Significance: We present a new optical method for modulating cortical activity in multiple locations and across multiple time points with high spatial and temporal precision. Our method uses infrared light and does not require dyes or transgenic modifications. It is compatible with a number of other stimulation and recording techniques.

Aim: Infrared neural stimulation (INS) has been largely confined to single point stimuli. In this study, we expand upon this approach and develop a rapidly switched fiber array capable of generation of stimulus patterns. Our prototype is capable of stimulating at nine separate locations but is easily scalable.

Approach: Our device is made of commercially available components: a solid-state infrared laser, a piezoelectric fiber coupled optical switch, and 200-μm diameter optical fibers. We validate it using intrinsic optical signal imaging of INS responses in macaque and squirrel monkey sensory cortical areas.

Results: We demonstrate that our switched array can consistently generate responses in primate cortex, consistent with earlier single channel INS investigations.

Conclusions: Our device can successfully target the cortical surface, either at one specific region or multiple points spread out across different areas. It is compatible with a host of other imaging and stimulation modalities.