A device for transferring neurophysiological pulse data automatically from magnetic to computer input tape

Abstract

If the discharge of nerve impulses is recorded by an extra-cellular micro-electrode, more than one set of action potentials may be detected simultaneously from one recording point. A machine is described which can count up to three such sets and, every 9 msec or less, punch the value of these counts onto paper tape. The machine employs a procedure to code the lengths of periods during which there are no impulses or stimuli. As a result, the amount of time spent reading the paper tape into the computer is greatly reduced.