cerestim r96 user's manual - blackrock...

CereStim R96

User’s Manual Empowering Electrophysiology

LB-0314 6.00 ©2015 Blackrock Microsystems®, LLC

CereStim R96

Blackrock Microsystems, LLC

630 Komas Drive • Suite 200

Salt Lake City • UT 84108

T: +1 (801) 582-5533 www.blackrockmicro.com

[email protected]

http://www.blackrockmicro.com/

mailto:[email protected]

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©2015 Blackrock Microsystems®, LLC

CereStim R96


Table of Contents

Table of Figures ......................................................................................................................... 3

Contraindications, Warnings and Cautions, Specifications ......................................................... 4

1. Contraindications ............................................................................................................. 4

2. Warnings and Cautions ................................................................................................... 4

3. Specifications .................................................................................................................. 6

3.1. PN 7008 ................................................................................................................... 6

3.2. PN 7039 ................................................................................................................... 7

3.3. PN 7169 ................................................................................................................... 8

3.4. PN 7655 ................................................................................................................... 9

3.5. PN 7875 ..................................................................................................................10

System Overview ......................................................................................................................11

1. Packing List ....................................................................................................................11

2. Accessories (Sold Separately) ........................................................................................12

2.1. CereStim to Stim Switch Cable (PN 8160) ...............................................................12

2.2. CereStim to Splitter Box Cable (PN 7965) ...............................................................12

2.3. CereStim to Cabrio 16 Cable (PN 8162) ..................................................................13

2.4. CereStim to CerePort Plug Cable (PN 8161) ...........................................................13

2.5. HSF Stim 32 headstage (PN 8451) .........................................................................15

2.6. HSF Stim 32 Micro Test Board (PN 8452) ...............................................................15

2.7. HSF Stim 32 Macro Test Board (PN 8455) ..............................................................15

2.8. 128- Channel Stim Switch System (PN 5915, PN 5916) ..........................................15

3. Hardware ........................................................................................................................16

3.1. Front Panel ..............................................................................................................16

3.2. Rear Panel ..............................................................................................................17

Setup ........................................................................................................................................19

1. Computer Setup .............................................................................................................19

1.1. Third party software and hardware ..........................................................................19

1.2. Microsoft Updates ...................................................................................................19

1.3. Antivirus Software ...................................................................................................19

2. Hardware Setup .............................................................................................................19

CereStim 96 API .......................................................................................................................20

Stim Manager ...........................................................................................................................20

1. File Menu .......................................................................................................................20

1.1. Open .......................................................................................................................20

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1.2. Save ........................................................................................................................20

1.3. Save As ...................................................................................................................20

1.4. Import .CMP File .....................................................................................................21

1.5. Quit .........................................................................................................................21

2. Mode Menu ....................................................................................................................22

2.1. Manual Mode ..........................................................................................................22

2.2. Program Mode.........................................................................................................24

2.3. Program Creator ......................................................................................................26

2.4. Disconnect ..............................................................................................................27

2.5. Connect ...................................................................................................................27

3. Tools Menu ....................................................................................................................28

3.1. Settings ...................................................................................................................28

3.2. Administrator ...........................................................................................................30

3.3. Report .....................................................................................................................31

3.4. Test Electrodes .......................................................................................................32

3.5. Test Modules ...........................................................................................................32

4. Help Menu ......................................................................................................................32

4.1. About .......................................................................................................................32

4.2. CereStim 96 ............................................................................................................32

4.3. SDK Library Version ................................................................................................33

5. Status Bar ......................................................................................................................33

5.1. CereStim Status ......................................................................................................33

5.2. Status Messages .....................................................................................................33

Warranty ...................................................................................................................................34

Return Merchandise Authorization ............................................................................................34

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Table of Figures Figure 1 Application overview depicting typical set up configuration for the CereStim R96 .......11

Figure 2 CereStim to Stim Switch Cable ...................................................................................12

Figure 3 CereStim to Splitter Box Cable ....................................................................................12

Figure 4 CereStim to Cabrio 16 Cable Pinout ...........................................................................13

Figure 5 CereStim to CerePort Plug Cable ................................................................................13

Figure 6 Front Panel of the CereStim R96 ................................................................................16

Figure 7 Rear Panel view of the CereStim R96 .........................................................................17

Figure 8 Monitor Port Outputs ...................................................................................................17

Figure 9 Pinout of the CereStim R96 Output Banks ..................................................................18

Figure 10 Stim Manager Manual Mode View .............................................................................22

Figure 11 Program Mode View ..................................................................................................24

Figure 12 Stim Manager's Program Creator Dialog ...................................................................26

Figure 13 Stim Manager's Settings Dialog ................................................................................28

Figure 14 Stim Manager's Administrator Dialog ........................................................................30

Figure 15 Stim Manager's Report Dialog ...................................................................................31

Figure 16 Stim Manager’s Status Bar is Across the Bottom of the Dialog Window ....................33

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Contraindications, Warnings and Cautions, Specifications 1. Contraindications

The CereStim R96 should not be used in chronic applications. The CereStim R96 is intended for acute (<30 days) operation only.

