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Published byBrain Products GmbH
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Published on*June 7, 2019Document version 004
*Valid until publication of a new version of this document.
Figure 3-4.Using several StimTraks in parallel .................................................... 22
4
Figure 3-5.Using one sensor with two StimTraks................................................. 23
About these operating instructions
These operating instructions describe how to use StimTrak and how it is integrated into a measurement setup. The operating instructions form an integral part of StimTrak. They must be precisely adhered to in order to ensure that StimTrak is used as intended and operated correctly to guarantee
the concomitant safety of test subjects, users and third parties. Make sure that these operating instructions are always available to the users.
No part of this document may be reproduced or distributed in any form (by photocopying or any other method) without the express written permission of Brain Products. The operator may print the
document for internal use.
5
Make sure that you have the most recent operating instructions for your product or product revision.
If you require a more recent version, you can download it from our website: http://www.brainprod-
ucts.com.
The structure of the operating instructions
The operating instructions for StimTrak are divided into the following sections:
Chapter 1 gives an overview of StimTrak and its main functionalities.
Chapter 2 contains general safety information.
Chapter 3 describes how StimTrak is integrated in different measurement setups.
Chapter 4 contains information on common sources of error and how to rectify these.
Chapter 5 contains information on care and maintenance and on the correct way of disposing of
old units.
Target group of the operating instructions
The operating instructions are intended for users in the psychological and neurophysiological research area as well as physicians and medical experts.
Boldindicates items on the user interface (menus, buttons, switches, connectors,
options) and is used for emphases in the text
Italicindicates titles of dialog boxes/tabs, file locations and is used to indicate
product names
Underscore
Monospacedindicates text or characters to be entered at the keyboard
indicates cross-references and web addresses
Symbols
Caution: This symbol indicates that incorrect use of the product(s) may result in a
personal injury to the test subject, the user and/or a third-party. Failure to observe
the information in this document constitutes incorrect use.
Notice: This symbol indicates that the incorrect use of the product(s) may bring
about a risk of damage to property. Failure to observe the information in this document constitutes incorrect use.
Note or Tip: This symbol draws your attention to important information relating to the
current topic and to recommendations on how to use the product(s).
Cross-reference: This symbol indicates a reference to a related chapter, section or
document.
New: This symbol indicates changes or new content at this point.
Revision history
PageStatusChange
34new BNC cables added to Ordering codes
About these operating instructions 7
Support and reporting errors
We would ask you to report without delay any error you find in this document, any fault on the products or any malfunction that you observe when using this product. To do so, please contact your local dealer, who will also assist you in general questions about the product.
Preface
For any event related study, it is vital to precisely mark the onset of events. Stimulations, like pictures or sounds are the most common events. But responses, for example instructions given to a
subject, could also be marked. Marking is done by triggers: A stimulation or response device transmits trigger pulses for every event. These triggers, however, might not exactly match with the actual
onset of the event. Frequently, a delay or even jitter between trigger and the real onset can occur,
depending on the hardware and software. Without monitoring the event itself, it is impossible to detect such delays or jitters.
StimTrak is the answer to the demand for real-time triggers. It marks the real onset of the stimulus
or response from the connected devices (sensors, PC sound card, etc). The triggers are sent along
with the signals of the connected devices to the amplifier, thus delivering the complete monitoringchain of the stimulation.
8
StimTrak allows to connect practically any device with a maximum signal level of ±5 volts. The connectors and supplied cables allow for highest flexibility.
Besides these features, StimTrak has more to offer:
adjustable level trigger;
galvanic isolation between the input and output circuits;
integrated microphone;
pre-amplification of signals.
Being a modular device with high connectivityStimTrak perfectly integrates into complex measurement setups.
Intended use
StimTrak is intended to separate signals galvanically and detect when threshold values are exceeded in order to generate trigger signals. It is mainly used in measurements for event-related potentials (ERP)/evoked potentials (EP) applications.
StimTrak is not a medical device and may be used only in the context of non-medical applications
in order to carry out fundamental and applied research on the basis of neurophysiological methodology. Use of StimTrak for diagnosis, therapy, monitoring of vital life functions (such as cardiovas-
cular functions etc.) or other medical purposes is expressly forbidden. StimTrak has no direct
physical contact with test subjects and has no direct electrical connection to them.
Correct use
StimTrak may be used by personnel in the psychological and neurophysiological research area as
well as physicians and medical experts. It must not be used by unqualified persons (e.g. laymen)
and persons who cannot read (e.g. due to visual impairment) or understand (e.g. due to a lack of
language skills) the operating instructions.
