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headset setup

This tutorial provides step-by-step instructions for setting up and configuring your Instinct headset with the Systems Engine.

prerequisites​

Before you begin, make sure you have:

  • An Instinct headset with charged battery
  • The Systems Engine installed and running (see Installation Guide)
  • Access to the Systems Engine API (running on localhost:42069 by default)
  • Basic understanding of EEG electrode placement

step 1: power on the headset​

  1. Press and hold the power button for 2 seconds until the LED indicator lights up
  2. Wait for the startup sequence to complete (approximately 10-15 seconds)
  3. Verify that the status LED is solid green, indicating the headset is ready

step 2: connect to the systems engine​

using the api​

You can establish a connection using the Device Configuration API:

curl -X POST http://localhost:42069/device/connect \
  -H "Content-Type: application/json" \
  -d '{
    "connectionType": "usb",
    "autoConnect": true
  }'

expected response​

{
  "success": true,
  "connected": true,
  "device": {
    "id": "INST-H1-00123",
    "type": "Instinct H1",
    "serialNumber": "SN0123456789",
    "firmwareVersion": "1.2.3"
  },
  "connection": {
    "type": "usb",
    "status": "stable",
    "latency": 2.3
  }
}

connection troubleshooting​

If the connection fails:

  1. Verify the headset is powered on
  2. Check that the USB cable is securely connected
  3. Try a different USB port
  4. Ensure no other software is currently connected to the headset
  5. Restart the headset and/or Systems Engine

step 3: verify device information​

Retrieve detailed information about the connected headset:

curl -X GET http://localhost:42069/device/info

This will confirm that the connection is working properly and provide information about the headset's capabilities.

step 4: configure network settings (optional)​

If you want to use wireless connectivity:

curl -X POST http://localhost:42069/device/network/config \
  -H "Content-Type: application/json" \
  -d '{
    "wifi": {
      "enabled": true,
      "networks": [
        {
          "ssid": "YourNetworkName",
          "password": "YourNetworkPassword",
          "priority": 1,
          "autoConnect": true
        }
      ]
    }
  }'

step 5: adjust power settings (optional)​

Optimize power settings based on your use case:

curl -X POST http://localhost:42069/device/power/config \
  -H "Content-Type: application/json" \
  -d '{
    "powerMode": "balanced",
    "autoPowerOff": {
      "enabled": true,
      "idleTimeoutMinutes": 30
    },
    "batteryOptimization": {
      "level": "moderate",
      "disableDuringRecording": true
    }
  }'

step 6: apply the headset​

  1. Ensure the subject's hair is clean and dry
  2. Position the headset according to the 10-20 international system
  3. Align the reference point (typically Cz) with the middle of the subject's head
  4. Gently secure the headset using the adjustment mechanisms

step 7: verify motor status​

Check that all motorized components are functional:

curl -X GET http://localhost:42069/motors/status

For optimal electrode positioning, calibrate the motors:

curl -X POST http://localhost:42069/motors/calibrate \
  -H "Content-Type: application/json" \
  -d '{
    "motors": "all",
    "calibrationType": "quick",
    "resetPositions": true
  }'

step 9: apply electrode gel​

  1. Using the electrode map display as a guide, identify which electrodes need gel
  2. Apply a small amount of conductive gel to each electrode
  3. Use the application tool to distribute gel without oversaturating

step 10: check electrode impedance​

Perform an initial impedance check to ensure good contact:

curl -X POST http://localhost:42069/electrodes/impedance/start \
  -H "Content-Type: application/json" \
  -d '{
    "continuous": true,
    "channels": "all",
    "updateInterval": 1000
  }'

Monitor the impedance values:

curl -X GET http://localhost:42069/electrodes/impedance

For optimal signal quality, all electrodes should ideally show impedance values below 20 kΩ.

step 11: optimize electrode positions​

If impedance values are too high, adjust electrode positions:

curl -X POST http://localhost:42069/electrodes/impedance/optimize \
  -H "Content-Type: application/json" \
  -d '{
    "channels": "all",
    "targetImpedance": 10.0,
    "maxAttempts": 3,
    "strategy": "gentle"
  }'

step 12: set up visual feedback (optional)​

Configure LED indicators to provide visual feedback during the session:

curl -X POST http://localhost:42069/leds/impedance-visualization \
  -H "Content-Type: application/json" \
  -d '{
    "enabled": true,
    "colorScheme": "standard",
    "updateInterval": 500
  }'

step 13: verify headset readiness​

Perform a final system check to ensure everything is ready:

curl -X GET http://localhost:42069/device/status

Look for "overall": "healthy" in the response and check that all subsystems show "operational" status.

step 14: begin eeg operations​

With the headset properly set up, you can now:

best practices​

  • subject comfort: ensure the headset is comfortable and not too tight
  • electrode care: clean electrodes after each use to maintain good conductivity
  • battery management: keep the headset charged between sessions
  • environment: set up in a quiet environment with minimal electrical interference
  • preparation: prepare all materials before placing the headset on the subject
  • documentation: record setup parameters for experimental consistency

troubleshooting common issues​

connection problems​

  • ensure the headset is powered on and has sufficient battery
  • verify that the usb cable is fully inserted and not damaged
  • check if another application is already connected to the headset

high impedance values​

  • apply additional conductive gel to problematic electrodes
  • gently move hair aside to improve electrode-scalp contact
  • adjust electrode position using the motor controls
  • consider gentle scalp preparation for persistent issues

motor calibration failures​

  • ensure there are no obstructions to motor movement
  • check for error messages in the calibration response
  • try a "full" calibration if "quick" calibration fails
  • perform a system restart if problems persist

next steps​