you need the MARTA App.
How does the MARTA Pad connect to the MARTA App?
The pad connects wirelessly via Bluetooth. The Bluetooth connection is required for initial pairing, after which data flows seamlessly to the app for recording and export.
Can the MARTA Pad run on battery?
Yes. The integrated battery allows mobility between workstations without disturbing the animal. For extended use, we recommend plugging it in.
How long does the battery last?
The battery lasts several hours, depending on usage. For long experiments, keep the pad connected to power.
Can the MARTA Pad be sterilised?
Yes. It can be wiped with water or ethanol and is compatible with standard laboratory sterilisation protocols. For specific protocols, please contact us.
How durable is the MARTA Pad?
Built with an anodised aluminium case and glass surface, the MARTA Pad is robust and designed to withstand repeated cleaning and disinfection.
Can vitals be measured if the animal is covered?
Yes. The MARTA Pad’s contact-free technology reliably monitors vitals through sterile drapes, foil, or other covers commonly used in aseptic procedures. For specific protocols, please contact us.
Can multiple animals be monitored on one MARTA Pad?
No. Each pad is designed for a single animal. Multiple animals can be monitored in parallel using several pads.
How does the MARTA Pad measure vital signs?
The pad uses capacitive sensor technology, detecting physiological signals electrically for precise, non-invasive measurements.
Does the MARTA Pad interfere with surgical instruments?
No. The pad is designed to work reliably with microscopes, stereotaxic frames, and other experimental equipment. For questions regarding specific equipment, please contact us.
What is included when ordering a MARTA Pad?
Each MARTA Pad is delivered in a case with a power supply and user manual on a memory stick. The MARTA App is included. Accessories can be purchased separately.
How should the MARTA Pad be stored between uses?
Always return the pad and power supply to the case and store in a dry place.
MARTA APP
How can I access the MARTA App?
The MARTA App is a web-based application accessible through any compatible browser. It connects wirelessly to MARTA Pads via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi and can be displayed on devices such as computers, smartphones, or tablets.
Can the MARTA App be accessed remotely?
Yes. As a web-based application, it can be securely accessed worldwide using your computer, smartphone, or tablet.
Does the MARTA App work offline?
Yes. It functions offline for visualising vital signs. However, internet access is required for recording, alerts, syncing, and export.
How do I log in to the MARTA App?
Login is simple: enter your name and email address. Two-factor authentication (2FA) is available for enhanced security.
What features are available in the MARTA App?
The app provides real-time monitoring, multi-pad management, customisable alarms, heating control, data labelling (e.g., species, anaesthetic), recording with time stamps, and export functions.
What does the monitoring overview show?
It displays all real-time vital signs as well as heating and battery status for each connected pad.
Can I adjust pad temperature through the MARTA App?
Yes. The app allows precise manual temperature adjustments for each pad.
Can I set alarms for vital signs?
Yes. Alarms can be customised for each experiment to alert you when values cross safe thresholds.
What happens if I forget to start the MARTA App?
The MARTA Pad shows vital signs locally on its display. However, data will not be visualised and recorded until the pad is paired with the app and recording is manually started.
Will recording start automatically once the pad and app are paired?
No. Recording must be started manually by pressing the record button in the app.
Can I monitor multiple animals simultaneously?
Yes. The app supports parallel monitoring of multiple pads, displaying all animals within one interface.
Can I record and export data with the MARTA App?
Yes. Data can be visualised, recorded, stored, and exported in .csv format for analysis, plotting for publications, and reporting.
Can collected data be shared with authorities?
Yes. Exported files support transparency and can be used for reports and regulatory compliance.
Is the MARTA App compliant with data security regulations?
Yes. The app meets strict institutional requirements for data protection and compliance. Your IT department can reach out to our team for specific requirements.
SOFTWARE & UPDATES
Can the MARTA firmware be updated?
Yes. The MARTA Pad can be updated remotely to the latest firmware through the app.