Electro cautery should not be performed while the CereStim R96 is in use. The CereStim R96 should not be used with any computer that has not been tested to

the IEC 60950 standards. Only use the CereStim R96 with electrodes that are within the impedance level

specified by the part number of the stimulator.

2. Warnings and Cautions The CereStim R96 must only be used by highly qualified personnel trained in the use

of cortical stimulation. This manual is to be used in support of device use by personnel who have received device training from Blackrock Microsystems.

When in use, the CereStim R96 must be attended at all times by personnel trained in cortical stimulation.

Avoid trans-thoracic stimulation Do not change parameters while stimulation is in progress. The CereStim R96 stimulation parameters should only be used within the safe

operating range of the specific electrode being used. Use only the supplied CereStim R96 components (i.e. External Power Supply).

Substitution of components not supplied by Blackrock Microsystems may affect system performance and patient safety.

Disconnect the CereStim R96 Stimulation System before defibrillation. The CereStim R96 is not defibrillator proof and should not be in use concurrently with a defibrillator.

Do not use the CereStim R96 in the presence of flammable substances, including flammable anesthetic agents.

Only connect CereStim R96 components to properly tested, grounded and dedicated AC outlets to reduce the risk of electrical shock. Do not use an adapter for ungrounded wall outlets.

Do not use damaged components (i.e. cables, external power supply). Damaged components may compromise patient and/or operator safety.

Do not connect the CereStim R96 to an outlet controlled by a wall switch. Avoid strong static discharges from sources like televisions or computer monitors as

they can damage the electrical parts of the system. Keep the CereStim R96 away from liquids. Contact with water, shower spray, or wet

surfaces can lead to the patient receiving an electrical shock and compromise patient safety.

Do not unplug the power supply to the CereStim R96 while the system is in use. Do not connect/disconnect any cables to/from the CereStim R96 while the system is

in use. Do not leave the CereStim R96 connected to the patient electrodes or other devices

when the system is not in use. Do not change CereStim R96 Output Voltage values while connected to the patient.

Doing so may result in an electric shock to the patient and compromise patient safety.

When connecting the CereStim R96 to the Stim Switch or patient electrodes, use caution to minimize the likelihood of Electrostatic Discharge (ESD).

Ensure that the CereStim R96 is securely positioned on a flat surface during use.

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Use caution when placing power cords, cables and other connectors to minimize the likelihood of tripping or accidentally pulling on cables. Damaged cables may result in failed ground connections.

Each component of the system must be plugged into a separate outlet (i.e. CereStim R96, Stim Switch, subcomponents of the data acquisition and any other accessory equipment). Using a power-strip may cause leakage currents to exceed acceptable limits.

Connecting equipment to and from the CereStim R96 may result in a summation of leakage currents that can lead to the patient receiving an electric shock.

It is highly recommended that automatic Microsoft updates be turned off on the PC connected to the CereStim R96. Updates that occur while the system is in use may interrupt stimulation and may not be compatible with the current version of the software.

It is highly recommended that active and normal scanning with Anti-Virus Software be disabled on the PC connected to the CereStim R96. Anti-Virus software scans may interrupt stimulation.

Do not connect to the internet while the system is in use. Care should be used in selecting equipment for connection to the Monitor port.

Devices connected to this port must be isolated from earth ground in compliance with IEC 60601-1.

The following options are recommended if there is a need to remediate system leakage current:

Redundant protective earth connection shall be made to either the medical device or the other equipment.

The other equipment shall be powered from a medical grade (IEC 60601-1 compliant) separating transformer.

The CereStim R96 should not be used if the device has been dropped. Dropping the device

may cause damage to internal components that affect system performance and patient safety.

A dropped device must be returned to Blackrock Microsystems for inspection and recalibration

before it can be used again (See Section on Return Merchandise Authorization of the CereStim

R96 User Manual).

