A computer-controlled olfactometer for fMRI and electrophysiological studies of olfaction

A design for an inexpensive and reliable olfactometer is presented. The des ign has several advantages for fMRI and electrophysiology investigators. Th ese advantages include relatively rapid odorant rise times, computer contro l, multiple odor administration, and no ferrous materials near the subjects . In addition, the device is contamination resistant, and, because the air is neither warmed nor humidified, it is unlikely to become an incubator for bacteria. The olfactometer is constructed of off-the-shelf chromatography parts that require little modification.