Are users notified of updates?
Yes. Notifications appear directly in the app.
Are updates included?
Yes. Updates are included with your purchase.
Are updates simple to install?
Yes. Installation is one-click and requires no technical expertise.
Will updates affect ongoing experiments?
No. Updates can be scheduled individually. Users decide when to update, ensuring active monitoring during experiments is not disrupted.
USERS & PROCEDURES
Who can operate the MARTA Pad?
Trained laboratory staff and animal facility personnel.
Do I need special training to use the MARTA Pad?
No. Most users are comfortable after a short introduction.
How long does setup take before surgery?
Setup requires only a few minutes.
How much handling time is saved?
Significant time is saved compared to traditional sensor placement.
Do I need one pad per work station?
Multiple users can share one pad depending on lab workflow, but we recommend one per work station for standardised and parallel use.
Can the MARTA Pad be moved between rooms and labs?
Yes. MARTA is portable and battery-powered, making it easy to transfer between rooms. It also meets the highest hygiene standards for use across labs.
Which procedures are supported?
MARTA supports a wide range of rodent surgical and experimental procedures, from short inductions and procedures to complex surgeries and in vivo imaging.
How must the animal be placed on the MARTA Pad?
The MARTA Pad was developed for prone positioning during brain and spinal surgeries. Algorithms are being optimised for reliable monitoring in supine and lateral positions. The MARTA SpOâ‚‚ rectal probe already allows full flexibility, and in the future both options will support independent positioning.
ANAESTHESIA INDUCTION & ANAESTHETICS
Do animals need to be anaesthetised?
Yes. The MARTA Pad is designed for monitoring anaesthetised animals.
Is data reliable if the animal moves?
No. The system is optimised for immobile animals (e.g., anaesthetised or head-fixed rodents) to ensure stable readings.
Does the MARTA Pad work under different anaesthetics?
Yes. MARTA is compatible with both inhalational and injectable anaesthetics.
Which anaesthetics are compatible?
The MARTA Pad was initially developed for inhalational agents such as isoflurane. Algorithms are currently being optimised to support reliable monitoring under injectable mixtures such as ketamine–xylazine or MFF. For specific protocols, please contact us.
How does the MARTA Pad improve induction safety?
By combining controlled warming with immediate monitoring during induction, MARTA helps prevent heat loss and hypothermia.
TWO-PHOTON IN-VIVO IMAGING
Can the MARTA Pad be used inside a two-photon in-vivo microscope?
Yes. The MARTA Pad is compatible with 2-photon microscopes for in-vivo imaging of anaesthetised mice. It continuously tracks vital signs while the animal is inside the microscope cabinet. Please contact us for advice on customised microscope setups.
Can the MARTA Pad display be turned off during imaging?
Yes. The pad’s display can be turned off to avoid light emission and prevent interference with sensitive imaging experiments.
Why is the MARTA Pad useful during in-vivo imaging?
During 2-photon in-vivo imaging, the animal is hidden from view, preventing visual assessment of its condition. The pad provides tracking of heart rate, breathing rate, and body temperature, ensuring physiological stability, reproducibility, and animal welfare throughout long imaging sessions.
How are vital signs displayed when the MARTA Pad is inside the microscope?
Vitals are transmitted wirelessly to the MARTA App via Bluetooth, allowing real-time monitoring on your computer, tablet or smart phone without interrupting imaging sessions.
Can MARTA be used with inverted imaging systems?
No. MARTA is not compatible with inverted imaging microscopes.
ANIMAL WELFARE, REFINEMENT & STAFF WELLBEING
How does the MARTA ecosystem improve animal welfare?
By combining heating, multi-parametric vital sign monitoring, and flexible add-ons, the MARTA ecosystem reduces animal handling, prevents heat loss and hypothermia, and ensures correct anaesthesia depth at all times. This minimises stress and pain, improves recovery, and enhances surgical outcomes across procedures.