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3. Specifications 3.1. PN 7008

Model Name CereStim R96 Micro Stimulator

Number of Output Channels 96

Number of Current Modules 3

Type of Protection Class II

Degree of Protection Type BF Applied Part

Output Voltage ±4.7 – ±9.5V

Polarity Selectable Anodic or Cathodic First

Output Current 1µA – 215µA, adjustable in 1 µA increments

Stimulation Frequency 4 Hz – 5 kHz

Phase Width 44µS – 65,535 µS

Interphase Width 53µS – 65,535 µS

Recommended Electrode Impedance

<100 kΩ

PC Hardware Interface USB A-B cable

Stim Manager PC Software Compatibility

Windows 7 (32-bit & 64-bit) compatible

CereStim 96 API x86 & x64 library versions

TTL Trigger Input Low < .8 V Input High > 3.0 V

TTL Sync Output Low < .8 V Output High > 3.0 V

Analog Resolution 12 bits

Slew Rate 550 V/µs

External Power Supply PMP15M-13 Protek Power Supply AC Input: 100-240Vac, 0.5-0.3A, 50-60Hz DC Output: 15V, 1A MAX

Emergency Off Switch ¼” Mono Phone Plug Normally Closed Switch with < 10Ω on resistance recommended.

CereStim R96 Cable Connectors Samtec MIT-019-02-F-D

Monitor Connector Samtec SMM-109-02-F-D

IPX Rating Ordinary Equipment, Not Fluid Resistant, IP20

Operating Environment 10˚C to 40˚C, 10 to 85% R.H. (non-condensing)

Storage/Transportation Environment

-15˚C to 60˚C, 10 to 85% R.H. (non-condensing), 500 to 1060 hPA

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3.2. PN 7039













<100 kΩ








Slew Rate 550 V/µs









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3.3. PN 7169













<100 kΩ








Slew Rate 550 V/µs









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3.4. PN 7655

Model Name CereStim R96 Macro Stimulator





Output Voltage ±9.5V


Output Current 100µA – 10mA, adjustable in 100 µA increments





<1 kΩ








Slew Rate 550 V/µs









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3.5. PN 7875

Model Name CereStim R96 Macro Stimulator





Output Voltage ±9.5V


Output Current 100µA – 10mA, adjustable in 100 µA increments





<1 kΩ








Slew Rate 550 V/µs









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System Overview The CereStim R96 is a fully programmable Neuro-Stimulator with 96 output channels and the capability of producing up to 16 simultaneous stimuli. The biphasic current pulses generated by the CereStim R96 are intended to stimulate the neurons in proximity to a set of either implanted micro electrodes or surface contacting macro electrodes. The CereStim R96 is intended to be compatible with a variety of Blackrock Microsystems headstages and adapters. Combining the CereStim R96 with a Blackrock Microsystems Data Acquisition device enables the CereStim R96 to become a very flexible and powerful tool for analyzing neural signals.

Figure 1 Application overview depicting typical set up configuration for the CereStim R96

1. Packing List CereStim R96 External Power Supply USB A-B Cable Touch-proof Alligator GND Cable USB Dongle

CereStim 96 API

CereStim 96 API User’s Manual

Stim Manager Software

CereStim R96 User’s Manual

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2. Accessories (Sold Separately) 2.1. CereStim to Stim Switch Cable (PN 8160) The CereStim to Stim Switch Cable is a custom cable that mates with the MIT connector on the back of the stimulator through a Samtec MIS connector to a Female 37 pin D-Sub connector.

Figure 2 CereStim to Stim Switch Cable

2.2. CereStim to Splitter Box Cable (PN 7965) The CereStim to Splitter Box cable is a custom cable that mates with the MIT connector on the back of the stimulator through a Samtec MIS connector to a Male 44 pin HD-Sub Connector.

Figure 3 CereStim to Splitter Box Cable

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2.3. CereStim to Cabrio 16 Cable (PN 8162) The CereStim to Cabrio 16 cable is an off the shelf cable provided by Samtec (MICD-019-72.00-SED-TBR-1-F,F) that has an MIS connector one side for connecting to the stimulator, and a Samtec MIT connector on the other end to connect to the MIS connector on the Cabrio 16.

Figure 4 CereStim to Cabrio 16 Cable Pinout

2.4. CereStim to CerePort Plug Cable (PN 8161) The CereStim to CerePort Plug Cable is a custom cable that mates with the MIT connector on the back of the stimulator through a Samtec MIS connector to a 18 pin Samtec SFMC Header.

