Product Development News
D189 Low Voltage Remote Electrode Selector
The Digitimer D188 Remote Electrode Selector was developed to allow researchers to safely direct a stimulus from one of our high voltage constant current stimulators e.g DS8R to one of up to 8 electrode sites. In combination with the DS8R, the D188 makes it possible for researchers to stimulate multiple sites (one site at a time) with stimuli of different intensities or durations. As a result, a single stimulator can be used for multi-site stimulation in psychological testing, rehabilitation or functional electrical stimulation research.
The D188 uses solid state relays to activate and deactivate channels and while these are perfectly suited to constant current stimulators with high voltage output, they are less appropriate when constant voltage or low/current voltage stimulation is carried out. To overcome this limitation, we have developed the new D189 Low Voltage Remote Electrode Selector, which in contrast to the D188, uses mechanical relays which are still quick to activate and deactivate, but also work when low voltages are used.
The D189 has been designed for use with stimulators that output low currents and have compliance voltages of up to 100V. This makes the D189 suitable for use with our research stimulators, for example the DS2A, DS3 and DS4.
Other than a colour scheme change, the D188 and D189 are virtually identical in appearance, are supplied with the same accessories and use the same control software.
You can find out more about both products on the dedicated D188/D189 Remote Electrode Selectors product page.
Multiple control methods
Precisely timed remote control is possible through the use of TTL compatible digital lines from your data acquisition system. One to one control requires eight digital inputs, however, the D188/D189 Remote Electrode Selectors can also operate in a multiplexed mode where only four digital inputs are required. Alternatively, a USB connection to the host computer allows software control of the D188/D189 via a DLL-based API, which can be accessed using your preferred software (C, C++, Visual Basic, C# etc). The D188 and D189 are recognized and controllable as serial devices within LINUX operating systems, although our virtual front panel software is not LINUX compatible.
Designed for research applications
The D188 and D189 are silent in operation and the software control panel allows the operator to toggle the LED indicator lights on and off. As a result, the subject of stimulation is not provided with any audible or visual cues of stimulus delivery. The D188 and D189 Electrode Selectors are not medical devices and use is restricted to research applications, however, they have been designed to meet certain aspects of IEC 60601-1 relating to safety in human use.
The D188 and D189 are not supplied with any stimulator input or electrode connection cables, however, it is possible to purchase additional plugs and cables to suit your requirements. These allow direct connection to our complete range of isolated stimulators. We also offer output extension cables in order to increase the distance between the stimulating electrode and the D188/D189 output sockets.
