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Improvements in 2.5 software:
This document summarizes the important differences and improvements in the BrainMaster 2.5 software.
The 2.5 software is capable of all of the functions in 2.0SE. IN addition, it adds the following capabilities:
- Operation at 120 or 256 samples/second (versus 120 only in 2.0 and 2.0SE)
- Extended working frequency range to 0.5-64 Hz when operating at 256 samples/second
- Improved display screen responsiveness and timing when operating at 256 samples/second
- Additional screens including Long Trends, Lissajous Figures, and Return Maps
- Support of BrainMaster 2EW “wideband” amplifier/digitizer
- Support of optional StimFlash photic stimulation control software
- Support of optional Interactor Cushion control software
The 2.5 software will support all existing “2.0-enabled” 2E modules, in addition to
the 2EW wideband modules. When used with a 2E modules, the software can operate at either 120 or 256 samples/second. When used with the 2E module, the 256 sampling rate provides enhanced frequency accuracy and
timing response, in comparison to 120 samples/second
The 2.5 software installation leaves any pre-installed 2.0 or 2.0SE software
intact. The 2.5 desktop icon will be added to any icons that are already there. You can then run either the 2.5 software, or the previously installed 2.0/2.0SE software. Note that the software programs will “share”
the login information, and any information you log in with will be visible to both programs. Also note that a 2.5 passkey will work with the 2.0 or 2.0SE software as well. So to use both sets of software, you need
only enter your 2.5 passkey, and it will be visible and work for both software versions.
Special note for 2.0SE users: By adding the 2.5 software to your PC, you install
some other programs and improvements that will operate with your 2.0SE software, and are provided at no cost to you. These will operate with 2.0SE regardless of whether you get a license for 2.5. For example, the
“LongTrendView”, “Lissajous”, and “ReturnMap” windows shown below will appear in your 2.0SE “Additional Software” browser, and can be run with 2.0SE. Also, the StimFlash and Interactor Cushion programs will be
installed, and can be authorized for you if wish to obtain them. Note that the Lissajous and ReturnMap windows are acceptable at 120 samples/second with 2.0SE, but are more responsive and useful when used at 256
samples/second with the 2.5 software.
Note that you will have a new passkey to log into the 2.5 software. Once you
install the 2.5 software, you will need to enter the new passkey you received with the 2.5 software. This new passkey will also work with 2.0SE software, if you use it on the same PC.
Even when used with existing 2E modules, 2.5 has significant benefits. By sampling
the EEG data at 256 samples/second, time response and displays are improved. In addition, it becomes possible to employ the built-in notch filters to remove 60Hz or 50Hz interference. Thus, improved signal quality
and reduced noise can be achieved with existing equipment, by using the 2.5 software.
Operation at 256 samples/second, operating bandwidth up to 64 Hz
Data Channels Setup screen for 2.5 now includes selections for the sampling rate, and to select the Input Notch Filters. NOTE:
The input notch filters operate only at 256 samples per second. If they are selected during 120 samples per second operation, they will have no effect.
A variety of new screens are available under the Additional Software/Browse Button:
The browser looks as follows:
Inclusion of long (30 minute) trend plot especially useful for alpha/theta crossover work:
The following screen shows the 2-channel Lissajous plot. This plot shows the 2 EEG channels plotted against each other. It is
possible to see phase relationships, coherence, and amplitude information regarding the 2 channels. This display is only useful when 2 channels of EEG are being measured.
Example of 2-channel multiple component Lissajous plots:
The following shows the Return Map View. This shows a component plotted against itself, with a delay introduced. These are
called “return maps” because the signal is seen to return upon itself cyclically, revealing complex dynamics, and providing a very rapid, informative display.
Multicomponent Return Map:
Support of optional StimFlash software: The following is the control panel for the current StimFlash software. This is documented
separately in the 2.5 software online documentation: Press “Product Manuals” from the Setup/Home screen and scroll down to the appropriate link.
Support of optional Interactor Cushion software. This shows the Interactor Cushion control panel. This software is documented
separately in the 2.5 software online documentation: Press “Product Manuals” from the Setup/Home screen and scroll down to the appropriate link.
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