Figure 5 CereStim to CerePort Plug Cable

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2.5. HSF Stim 32 headstage (PN 8451) The HSF Stim 32 headstage is a 1x buffer board that has patient protection circuitry and is capable of recording from 32 channels back to the Cerebus system while having a connector for the stimulator that allows stimulation directly into the electrodes. The CereStim to Cabrio 16 cable (PN 8162) is the cable that connects the CereStim R96 to the HSF Stim 32 headstage board.

2.6. HSF Stim 32 Micro Test Board (PN 8452) The HSF Stim 32 Micro Test Board is a 1x buffer board that can be used for testing the impedances and calibration of the output current of the CereStim R96. It can be connected to the Cerebus system through the QSE connector to record the signal that is being stimulated on a channel. It has a 100kΩ resistor on all 32 channels. The CereStim to Cabrio 16 cable (PN 8162) is the cable that connects the CereStim R96 to the HSF Stim 32 Micro Test board.

2.7. HSF Stim 32 Macro Test Board (PN 8455) The HSF Stim 32 Micro Test Board is a 1x buffer board that can be used for testing the impedances and calibration of the output current of the CereStim R96. It can be connected to the Cerebus system through the QSE connector to record the signal that is being stimulated on a channel. It has a 500 Ω resistor on all 32 channels. The CereStim to Cabrio 16 cable (PN 8162) is the cable that connects the CereStim R96 to the HSF Stim 32 Macro Test board.

2.8. 128- Channel Stim Switch System (PN 5915, PN 5916) The 128-Channel Stim Switch System is an alternate method for connecting to the CerePort Plug headstages. It allows for fast switching between recording and stimulating on up to 128 channels. Refer to the Stim Switch User’s Manual for more information regarding the system and how it interfaces with the CerePort Plug and CereStim R96.

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3. Hardware There are two versions of the stimulator. The first version is a micro stimulator that operates in the µA range with electrodes having an impedance of < 100kΩ. The second version is a macro stimulator that operates from 100 µA to 10 mA and is intended to be used with macro electrode grids or strips having an impedance of < 5kΩ. The Stimulators consist of a core motherboard, current module daughter boards, and a back interface board. The number of simultaneous stimuli is directly correlated to the number of installed current modules. Currently 3 configurations are sold for both the micro and macro stimulator. The configurations consist of either 1, 3, or 16 current modules. Any of the configurations containing fewer current modules can be upgraded to contain more current modules. The Interface board contains 3 banks of 32 channels each, allowing for stimulation to be directed to 96 different electrodes.

3.1. Front Panel

Figure 6 Front Panel of the CereStim R96

Power Supply External Power Supply should be a medical grade power supply. An Iccnexergy medical grade power supply is provided with the CereStim R96. It has an AC Input of 100-240 VAC, 1.6A, 50-60 Hz, with a DC output of 12V, 6A, 72W MAX.

USB LED The USB LED is a status LED that illuminates when a USB cable is plugged into both the stimulator and a computer. When no USB cable is plugged in, the LED will be off.

On LED The On LED is a status LED that illuminates the on/off switch blue when the CereStim R96 is plugged in and the pushbutton is engaged (Device turned on). When the device is not on, the LED will be off.

Status LED The Status LED is a visual indicator to the user that the device is currently stimulating. The LED is only on for the duration of the stimulus and then turns off. Depending on the frequency and duration of stimulation, the LED may only flicker on very briefly.

EMER OFF LED The EMER (Emergency) OFF LED is a status LED that illuminates when the device is in emergency off mode. While the device is in emergency off mode the device will not stimulate.

Trigger The Trigger BNC connector is a TTL logic level input where < .8 V is considered a logic low and >3.0 V is considered a logic high. The trigger input serves as a trigger to begin stimulation on some external event.

Sync The Sync BNC connector is a TTL logic level output where < .8 V is considered a logic low and >3.0 V is considered a logic high. This connector can be used to sync external

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devices such as a fast settle input. The output will be high during the course of a stimulation being delivered and low when stimulation is not occurring.

EMER OFF The EMER OFF port is a Samtec MCR connector to allow for the connection of a Normally Open Emergency Off switch. When no switch is plugged in, the connection is open and power is delivered to the CereStim R96. When a switch is plugged in and pressed (Closed Position), power is completely shut off from the device.

Power Switch Power Switch is a pushbutton switch to turn the device on and off. When the switch is depressed, the switch is closed and the device is in the “On” position.

