How to Configure EEGer for an EEG Amplifier
EEGer is compatible with many different models of EEG Amplifiers, rather than requiring clinicians or their home-users to use one specific type of device. This flexibility is an important part of EEGer as it allows for more clinicians and researchers to use the software with existing equipment or with devices they are comfortable using.
Because EEGer can work with many different types of amplifiers (which all talk to the computer in different ways), one of the first things required when installing EEGer is to configure it for the correct type of device. This ensures that EEGer can tell the amplifier to turn on or off when needed and allows the data being recorded to be processed by EEGer to provide real-time feedback.
Automatic Amplifier Detection
In recent versions of EEGer, the software will automatically configure itself for the amplifier if it is connected to the computer prior to EEGer being opened for the first time. The software will report which type of amplifier it has found and what changes it has made to the configuration.
If the amplifier is not connected before EEGer is opened for the first time, the software must be told to check again once the device has been connected. This is also required if the user is switching to a different model of amplifier, or if there was a technical issue that prevented the amplifier from being found, such as a device driver needing to be reinstalled. The button to check for a connected amplifier can be found under EEGer’s Tools menu from the top navigation bar (Tools>Check for Connected Amplifier).
With older versions of EEGer or when using certain devices, it may be necessary to manually configure the software for the connected device. EEGer will typically report when manual adjustments may be needed, such as when multiple models communicate to the computer in the same way. Instructions on how to manually configure a device are included in the next section.
Manual Device Configuration
These steps should be performed when EEGer reports manual adjustments may be needed for a device to be fully configured, or when using a version of EEGer prior to automatic amplifier detection being added. Manual configuration is only required one time, after which EEGer will remember the configured device.
Connect the EEG amplifier to the computer. It is recommended to connect the amplifier directly to the computer rather than connecting it via an external USB hub.
Open EEGer and navigate to Options>EEGer Configuration Options from the top toolbar of EEGer’s main screen.
Locate 6 Source of EEG/Peripheral Data from the options menu. This will show the list of available devices. By default, this should report A202, ProSB, or whichever device EEGer set automatically. Select the correct model of amplifier from the dropdown.
Click Close preferences window at the bottom of the window to save the new selection and return to EEGer’s main screen.
Note: Certain devices may require additional configuration, such as the Pocket Neurobics U-Wiz or ThoughtTechnology devices. For full configuration instructions, see below:
Neurobit Optima Instructions | Pocket Neurobics Wiz Instructions
For assistance with other models of amplifiers, please see the Amplifier Section of our website.
Note: If the Neurobit Optima is not selectable from the options menu, see this article.
What if EEGer Detects No Amplifier?
If the software has been configured for the device but is reporting an error during a session, ensure that the amplifier is connected to the computer, and that the device is powered on if it requires batteries or has a physical power button/switch. Once the amplifier is connected to the computer, close and reopen EEGer and try to run a session again.
If the software has not been configured for the device, follow the steps above to have EEGer check for a device or to manually configure EEGer for the amplifier. If issues persist, the issue may be caused by a connection issue to the amplifier or an issue with the device’s drivers. To correct this, see the articles included below:
Neurobit Optima Driver Issue | Pocket Neurobics Wiz Driver Issue