Patent ID: 7647097

Claim:
A neural access device for implanting in a patient comprising: a sensor comprising a plurality of electrodes to allow for chronic access of cells; an electrical conduit comprising a plurality of conductors, each conductor electrically connected to one or more of the electrodes; a connector assembly comprising: a first portion configured to be placed above a surface of a patient's skin; a second portion configured to be placed beneath the surface of the patient's skin; an attachment member for securing the second portion beneath the surface of the patient's skin; and at least one signal communication port configured to transport a signal to and/or from one or more of the electrodes; and an electrostatic discharge protector comprising a removable cap covering the at least one signal communication port and configured to protect the device from electrostatic discharge wherein the signal communication port is configured to transmit cellular activity detected from one or more of the electrodes and electrical signals to one or more of the electrodes wherein the cellular activity is detected from one or more of the electrodes and the electrical signals are transmitted to at least one of the one or more electrodes from which cellular activity is detected.