BrainMaster 2.0 Software Feature Description
2.0 Software Frequently Asked Questions
BrainMaster's new 2.0 version of the Basic Modules for Training (BMT) software.
The capabilities of BrainMaster 2.0 include over 100 new features:
Improved control screens
It is simpler and easier to select working folders and run EEG
sessions. There are helpful dialog boxes that guide you along the
way, and provide helpful information when it is needed. It is now
much more of a “click and go” design.
The setup screens are also improved in a variety of ways. For
example, all controls associated with data acquisition are now in
the one “Data Channels” dialog. This makes it easier
to set up all parameters at once, and to avoid having to make changes
at different places in the software.
Built-in folders
For users who do not need a clinically oriented training protocol,
simple alpha training and brainmirror, folders are provided, ready
to go. These support simple needs that are currently addressed by
other devices that do not have a clinical emphasis, and add a new
dimension of simplicity and ease of use to our software.
Electrode ID’s.
Electrodes are identified in the training protocols, and there is
a prompt dialog box when the session starts, that tells you where
to put the electrodes. This simplifies setup and operation.
Simplified training screen.
The controls on the training screen are simplified, and all are assisted
by helpful dialogs when they are used. You now see only the
controls you need, and it is impossible to use them incorrectly.
In addition, the training screen starts up in an “idling”
mode, giving you time to check the electrodes and make sure you are
ready for training, before using any of the allotted session time,
or using your session. If you decide you are not ready to do EEG training,
you can cancel the session, and use it later.
Improved menus on the training screen.
All pop-down menus on the training screen have helpful check marks
to show you which options are selected. We have eliminated the
control buttons that some people found confusing, and replaced them
all with simple checked menus. It is also now possible to select the
MIDI voice (flute, piano, echo, etc etc) from the training screen,
making it much simpler to customize this sound to your preference.
Improved training screen appearance.
The training screen background is now a darker grey color, and all
displays show up brighter and clearer in color. This improves overall
aesthetics, and is especially helpful when the system is used in a
darkened room.
Autothresholding
The system is now able to adjust thresholds on its own, based
on a setting that determines the desired percent time over thresholds.
Separate targets are settable for the enhance and inhibit components,
and for the hibeta (artifact rejection). The software automatically
calculates the appropriate threshold based on recent data, and allows
the user to have this threshold applied at selected times. Thresholds
can be autoupdated either at the end of a baseline run, on user demand
by key press, or at the beginning of each session “run”.
Both the current percent-time-over-threshold and the desired percents
are shown in the thermometer panel on the training screen. In addition,
both the current threshold and the new (next) threshold are shown.
When autothresholding is used, the keyboard controls typed into the
training screen window change the percent targets, which are shown
in red, as are the new thresholds calculated.
Session control
In addition to being able to program the session length as before,
it is now possible to program in pre- and post-session baselines,
as well as a specified number of runs of a certain length. For
example, you could have 1-minute baselines, and 10 2-minute runs in
a session. The system will take baseline data, then switch into training
mode automatically. In addition, pausing between runs is a selectable
option. Also, the system can be set to autoupdate thresholds between
runs, if desired. With session control, the session becomes
an automatic, preprogrammed series of steps, that can proceed with
or without use intervention.
Session Librarian
The Session Librarian makes it possible to easily “zip up”
training folders to be sent from one computer to another. Library
files can be sent via email, floppy disk, or any other desired method.
It is possible, for example, for a clinician to set up a trainee’s
folder with all the protocol settings, number and length of sessions,
and so on, and provide this to the trainee in a single library file.
The trainee can then unpack the folder using their Session Librarian,
and have the training folder ready to use. This eliminates the
need for home users to ever look at the setup screens, and it ensures
that they get the exact number any type of sessions that the clinician
specifies. This is called a “take-home disk,” and
it provides the neurofeedback equivalent to a bottle of pills that
can be taken home and used upon the clinician’s prescription.
Then, when the trainee has done some training sessions, they can pack
up the folder on their PC, along with all the results, and send it
back to the clinician, who can review their progress and results.
We call this the “take-in disk.”
The Session Librarian is also useful with the new MINI-Q headbox.
When an appropriate assessment folder is used, the MINI-Q will provide
all the EEG data and statistics in a single place that can be packed
up and sent to a clinician or other evaluator, who can then unpack
the data on their PC, analyze it, and provide an interpretation.