Does the MARTA ecosystem reduce the need for external sensors and multiple devices?
Yes. The pad replaces electrodes and provides simultaneous multi-parametric vital sign monitoring, combined with heating, in one all-in-one, plug-and-play system. Additional probes for rectal temperature and SpO2 monitoring can be integrated if desired (SpO2 launch planned for 2025). MARTA add-ons are designed to work hand-in-hand with existing laboratory devices, so your current setup can be expanded and refined rather than replaced.
Does the MARTA ecosystem support the 3Rs?
Yes. MARTA contributes to Refine and Reduce. Refined, vital-sign-centred procedures improve reproducibility and surgical outcomes, while fewer animals are required to achieve reliable results.
How does the MARTA ecosystem improve SOPs?
By focusing on physiological feedback rather than fixed dosages, MARTA enables stable anaesthesia management. This reduces variability, improves reproducibility, and supports more robust experimental outcomes.
Can current SOPs be adjusted?
Yes. With the MARTA App, data can be labelled by species, anaesthetic, or procedure, supporting new SOPs that harmonise research within individual labs and across different labs.
Is data more robust and reproducible across labs?
Yes. By investing in the MARTA ecosystem, institutions can implement vital-centred workflows, harmonise protocols, and improve reproducibility not only within individual labs but also across different labs.The MARTA App further supports this by allowing users to label datasets with key metadata such as species, strain, anesthetic, and animal position.
How does the MARTA ecosystem improve efficiency?
The MARTA ecosystem combines heating, multi-parametric vital sign monitoring, and data management in a single solution, reducing intervention time and equipment needs. All MARTA products are designed to integrate seamlessly with existing lab equipment, so institutions can upgrade their setups with MARTA without replacing what they already use. With multiple pads and add-ons running in parallel, researchers can streamline surgical and experimental workflows.
Is investing in the MARTA ecosystem cost-effective?
Yes. MARTA saves money by reducing time through streamlined workflows and digital reporting, eliminating paperwork and simplifying documentation. It also lowers costs for institutions by reducing the number of animals needed in studies: refined, vital-sign-centred procedures improve reproducibility and data quality, so reliable results can be achieved with fewer animals. In addition, existing lab equipment can be updated with MARTA products, adding monitoring and refinement capabilities without requiring replacement.
How does the MARTA ecosystem support Culture of Care?
MARTA strengthens Culture of Care for both animals and researchers. For animals, continuous vital sign monitoring ensures stable anaesthesia depth, reduces stress and pain, and improves recovery. For researchers, it provides confidence that their animals are stable and well cared for during procedures.
How can the MARTA ecosystem support researchers during procedures?
By working hand-in-hand with existing lab equipment and providing continuous vital sign feedback, the MARTA ecosystem removes uncertainty during procedures. Researchers no longer have to rely on indirect signs, incomplete monitoring, or rough estimates of anaesthesia depth. This reduces stress in daily lab work and allows them to focus on their science and animal care rather than equipment limitations and guesswork.
QUOTES & PRICING
Where can researchers buy the MARTA products?
Directly from Vigilitech on our website.
Does Vigilitech ship internationally?
Yes. Vigilitech delivers worldwide.
How do researchers request a quote?
Researchers can contact us via our website, email, or telephone. We will schedule a short meeting to discuss your lab’s needs and then provide a tailored quote.
Can quotes be adjusted?
Yes. Quotes are tailored and can be adjusted to match your procedures.
In which currencies can Vigilitech products be purchased?
Prices can be quoted in Swiss Francs (CHF), Euros (EUR), or US Dollars (USD).
Can labs rent the MARTA Pad?
Yes. The MARTA Pad + App can be rented for a minimum of three months. Additional months can be added as needed.
Does Vigilitech provide references or case studies?
Yes. Testimonials are available on our website. While we are still new to the market, we already have several collaborations in progress, and results will be published soon.