USB The USB Connector is a type B connector that allows the CereStim R96 to communicate with the host PC. The CereStim R96 is a Human Interface Device (HID) and should appear in the device manager when plugged in and powered on.

3.2. Rear Panel

Figure 7 Rear Panel view of the CereStim R96

Monitor Port The Monitor Port is a diagnostic port that shows the voltage waveform of the stimulus being delivered. This waveform is generated by the stimulation parameters selected and a 100kΩ resistor for micro stimulators, or 500Ω resistor for macro stimulators. The resistor resides on each individual current module. There are 18 pins on the monitor port, 1 for each current module and the two bottom ones are Patient Ground.

Figure 8 Monitor Port Outputs

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Output Banks There are 3 output banks of 32 channels each. Bank A has channels 1-32, Bank B has 33-64, and Bank C has 65-96. Under the default setup, channel 1 refers to electrode 1, channel 2 refers to electrode 2 and so on. Through the API the operator has the ability to remap the channels to specific electrodes. This is useful in Stim Manager where a .cmp file can be imported so that each channel corresponds to a mapped electrode.

Figure 9 Pinout of the CereStim R96 Output Banks

Patient Ground This is tied internally to the patient ground circuitry. It is the same ground plane that is on the monitor port and the three electrode banks. This ground is the return path for the stimulating electrode and needs to be connected to the subject’s ground, either through this connector or the electrode bank connector.

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Setup

1. Computer Setup

The CereStim R96 uses a USB connection to communicate with the PC. No specific drivers are

required for installation since the device is a Human Interface Device (HID). Installation occurs

automatically upon connecting the device to the PC. The Stim Manager Software runs on

Windows 7, 32 and 64 bit versions.

WARNING: The Stim Switch (if required for your application) should only be used with a

computer that meets the IEC 60950 standards for Safety of Information Technology Equipment.

1.1. Third party software and hardware

Blackrock Microsystems manufactures hardware and software to be compatible with

standard PC computers and operating software. However, Blackrock Microsystems

assumes no responsibility for the use or reliability of its software or hardware with equipment

that is not furnished by Blackrock Microsystems.

1.2. Microsoft Updates

It is highly recommended that automatic Microsoft updates be deactivated on the PC prior to

using the CereStim R96. Updates may interrupt stimulation while the system is in use and

may not be compatible with the current version of the Stim Manager software.

1.3. Antivirus Software

It is highly recommended that antivirus scans be deactivated on the PC prior to using the

CereStim R96. Virus Scans may interrupt stimulation while the system is in use and may

cause unknown behavior.

2. Hardware Setup

The CereStim R96 can be used in many different configurations based on the accessory cables

being used and the type of electrodes that are being connected. The following general steps

should be followed when connecting the stimulator to any subject.

First, connect the interface cables being used to the appropriate headstages or devices prior to

connecting them to the banks on the back of the stimulator. Once the interface cables are

attached to their mating devices, then the cables can be attached to the appropriate banks on

the back of the stimulator. Next, connect the stimulator to the Host PC. Powering on the

Stimulator should always be the last step after making all other connections.

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CereStim 96 API The CereStim 96 API comes in both x86 and x64 bit versions. The API allows for the operator to write custom code in C/C++ to control the CereStim R96. It is possible to write Matlab code to interface with the CereStim R96 as well as through the use of functions similar to cbMex for the Cerebus System. The Stim Manager software is written using the CereStim 96 API and shows users the capabilities that exist within the API. Refer to Blackrock Microsystem’s CereStim 96 API User’s Manual for detailed descriptions of functions and examples of how to perform basic functions with the API.

Stim Manager The Stim Manager software is built upon the CereStim 96 API and allows most users all the

needed functions needed to perform their stimulation protocols in a simple and intuitive

interface. The parameters of the biphasic current pulse which is delivered from the stimulator

can be configured in Stim Manager and sent to the stimulator over the USB cable. Complex

stimulation protocols can be created within Stim Manager as well as single channel stimulation

for examining the physiological response based on varying stimulation parameters.

1. File Menu

1.1. Open

Keyboard Shortcut is ‘CTRL+O’

The Open option allows the operator to load a previously saved configuration file (.cfg). The

configuration file stores which mode the user was in and the current settings.

1.2. Save

Keyboard Shortcut ‘CTRL+S’

The Save option allows the operator to save the current mode as well as all settings in the

settings dialog under the previously saved configuration name. If no previous configuration

file has been saved then it will act like a Save As, requiring the operator to enter a

configuration name.