Provided that all the other stipulations regarding the correct use are met and that the device is used
in accordance with its intended use, StimTrak is permitted to be used in:
research institutes and other non-medical environments (e.g. at home);
hospitals, clinics and other medical environments.
It must not be used in the following environments:
MR scanner environments
vicinity of explosive gases as may be the case in operating theaters
oxygen enriched atmospheres
under water (e.g. sea, swimming pool, bath tub) or in environments in which significant amounts
of water could enter StimTrak (e.g. under the shower/water-tap).
Combination with other products
StimTrak is tested for use in combination with the following products only:
ProductManufacturer
Amplifiers
V-Amp familyBrain Products GmbH
actiCHamp family Brain Products GmbH
BrainAmp family (incl. BrainAmp ExG amplifiers)Brain Products GmbH
Beside this general statement about permitted product combinations the user must check, whether
all stipulations of each product are fulfilled for the specific combination and purpose of application
(i.e. intended use and correct use). Please observe the operating instructions of the respective
products.
Any applicable national legislation and operator directives must also be observed.
Chapter 1Introducing StimTrak
Gain 1
10
100
Mic
0V
1V
2V
3V
4V
5V
Power
Low battery
Trigger level
Trigger outSignal out
Signal inPass-through
1.1Scope of delivery
Upon receipt of the delivery make sure, that the product or package does not show any signs of damage, and that the delivery is complete.
4Integrated microphone8Trigger group (Trigger level potentiome-
ter, Trigger LED)
Chapter 1 Introducing StimTrak 13
+
+
AA N iMH
AA NiM H
Gain 1
10
100
Mic
0V
1V
2V
3V
4V
5V
Power
Low battery
Trigger level
Trigger outSignal out
Signal inPass-through
1.4Getting started with StimTrak
Inserting the batteries
StimTrak is powered by two rechargeable AA NiMH batteries (supplied). The battery tray is located
on the bottom. Insert the batteries as illustrated below.
Figure 1-1. Inserting the batteries
Note: Fully close the sliding cover until it clicks into place.
Setting the rotary switches
Use the supplied screwdriver to set the Gain switch and Trigger level potentiometer.
Figure 1-2. Setting the switches
Tip: Store the screwdriver within easy reach for the user.
Chapter 1 Introducing StimTrak 14
Power
Low battery
1
10
100
Mic
Gain
0V
1V
2V
3V
4V
5V
Trigger level
Operating controls
This section gives an overview of StimTrak’s interfaces.
Status group
The status group consists of the I/O switch, Power LED (green), and Low battery LED (amber).
Power LED indicates when StimTrak is ready to use (I/O switch set to I).
Low battery LED indicates a low battery voltage.
Change the batteries as soon as possible, when this LED lights up! Depending
on the batteries, you have 10 to 15 minutes left to end the measurements.
Gain switch
The gain switch is a rotary switch for selecting the signal sources and gain factors:
Mic selects the integrated microphone. The acoustic signals detected by
the microphone are not amplified but you can use the signals to generate
triggers.
You cannot use the microphone together with an external sensor, and the
signals of the microphone are not available on Pass-through.
1, 10 and 100 selects the gain factor for the signals on Signal In and Pass-
through. Gain factor 1 does not amplify the signals.
Trigger group
The trigger group consists of the potentiometer and Trigger LED.
Potentiometer (blue wheel) sets the threshold for generating trigger puls-
es. Its range is between 0 V and 5 V. The lower the threshold, the more sensitive StimTrak generates a trigger.
Trigger LED (green) indicates when a trigger pulse is generated by flashing
for 100 ms. During rapid succession of trigger pulses the impression of a
longer luminescence can occur.
If you do not need trigger signals, set the threshold to 5 V. With this setting
StimTrak will only generate triggers from very high signals, which helps saving
battery power.
Connectors
There are four connectors on StimTrak:
Signal In is the input of signal sources (e.g. sensors). The signals are available on the pass-
through connector.
Chapter 1 Introducing StimTrak 15
!
Pass-through is used to forward the signals from input and to connect the acoustical stimulator
adapter.
Signal In and Pass-through are connected one-to-one without galvanic isolation. A signal applied to one of the connectors is also available on the other connector.
Signal out. The input signals are sent via an amplifier stage to Signal out.
Trigger out outputs trigger pulses, that are generated from the amplified input signals or micro-
phone signals.
Galvanic isolation
There are two galvanic isolations barriers:
between signal input circuit (Signal In and Pass-through) and signal output circuit
between signal output circuit and trigger output circuit.
This means that each circuit is isolated against the other circuits.
Open-ended cables
There are two open-ended cables with 5-wires each. You can use these cables to attach a connector
that is specific for your application.
