NIRScout816 Users - Manual-082010

NIRScout 816 Users’ Guide
NIRx Medizintechnik GmbH
Baumbachstr. 17,
13189 Berlin, Germany
www.nirx.de
NIRx Document NSC-816, Rev 1. 4, Mar 2010

NIRScout 816 Users' Guide
1 General Information
Attention, consult accompanying documents.
Type BF equipment.
Warning, high voltage.
Protective earth (ground).
Do not dispose off in household garbage.

Contact Manufacturer for proper disposal
information.
Mains disconnect OFF.
Mains disconnect ON.
3
1.1 Electrical Safety
Properly ground the instrument

This instrument is grounded through the power cord. It is a Class 1 device. Use only the
power cord specified for your instrument (see section “Specifications”). Use only a power
cord that is in good condition.
WARNING:To avoid the risk of electric shock, this equipment must only be connected to a
supply mains with protective earth.
Do not operate without covers and panels installed

To avoid personal injury and equipment damage, the user needs to turn off the mains
disconnect before removing covers, panels, or grounding connections. Reinstall covers,
panels, or grounding connections before turning the mains disconnect back on.
WARNING! Modification of the equipment is not permitted.
2 Handling and Maintenance
2.1 Transport and Storage

DYNOT compact is a mobile instrument and may be moved by the user between different investigation
sites (i.e., labs, exam rooms, etc.) within the institution of the original installation. When storing the
instrument, it should be covered to protect it from dust. Furthermore, the equipment must not be
exposed to fluids or condensation humidity conditions.
During storage or transport, the equipment should be kept at a temperature between
-15°C to +70°C and at a relative humidity of 20% to 80% (non-condensing). Ambient
pressure should be within 700 hPa and 1060 hPa.
2.2 Safe Performance

The equipment should only be handled and operated by trained personnel. Operators must familiarize
themselves with the latest revision of the user’s manual before using the device.
The DYNOT compact instrument is intended for continuous operation.
2.3 Cleaning, sterilization, and disinfection

The outside of the instrument may be cleaned with a damp cloth. A mild soap or a window cleaner may
be used to aid cleaning; do not use solvents. Allow the instrument to thoroughly dry before use.
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The fiber optic probe ends that come in contact with the skin can be cleaned and disinfected by wiping
them after use with isopropyl alcohol 70%.
DO NOT USE ETHANOL OR METHANOL FOR CLEANING OF THE FIBER-OPTIC SURFACES. THE FIBERS MUST
NOT BE STERILIZED IN AN AUTOCLAVE.
2.4 Routine Maintenance

The fiber optic probes are delicate optical devices. Any strain, kinking, pinching, and tight bending
(bending radius < 2 cm) should be avoided since this can damage the fibers. Before each measurement,
the fibers should be visually inspected for signs of physical damage. In the case of suspected fiber
damage, please contact the manufacturer.
No regular service, calibration, or inspection of the instrument by the user, vendor, manufacturer, is
required for proper operation of the instrument. In order to maintain adequate signal quality, the user is
advised to regularly perform the system check peocedures described in detail in Chapter XXX.
2.5 Waste Products and Disposal

There are no waste products from the equipment
Please contact the manufacturer for help with the disposal of the instrument or its components at the
end of its useful life.
2.6 Operating Environment

NIRScout Instruments is for indoor use only.
NIRScout instruments are not safe for the use in presence of inflammable anesthetics.
NIRScout instruments are not to be used in an operating room.
The equipment should be operated at a temperature of -10°C to +40°C and at a relative

humidity of 20% to 80% (non-condensing). Ambient pressure should be within 700 hPa
and 1060 hPa. System Description
2.7 Use of Device

The NIRx NIRScout Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) imaging system is intended for non-invasive
transcranial Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) of blood perfusion dynamics in the human head. NIRScout
is a research instgrument. The instrument and all accessories are to be used for research purposes only.
NIRx products are NOT “medical devices” intended to be used for the purpose of
diagnosis of disease or other conditions, or in the cure, mitigation, treatment, or
prevention of disease, or used as a life support device. Use of NIRx products are solely for
research purposes.
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Backplane
…
USB controller
LP signals
PD MUX ADC
…
FOC 4x
fmod1
Detector channel DAC
1,2
CTRL
fmod2
LED gains DO USB 2.0