1.3. Save As

Keyboard Shortcut ‘CTRL+SHIFT+S’

The Save As option performs the same function as the Save option, but forces the user to

specify a name for the configuration file.

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1.4. Import .CMP File

Keyboard Shortcut ‘CTRL+I’

The Import .CMP File option allows the user to import an electrode array map file. This will

correctly map the channels on the stimulator to the corresponding electrodes on the array.

While viewing manual mode, the Electrode Array grid will also be updated to reflect the

electrode mapping of the array.

1.5. Quit

Keyboard Shortcut ‘CTRL+Q’

The Quit option closes the Stim Manager and disconnects your session with the Stimulator.

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2. Mode Menu

2.1. Manual Mode

Keyboard Shortcut ‘CTRL+M’

Manual mode allows the user a simple interface to determine the physiological response of

different stimulation parameters on single electrodes. Waveforms can be saved and later

loaded or used in Stimulation Scripts. In this mode, the user selects an electrode channel

from the Electrode Array Panel and creates a Pulse Configuration in the Waveform Panel.

Stimulation scripts are not available in this mode.

Figure 10 Stim Manager Manual Mode View

Device

This pull down box will contain a list of all connected devices. Press the search button to

search for new devices. Press the connect button to connect to the selected device.

Press the disconnect button to disconnect the selected device.

Waveform List

This list contains all the saved waveforms that are located in the waveform directory that

is specified on the settings dialog page. Upon selecting a waveform from the list, all of

the parameters in the waveform text boxes will be populated with the saved information.

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The red minus button will delete the selected waveform from the list and from the

directory on the operator’s computer.

Electrode Array

The Electrode array is a graphical representation of the 96 output channels that can be

stimulated. The electrode selected is the electrode that a stimulus will occur on when

the stimulate button is pressed. By default, the electrode array is in ascending numerical

order. However, when a .CMP file is imported the electrode array will update to reflect

the mapping found in the .CMP file.

Waveform

The Waveform group box consists of two main components. The first part is a visual

representation of the biphasic stimulus, and the second is the actual parameters of the

stimulus. Moving the mouse over the parameter fields will show the part of the

stimulation is affected by the parameter. Valid values for the different parameters will

also appear in the status message window in the lower left corner.

Stimulate

This button will send a single stimulus pulse to the electrode selected in the Electrode

Array, with the given parameters that are located in in the waveform text fields.

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2.2. Program Mode

Keyboard Shortcut ‘CTRL+P’

Program Mode is for the advanced user who has a more complicated stimulation protocol

than a single stimulus with a single waveform. From this mode the operator is able to load

different stimulation scripts that are saved on their computer. The operator may also enter

the program creator dialog to create new stimulation scripts or edit saved ones. The

operator is able to play the stimulation script on an infinite loop or for a set number of

iterations. They are also able to set the stimulation script to start once a trigger is received

on the TTL Trigger input line. When a program is clicked, the waveforms and program

sequence are loaded and validated to ensure that no errors will occur. Any problems will

have an error message and highlight the issue in red.

Figure 11 Program Mode View

Program Sequence

This shows the list of commands that the stimulation script is going to execute.

Program List

This list contains all the saved programs that are located in the program directory that is

specified on the settings dialog page. Upon selecting a program from the list, the

program sequence and stimulation waveforms will be populated with the saved

information. The blue cog button will allow you to edit a selected program by loading the

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program in the program creator dialog. The blue plus button will allow you to create a

new program in the program creator dialog. The red minus button will delete the

selected program from the list and from the directory on the operator’s computer.

Stimulation Waveforms

Stimulation waveforms contain all the waveforms that are configured for the current

selected program.

Trigger On

The trigger on in the group box sets the stimulator to either begin the program once it

receives the selected trigger, or to allow it to stimulate when the play button is clicked.

The trigger can either be a digital rising edge, falling edge, or just any edge change.

Repetition

The repetition group box allows the operator to select how many times the stimulation

script will execute. Valid values are from 1-65,535. If the loop box is selected then the

stimulation script will run until stopped or paused.

Stimulate

The stimulate group allows the operator to start, stop, or pause a stimulation script

during execution. If a trigger mode is selected, the play button changes to say waiting

for trigger to alert the operator that the stimulator is in trigger mode. The stimulate group

will be grayed out until a valid program is selected.

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2.3. Program Creator

Keyboard Shortcut NONE

Program Creator is the dialogue window where custom stimulation scripts are created. The

stimulation scripts can have up to 128 stimulation commands. The operator has the ability to

create 15 custom waveforms that can either be loaded from saved waveforms or newly

created. Stimulation scripts allow the operator to create groups of simultaneous stimulations

as well as add delays to stimulation protocols.