Signal input cable can be connected to the desired sensor. For a detailed
pinout, please refer to Appendix B
Pass-through cable can be connected to Pass-through or Signal out. You
.
can use this cable, if you want to forward (pass through) signals to another
device. For a detailed pinout, please refer to Appendix B
.
Notice: Only trained staff should modify these cables.
Polarity reverser
StimTrak generates triggers on positive signals only. If a sensor outputs negative
signals, then interconnect this cable between the sensor and the signal input of
StimTrak. This will change the polarity of the incoming signal. You can identify this
cable through its label and length. It is the shortest cable in the scope of delivery.
Chapter 1 Introducing StimTrak 16
1.5General notes on operating StimTrak
StimTrak provides the possibilities to connect a variety of sensors. Because each sensor has its own
technical specifications, e.g. offset voltage, resistance values, there are several parameters that
you have to take into account, when preparing the setup and interpreting the recorded data.
Ambient temperature
The ambient temperature can influence the behavior of the connected sensor, for example, with
regards to its resistance. This is especially important when you are using sensors with slowly
changing signals, like a temperature sensor or GSR sensor.
Device temperature
During operation, StimTrak becomes slightly warm which might have effects on sensors with
slowly changing signals. Therefore, switch on StimTrak several minutes before you start the
measurement in order to warm it up.
Offset voltage
If your sensor has a known offset value and you select a gain factor of 10 or 100, the offset will
be amplified. On some sensors the offset depends on the ambient temperature.
Tips
Always perform a test run before you start recording the actual data.
Always recordthe sensor signal that you are using to generate triggers. This helps
you to understand when a trigger was generated.
Chapter 1 Introducing StimTrak 17
2
1
3
4
LeftRight
LeftRight
1.6Acoustical stimulator adapter at a glance
The acoustical stimulator adapter allows you to connect audio sources to StimTrak, for example a
PC sound card. It has the following interfaces:
No.Description
1Signal input, stereo jack 3.5 mm
permanently connected cable 1.5 m
2Signal output,
left/right audio channel, 5-pin plug
3Inverter switch (figure 1-3
(L/R and R/L)
4Headphone output, stereo socket 3.5 mm
1:1 connected to input
The adapter comes with two 15 cm cables, with which you connect the outputs
to the Pass-through connector of StimTrak.
If you want to use the right and left audio channels alternately, but only have
one StimTrak, you can switch between the channels with the inverter switch
(). This makes it unnecessary to unplug cables. The switch only inverts the
outputs to StimTrak () but not the headphone output ().
)
Figure 1-3. Inverter switch on the acoustical stimulator adapter
Remember
The switch position “indicates” the output port of the left audio channel.
Chapter 2Safety information
!
The product is not approved for use in the vicinity of a magnetic resonance imaging
(MRI) system. This is indicated on the product by the marking shown on the right.
StimTrak is not approved to be used in direct physical contact with the test subject.
General precautions
Handle the device and its accessories with care.
Never let the components come into contact with water.
Do not kink or crush cables.
Do not pull on the cables to unplug connectors.
Heat, direct sunlight (UV radiation), moisture, dust and dirt can shorten the lifetime of the de-
vice.
Do not drop the device or allow it to fall. Avoid impacts on the device.
18
Notices for operation
Do not connect two signal sources to StimTrak at the same time.
Only trained staff should modify the open-ended cables.
Please use the supplied cables. Brain Products is not liable for damages caused
by cables that were not supplied with the delivery.
Notes on data recording
The user is liable for the appropriate measurement setup and the quality of the recorded data. During operation, keep a minimum distance of 3m to cell phones or
similar transmission equipment. Otherwise, signals may be distorted or may contain
artifacts.
This chapter describes how StimTrak can be used for different applications. It also sketches the advantages of each setup. The actual setup depends on your application and the used sensors.
3.1Using the integrated microphone
19
With the integrated microphone StimTrak is a ready-to-use device. The microphone converts sound
(for example clicks) into signals and sends them to the amplifier. StimTrak can generate triggers
from the signals (for example, when a certain noise level is exceeded).
Figure 3-1. Using the integrated microphone
To use the microphone, turn the rotary switch to the position Mic and set the trigger level as desired.
Tip: At very low trigger levels, ambient noise might generate undesired trigger pulses.
Therefore, increase the trigger level by turning the blue wheel clock-wise, until ambient noise does not generate trigger pulses anymore.
StimTrak allows to connect practically any device with a maximum signal level of 5 volts. The input
signal of the device can be amplified with a gain factor of 10 or 100 and can also be used to generate
real-time triggers.