… …
… 8x
CTR DI
timing
…
LED driver
DI
Power supply
…
Opto Iso
4x
Trigger input
Fig. 1: Block diagram of NIRScout functional components and interconnections. FOC: Fiber optic cable; PD: Photo
diode; LP: Low-pass filter; LED: Light emitting diode; DI: Digital input; Opto Iso: Opto-isolator; USB: Universal
serial bus; MUX: Multiplexer; DAC: Digital-to-analog converter; DO: Digital out; CTR: Counter; CTRL: Controller;
fmod1,2: Modulation frequencies 1, 2.
3 Functional Description
NIRScout performs dual-wavelength continuous-wave (CW) near infrared (NIR) diffuse tomographic
measurements on large tissue structures or other scattering media at high (= several Hz) sampling rates.
The system facilitates NIR illumination of multiple target locations in a time-multiplexed, scanning fashion.
Using LED emitters at two distinct wavelengths allows discrimination of the two oxygenation states of
tissue hemoglobin. Both wavelengths are emitted simultaneously and are distinguished by modulating
and demodulating each at distinct frequencies in the low kHz-range.
The instrument employs parallel readout of multiple optical detector channels, each of which uses
adaptive gain switching to maximize the dynamic measurement range (>10 9). The device features 4
parallel, optically isolated digital input channels (TTL/CMOS logic) for the acquisition of event trigger
signals. The NIRScout instrument is operated through a graphical user interface (GUI) on a personal
computer (PC), to which it is connected by USB 2.0.
Fig. 1 shows a block diagram depicting the NIRScout hardware components and main signal connections.
All components except for the power supply plug into the instrument front and interconnect through a
backplane. The USB controller establishes data and control signal connection with a host PC and contains
4
all data acquisition and control hardware necessary for instrument operation. This includes digital I/O
lines, counters, an analog-to-digital converter, and digital-to-analog converters.
The LED driver card provides multiple parallel precision current sources which allow the desired intensity
control of the LED emitters. Each optode incorporates two LED wavelengths, which receive distinct
current modulation frequencies in the low kHz range. A tissue scan is facilitated by sequentially turning
on and off LED optodes under digital control of the LED driver, at a rate of about 60 Hz.
Detection fiber optics are used to guide the transmitted and back reflected light from the target to the
detection card, each of which houses 4 detector channels. The optical signal transmitted by the fiber
optic cable is converted to a voltage proportional to light intensity by means of a photo detector (photo
diode) followed by electrical amplification. The gain of the amplifier is automatically adjusted by the
instrument to provide optimal signal-to-noise ratio depending on the intensity of the received light. The
instrument is therefore capable of dealing with optical intensities over an extremely large dynamic range
(>109), which allows diffuse transmission measurements on tissue over distances from under 1 cm to
about 4 cm. This makes the instrument suitable for optical tomographic ('multi-distance') imaging. The
amplifier output is low-pass filtered and converted to a digital signal with 16-bit resolution by the
controller board.
To allow time stamping of the measured data for the purpose of event synchronization with concurrent
measurements or experimental protocols, the instrument provides a trigger input card, which offers four
parallel digital input channels. Each of these is optically isolated from the rest of the system. Each input is
over-voltage protected and contains a comparator circuit ('Schmitt Trigger') to improve noise immunity.
The inputs are TTL/CMOS compatible and are negative-edge triggered.
4 Hardware Components
4.1 Main Frame

The instrument's form factor is based on an industry standard 19-inch rack enclosure accommodating 42
horizontal partitions (= 8.4” / 213.4 mm usable front panel width) of 525” (133.35 mm = 3 height units).
All the main functional components are implemented as modular electronic cards, which can be inserted
as required by the system's configuration. The back of the enclosure contains the AC mains power entry
as well as the main On/Off switch. Also situated in the rear panel is a cooling fan exhaust.
Fig. 2 shows the front and rear view of the instrument.
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1 4
2 3
Fig. 2: (a) Front view of the NIRScout 816 imaging system. (1) Quad-channel detection cards QDC-10; (2) Trigger
input card TRG-42; (3) USB controller card USB-1618; (4) Led driver card LED-82. (b) Rear View showing AC power
inlet and power main On/Off switch
4.2 USB Controller Card

The USB controller performs all functions of instrument control and signal acquisition (Fig. 3).
Communication to the host PC and instrument operation software is established through USB 2.0
connection. Once connected, the system goes through a startup sequence during which the green status
indicator (2) lights up and then starts to blink. At this point, the data link to the host PC is established.
The red indicator (3) signals the power on state of the instrument. Only when the status indicator is
blinking and the power LED is lit is the instrument ready for operation.
1 1
2 3
1 1
The order in which the system is powered and the USB is connected does not matter.
Fig. 3: USB Controller Card Fig. 4: LED driver card LED-82. Fig. 5: Detection card QCD-10. Fig. 6: Trigger card TRG-42.
USB-1618. (1) USB 2.0 (1) Connector for 8-channel The unit contains four parallel BNC terminals (1) afford
connector to host PC; (2) Data LED optode set. optical sensing channels. Each connections to four negative-
connection status indicator of the four photo sensor edge triggered parallel digital
(green); (3) Power indicator located in the fiber port (1) input channels.
(red). serves one fiber optic cable,
which is secured by individual
set screws.
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a b c
Fig. 7: Sensors used with the NIRScout system. (a) Detection fiber optical cabels, bundle of four. The black plastic tips
are placed on tissue, the metal end ferules are inserted into the detection card. (b) Bundle of eight dual-wavelength
LED emitters. Black plastic ends with LED lens are placed on the skin, and the ribbon cable connects to the LED driver
card. (3) Example of optode placement on a dummy head.
4.3 LED Driver Card

The 8-channel LED optode set is connected to the front panel connector of the the LED driver (Fig. 4).
Connection should be established before powering up and operating the instrument. Connecting and
disconnecting the optode set during operation should be avoided.
4.4 Detector Card

The device is shown in Fig. 5. The fiber port connector accommodates four individual fiber optic cables,
which are secured by individual set screws. The basic version of the instrument can operate one to four
QCD modules, or 4 – 16 optical detection channels. A version of the instrument for up to 24 detectors is
available.
4.5 Digital I/O Trigger Card

Fig. 6 shows the trigger card front panel. Four parallel digital TTL/CMOS level compatible inputs are
available, which are negative-edge triggered. Connections are made with standard 50 Ohm BNC
connectors. All inputs are optically isolated from the instrument electronics to enhance safety and signal
integrity.
4.6 Optical Probes

The system relies on optical probes ('optodes'), emitters and receivers, to be located on the target tissue,
usually the intact human head (Fig. 7). Optical sources are realized by dual-wavelength LED emitters
placed directly on the skin. The sensors are formed by fiber optic cables that are placed on the skin, and
which guide the received light to the optical sensor situated on the detection card inside the instrument.
4.6.1 Connecting the Fiber Optics to the Imager