Separate settings folders and training folders
In the 1.9A software, one type of folder was used for all purposes,
including storing training settings, and for running actual training
sessions. This caused confusion for some users. In the 2.0 software,
a separate set of settings folders is provided, in addition to the
training folders. While training folders continue to store settings,
and can be used to store settings, the separate set of settings folders
should reduce confusion for users who want to define and save a settings
in a separate list of names.
Improved graphic display screens
Many of the displays that used to be presented in small “panels”
on the training screen are now provided as resizable windows. These
are flicker-free displays that can be resized or moved, and put on
a second (or third) monitor if desired. The new display windows are:
Improved Xwing: Xwing is now flicker-free, has colors that adapt
to show the training protocol used, has added a new feature –
the moon in the sky gets larger and smaller with the high beta, providing
an indication of this important parameter. Xwing also has a 2-channel
display capability – when 2-channel training is used, Xwing
shows two spaceships and two planets, representing the two channels
that are being trained. Thresholds can also be changed by typing into
this window.
BoxFlow: Boxflow provides a display of boxes of changing size, with
the primary enhance component also shown in flowing lines that progress
up the screen. This provides a useful time summary of the past
data, enhancing training value. Threshold are shown numerically,
and can be adjusted by typing into this window.
BrainMirror: The new full-window BrainMirror works in both 1-channel
and 2-channel modes. Thresholds are shown superimposed on this display,
and can be changed by keyboard control.
Compressed Spectral Array (CSA): This display is now in full color,
and scrolls down the window. It is also flicker-free. It also displays
in both 1-channel and 2-channel modes.
Trend Graph: This window displays the EEG component data as a trend
line wiping across the screen. The entire window covers a 1-minute
epoch. Changes are visible in real-time, and display selected
components in a clearly visible, colored line.
Thermometers: The “thermometer” bar graph displays
are available in their own window, in addition to remaining available
on the training screen. The window version is resizable, providing
large displays when required. The threshold is clearly shown, and
can be changed by typing into this window.
Numbers: The improved Numbers screen is now flicker-free. It also
shows 1 or 2 channels, as appropriate. When 2 channels are shown,
it also shows the coherence values. In addition, it is possible
to also view the ratios of components to theta (“beta/theta”,
“alpha/theta”, etc), and the ratio display is selectable.
Improved filtering software / modal frequency
The digital filters have been improved. They are now capable
of being used for wide band filtering. In the previous software, digital
filters worked for 10 Hz maximum bandwidth. In the 2.0 software
component bands can be up to 32 Hz wide.
The calculation of modal frequency has also been improved. It is possible
to display on the training screen the “center of mass”
of the FFT frequency for any of the EEG components. This provides
a robust, accurate estimate of the actual frequency of any component.
Recalibration of values / selectable scales
The amplitude of the component values as reported and used in
the software has been re-evaluated using calibration sources and in
comparison with other industry devices. Frequency normalization
curves are now calculated and applied to all data, both from the digital
filters and from the FFT’s (fast fourier transforms). It is
now possible to obtain amplitude data that are consistent with leading
quantitative EEG systems (Lexicor, Capscan, Neurocybernetics). In
addition, it is possible to measure and work with data in either of
two selectable scale ranges: “RMS” (“root-mean-squared”)
as used by Neuropathways and BrainMaster 1.9A, and BrainWave Animation
Pro, as well as “P-P” (“peak-to-peak”) as
used by Lexicor and Neurocybernetics.
The summary data is now reported in both digital filter values, and
in FFT values. While digital filter values have been used in
the past and by other equipment (Neuropathways, Neurocybernetics),
FFT values are preferred for evaluation methods and are used by typical
quantitative EEG systems (Lexicor). Our system now allows you to see
and evaluate EEG data using both methods.
New sound feedback modes
In addition to the previous MIDI sounds, we now have a “pitch
variable” sound mode. In this mode, the pitch of the sound
is representative of the size of the component being trained. This
mode uses a standard “major scale” of notes, which is
esthetically pleasing.
The sound feedback for coherence has also been improved. Now, whether
you are uptraining or downtraining coherence, the sound will get louder
the more you attain your goal. Also, the “pitch variable”
mode described above is also available for coherence training.
