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Your Neurofeedback Equipment

Understanding your equipment makes setup easier and training more effective. Here's what each piece does and how to use it.

📦 Standard Remote Kit Contents

EEG Equipment

1. Amplifier (U-Wiz, Q-Wiz, or Neurobit Optima+) - Measures brain electrical activity - Converts analog signal to digital - Connects to computer via USB - 2-channel capability (train 2 sites simultaneously) - Neurobit Optima+: Professional-grade amplifier with best signal quality

Cost: Included in kit rental/purchase

2. Flat Electrodes (4 gold cup) - Active electrodes placed on scalp - Gold-plated for conductivity - Reusable (last for years) - Most common: Use 1-2 per session

Use for: Scalp placements (C3, C4, Cz, Fz, Pz, etc.)

3. Ear Clip Electrodes (4) - Spring-loaded clips - Attach to earlobes or behind-ear - Serve as reference points - Usually use 2 per session (A1, A2)

Use for: Ear references, sometimes ground

4. USB Cable - Connects amplifier to computer - Standard USB (Type A usually) - Keep safe - can be damaged if bent/pulled

5. Ten20 Conductive Paste - Electrode gel/paste - Creates electrical connection between scalp and electrode - Gritty texture (contains pumice) - Washes out easily

How much: Pea-sized amount per electrode

6. NuPrep Skin Prep Gel - Removes oils from skin - Improves electrode contact - Lightly abrasive - Optional but helpful

Use: Wipe on scalp before placing electrodes, let dry

7. EEGer Software License - Annual license (pre-installed and activated) - Includes Ardea games (Potions, Postcards, Lotus Pond) - Dongle (USB key) required - Expiration date on your Workstreams card

Optional Upgrades

pirHEG Headset - For migraines, TBI, focus - Infrared sensor on headband - Trains prefrontal blood flow - No paste needed! - Used with BioExplorer software

See: HEG Training

emWave Pro - For stress, HRV - Heart rate variability training - Ear clip sensor - Coherence breath training - Can train daily!

See: HRV Training

Dedicated Training Laptop - 15" Acer gaming laptop + charger - EEGer pre-installed - Dedicated machine (no work files/distractions)

Zukor Games (Air & Drive) - Additional game options - Flying, racing games - More engaging for some people - Optional upgrade

🔌 How It All Connects

The Signal Path

Your brain → Electrodes → Paste → Amplifier → USB Cable → Computer → EEGer Software → Game Feedback → Your brain learns!

Each piece is essential for the feedback loop to work.

Typical Setup

For standard C4-A1 protocol:

  1. Scalp: C4 electrode with paste
  2. Ears: A1 clip on left ear, A2 clip on right ear
  3. Amplifier:
  4. C4 → Channel 1+ (Red socket)
  5. A1 → Channel 1- (Black socket)
  6. A2 → Ground (Green socket)
  7. Computer: Amplifier USB plugged in
  8. Software: EEGer running with your client ID

See: Electrode Placement for finding C4 and other sites

🧼 Care & Maintenance

After Each Session

Electrodes: 1. Wipe paste off with tissue 2. Rinse with water 3. Dry thoroughly 4. Store in safe place

Don't: - ❌ Leave paste on (makes them harder to clean later) - ❌ Use soap (can damage gold plating) - ❌ Submerge in water (can damage wires)

Amplifier: 1. Unplug from computer 2. Coil cable loosely (don't kink!) 3. Store in safe, dry place

Don't: - ❌ Pull on cables roughly - ❌ Drop or throw - ❌ Get wet

Paste & Prep Gel: - Keep lids tight (prevents drying) - Store at room temperature - Replace when running low (contact coach)

🔧 Troubleshooting Equipment

Amplifier Not Recognized

Try: 1. Different USB port 2. Unplug and replug 3. Restart computer 4. Check if dongle is inserted (if applicable)

See: Equipment Troubleshooting

Electrode Not Working

Try: 1. Check it's plugged into correct socket 2. Add more paste 3. Try different electrode (may be damaged)

No Signal At All

Check: 1. Is amplifier plugged into computer? 2. Is dongle inserted? (some amps require it) 3. Is EEGer license valid? (check expiration) 4. Are electrodes connected to amp?

Still stuck? Screenshot and post in Slack!

📏 Equipment Specifications

Amplifiers

U-Wiz: - 2-channel standard - USB powered - Good signal quality - Most common in kits

Q-Wiz: - 2-channel professional - Better noise rejection - Higher quality than U-Wiz - Upgrade option

Neurobit Optima+ 2ch: - Professional grade - Required for HEG compatibility - Best signal quality - Premium amplifier option

Electrodes

Flat gold cup: - 10mm diameter - Gold-plated surface - Wire length: ~40 inches - Touch-proof connectors

Ear clips: - Spring-loaded - Adjustable tension - Gold-plated contacts - Comfortable for extended wear

💰 Replacement Parts

What Can Be Replaced

If you need: - Additional paste (Ten20) - More electrodes (damaged or lost) - Replacement cables - New ear clips

Contact: Your coach or jon@peakbrainstl.com

Usually shipped quickly!

📦 Equipment Storage

Between Sessions

Best practices: 1. Clean all electrodes 2. Coil cables loosely 3. Store in designated spot (so you know where everything is!) 4. Keep paste/gel lids tight 5. Protect amplifier from damage

Good storage = longer-lasting equipment!

When Returning Kit

For end of program: 1. Clean all electrodes thoroughly 2. Pack carefully (coach sends instructions) 3. Include all pieces (checklist provided) 4. Use provided return label 5. Schedule FedEx pickup or drop-off

Return within 1 week of program end unless extending.

🔋 Power & Connectivity

USB Power

Amplifiers are USB-powered (no batteries or separate power)

Tips: - Use USB port on computer (not hub) - Some USB 3.0 ports work better - If issues, try different port

Dongle (If Applicable)

Some setups require USB dongle: - Small USB key for licensing - Must be inserted for EEGer to run - Don't lose it! - Specific to your equipment

Your kit will include dongle if needed.

🎒 Traveling with Equipment

Taking Kit on the Road

Equipment is portable!

Carry-on or checked: - TSA-friendly (just electronics) - Weather-proof case available - Fits in small bag

International: - Check voltage (usually fine) - May need plug adapter - Coordinate with coaches about timezone for support

Many clients train while traveling!

📋 Equipment Checklist

Before Each Session

  • Amplifier
  • USB cable
  • Electrodes (flat and clips)
  • Ten20 paste
  • NuPrep (optional)
  • Tissues for cleanup
  • Computer with EEGer

Optional

  • Dongle (if your setup requires it)
  • Second monitor (for more game options)
  • Comfortable chair
  • Water nearby

🆘 Equipment Problems?

Contact your coach immediately if: - Equipment arrives damaged - Something is missing from kit - Amplifier stops working - Electrodes are broken - Software won't start

Screenshot and post in Slack - we'll troubleshoot or send replacements quickly!

Your equipment is professional-grade and built to last. Take good care of it, and it will serve you well through your entire neurofeedback journey! 📦🧠