Insert the metal ferrule of the fiber optic cable into the appropriate fiber port input. Carefully push in the
fiber until mechanical resistance is met. Do not exert strong force. It may help to perform slight turning
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motions to ease the fiber connector into the port. Once the fiber is seated turn the set screw next to it
clockwise to lock in the ferrule. A small amount of torque is sufficient to prevent the fiber from slipping
back out. Do not use strong force as this can damage the fiber ferrule. To release fiber, turn set screw
counterclockwise (a fraction of a turn will suffice) and carefully extract the ferrule.
Hints: All fiber ferrules should protrude into the port by the same amount. If some fibers are observed to
protrude out more than others, these may not be connected properly. Make sure the set screw is not
blocking the path for the ferule before connecting the fiber optic cable.
4.6.2 Connecting the LED Emitters to the Imager

The LED POD emitter flat ribbon cable is connected to the instrument through a flat ribbon cable. The
connector in the LED driver card is polarized to prevent reversed connection. Carefully insert the cable
until it is fully seated.
The cable should only be connected or disconnected while the instrument is powered
down. Otherwise damage may occur to the LED optodes.
4.7 Optodes and Head Gear

A variety of fiber optic and LED-based optodes as well as probe placement systems are available for
NIRScout. An example of a fabric-cap based solution is shown in Fig. 7c. For detailed instructions and
handling advice, please refer to the specific operators' manuals.
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4.8 System Setup

Fig. 8 shows an example of a complete instrument setup. A host PC (shown is a Laptop) connects to the
USB controller. For purposes of safety and data integrity, this connection may be electro-optically isolated,
as shown in Fig. 4. Optodes, i.e. emitters (LED) and detectors (fiber optics), are connected to the target
under investigations (shown: dummy head phantom). AC mains connections are made to the PC, the
imager, and the USB receiver.
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2
3
9 4
1
5 6
8
7
PS PS
AC Mains
Fig. 8.: Photograph of complete System Setup. Setup components: (1) NIRScout device; (2) target (test phantom);
(3) controll PC; (4) USB optical isolator transceiver (Tx); (5) USB optical isolator receiver (Rx). Setup connections: [6]
USB cabel from PC to USB Tx; [7] fiber optic cable from USB Tx to Rx; [8] USB cable from USB Rx to NIRScout device;
[9] Flat ribbon to LED illumination probes; [10] fiber optical bundles for detection; PS: power supply.
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5 User Interface
3 6
Fig. 8: The NIRStar user interface home screen. (1) Software start button; (2) System setup screen; (3) Setup
screen display selectors; (4) Status display; (5) Experimental notes editor; (6) Source-detector configuration; (7)
Main control elements and elapsed time/frame counter; (8) Tab control access to Pre-Scan check and Scan screen.
The NIRScout imaging system includes the NIRStar data acquisition and control software, a LabVIEW™
(National Instruments Corp., Austin, TX) based graphical user interface. Instrument functions are
represented by graphical elements like buttons, sliders, and displays through which the user controls the
instrument. Fig. 8 shows the NIRStar home screen.
5.1 Start and Stop Software

When calling the software, it is automatically started in running mode, as indicated by a
black arrow in the top left screen corner. Always exit software using the EXIT button on
the lower right corner. The arrow will turn white.
Clicking the white arrow will re-start the software.
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5.2 Screen Selector

Using the tabs control, the user can select one of three
screen views: Setup, Pre-Scan, and Scan.
5.3 Control Panel

The Control Panel remains visible throughout operation and provides access to the basic imager
functions. The following controls are available:
CALIBRATE: Prior to each measurement, a calibration procedure must be performed

during which the instrument determines the optimum gain (or signal amplification) setup
for each source-detector combination. Gain levels are numbered 0 … 7 with each step
representing a 10-fold amplification factor.
During calibration, the Gain Map will be updated to reflect the current gain settings. The
gain setup is automatically followed by a scan to determine the achieved signal quality.
The gain is deemed optimal if a channel's signal falls between 0.1 V and 1.0 V. Because
the same gain is applied to both wavelengths' signals, sometimes a compromise must be
achieved so as to provide sufficient amplification for one wavelength, while not saturating
the other. Therefore, the gain setting is satisfactory if at least one signal lies in the
optimum signal range, while the other may be above or below the stated voltage
thresholds.
The START button initiates a scan without writing data to the computer disc for test
measurements and display optimization. The test scan may be stopped by clicking the
START button a second time or with the STOP button.
The RECORD button initiates a scan for which the data, gain settings, trigger events and
various system settings get recorded. If first a test scan is initiated with the START button,
and at some point afterwards during the scan the RECORD button is clicked, all data (i.e.,
up to that time point and from then on forward) will be saved. Once recording, the scan
can only be stopped using the STOP button.
The STOP button will finish any ongoing scan.
The Frame No. counter displays the number of completed scans, or frames, which is
defined as the number of full illumination cycles. Th nth illumination cycle is completed
once all illumination points (LEDs) have blinked n times during the measurement.
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The source switching frequency fss is a fixed instrument parameter, typically 62.5 Hz. The
sampling (or frame, or scan) rate can be calculated as: fs = fss / (N+2), where N is the
number of sources.
The timer shows the time elapsed since starting a scan and can be reset to zero. The
timer reading is not recorded, and resetting has no effect on the data.
The EXIT button exits the application.
5.4 Setup Screen

The setup screen is used to judge the system setup and signal quality obtained from the calibration
procedure prior to running a measurement.
5.4.1 Setup Display

