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Introduction to the Software Suite
To enable researchers to make best use of the toolkit we needed to write intuitive software that enabled straightforward human virtualisation. The suite comprises of
several modules that far exceed the functionality offered by standard signal generators and oscilloscopes. At its core is the eight channel data analyser that
enables researchers to quickly compare what was captured or simulated with what was programmed or recorded by their paradigm. Each module records real time
data at up to 48Khz in files that are streamed to the recording computers hard drive. Auto-calibration software ensures your PC is suitable for use in high precision measurement.
The Data Analyser
This enables analysis of data from any of the software modules. In the example below a series of
screen events occurred on lines 1 and 2. We can also see a series of simulated responses that were made on line 8. These would have been
made in response to the detected screen events using DSCAR. Details of each event are shown in a spreadsheet window. This details each
onset, offset and duration in milliseconds. There are two floating cursors which can be dragged to measure time between events of your choosing.
To enable calibration of your paradigm you would compare how long you programmed the screen events to appear together with their onsets.
In terms of responses you would examine what your paradigm recorded with what was simulated. This would give error rates for your paradigm.
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Event Generation
EG can be thought of as an advanced four channel signal generator. Events on any channel can be varied at will in terms of onset and duration. Up to 32,000 events can be programmed.
For example you may have a paradigm on a remote PC that measures keystrokes. You could program EG to simulate key presses with
millisecond accuracy. Alternatively it could simulate tones to trigger a voice key within your paradigm.
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Digital Stimulus Capture
DSC can be thought of as a four channel software-based oscilloscope. Typically two channels monitor screen events via fibre optic flying leads
attached to the remote PC screen. Two further channels provide for monitoring of powered inputs, e.g. Powered Mics. In addition these two
further channels can be used to monitor switch closure on a remote PC if needed. All channels are optoisolated.
For example you may have a paradigm that examines dual modalities, e.g. cross modal priming. You can stick one or more fibres to the
screen and place one or more BBTK mics next to the speakers or headphones. After you have captured a sequence you will be able to use the
Data Analyser to check for synchrony and make corrections to the paradigm where needed to improve synchrony.
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Digital Stimulus Capture And Response
DSCAR combines the features of EG and DSC. You can setup a bank of simulated responses (up to four channels can be used). You can
then define a set of events on any channels, or combination of channels, that need to be detected before you simulate a response. You can
alter the delay after detecting the trigger event(s) and vary the duration of the response as you see fit. This is the essence of the notion of a
virtual human. DSCAR can be used to check both stimulus and response accuracy with sub-millisecond accuracy. By comparing what was
intended and the simulated responses that were recorded by your paradigm this gives you the opportunity to fine tune the paradigm to improve timing accuracy.
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