Does Vigilitech offer trial periods?
The MARTA ecosystem combines heating, multi-parametric vital sign monitoring, and data management in a single solution, reducing intervention time and equipment needs. All MARTA products are designed to integrate seamlessly with existing lab equipment, so institutions can upgrade their setups with MARTA without replacing what they already use. With multiple pads and add-ons running in parallel, researchers can streamline surgical and experimental workflows.
CERTIFICATION & COMPLIANCE
Has the MARTA Pad been certified with CE marking?
Yes. The MARTA Pad is CE-marked and certified according to IEC 60601, the international standard for medical electrical equipment.
Does the MARTA Pad fulfil international power requirements?
Yes. All components comply with Swiss, EU, and international standards for voltage and plug types.
ONBOARDING, AFTER-SALE SUPPORT & WARRANTY
Is training included after purchase?
Yes. A full onboarding session is provided.
How quickly can labs start using the MARTA products?
Usually within days of delivery and onboarding.
Is support available after purchase?
Yes. Global support is included.
Does the MARTA Pad provide warranty?
Yes. The MARTA Pad includes a two-year warranty.
WEBINARS & DEMO DAYS
Are live demos of the MARTA Pad available?
Yes. We offer live demonstations through the MARTA Demo Days. Please contact us for details.
Are the live demos on-site?
Yes. MARTA Demo Days are conducted directly in your lab, giving your team hands-on experience with the products..
Are webinars recorded?
No. Webinars are not recorded.
SURGERY ADD-ONS
MARTA FRAME
Which species is the MARTA Frame designed for?
The frame is designed for rats. It extends the MARTA Pad’s surface to support larger rodents.
Does the MARTA Frame include monitoring?
No. It must be combined with the MARTA Pad for thermal control and vital sign monitoring.
How should the rat be positioned on the MARTA Frame?
The rat’s core should be placed on the pad.
What is the MARTA Frame used for?
It is suitable for surgical procedures in rats.
Is it compatible with stereotaxic procedures?
No. For stereotaxic surgeries in rats, use the MARTA Stereotax Rat add-on.
Can multiple animals be placed on one MARTA Frame?
No. Each frame supports one animal. Multiple frames can be used in parallel.
Can the MARTA Frame be sterilised?
Yes.
Is the MARTA Frame heated?
Yes. Integrated heating elements warm the rat’s entire body during procedures.
How does heating improve welfare?
It helps prevent heat loss and hypothermia, which are common risks in rodent surgery.
Can anaesthesia masks be used on the MARTA Frame?
Yes. The magnetic surface allows secure placement of gas anaesthesia masks.
Does the MARTA Frame reduce anaesthetic gas exposure?
Yes. Its design minimises leakage and includes a residue suction system to protect staff.
MARTA EXTENSION
Which species is the MARTA Extension designed for?
The extension is designed for mice.
Does the MARTA Extension include monitoring?
No. It must be combined with the MARTA Pad for thermal control and vital sign monitoring.
How should the mouse be positioned on the MARTA Extension?
The mouse is placed on the pad, while the researcher’s hands can rest on the extension for precision work.
What is the MARTA Extension used for?
It supports delicate surgical procedures in mice that require hand stability, such as embryo transfer.
Is the MARTA Extension compatible with stereotaxic procedures?
No. For stereotaxic surgeries in mice, use the MARTA Stereotax Adapter Mouse or MARTA Stereotax Mouse add-ons.
Can multiple animals be placed on one MARTA Extension?
No. Each extension supports one animal. Multiple extensions can be used in parallel.
Can the MARTA Extension be sterilised?
Yes.
Is the MARTA Extension heated?
No. The extension is an unheated surface designed to provide stability for precise microsurgeries.
Does the MARTA Extension reduce anaesthetic gas exposure?
It helps prevent heat loss and hypothermia, which are common risks in rodent surgery.
What is the difference between the MARTA Frame and the Extension?