The setup display is a multi-purpose indicator that provides several measures of signal quality and
appropriateness of the setup. The DISPLAY knob and WAVELENGTH selector are used to select the
desired quantity.
Fig. 9: The Setup display in the setup tab maps various signal quality measures for each source-detector
combination in a 2D false color map. (a) Gains settings from 0-7;2(b) Signal level in Voltage (log scale), (c) Signal-to-
noise ratio as coefficient of variation (C.V.). Source-detector combinations masked out in the Hardware
Configuration menu are blocked in the display.
4
The GAIN MAP shows the gains obtained from the system calibration procedure in a color-coded map.
Gains are mapped in a logarithmic fashion, each step representing a 10-fold increase in amplification.
The gain has an inverse relationship with the intensity of the the transmitted light. For typical source-
detector separations (2.5 – 3 cm), typically, high gains of 4 and higher are required. The lower gain stages
are to be expected only for short source-detector separation values, as experienced in multi-distance, or
tomographic setups (there are, however exceptions, such as measurements on children, or on the
forehead).
The gain setting for a chosen optode setup generates a characteristic pattern, which should be
quantitatively be reproducible across different subjects.
The SIGNAL LEVELS are mapped on a logarithmic scale in units of voltage. Satisfactory signal levels fall in
the range of 0.1 – 1.0 V (light green to yellow).
Channels that are masked out from display in the Hardware Configuration dialog (see Chapter 5.7.1), are
suppressed in the setup display.
5.4.2 Status History and Notes Editor

The System Status History window will prompt an account of all user
actions with time stamp to help keep track of the experimental
conditions. A timestamped history is recorded in a text file automatically
(see file formats, below).
The Experimental Notes editor allows the user to enter plain text
comments, which are recorded in the data .hdr file (see file formats,
below).
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5.5 Pre-Scan Screen
3 6 2
4 8
Fig. 10: The NIRStar user interface Pre-Scan Screen. (1) Real-time level display for all channels (log-Volts), levels
between 0.1 V and 1.0 V are optimal. (2) Real-time curve display of measurement channels for one wavelength or
Hb state. (3) Selector for display type. (4) Low-pass filter cutoff selector. (5) Curve stacking controls. (6) Trigger
input indicator. (7) Wavelength selector for display. (8) Clear display button.
The pre-scan screen is intended for setting up the real time display preferences and checking signal levels
and trigger inputs.
5.5.1 Level Display

The real-time level display shows bar graphs for each channel indicating the received signal level. The
lower and upper boundary (0.1 and 1.0 v, respectively) of the optimal signal strength are indicated by red
horizontal lines. The wavelength or hemoglobin (Hb) state displayed is toggled tieht he Wavelength
button (7).
5.5.2 Real-Time Curve Display

The measured signals for all channels selected in the hardware setup masking screen (see 5.7.1) are
displayed in a scrolling curve plot. The wavelength or hemoglobin (Hb) state displayed is toggled with the
Wavelength button (7).
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5.5.3 Display Type

Use this drop down menu to select one of the following option:
Wavelength raw [mV]

Displays raw detector readings for each wavelength in units of mV. No low-pass filtering or normalization
is applied.
Wavelength filtered [mV]

Displays the low-pass filtered detector readings for each wavelength in units of mV. A moving-average
low-pass filter is applied, whose cutoff frequency can be set by the knob labeled 'LP Filter Freq.' This
feature may be used to remove high-frequency noise and heart beat artifacts from the signal.
Hb filtered [uM]
Displays the estimated changes in oxy- or deoxy-hemoglobin concentration. A moving-average low-pass
filter is applied, whose cutoff frequency can be set by the knob labeled 'LP Filter Freq.' This feature may
be used to remove high-frequenvy noise and heart beat artifacts from the signal.
5.5.4 Low-Pass Filter

The knob is used to set the cutoff frequency for th erunning-average low-pass filter, which is applied to
the displayed data if display type is set to either 'Wavelengths filtered' or 'Hb Filtered.'
NOTE: The filter setting does not affect the saved data.
5.5.5 Curve Stacking

Curve stacking is a feature, by which the user may separate the displayed curves by equal amounts to
improve visualization of features. This is of advantage in particular for displaying the nomalized Hb data,
for which the superposition of the unstacked curves makes discriminating signal features difficult. By
checking 'Stack Curves' the feature is enabled.
The 'Stacking Factor' determines the amount by which the curves are separated.
NOTE: For the wavelength display, selecting 'Stack Curves' results in plots that are normalized to the
baseline.
5.5.6 Wavelength / Clear Display

The button labeled 'WAVELENGTH' selects the display wavelength or Hb state for the level and the curves
display in the pre-scan screen.
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5.5.7 Trigger Indicators

These correspond, from left to right, to the for trigger input channels of the instrument. When a falling
edge is received on a trigger input, the corresponding indicator lights up.
5.6 Scan Screen
Fig. 11: The NIRStar user interface Scan Screen. (1), (2) Real-time curve plots for Wavelength 1 and 2 / oxy- and
deoxy-hemoglobin. Amplitudes are in Volts or μmol/L. (3) Trigger events display. (4) Display time range (x axis)
control.
The scan screen is intended as main display during an experiment and dedicates much of the screen space
to displaying data at both wavelengths/Hb states and trigger events. The data are plotted for all channels
that are selected in the masking feature of the Hardware Configuration menu (see 5.7.1). All plot features
selected in the pre-scan screen (filtering, wavelength/Hb, curve stacking, etc.) will be applied to the scan
screen.
Trigger events are indicated by vertical markers that are plotted between and synchronously with the
optical readings.
The x-axis range of the display can be changed ion the Display Time Range control.
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5.7 Menu
5.7.1 Configure Hardware

