Electroencephalography (EEG)

BIRC houses two high-density (256-channel) Philips/EGI gel-free EEG systems. A 64-channel Brain Products actiCap system is available at CSSERL.

  • 256-channel EGI NetAmps 400 EEG system for out-of-scanner use
  • MR-compatible 256-channel EGI NetAmps 410 for simultaneous MR-EEG recording
  • Sound-attenuated booth for EEG and behavioral experiments with visual and auditory presentation
  • EGI Geodesic Photogrammetry System for electrode localization
  • Complete range of electrode net sizes for child and adult friendly electrode application
  • Physio16 box (MR compatible) for recording ECG or other physiological signals
  • Cedrus StimTracker for precise event marker timing

The EGI NetAmps 400 is also equipped with the GTEN neuromodulation package for high-definition transcranial electrical current stimulation (tDCS/tACS/tPCS). Please contact us if you are interested in using this system.

EEG training

EEG training is required prior to using the EGI high density EEG systems at BIRC. In-scanner users must also complete MRI training. Training consists of an orientation session and at least three supervised practice sessions. Please complete the BIRC EEG Training Request Form. Researchers should also complete EHS Biological Safety Considerations: Human Subjects Research (HuskyCT) training. Researchers are strongly encouraged to operate the EEG system in pairs. You will receive card access to the EEG room after completing training.

EEG Safety and Screening

Participants with open head wounds must be excluded from EEG studies. Since the EGI system does not use gel, some hairstyles (bald or partially bald, very short, tightly braided, or very springy hair) will make obtaining good electrode contact with the scalp difficult or impossible. Certain hair dyes, generally reddish hues, may bleed in contact with the saline solution. You should inform the participant of this and get permission to test the dye by applying a small amount of saline solution to a patch of non-visible hair.