The frame is for rats and includes heating, while the extension is for mice, unheated, and designed for microsurgical precision.
STEREOTAXIC ADD-ONS
Do I need new stereotaxic equipment?
No. MARTA add-ons are compatible with standard frames in your lab.
Which frames are compatible?
The most common stereotaxic frames from Stoelting, Kopf, and RWD are supported. For others, such as Narishige, please contact us.
What options are available?
We offer add-ons for stereotaxic work with both mice and rats.
How does the MARTA Pad integrate into these setups?
Our add-ons provide a dedicated compartment where the pad can be seamlessly inserted.
Are the MARTA Stereotaxic add-ons easy to install?
Yes. Simply replace your existing baseplate with ours, screw the frame onto it, and slide in the MARTA Pad.
Does the new stereotaxic setup remain accurate?
Yes. The add-ons are designed for precision and stability, ensuring frames and arms can be mounted as accurately as with the original baseplate.
Can researchers use the MARTA Pad in their stereotaxic setup without the MARTA Stereotaxic Add-on?
Yes, the MARTA Pad can theoretically be used in a stereotaxic setup without the add-on. However, we strongly recommend using the dedicated MARTA baseplates to prevent grounding issues, noise interference, and stability problems during procedures.
RECTAL PROBES
MARTA REC
What is the MARTA Rec rectal probe for?
The rectal probe provides direct core temperature measurement for enhanced feedback-controlled heating.
Is it mandatory to use the rectal probe?
No. The MARTA Pad’s contact-free temperature monitoring is sufficient in most cases.
How does the feedback loop work?
Heating dynamically adjusts based on readings from the rectal probe and the pad’s surface sensors.
What happens when I insert the MARTA Rec?
The pad detects the rectal probe instantly and automatically switches heating control to rectal feedback, preventing overheating.
What happens if the rectal probe falls out?
The MARTA Pad immediately detects when the probe is removed and automatically switches back to its surface sensor heating. This ensures continuous thermal regulation and prevents the animal from becoming hypothermic.
MARTA SPO2
Is the MARTA SpO2 probe compatible with my MARTA Pad?
Yes. MARTA SpO2 integrates seamlessly with the existing MARTA hardware. Only a software update is required.
What does the MARTA SpO2 monitor?
The MARTA SpO2 is primarily designed to continuously monitor oxygen saturation levels. At the same time, it provides multi-parametric feedback on temperature, heart rate, and breathing throughout procedures.
Does probe placement restrict animal positioning?
No. With the SpO2 rectal probe, the animal’s positioning on the pad is completely flexible. Monitoring remains reliable whether the animal is placed in prone, supine, or lateral position.
When will MARTA SpO2 be released?
The MARTA SpO2 rectal probe is planned for release in 2025.
ANAESTHESIA INDUCTION CHAMBERS
MARTA BOX
Is the MARTA Box suitable for induction and recovery of anaesthesia?
Yes. When placed on top of the MARTA Pad, it provides heating and vital sign monitoring during induction and recovery.
Can vital signs be monitored in the MARTA Box alone?
No. Monitoring begins only when the box is combined with the MARTA Pad.
Can multiple animals be induced in one box?
No. Each box is designed for single-animal use.
Is the MARTA Box compatible with inhalation anaesthesia?
Yes. It works with standard anaesthetic agents such as isoflurane.
Is the MARTA Box easy to clean and sterilise?
Yes. The box is designed for simple cleaning and sterilisation.
HEATED ANAESTHESIA BOXES (MICE & RATS)
Are the heated boxes compatible with the MARTA Pad?
No. They Heated Anaesthesia Boxes for mice and rats are stand-alone induction systems.
What are the Heated Anaesthesia Boxes for mice and rats used for?
They combine warming with anaesthesia during induction and recovery, helping stabilise animals during these critical phases.
Which animals are supported?
Models are available for both mice and rats.
More questions? Contact us!
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