A four-channel IBM PC/AT compatible biphasic pulse generator for nerve stimulation

An IBM PC/AT compatible four-channel biphasic pulse generator developed to assist in functional electrical stimulation (FES) related research is discussed. Each channel uses a bipolar 12-bit digital-to-analog converter to generate biphasic voltage pulses between +/-5 VDC and three 16-bit timers to control first, second, and interphase durations. Two vectored interrupt generators are available for precise pulse timing control. Potential uses of this device include FES research, the characterization of the recruitment properties of percutaneous electrodes in multichannel stimulation systems, and use as a subassembly in commercial medical devices requiring electrical simulation in an IBM PC/AT platform.<
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