2
Measurement Setup
Allows the basic setup of the measurement for a given
instrument configuration. The number of (1) detectors
and (2) sources to be used in the measurement can be
changed. With the 'All' buttons, the respective
maximum number of channels is set.
The maximum values are limited to the capacity of the
imager, e.g., if one 8-channel LED driver and four
detector channels are present, the maximum values
allowed are 8 Sources and 16 detectors.
The screen also allows the setup of specific illumination
patterns (see below).
Fig. 12: Measurement Setup panel.
Channel Masking
Allows selection of specific source-detector-
combinations (i.e., measurement channels) for display
in the Setup Display and the curve plots. Rows
represent source channels, and columns represent
detector channels. Selected channels are marked by a
filled square, and will appear in plots. Unchecked
(white) boxes mark those channels which are excluded
from plots.
The masking pattern is automatically saved and
retrieved when entering hardware configuration.
The boxes marked with red, right pointing arrows are
used to toggle complete rows (i.e. all detectors for a
specific source). The boxes marked with green,
downward pointing arrows are used to select/un-select
complete columns (i.e. all sources for a specific
detector).
The masking options allow to mask or clear all
channels, and to load configuration files containing pre-
Fig. 13: Channel Masking panel. Top: All channels
selected. Bottom: Detector 2, all sources selected.
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defined masking pattern. The 'Auto' function masks out all channels that have a signal level below the
specified value in Volts (default 0 0.1 V).
Hardware Configuration
The hardware Configuration panel defines the basic
hardware capability of the instrument. Update of these
parameters is usually needed only for the initial
installation of the instrument, and in case of hardware
changes (e.g., upgrades).
'Available detector cards' should be set to the number
of detector channel cards physically present in the
instrument. This number multiplied by the number of
channels per card (i.e., 4) equals the maximum number
of detection channels available.
'Available Sources' may be set to '8' or '16' depending
Fig. 14: Hardware Configuration Panel.
on the type of LED driver installed.
WARNING! It is important that the 'Available Number of Sources' value reflect the
configuration of the LED driver, even if fewer sources than available are to be used.
Wrong setup will lead to data loss!
'Trigger inputs available' should be checked if your system is configured with trigger input channels. If
those are not present, this option MUST be unchecked!
Advanced Setup
Advanced Setup allows changing basic instrument parameters affecting
timing, LED modulation, etc.
These should only be changed by developers and professional staff and are
password-protected to prevent users from inadvertently changing parameters.
WARNING! Inappropriate settings in the Advanced Setup may severely interfere with data
quality or may cause damage to the instrument!
4
Illumination Patterns
Measurement setup allows the specification of custom
scanning patterns, including simultaneous illumination
at multiple sites for increasing scan rates.
Fig. 14a shows the default illumination pattern for a 16
source measurement. Each LED will be illuminated
sequentially, resulting in 16 illumination cycles, at a
scan rate of about 3.5 Hz. The number of acquired
channels in this example is 16 x16 = 256.
This setting can always be achieved by clicking the
'Standard' button.
Fig. 14b shows a scan sequence in which always two
LEDs are switched on at the same time, i.e., 1+9, 2+10,
3+11, and so on. This is permissible if the LEDs that are
on during the same scan cycle are sufficiently separated
to avoid optical cross talk, i.e. no detector is within
measuring distance (typically, closer than 4-5 cm) of
both LEDs. This situation can be achieved through
careful experimental planning, e.g., in bilateral head
measurements, where half the sources illuminate each
hemisphere.
The shown pattern can be achieved by clicking
'Bilateral.' The sampling rate for 8 illumination cycles is
6.25Hz. The number of acquired channels in this
example is 2 x 8 x 8 = 128.
Custom scan patterns can be achieved by choosing the
number of desired cycles and editing the LED sequence
in the matrix. The scan frequency is given as:
fscan = 62.5 Hz / (no. of cycles + 2)
and the number of measured channels is given by:
Nch = No. of cycles x No. of detectors
Fig. 15: Examples of different illumination The example in Fig 15b shows a case of 4 scan cycles,
scenarios. (a) Standard pattern for 16 sources. (b) for which 4 LEDs are turned on simultaneously
Bilateral pattern for bilateral 8-source illumination.
(fscan = 10.4 Hz, 64 measurement channels).
(c) Custom setup example.
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5.7.2 Diagnostics
The diagnostics window is used to test the dark noise
performance of each detector, at each gain setting for both
2 wavelengths. Before running the dark noise test by clicking
(1) make sure to have the detector inputs well shielded from
3
ambient light. The bar graph (2) displays the noise or offset
level for each detector. The y-axis is in units of mV. select the
4 gain with slider (3) to observe the noise values, which are
5 the root-mean-square (RMS) values of a sequence of
detector readings. The noise should stay well below 0.1 mV
1
for Gains 0-5. For Gain 6, the noise level will be around
0.5 mV, and for Gain 7 about 5 mV noise is to be expected.
Fig. 16: System Diagnostics screen (dark Button (4) toggles from noise to DC offset display, and
noise measurement). button (5) toggles between the wavelengths.
5.7.3 Options
The option window allows selection of a root directory, under which

all data files will be saved.
Also, a prefix for data file names can be specified.
Fig. 17: Options screen.
5.7.4 About
Information about the software and copyright notices revision can be obtained
through menu item 'About'.
Fig. 18: About dialog.
4
6 Data File Formats
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7 Quick Start Guide
7.1 Turning on the System

