MindStream Features
Recording Mode
Apart from neurofeedback-training you can also execute normal recordings with the MindMaster® EEG. These recordings will not be suitable for diagnostical purposes, due to only two channels of the device, but they nonetheless give an insight in the electroencephalogram of a human.
You can observe the signal of both channels in various zoom-positions and observation modes. In doing so, you can give different assignments for the user to solve. A considerable difference between eyes shut and eyes open is for example quite easily seen. In the lower part of the image, you see differently colored bars, that portray the FFT (Fast-Fourier-Transformation). The FFT is a breakdown of frequency of the EEG-signal and it shows the current contingents of various frequencies. For example, the green bars display the Alpha-region which is defined by frequencies of 7-12 Hz. If the amplitude of these bars changes, the contingent of the accordant frequencies changes in the EEG. The recording mode serves as an incorporation of the EEG and to learn the handling of the EEG and the fit of the electrode. You can also perform recordings with various types of assignments, test subjects and conduction-positions though, and analyse them in the following Evaluation mode.
Evaluation Mode
The Evaluation Mode offers you an overview over the recordings and the neurofeedback-training-data. It also permits comprehensive functions for analysation. The most important part is the display of the CSA (Compressed-Spectral-Array). The CSA-display shows FFT-spectrums in layers on top of each other. Every layer serves as a different time section, and gives you the possibility of observing the different allocations of frequency of the EEG over time.
The left section of the image displays the colored CSA. The colors comply to the bars of the FFT in the Recording Mode. This enables an easy orientation. The X-axis outlines the frequency, the Y-axis outlines time. In this example, every drawn line is based on a four-second period of EEG-data. You can also change this value. There are some peaks noticeable in the green section which is the Alpha-region. On the right border, you can see information in µV. These conform to the highest peak between the dashed lines. You can position these lines freely, in order to measure the peaks in all frequency ranges.
In the right fraction at the top, you again see the EEG-signals of both channels. Here you can observe them and describe them in the commentary-track. That way, artefacts, highly conspicious peaks, or instructions of a medic or scientist can be documentated.
The bottom right of the image displays information regarding the currently activated user. You can leave comments here additionally.
Creating a Neurofeedback-Training
In the lower section you can chose the animation that is supposed to playback the feedback. In this case there is a smiley, that currently shows the maximum amount of positive feedback. Scope of supply of MinsStream includes other echeloned animations (sun-rise, balloon).
In the upper section, you again chose the frequency range and the conditions of the cerebral activity, which is supposed to accept the feedback. In the lower section you can first decide between a MP3 (musical) or a MIDI (instrumental) feedback. In the event of a MP3 feedback, you chose a MP3 and the feedback is modulated via the volume of the playback. The variation-range can be adjusted freely. That way, the goal of a training session could be not to hear the MP3 anymore, while it is running. In the event of a MIDI feedback, feedback can be modulated by different pitches in tone of an instrument. The volume can be modulated here as well.
The acoustic feedback also provides for an unlimited freedom of choice because you can embed your own MP3-audio files and have a lot of different possibilities with the MIDI feedback.
Executing a Neurofeedback-Training
The smiley (our chosen animation for visual feedback in this example) changes continuously and adapts to the changes of your cerebral activity. The two images on the right should make this clear. If you have chosen one or more acoustic feedbacks, they will be noticeable as well.
During the whole time of the session, the fit of the electrode is controlled and you see it right away, when muscle-artefacts or other irritations occur in the EEG. That way an optimally controlled training is guaranteed.
To the right, you again see the settings with which you are training. You can also add markers here. Additionally, you can chose a certain time period that automatically ends your training session.
We hope that we have provided an overview over the possibilities of the MindMaster®EEG and its software MindStream. The next Pages provide you with further information on the topic.
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