The increasing use of microclectrodes in small sample volumes and biological environments require the use of thin film insulators. The insulating ability of the thin film insulators electrophoretic paint, polyimide, allylphenol phenol copolymer and an epoxy dip coat have been assessed using gold wires coated in the relevant film. Insulation was assessed by recording the current from the wires in a solution of known redox couple. The effect of prolonged storage in aqueous solutions was also investigated. The most successful insulating approach, with regards to insulative ability, prolonged use in aqueous environments and speed of application, was the combination of cathodic electrophoretic paint followed by polyimide. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.