Improvements in Breview
Breview (the data review program) has been improved. There are
now more options for how to view and print the data, including text
as well as graphic display. The display scale is selectable, so that
very small or very large numbers can be seen. Data can be viewed from
the digital filters or from the FFT
Support of the MINI-Q 12-channel headbox
The system is capable of supporting our new MINI-Q 12-channel
headbox, which includes switch-selection of 6 pairs of electrodes,
when using a head cap (from Electro-Cap, Inc). This switchbox
selects the following pairs of electrodes:
Fp1/Fp2, F3/F4, C3/C4, P3/P4, T5/T6, O1/O2
All pairs are acquired in 2-channel mode, with linked ears as a reference,
and the standard Electro-Cap Ground (approximately “FCz”)
as ground.
When used with the provided protocol files, the system will acquire
1-minute samples from each pair, and prompt the user to set the switch
in the appropriate location, before proceeding. Thus, in a little
over 6 minutes, it is possible to acquire a 12-channel EEG.
A special type of excel file can be created, with the data formatted
and ratios computed, especially for this evaluation.
The resulting data can be imported into Excel, used with user-designed
and third-party macros, or imported into the NeuroGuide from Applied
Neurotechnology.
Support for Hemoencephalography (HEG)
The 2.0 software is able (on factory-modified 2E modules) to acquire
and display the hemoencephalographic data from the HEG unit provided
by BioComp Research Institute. This provides sound feedback,
as well as a trend line display, indicating the current value of the
transcranial infrared oximetry measurement.
2.0 Software Policies
Home System:
The basic Home system can be sold to anyone. It is not a clinical
product. The basic Take-Home system can run session folders,
but cannot create new session folders. Also, home users do not have
access to the setup and control screens (protocols, frequency bands,
etc). Folders can be either built-in folders or supplied folders,
as follows:
Home System using Built-in Folders
Home users can select between the built-in folders supplied with
the software.
The home software will run unlimited times with any “built-in”
folder, but will always run Session 1.
“Built-in” folders are for nonclinical features –
BrainMirror, Alphatones, etc.
Home System using Supplied Folders
Home users can install and use supplied folders provided by floppy
disk, email, or internet.
When a folder is supplied by a clinician, it will specify the number
of sessions.
Modules must be “enabled” to run clinical sessions.
Each module will have an unlock code for the maximum number of sessions
available for that serial number. The unlock of clinical sessions
is associated with the module serial number.
Enabled sessions are not transferable from one module to another.
Modules must be sent back to the factory to be fitted with serial
numbers and session counters.
Clinical Unlock
The clinical unlock is associated with each practitioner or practice.
The practitioner or practice name is associated with the unlock. When
the clinical unlock is obtained, the following is possible:
The clinician can create new folders. Folders can be packed
using Session Librarian and emailed, sent on floppy disk, or over
the internet, to home or other users. The clinician has access to
the setup and control screens.
Any module can be used to run any number of sessions, on a PC that
has the Clinical Unlock feature.
2.0 Software Frequently Asked Questions
Why would I want to purchase
the AT1-2.0 Clinical Pro package or upgrade to the 2.0 Clinical Pro
software?
Improved control screens, new built-in folders, electrode
ID’s in protocol, autothresholding, improved menus and training
screen appearance, improved session control, separate settings template
folders and training folders, improved graphic display screens for
one and two channel training, Peak-to-Peak and RMS scales, improved
filtering software and sound feedback modes, new reward sounds
and improvements in BReview, to name just a few. 2.0 also introduces
session librarian and clinical opportunity for supervised remote therapy
training for home, school or executive clients. 2.0 insures
client compliance, protocol efficacy and clinician peace of mind at
affordable pricing!
Will the 2.0 Clinical (Professional) software work with my existing
BrainMaster(s)?
Possibly, however if the serial number of your BrainMaster
module is under #1825 you will need to confirm with the office the
need to send the module in for an update. Simply call the office and
if an update is required you will be given an RGA# to place inside
and outside of the box prior to sending to BrainMaster. There will
be “no charge” for the 2.0 module update. Our intent is
to ship your module back within one to five business days.
Will one 2.0 Clinical Pro software upgrade work on all my BrainMasters?
No, you will need to purchase a 2.0 Clinical (Pro) software package
for each BrainMaster module you own and intend to use “clinically
or professionally” in your practice. Each 2.0 Clinical software
package is tied to one specific BrainMaster module and will not run
on other modules.