Because StimTrak only generates triggers on positive signals, you can use the short polarity reverser
cable for sensors that have negative signal peaks.
Figure 3-2. Connecting a sensor to StimTrak
Tip: If you set the gain switch to 10 or 100 and the sensor signal has an offset voltage,
the offset voltage will be amplified by 10 or 100 respectively. This might cause theoutput signal to go into saturation. If this happens select a lower gain factor, for example 1.
Notice: Pay attention when you do the connections! Never connect two outputs to each
other!
For details about the Photo Sensor, please refer to the separate Photo Sensor Oper-
ating Instructions, which is available on the Application Suite DVD.
Chapter 3 Application 21
!
Gain
1
10
100
Mic
0V
1V
2V
3V
4V
5V
Headphones
Audio source
Trigger
3.3Using audio sources
You can connect audio sources to StimTrak by using the acoustical stimulator adapter. The adapter
improves the range of application. It separates the left and right audio channels (stereo) and provides a headphone jack. There are two general setups: using one or using two StimTraks. In a setup
with one StimTrak you can only process the one audio channel at a time (Figure 3-3
tween the channels with the inverter switch. A setup with two StimTraks can be useful for stimulation paradigms where the left and right ear is stimulated alternately, for example.
Note
The adapter is connected to the Pass-through connector of StimTrak.
), but switch be-
Figure 3-3. Processing mono audio signals
The advantages of using the acoustical stimulator adapter with StimTrak are:
galvanic isolation between audio source (PC sound card, for example) and EEG amplifier;
trigger generation from the analog audio signal;
forwarding of the unaltered signal to the headphones.
Notice
Because there is no galvanic isolation between Signal in and Pass-through, do not
connect a sensor while an audio source is connected. Failure to do so will result in
data loss (signals can get lost) and damage to the connected signal sources.
Chapter 3 Application 22
Aux
Aux
Trigger In
Gain
1
10
100
Mic
0V
1V
2V
3V
4V
5V
Gain
1
10
100
Mic
0V
1V
2V
3V
4V
5V
Signal
source
Trigger
Signal
source
Trigger
TriggerSignal
Signal
3.4Using two StimTraks in parallel
You can use several StimTraks in parallel, in order to:
galvanically isolate the individual signals from each other;
generate triggers from the individual signal sources (by using the TriggerBox).
In this way, it is possible to record trigger pulses from different signal sources at the same time.
Figure 3-4. Using several StimTraks in parallel
Tip
This setup is especially convenient if you use the acoustical stimulation adapter and
want to process the left and right audio channel. (In this case, each output of the
adapter are connected to the Pass-through connector of another StimTrak).
Please refer to the TriggerBox & TriggerBox Extension Operating Instructions for more
details on how to use the TriggerBox.
Chapter 3 Application 23
Aux
Aux
Trigger In
Gain
1
10
100
Mic
0V
2V
3V
4V
5V
Gain
1
10
100
Mic
0V
1V
2V
2
V
3V
4V
5V
Trigger
Signal
AUX cable
AUX cable
0
2
V
1V
Trigger
Trigger
Signal
source
3.5Using two StimTraks in series
If you want to generate different triggers from one signal, you can connect two or more StimTraks in
series.
To record different trigger pulses from one signal, the TriggerBox is interconnected between the
StimTrak and the amplifier. For this setup connect the signal source to one StimTrak. Pass the signal
through to the second StimTrak and set a different trigger level on each StimTrak. For recording the
sensor signal it is sufficient to connect one StimTrak to the AUX input of the amplifier.
Figure 3-5. Using one sensor with two StimTraks
Chapter 4Troubleshooting
The following problems can arise when carrying out measurements using StimTrak:
SymptomPossible causeRemedy
24
No LED illuminates when the I/
O switch is set to I.
Low battery LED illuminates.Battery voltage is too low.Replace both batteries with
Connector/jack is loose.Excessive disconnecting and
Output signal appears as flat
line. (This is an indication that
the input signal is in saturation.)
Batteries are not inserted correctly.
No battery inserted or batteries discharged.
Batteries of different voltage.
Batteries of different manufacturers.
connecting of cables.
Gain factor is too high.Reduce the gain factor.
A component might be defective.
Insert both batteries correctly
(see page 13
Replace both batteries with
fully charged batteries or fully
recharge both batteries.
Use two batteries from the
same manufacturer.
fully charged batteries.
Return StimTrak to Brain Prod-
ucts for repair.
Identify the defective component by subsequently excluding the possible error sources
(examples):
- Check if the sensor is working
as expected (connect the sensor directly to the amplifier).