1. Make sure all system components are connected to mains power and that the
host PC is turned on. The imager may already be connected to the PC through
USB.
2. Turn on the NIRScout imager using the power switch on the rear panel next to the
power inlet. The Power LED in on the USB controller must light up.
3. Connect the imager to the PC USB port and make sure that a valid USB link
between both devices is established as indicated by continuous blinking of the
green Status LED on the USB controller front panel.
4. Launch NIRStar by either double-clicking on a link on the Windows™ Desktop or
by calling the software from the Windows™ Start menu.
5. Start NIRStar by clicking the arrow in the software's toolbar. Successful system
setup is indicated by the 'Ready' prompt in the status window.
7.2 System Configuration

Make sure the system's configuration (especially, numbers of sources, detectors, and
trigger channels used) match the requirement of the planned measurement. If necessary,
adjust the hardware configuration as explained in Chapter XXX.
7.3 Probe Setup

The optodes to be used for the measurement should be placed on the target, as
described in the optodes' user manual.
7.4 Initializing a Measurement

Use the 'CALIBRATE' function to determine the gain setup for the measurement. This
process will take several seconds. The progress of the calibration procedure will be
apparent by the changing gain display, indicating the system's testing of different gain
values. After finishing the setup, the gain map will provide several measures of the
achieved signal quality as discussed in detail in Chapter XXX.
7.5 Pre Scan

If desired, the real-time display may be optimized in the Pre Scan screen, as described in
Chapter XXX. This does not affect the measured data and is entirely optional.
A test scan for visual inspection without saving of the acquired data may be initiated
through the 'START' button. Data can be viewed in either the Pre Scan or Scan screen. A
second push of the button will stop the acquisition.
4
7.6 Perform Scan (Measurement)
The measurement is initiated by pressing the 'RECORD' button. Adjust viewing options in
Pre Scan screen and view data in Pre Scan or Scan sreen as desired.
Use 'STOP' button to finish data recording.
7.7 Shut Down System

1. Exit software through 'EXIT' button and close window if desired.
2. Turn off imager using main switch on rear panel.
3. Disconnect USB link if desired
4. Shut down PC if desired.
25
8 Error Messages and Trouble Shooting

Table 1: Error messages and trouble shooting
Error / Warning / Proble m Pote ntial Caus e Recom m ende d Action

Pow er LED does not light up No pow er to instrument Check if pow er sw itch is turned on
Check if AC line is properly connected.
Check fuses and replace if necessary
Status LED does is off or on No data connection to PC Reconnect USB cable
continuously Try different cable or different port
Make sure softw are and drivers are installed
Softw are error message: 'Device may No data connection to PC Make sure USB connection is established
not be connected' (Status LED blinking)
Large number or all channels go to Low or no signal in all channels Check connection of LED POD
highest gain setting Check if LEDs are blinking during scanning
Check connection of the fiber optic bundles
Check proper placement of probes on subject's
head
Check for damage on LED illuminator or fiber
optic cable
All detectors show maximum gain for Low signal f rom the source Check optical coupling of the aff ected source
the same source to the skin, if needed part hair, apply coupling
gel, apply gentle pressure through outer cap or
bandage
No or low reading for one source, at Damage to LED driver or LED Restart instrument, and w ithout performing
one w avelength optode performing calibration start scan and point
affected LED directly into a detection fiber tip or
detector channel port. If OK there should be a
stable reading for both w avelength plots in the
scan screen (display set to raw data )
All sources show maximum gain for the Low signal f rom the detector Check optical coupling of the aff ected detector
same detector channel to the skin, if needed part hair, apply coupling
gel, apply gentle pressure through outer cap or
bandage
Check connection of affected fiber optic cable
to the instrument
Data overly noisy Ambient light interference Make sure head is w ell shielded and/or not
directly illuminated by ambient light, in particular
fluorescent tubes.
4
9 Accessories, Replacement Parts, and Disposables

All Accessories and replacement parts are to be obtained only through NIRx directly, or from authorized
sales partners. Disposables may only be used if obtained from NIRx or authorized dealers, or with the
expressed approval by NIRx.
9.1 Fiber optic probes and Led illuminators

A wide range of fiber optic probes and LED illuminators is available for the NIRScout Series to suit the
divers range of intended user applications. To provide up-to-date information about available products,
please inquire with NIRx or one of its authorized vendors.
9.2 Probe holders / Head Gear

A wide range of head caps and probe holders is available for the NIRScout Series to suit the divers range
of intended user applications. To provide up-to-date information about available products, please inquire
with NIRx or one of its authorized vendors.
9.3 Cables
For the data connection, a generic cable of suitable length conforming to USB 2.0 gudelines may be used.
For power mains connection, a generic power cord may be used that adheres to the following: Three-wire
cabel with neutral, live phase, and protective earth wires of sufficient cross-section (1mm2 minimum for
each wire), IEC C13 type connector for instrument connection, and applicable approvals or certification
(e.g., EU: VDE, TÜV, GS,... US: CSA, UL, … etc.).
Connection to trigger input may be established with generic coaxial cables (BNC RU58, or similar).
9.4 Disposables
Third-party disposables such as spatulas (for parting hair), contact gel, etc. may be used as long as the
applicable directives for medical safety (biocompatibility, etc.) are complied with. To assure
uncompromised data quality, we strongly advise use of disposables recommended by NIRx.
27
9.5 List of Approved Accessories

