The Ugo Basile Passive Avoidance Step-Down Apparatus is used for evaluating learning and memory in mice. The step-down apparatus consists of a 28(w)x23(d)x26(h) cm Perspex box with an electrified cage floor (40, 0.2cm stainless steel bars spaced 0.5cm apart) and an elevated vibrating platform (7cm). Mice are placed on the elevated platform and, when the animal steps off of the platform a shock is induced. Latency for the mouse to return to the platform is automatically recorded.

The Ugo Basile Step Down Passive Avoidance system is designed for use with mice or juvenile rats. The animal is simply placed on an elevated, vibrating platform and, when the animal steps down, a shock is induced.

A 7 cm platform elevated above the floor grid of a 28x23cm box provides the arena for Step-Down experiments. The platform is connected to an actuator which causes the platform to shake. When the animal steps off of the platform to the electrified grid, the stop command is used to cut actuator power, the platform vibration stops and triggers the latency counter.

Latency time is recorded to 1/10 of a second. The vibration intensity can be changed by a thumb switch on the front panel of the instrument, in the range 10-90 Hz. An 11 cm platform is also included, for using with larger animals.