).
- Check if the Signal Out is
working as expected (use the
microphone to detect if Stim-Trak output connector is defective).
- Check the AUX inputs of the
amplifier (use a different AUX
input or different amplifier).
No triggers generated.Trigger threshold too high.Set a lower trigger threshold.
Output signal in saturation.Reduce the gain factor and
then adjust trigger threshold.
Analog signal has no positive
polarity.
The input signal is of negative
polarity (-5 VDC). Use the
polarity reverser cable (see
page 15
).
If you used cables with open
ends to connect the sensor,
invert the polarity of the sensor.
(Connector/cable pinout see
Appendix B
.)
Too many triggers.Trigger threshold too low.Set a higher trigger threshold.
High noise level.Try to reduce ambient noise or
set a higher trigger threshold.
Setup does not work as
expected.
Incorrect cable.Use cables from Brain Prod-
ucts.
Incorrect cable pinout in case
of cables with open ends.
Check the cable pinout
(Appendix B
).
Incorrect cable wiring.Check cable wiring
(Appendix B
).
No markers are displayed in
the recording software,
Incorrect settings in the
recording software.
Please refer to the manual of
the recording software.
although triggers are generated as indicated by the green
Trigger LED.
If you could not determine the error source with help of this list or you identified a detective component, please contact the local dealer.
Chapter 5Maintenance, cleaning and disposal
!
5.1Maintenance
StimTrak requires no maintenance. Brain Products does not prescribe any safety-related measurements. Regularly inspect the device and accessories for any visual damage and check that the connectors are clean. Repairs may only be carried out by Brain Products. In case of defective
components please contact your local dealer.
26
5.2Cleaning
Before cleaning, switch off StimTrak and disconnect all cables. Clean the device with a lightly damp
cloth. Do not use aggressive or acidic cleaning agents.
No liquids must enter the device or the connectors as this may cause corrosion.
5.3Disposal of old units
If the device needs to be disposed of, observe the applicable legislation. In the EU and EFTA, the
WEEE Directive 2002/96/EC on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment applies. In Germany, for
example, the "ElektroG" additionally governs electrical and electronic equipment.
Do not dispose of your devices, accessories and cables with ordinary household waste.
On request, Brain Products will take back your old devices, provided that they are original Brain
Products parts.
CE markingThe Brain Products GmbH confirms the electromagnetic compatibility
(EMC) of this product according to the Directive 2014/30/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 26 February 2014 on the harmonisation of the laws of the Member States relating to electromagnetic
compatibility.
RoHSIt is confirmed that it meets the requirements of the RoHS Directive
2002/95/EC and 2011/65/EU.
Scope of deliveryBrainVision StimTrak
Supplied accessories 2 x cables with open end
1xAUX-cable
Charger including 4 x AA NiMH cells 2,500 mAh
Screwdriver
This symbol indicates that devices must not be disposed of with household
waste. Dispose of in accordance with national regulations or return the device
and its accessories to the manufacturer.
MR Unsafe: Devices with this symbol are not safe for use in an MR environment.
The Brain Products GmbH confirms the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) of
this product according to the Directive 2014/30/EU of the European Parliament
and of the Council of 26 February 2014 on the harmonisation of the laws of the
Member States relating to electromagnetic compatibility.
The name and address of the device manufacturer are specified next to this label.
Appendix BTechnical data and pinout
No. of channels1 (input signal is conditioned and put out as analog output signal, that
is also used to derive a digital trigger signal)
Galvanic isolationsSignal input circuit (incl. Signal In, microphone and Pass-through)
Signal output circuit, Trigger circuit
Dielectric strength of the isolation barriers: 1,500 VDC
Gain factors1, 10, 100
Power consumption900 mW
Power supply2 AA NiMH batteries with a capacity of 2,500 mAh
Battery operating time: > 5 hours
29
Sensor supply±5 VDC, ±50 mA, on Signal in, pin 1 and 5
BandwidthDC to 10 kHz
Signal couplingDC
Voltage rangesSignal input: ±5 V
Signal output: ±5 V
Trigger: 0VDC to 5VDC
Trigger pulse5 V TTL, level triggered, high active
Duration: 11 ms, retriggerable (These 11 ms are extended, if a new
pulse is received. The signal level stays high.)
Triggering on positive signals only! Min. signal length: 10 μs
Trigger source: amplified input signal after galvanic isolation
Trigger status displayTrigger LED (green) illuminates for 100 ms if the trigger threshold is
exceeded. In rapid succession of trigger pulses the impression of a
longer luminescence can occur.
MicrophoneElectret microphone capsule, integrated in the housing