Figure 12 Stim Manager's Program Creator Dialog

Stimulation Waveforms

The operator is able to program up to fifteen different stimulation waveforms which will

be loaded onto the stimulator in order to reduce the overhead of changing stimulation

parameters during an active session. Each cell of the table will show valid values and

notify the user if an invalid parameter is entered. The blue plus button allows an

operator to load in a saved stimulation waveform. The red minus button will remove the

stimulation waveform that is selected. The red ‘X’ button will remove all stimulation

waveforms.

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File Options

The file options allows the operator to load other saved programs, save them with a new

name or just make updates, save and close out.

Stimulus

The stimulus box allows the operator to select electrodes and stimulation waveforms to

add to the stimulation script. When the add button is clicked, the stimulus will be added

to the program sequence.

Wait Instruction

The wait instruction allows the operator to add between 1 and 65,535 milliseconds worth

of pause in between individual or groups of simultaneous stimulations.

Group Definition

The group definition allows the operator the ability to set up a group of simultaneous

stimulations. The begin group will tell the stimulator that the next series of commands

up to the end group should all be executed at the same time. The number of

simultaneous stimulations is dependent on the number of current modules installed and

enabled. The beginning and end of group commands count towards the total 128

commands that can be added to the script.

Program Sequence

The program sequence displays the order of stimulations that will occur. Individual lines

can be selected and dragged to change positions. The red minus button will remove the

selected instruction. The red ‘X’ button will clear the whole program sequence.

2.4. Disconnect

Keyboard Shortcut ‘ALTL+D’

Disconnect will end your session with the stimulator freeing it up to be connected by other

instances of Stim Manager or the CereStim 96 API. When the stimulator is disconnected

many of the functions within Stim Manager are disabled.

2.5. Connect

Keyboard Shortcut ‘ALT+C’

The connect command occurs automatically upon starting Stim Manager. Stim Manager

makes 10 attempts to connect to the stimulator before entering a disconnected state and

alerting the user. If a stimulator is connected after Stim Manager is already started, the

connect command will allow the software to identify the stimulator and connect to it.

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3. Tools Menu

3.1. Settings

Keyboard Shortcut ‘ALT+S’

The settings menu allows the operator to choose what current modules are enabled and

thus which current modules are responsible for sending a stimulus pulse. The output

compliance voltage can also be checked and set. Last is the default directories of where the

different file types associated with Stim Manager will be stored and saved files are looked

for.

Figure 13 Stim Manager's Settings Dialog

Current Modules

Displays the number of current modules installed in the stimulator as well as their

position and if they are enabled or disabled. Slots that do not have modules installed will

be disabled. Current modules that are selected are enabled and those that are not

selected are disabled.

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Output Voltage

The output voltage can be read and set from this menu. The Macro stimulator only

allows 9.5 V out, while the Micro Stimulator allows several different voltage levels to be

set and used.

Directories

The directories group box specifies the default directories of where Stim Manager should

look in order to find saved configuration files, log files, stimulation scripts, and stimulation

waveforms that the operator has created and saved on their computer. The folders

selected here, is where Stim Manager will pull information to update the lists in the

different views.

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3.2. Administrator

Keyboard Shortcut ‘ALT+A’

The Administrator interface is password protected to prevent unwanted changes. This

interface allows the primary operator to set additional safety levels to the stimulator in order

to adhere to stricter safety levels than the software originally allows. The default password

that the stimulator ships with is ‘CereStim96’.

Figure 14 Stim Manager's Administrator Dialog

Unlock

Unlock allows the operator to make changes to the maximum values. After unlocking

the button will change to a lock button. When the dialog is closed the interface

automatically locks.

Maximum Settings

The maximum settings are safe levels that the lead researcher should be able to set in

order to ensure that the device isn’t used above what their protocols allow. In order to

update them the password needs to be entered and the interface needs to be unlocked.

The maximum values can be read without unlocking the interface.

Change Password

Change password allows the operator the ability to change the password. The default

password is CereStim96.

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3.3. Report

Keyboard Shortcut ‘ALT+R’

The Report dialog allows the operator the ability to log all stimulation activity within a single

session or across multiple sessions with a single subject. It allows for custom comments to

be entered as well as an overview of the subject and all stimulation reporting that the

stimulator performs. Different researchers can each have their own log file to record their

experiments.

