Microcomputer based system for continuous measurement of rodent food intake

In the system, dry weights of individual food cups are monitored by electronic analog-digital balances dedicated to a Z-80A incorporated microprocessor. Times and amounts of weight removals (food consumption) are stored on floppy diskettes for later analyses with auxiliary BASIC language programs or commercial file management/statistical analysis systems. Eight tests were conducted with laboratory rats to determine the system"s validity, stability, accuracy, and effectiveness. A minute-by-minute accuracy of at least 0.03g was determined.