Troubleshooting Issues with AutoAmp
During the startup process, EEGer will check for connected EEG amplifiers and automatically configure itself for the device. This expedites getting EEGer setup on a new computer, and also saves time when switching between different models of EEG amplifiers.
EEGer detects which amplifier is connected by checking for driver files that the computer uses to talk to the amplifier. These driver files are installed alongside the EEGer installation, or in some cases installed automatically when the amplifier is connected to the computer. If EEGer sees one of these drivers is in use, it will configure its settings for that type of device and inform the user that an adjustment was made.
In some circumstances, EEGer may not be able to tell the specific model of amplifier that is connected to the computer, since some amplifiers use the same driver as other amplifier models.
If this happens, EEGer will configure itself for the most popular model of amplifier that uses those drivers. After it has finished making this adjustment, it will inform the user that adjustments may be needed to fully configure the device in EEGer. Once a user manually configures the device, EEGer will remember these settings until a different type of amplifier is connected to the computer.
Adjustments to the amplifier configuration can be made by navigating to Options>EEGer Configuration Options from the top toolbar of EEGer’s main display. On the Devices tab options 6 source of EEG/peripheral device must be adjusted to match the amplifier model. The COM port may also need to be adjusted for some models of amplifier. Common configuration adjustments include:
Alpha & J&J Devices: EEGer will default to the A202/J202. If a four-channel device is being used, this needs to be adjusted to A404/J404.
BrainMaster: The configured amplifier will need to be adjusted if using an Atlantis or Discovery device. Additionally, the serial number and passkey for the device needs to be entered under the Device Options tab.
ThoughtTechnology: The configured amplifier must be adjusted to TTUSB or ProSB depending on which connection protocol is used. Additionally, the amplifier’s mode may need to be adjusted on the physical device or set to match in the Device Options tab.
These additional issues can cause an amplifier to not be detected automatically and properly configured by EEGer at startup:
- The installed software version is before this feature was implemented in the software (440t or later).
- The amplifier is damaged, and not able to communicate with the computer.
- The computer is not able to talk to the amplifier, which may need to be reconnected, turned on, or given fresh batteries.
- The correct driver files are not installed, needing to be reinstalled to allow the computer to talk to the amplifier.