Table 2: List of approved accessories
# Part No. Nam e De s cription

1 FOB-XX Fiber optic bundle Fiber optic cable for detection or illumination,
various lengths, diameters, and tip designs
2 NLP-8-XX LED POD LED illuminator (8 channels, 2 w avelengths)
various lengths and tip designs
3 L2F-8-XX LED-to-fiber coupler Couples LED light into illumination fiber bundles (8 channels, 2
w avelengths)
P2B-8-XX Parallel-to-BNC adapter Adapter box to connect parallel (25-pin) to BNC trigger input
connectors
P2IDC-10-XX Parallel-to10-pin Adapter cable to connect parallel-cable (25-pin) to 10-pin IDC trigger
input
4 NMA-XX Mechanical arm Articulated arm for support of fiberoptics and LED cables
5 NBP-XX Base plate Mounting plate to stabilize NIRScout and to provice mounting point for
mechanical arm
4
10 NIRScout Technical Specifications
Optical Detection
No. of Channels.......................................................4-24 (Parallel Digital Demodulation)
Sensitivity................................................................< 1pW NEP
Dynamic Range........................................................>90dBopt
Sensor Type.............................................................Si Photodiode
Optical Illumination
No. of Illumination Sources.....................................8/16 (Time-Multiplexed)
Wavelengths............................................................760 nm, 850 nm (Frequency-Encoded)
Power......................................................................5 mW / Wavelength
Multiplexing Rate....................................................62.5 Hz / (No. of Sources +2)
Emitter Type............................................................LED
Communication
Host.........................................................................USB 2.0
Experiment..............................................................TTL/CMOS (1-4 Trigger In, falling edge)
Electrical
Supply Voltage.........................................................90-250 VAC (50-60Hz)
Power consumption.................................................175 W max.
Phases.....................................................................1
Physical
Size (W × L × H)........................................................257 mm (42HP) × 326 mm × 165 mm (3U)
Weight.....................................................................5 kg
Environmental
Temperature range..................................................10°C to 40°C (operating)
-15°C to +70°C (storage and transport)
Humidity....................................................................20 to 80% relative humidity non-condensing
Ambient pressure.......................................................700 hPa to 1060 hPa
Classification
Degree of electric shock protection.........................Class I
Type of electric shock protection.............................Type BF
Degree of liquid ingress protection.........................IPX 0 (not protected)
29
Mode of operation..................................................Continuous
Optical Safety
The device uses low-power NIR LED illumination and falls under Laser Class I (eye safe).
Methods of sterilization or disinfection

Applied parts (fiber optic probe tips) can be disinfected with diluted isopropyl ('rubbing') alcohol 70%.
Fiber optics are NOT suitable for autoclaving. Fiber optics /LED probes and fabric caps are suitable for
cold-gas sterilization. Please see also section “Cleaning, sterilization, and disinfection” on p.5.
Degree of safety in the presence of flammable anesthetics

The equipment is not suitable for use in the presence of a flammable anesthetic mixture with air or with
oxygen or nitrous oxide.
Declaration of Electromagnetic Emissions/Immunity

Medical electrical equipment needs special precautions regarding electromagnetic compatibility (EMC).
The NIRScout equipment needs to be installed and put into service according to the EMC information
provided below.
Mobile and portable RF communications devices can affect the equipment.
Accessories and cables compliant with the EMC test results

– Unshielded power cord, 250VAC, 6A, 5 m length max.
– NIRx LED illumination probe Type NLP-8
– USB 2.0 Optical Line Isolator Type 2244
WARNING! Accessories and cables other than those specified, with the exception of parts
sold by NIRx as replacement parts for internal components, may result in increased
emissions or decreased immunity of the NIRScout instrument.
WARNING! The NIRScout should not be used adjacent to or stacked with other
equipment. If adjacent or stacked use is necessary, the instrument should be observed to
verify normal operation in the configuration in which it will be used.
4
Guidance and manufacturer’s declaration – electromagnetic emissions
The NIRx DYNOT-232 is intended for use in the electromagnetic environment specified below. The
customer or the user of the NIRx DYNOT-232 should assure that is used in such an environment.
Emissions test Compliance Electromagnetic environment - guidance
RF emissions Group 1 The NIRx DYNOT-232 uses RF energy only for its internal
function. Therefore, RF emissions are very low and are not
CISPR 11 likely to cause any interference in nearby electronic
equipment.
RF emissions
Class A
CISPR 11
Harmonic emissions The NIRx DYNOT-232 is suitable for use in all

Class A establishments other than domestic and those directly
IEC 61000-3-2 connected to the public low-voltage power supply network
that supplies buildings used for domestic purposes
Voltage fluctuations/
flicker emissions
Complies
IEC 61000-3-3
31
Guidance and manufacturer’s declaration – electromagnetic immunity
IEC 60601 Electromagnetic environment -

Immunity test Compliance level
test level guidance
Electrostatic Floor should be wood, concrete, or

±6 kV contact
discharge (ESD) ceramic tile. If floors are covered with
Complies
synthetic material, the relative humidity
±8 kV air
IEC 61000-4-2 should be at least 30%.
±2 kV for power
Electrical fast
supply lines Mains power quality should be that of a
transient/burst
Complies typical commercial or hospital
±1 kV for environment.
IEC 61000-4-4
input/output lines
±1 kV differential
Surge mode Mains power quality should be that of a
Complies typical commercial or hospital
IEC 61000-4-5 ±2 kV common environment.
mode
<5% UT
(>95% dip in UT)
for 0.5 cycle
Mains power quality should be that of a
Voltage dips, short 40% UT
typical commercial or hospital
interruptions, and (60% dip in UT)
environment. If the user of the NIRx
voltage variations for 5 cycles
DYNOT-232 requires continued operation
on power supply Complies
during power mains interruption, it is
input lines 70% UT
recommended that the equipment be
(30% dip in UT)
powered from an uninterruptible power
IEC 61000-4-11 for 25 cycles
supply or battery.
<5% UT
(>95% dip in UT)
for 5 sec
Power frequency
Power frequency magnetic fields should
(50/60 Hz) magnetic
be at levels characteristic of a typical
field 3 A/m Complies
location in a typical commercial or
hospital environment.
IEC 61000-4-8
NOTE: UT is the a.c. mains voltage prior to application of the test level.
4
Guidance and manufacturer’s declaration – electromagnetic immunity
IEC 60601 Compliance