What is auto-thresholding and why is this offered in 2.0?
Automatic thresholding is a user programmable software feature
that makes it unnecessary for the end user to continually monitor
and adjust training thresholds. It provides ability for “hands-free”
operation in which the 2.0 software adjusts training thresholds as
needed throughout the session providing optimal training settings
with minimal or no user intervention. This is a feature generally
found in costly equipment and software.
How does the new “Session Librarian” work with 2.0?
Session Librarian is a revolutionary software addition which
every clinician, who chooses to train clients at home, school or corporately,
will be excited about . It is easy, efficient and effective.The
clinician sends files to their client via email or floppy disc.
Client trains per the clinician protocols!
Thus, neurofeedback results are pure and “untainted” by
experimentation. After each session the client then sends files back
to the clinician via email or floppy disc. The files include settings,
results, raw EEG and more. Clinician can now review each session the
remote client performs and change protocol as desired by email or
floppy disc! Never again will a client continue to train a protocol
which may not be working! The clinician can change the protocol on
the fly -- it’s easy, secure and
empowering!
How do PassKeys work?
PassKeys can be purchased and issued directly to the clinician
by BrainMaster. The clinician in turn will issue a predetermined PassKey
(which indicates the “time” available to the client for
training.) Thus, the clinician retains the decision as to just
how much training is indicated for each client by authorizing the
use of clinical files. In that each client may have different
needs various choices are available to the clinician to best meet
those needs.PassKeys offer clinicians and clients alike the most cost
effective and cash flow sensitive approach for most remote training
needs! Clinician can authorize PassKeys in three ways:
- Time (x minutes)
- Date Expiration (mm/dd/yy)
- Unlimited
Clinicians
can now rent, lease, or sell to remote clients with less financial
outlay and greater confidence in overall client compliance and result!
What if I change computers or take my BrainMaster from one office
to another. Will I need new software for each computer?
No. Each 2.0 Clinical Pro software package is tied to
one specific BrainMaster module and is not tied to the computer.
You may take your BrainMaster from computer to laptop, office to home
without concern.
Is there separate software or an additional charge to the clinician
to open the “remote therapy training” feature within the
2.0 Clinical Pro software?
Absolutely not! 2.0 Clinical Pro is two software packages
in one thus it will not be necessary for clinicians to purchase the
remote training feature separately. 2.0 Clinical Pro offers
clinicians the opportunity to enable and create client folders. A
Clinician can now indirectly supervise home, school or executive trainees
via the internet, with a take home disc, email or mail without daily
or weekly office visits.
Why would I want to consider “remote training” or
“remote therapy” for my neurofeedback clients?
The reality today is that not all neurofeedback clients are
able or may choose to continue coming into the clinician’s practice
for training sessions. Distance, financial challenges, time
restraints, convenience and scheduling are but a few common reasons
for noncompliance . Remote therapy training can become a win-win proposition
for clinician and client as well as an add-on profit center to a clinician’s
present practice.
How does the remote training aspect of 2.0 software actually
work?
2.0 Clinical Pro software offers a built in “remote
therapy training” feature which offers the clinician an optional
clinical direction. 2.0 delivers clinicians the availability to create
specialized protocol folders for each remote trainee. There is not
a separate activation fee attached to initialize the remote training
aspect of the 2.0 Clinical Pro software!* However, should the
clinician decide to remote train a client it will be necessary to
purchase PassKeys or an unlimited/restricted enabling key for client
use.
The client can only train within the personally designed folder created
and enabled by the clinician. These folders may be presented
by floppy disc, CD, or emailed to the client.After each session the
client in turn can send to the clinician (via email, floppy disc,
or CD) the raw eeg and session summary files with the press of a button!
It’s easy, convenient and gives the clinician immediate access
to client results allowing for changes on the spot by emailing back
to the client updated protocol changes or information via email! This
direct supervision will most likely improve and insure client compliance.
And, clinicians can be assured of “untainted training”
as clients will be motivated to follow clinician orders and not experiment
with protocols on their own!
I presently own several BrainMaster modules, but intend to use
one or two in my office as clinical systems. What must I do
with the remaining systems if I intend to rent them for remote therapy
training purposes to my clients?
Most of your present 2-E modules will need to be made 2.0
ready by the manufacturer. Clinicians will need to send in the
modules which need updating regardless of use within the practice.
