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eeg headset

The Instinct EEG headset is the primary hardware device controlled by the Instinct API. This page explains the key components and capabilities of the headset.

overview​

The Instinct EEG headset is a research-grade electroencephalography device designed for non-invasive brain activity monitoring. It records electrical activity from the scalp using multiple electrodes, providing insights into brain function.

key components​

The Instinct headset integrates several key components:

hardware components​

  • Electrodes: The primary sensors that detect electrical activity (EEG signals) from the scalp
  • Amplifiers: High-precision components that amplify the weak electrical signals from the electrodes
  • Microcontroller: The brain of the headset, coordinating all operations
  • Wireless Module: Enables communication with external devices via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
  • Motors: Allow for precise positioning of electrodes
  • LEDs: Visual indicators for system status and operations
  • Battery: Rechargeable power source for portable operation

software components​

  • Firmware: Low-level software controlling hardware behavior
  • API Server: Provides the HTTP and WebSocket interfaces for external control
  • Data Processing: Handles data processing pipelines and transformations
  • Hardware Control: Manages hardware interactions, data acquisition, and device settings

operational characteristics​

electrodes​

The Instinct headset features advanced electrodes with the following characteristics:

  • Dry Electrodes: No conductive gel required for most applications
  • Active Circuitry: Local amplification reduces noise
  • Adjustable Positioning: Motors can fine-tune electrode placement
  • Impedance Measurement: Built-in capability to check electrode-scalp contact quality
  • EEG Bandwidth: 0.1-100 Hz frequency response
  • Resolution: 24-bit analog-to-digital conversion

electrode placement​

The headset follows the international 10-20 system for electrode placement, with sensors positioned to provide comprehensive coverage of the brain's regions:

  • Frontal: Fp1, Fp2, F7, F3, Fz, F4, F8
  • Central: C3, Cz, C4
  • Temporal: T3, T4, T5, T6
  • Parietal: P3, Pz, P4
  • Occipital: O1, O2

motors​

  • Precision Positioning: Allows fine adjustments for optimal electrode contact
  • Auto-calibration: Self-adjusts to head size and shape
  • Quiet Operation: Minimizes disruption during use
  • Manual Override: Can be controlled directly via API for custom positioning

leds​

  • Status Indicators: Display headset state (power, connection, battery)
  • Electrode Indicators: Show electrode contact quality
  • Programmable: Can be controlled via API for custom indications
  • Brightness Control: Adjustable intensity for different environments

battery​

  • Capacity: Typically 8-10 hours of continuous operation
  • Quick Charging: 80% charge in approximately 1 hour
  • Power Management: Intelligent power saving modes
  • Status Monitoring: Accurate reporting of remaining capacity

working with the headset​

The Instinct headset offers several key operations:

  • Headset Configuration: Adjust device settings
  • Electrode Management: Configure and check electrodes
  • Impedance Checking: Verify electrode-scalp contact quality
  • EEG Streaming: Acquire real-time EEG data
  • Motor Control: Position electrodes precisely
  • LED Control: Manage visual indicators

physical characteristics​

fit and comfort​

The headset is designed for comfortable extended wear:

  • Adjustable: Accommodates different head sizes
  • Weight: Lightweight design minimizes user fatigue
  • Materials: Biocompatible materials for skin contact
  • Ventilation: Designed to prevent overheating during extended use

battery and power​

For wireless operation, the headset includes a power system:

  • Battery life: Typically 4-8 hours of continuous operation
  • Charging: USB-C fast charging capability
  • Power management: Sleep and low-power modes
  • Indicators: Battery level monitoring and warnings

usage constraints​

Important limitations and constraints to be aware of:

  1. Mutually exclusive operations:

    • EEG streaming and impedance checking cannot be performed simultaneously
    • Certain motor operations cannot be performed during streaming

  2. Environmental factors:

    • Electromagnetic interference can affect signal quality
    • Temperature and humidity can impact electrode performance
    • Excessive movement can introduce motion artifacts

  3. Setup requirements:

    • Proper electrode preparation is essential for good signal quality
    • Regular calibration ensures optimal performance
    • Electrodes may require re-gelling during extended use periods

api control​

The Instinct API provides comprehensive control over all headset functions:

  • Device status: Query and monitor headset status
  • EEG streaming: Configure and control EEG data streaming
  • Impedance checking: Measure and monitor electrode impedances
  • Motor control: Adjust electrode positions
  • LED control: Manage status indicators
  • Configuration: Manage device settings and profiles

next steps​