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1. Cat retinal ganglion cells may be subdivided into sustained and transient response‐types by the application of a battery of simple tests based on responses to standing contrast, fine grating patterns, size and speed of contrasting targets, and on the presence or absence of the periphery effect. The classification is equivalent to the ‘X’/‘Y’ (linear/nonlinear) subdivision of Enroth‐Cugell & Robson which is thus confirmed and extended.

2. The sustained/transient classification applied to both on‐centre and off‐centre cells.

3. Lateral geniculate neurones may be similarly classified by the same tests. Occasional concentrically organized cells had a mixture of sustained and transient properties.

4. A technique for simultaneous recording from a geniculate neurone and one or more retinal ganglion cells providing its excitatory input showed that the connexions were specific with respect to the sustained/transient …