However, you will only be required to purchase 2.0 Clinical Pro software
for the modules you plan on using professionally within your practice.
Clinicians owning several modules are advised to return them intermittently.
If another upgrade is desired (i.e.: AUX/HEG or SuperInput Amp) this
might be an efficient time to upgrade. Obtain an RGA # from the manufacturer
prior to shipping.
What will I need to do to enable the modules I presently own
to work with the 2.0 Clinical Pro software for remote therapy training
purposes?
You will have, optionally available, “unlock”
and “enabling” choices with the 2.0 Clinical Pro software
for remote therapy training purposes. One choice will be to
activate each remote training module by purchasing PassKey packages
and doling minutes (in 100 increments) to clients accordingly. This
cost effective approach offers clients the ability to “pay as
they go”.
Utilizing “PassKey packages” works best when renting directly
to clients with shorter term neurofeedback needs. Utilizing
PassKey packages may be the most cost effective approach for remote
trainees as well as the most cash sensitive approach for clinicians
offering this service. PassKey packages also offer the clinician the
most comprehensive control.
I have older software and equipment. Couldn’t I simply
send my client home with my existing system?
Yes a qualified clinician retains the right to choose various
remote training possibilities for their clients. However, the 2.0
Clinical Pro software offers clinicians locking and control advantages
which protect the clinician while assuring client compliance.
Depending upon the clinician’s intent of use and clients’
need, various levels of professional control are available with 2.0!.
Professional liability and responsibility is insured, protocol compliance
as well as training efficacy is available with BrainMasters’
2.0 Clinical Pro software package!
How do I begin a remote therapy training extension program in
my practice?
Simply determine when clients are ready for remote training;
make available to clients BrainMaster devices, unlock a PassKey and
design the client internal action plan and protocol folders for remote
use. Monitoring each completed client session or a series of sessions
by reviewing incoming email files keeps you abreast of progress. Make
changes as required via email or request the client to return to the
office. Remote training is that easy.
How do I get my clients started on remote training?
As a clinician you may purchase BrainMaster modules to resell,
rent or lease to chosen clients for home, school or office use.
Simply fax or email BrainMaster an order (on your letterhead
listing your speciality including your license number) approving
BrainMaster to ship to you or your client directly. Simply state your
order and payment methods. The AT1-2.0 Trainee Deluxe
Plan is the most popular for your trainee.
What is the cost to upgrade to 2.0 Clinical Pro software?
Retail cost is $600.00, Affiliate members cost is $350.00. (Introductory
discounts may apply!)
What is the cost of a complete AT1-2.0 Clinical Pro System including
the module?
$1550.00 is the retail price. (Earclips optional)
What remote training packages are available for clients?
- AT1-2.0 Remote Basic Package. Includes the 2E module, 5 gold plated electrodes, carrying case, charger, computer cable, paste, gel, 2.0 Basic software (which offers a brainwave monitoring feature and simple sound feedback including alpha tones.) 100 Free PassKey minutes is included for personalized neurofeedback training under clinician supervision. Additional PassKeys may be purchased on a “pay as you go” basis to contain upfront investment and preserve cash flow! 90 day parts and labor warranty included. Earclips optional. $ 975.00*
- AT1-2.0 Remote Deluxe Training Package. (per above) Trainee package with full clinician supervision features available. Ideal for clinician choosing to establish remote training practice and those choosing to rent systems to clients. This package offers the most secure supervision opportunity for the clinician and is the easiest to learn and use for client. Clients choosing to own a system may find the “Deluxe” package to be the wisest entry choice. Clinician determines protocol, number of sessions. Includes 2,000 minute PassKey and 12 month extended warranty. Additional PassKeys available. Cost effective, cash flow sensitive. Earclips optional. $1195.00*
- AT1-2.0 Remote Unlimited Training Package. (per above) Unlimited sessions may be provided by clinician! Flexible supervision available. Especially cost effective for long term users offering unlimited PassKey. No additional time enabling necessary. Includes 15 month parts and labor warranty. Earclips optional. $1495.00*
*Session Librarian
is available in all 2.0 software products allowing the clinician and
the client to exchange data via email or floppy disc after each training
session.
*Equipment sold to or by the order of biofeedback clinician.
*2.0 Remote Training Packages do not include clinician professional
services.