In the world of neurofeedback, biofeedback, and general bio-signal acquisition, there is not only a large standard deviation in the way different models of amplification devices read bio-signals, but also a large standard deviation in the way (most) amplification devices, of the same model, read bio-signals.  This is due to numerous factors, however a few of the largest are general manufacturing processes and the quality of the hardware components on the circuit board which are used to produce the device.

So how does this affect the field of bio-signal acquisition you may ask?  Well let’s say that one amplifier reads a specific frequency at a specific amplitude, for example let’s use 20 Hz and 10 uV as the actual frequency and amplitude.  We’ll say that device A reads this as 20 Hz and 9 uV and that device B reads this as 20 Hz and 11 uV.  In this example, device B is reading the same amplitude, of the same frequency, 22.2% higher than device A.  Wow, that’s a big difference!

If a mean-based bio-signal model is used (as is commonly done in both neurofeedback and biofeedback, say something like a QEEG), the same person, with the same frequency, at the same amplitude (effectively the same data-set, you get the picture) could look and seem very, very, different, depending on the device that captured that data.  This means that an individual who is assessed using a mean-based bio-signal model is highly dependent on both the quality and standard deviation of the hardware which they are trained and/or assessed with.

How do you know if your hardware is working properly?

Until recently a reasonably priced signal generation device was not available to the bio-signal acquisition market.  Sure you can find signal generators which produce frequencies upward of 1000 Hz for under $1000, but how many do you know of that can produce five frequencies between 1 Hz, and 40 Hz, with the ability to produce each frequency at five configurable levels of amplitude?  Enter the Intellatune™, the new calibration testing device from Braintellect™ (scheduled for release in mid to late October). The Intellatune lets you see exactly how your device stacks up to a static frequency, at a static amplitude, all of which is both set and configured by you, the user.  The Intellatune™ is a quick and easy way to test your device calibration.

The Power of Relational Data Modeling!

If on the other hand, you’re using a relational data model of bio-signal acquisition and feedback, such as Brain State Technologies Leading System for Brainwave Optimization with RTB, the model removes the variable of amplitude altogether, so you really don’t have to worry!  As a quick example, let’s say that device A reads data from two points:  points 1 and 2.  Device A reads point 1 as 20 Hz at 9 uV and point 2 as 20 Hz at 18 uV.  Device B reads the same two points, (at the same time), and point 1 is read as 20 Hz at 11 uV and point 2 is 20 Hz at 22 uV.  Again, for the sake of example, let’s say that the actual value of point 1 is 20 Hz at 10 uV and the actual value of point 2 is 20 Hz at 20 uV.

In this example, the data read by device B is 22.2% higher than that read by device A.  However, if you consider the relationship of the data to itself (ie get the ratio of the data at the different points) you would get the following:

Device A:

Device B:

By using the relational data, regardless of the device, the ratio (or relationship) of the data to itself is the same with each device.  Brain State Technologies’ Leading System for Brainwave Optimization with RTB is the only model we are aware of that uses a relational data model in this way.  As you can see, in this greatly simplified example, by using the relationship of the data to itself we remove many of the variables that all neurofeedback and biofeedback providers need to take into consideration and account for while training.  This does not mean that neurofeedback and biofeedback are not effective forms of client training, as anything that helps people is just that, helpful.  This does mean that the way that Brain State Technologies’ model works is highly efficient and highly effective in helping clients reach their training goals.

Oh, and when you can calibrate your equipment that really helps too, regardless of which model you choose to use!

Do you want to be sure you’re seeing a Licensed Brain State Technologies Affiliate Partner?  Look for the “Powered by Brain State Technologies®” logo wherever Brainwave Optimization with RTB is provided.

Peter Gerdes

Chief Geek, Brain State Technologies