Figure 15 Stim Manager's Report Dialog

File Options

The file option’s allows the operator to load previous log files or save the current one.

The file will be saved in the default directory set in the settings tab.

Researcher

The researcher can be any name, but is used in the log files naming convention.

Patient

Patient allows the operator the ability to make update to the log files to show what

stimulations were applied to what patients or subjects. This allows the same log file to

contain information across multiple subjects.

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Comments

Any findings or notes that the researcher wants to include in the stimulation can be

added to the log file.

Log

The Log displays all activity that the stimulator performs. The log is the same log that is

seen in both the manual and program mode views. The log can be used as a visual

confirmation on the screen that the stimulator performed some action when the stimulate

button was clicked.

3.4. Test Electrodes

Keyboard Shortcut ‘CTRL+SHIFT+E’

Test Electrodes uses known stimulation parameters to send a stimulus through the first

current module in the stimulator to each electrode channel and measures the voltage five

times during the stimulus. The five voltage measurements are taken right before the first

phase of the pulse, during the first phase, during the interphase period, during the second

phase, and after the second phase. Test electrodes will also calculate the resistance of the

electrode based on the calculation V/I = R.

3.5. Test Modules

Keyboard Shortcut ‘CTRL+SHIFT+M’

Test Modules will test each enabled module in the stimulator to determine its output voltage

levels. It uses a known waveform and sends a stimulus across an internal resistive load to

determine what the output voltage is.

4. Help Menu

4.1. About

Keyboard Shortcut ‘F10’

When selecting about, a dialog box will open showing the version of Stim Manager being

used along with Blackrock Microsystems Website URL.

4.2. CereStim 96


You must be connected to a stimulator in order to use the CereStim 96 option. When

CereStim 96 is selected, information about the stimulator is displayed in the log window.

The serial number, firmware versions of both motherboard and current modules, and

communication protocol version are all displayed.

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4.3. SDK Library Version


The SDK Library version option gives the versioning information of the CereStim 96 API that

Stim Manager is using.

5. Status Bar

Keyboard Shortcut NONE

The Status bar is located across the bottom of the main Stim Manager dialog. On the lower

right hand corner there is a status message and on the left is where messages appear

depending on where the cursor is at, or what text field is entered.

Figure 16 Stim Manager’s Status Bar is Across the Bottom of the Dialog Window

5.1. CereStim Status

The status is in the lower right hand corner and refers to the status of the stimulator. This

could be disconnected, connected, waiting on trigger, stimulating and so on.

5.2. Status Messages

The status messages that appear in the lower left hand corner serve to help the operator

know valid ranges of text fields or display helpful information about the object or widget that

the cursor is hovering on.

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Warranty Blackrock Microsystems (“Blackrock”) warrants its products are free from defects in materials and manufacturing for a period of one year from the date of shipment. At its option, Blackrock will repair or replace any product that does not comply with this warranty. This warranty is voided by: (1) any modification or attempted modification to the product done by anyone other than an authorized Blackrock employee; (2) any abuse, negligent handling or misapplication of the product; or (3) any sale or other transfer of the product by the original purchaser. EXCEPT FOR THE WARRANTY SET FORTH IN THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPH, Blackrock PROVIDES NO WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, BY FACT OR LAW, AND HEREBY DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, AND NON-INFRINGEMENT OF THIRD-PARTY PATENT OR OTHER INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS. Blackrock SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, PUNITIVE, EXEMPLARY OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, DAMAGES RESULTING FROM LOSS OF USE, LOSS OF PROFITS, INTERRUPTION OR LOSS OF BUSINESS OR OTHER ECONOMIC LOSS) ARISING OUT OF NON-COMPLIANCE WITH ANY WARRANTY. Blackrock’s ENTIRE LIABILITY SHALL BE LIMITED TO PROVIDING THE REMEDY SET FORTH IN THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPH.

Return Merchandise Authorization In the unlikely event that the system needs to be returned to Blackrock for repair or maintenance, do not send any equipment back without a Return Merchandise Authorization Number. An RMA number will be issued to you by a Blackrock representative. If you need to obtain an RMA number, you may contact a product support representative at +1 801 582 5533. Once an RMA number has been issued, it is important to safely pack the returned item for shipping back to Blackrock. It is preferred that you save the original boxes and packing materials that the system arrived in for return shipment. Please address the package as follows:

Blackrock Microsystems ATTN: RMA # 630 Komas Drive, Suite 200 Salt Lake City, UT 84108-1229 USA Tel: +1 801 582 5533

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