Immunity test Electromagnetic environment - guidance
test level level
Portable and mobile RF commutations
equipment should be used no closer to any
part of the NIRx DYNOT-232, including cables,
than the recommended separation distance
calculated from the equation applicable to the
frequency of the transmitter.
Recommended separation distance
Conducted RF 3 Vrms
IEC 61000-4-5 150 kHz to 80 MHz
3 Vrms d = 1.17 P
d = 1.17 P 80 MHz to 800 MHz

Radiated RF 3 V/m
3 V/m
IEC 61000-4-3 80 MHz to 2.5 GHz
d = 2.33 P 800 MHz to 2.5 GHz
where P is the maximum output power rating of

the transmitter in watts (W) according to the
transmitter manufacturer and d is the
recommended separation distance in meters
(m).
Field strengths from fixed RF transmitters, as

determined by an electromagnetic site survey,a
should be less than the compliance level in
each frequency range.b
Interference may occur in the vicinity of

equipment marked with the following symbol:
NOTE 1: At 8 MHz and 800 MHz, the higher frequency range applies.
NOTE 2: These guidelines may not apply in all situations. Electromagnetic propagation is affected by
absorption and reflection from structures, objects, and people.
a
Field strengths from fixed transmitters, such as base stations for radio (cellular, cordless) telephones and
land mobile radios, amateur radio, AM and FM broadcast and TV broadcast cannot be predicted theoretically
with accuracy. To assess the electromagnetic environment due to fixed RF transmitters, an electromagnetic
site survey should be considered. If the measured field strength in the location in which the equipment is
used exceeds the applicable RF compliance level above, the equipment should be observed to verify normal
operation. If abnormal performance is observed, additional measures may be necessary, such as
reorienting the equipment.
b
Over the frequency range 150 kHz to 80 MHz field strengths should be less than 3 V/m
33
Recommended separation distances between portable and mobile

RF communications equipment and the NIRx DYNOT-232 instrument
The NIRx DYNOT-232 is intended for use in an electromagnetic environment in which radiated RF
disturbances are controller. The customer or the user of the NIRx DYNOT-232 can help prevent
electromagnetic interference by maintaining a minimum distance between portable and mobile RF
communications equipment (transmitters) and the NIRx DYNOT-232 as recommended below, according to
the maximum output power of the communications equipment.
Separation distance according to frequency of transmitter

m
Rated maximum output
power of transmitter 150 kHz to 80 MHz 80 MHz to 800 MHz 800 MHz to 2.5 GHz
W d = 1.17 P d = 1.17 P d = 2.33 P
0.01 0.12 0.12 0.23

0.1 0.37 0.37 0.74
1 1.17 1.17 2.33
10 3.70 3.70 7.37
100 11.70 11.70 23.30
For transmitters rated at a maximum output power not listed above, the recommended separation distance d
in meters (m) can be estimated by using the equation applicable to the frequency of the transmitter, where P
is the maximum output power rating of the transmitter in watts (W) according to the transmitter manufacturer.
NOTE 1: At 80 MHz and 800 MHz, the separation distance for the higher frequency range applies.
NOTE 2: These guidelines may not apply in all situations. Electromagnetic propagation is affected by
absorption and reflection from structures, objects, and people.

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NIRScout 816 Users’ Guide

NIRx Medizintechnik GmbH

NIRx Document NSC-816, Rev 1. 4, Mar 2010

Attention, consult accompanying documents.

Warning, high voltage.

Protective earth (ground).

Do not dispose off in household garbage.

Mains disconnect OFF.

Mains disconnect ON.

1.1 Electrical Safety

Properly ground the instrument

Do not operate without covers and panels installed

WARNING! Modification of the equipment is not permitted.

2 Handling and Maintenance

2.1 Transport and Storage

2.2 Safe Performance

2.3 Cleaning, sterilization, and disinfection

2.4 Routine Maintenance

2.5 Waste Products and Disposal

2.6 Operating Environment

The equipment should be operated at a temperature of -10°C to +40°C and at a relative

2.7 Use of Device

LED gains DO USB 2.0

4.1 Main Frame

4.2 USB Controller Card

4.3 LED Driver Card

4.4 Detector Card

4.5 Digital I/O Trigger Card

4.6 Optical Probes

4.6.1 Connecting the Fiber Optics to the Imager

4.6.2 Connecting the LED Emitters to the Imager

4.7 Optodes and Head Gear

4.8 System Setup

5.1 Start and Stop Software

5.2 Screen Selector

5.3 Control Panel

CALIBRATE: Prior to each measurement, a calibration procedure must be performed

The EXIT button exits the application.

5.4 Setup Screen

5.4.1 Setup Display

5.4.2 Status History and Notes Editor

5.5 Pre-Scan Screen

5.5.1 Level Display

5.5.2 Real-Time Curve Display

5.5.3 Display Type

Wavelength raw [mV]

Wavelength filtered [mV]

5.5.4 Low-Pass Filter

5.5.5 Curve Stacking

5.5.6 Wavelength / Clear Display

5.5.7 Trigger Indicators

5.6 Scan Screen

5.7.1 Configure Hardware

The option window allows selection of a root directory, under which

Fig. 17: Options screen.

Fig. 18: About dialog.

6 Data File Formats

7 Quick Start Guide

7.1 Turning on the System

7.2 System Configuration

7.3 Probe Setup

7.4 Initializing a Measurement