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Customer Support News

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New Products

Multiprocessors

SykofizX

Microwire

OpenExplorer

Tech Talk

Tips and Tricks - When is it safe to multi-task? Are windows service packs safe?

FAQs - Where did my tank go? Get answers to this and other questions from the TDT tech guru.

Hardware News - Find out about design improvements to the RA16PA, EC1, and more.

Anomalies and Tech Note Updates

News Flash

We're hiring! - Find out about Careers at TDT.

Customer Support News

At TDT we want to ensure that you have the best support and help tools available. In addition to our excellent support staff we provide Web-based and product-based documentation that is available 24-hours a day. New information and updated documentation are frequently available through the Support and Download areas of our Website so be sure to check the Website periodically.

Look for these improvements currently available through the TDT Website.

Searchable Tech Notes
We’ve recently migrated the online System 3 Tech Notes into a new flash based format. The new Tech Notes format includes a search feature as well as a table of contents where you can browse topics by product.

Improved System 3 Online Help
The TDT and RPx online help systems have now been merged into a single System 3 online help system. This improves searchability and allows you to look for all System 3 help in one location. This version no longer includes System II help, however, System II help is available in a stand-alone help file that can be downloaded from the System II Manuals download page.

Expanded OpenEx User Guide Available
A new version of the OpenEx help file is available on the System 3 Manuals download page of the TDT Website. The new version includes an expanded tutorial for new users, two new examples, and documentation for eight standard projects. The OpenBrowser reference has also been updated. This version has not yet been bundled with the software but you can download it and copy it over your existing version.

Other New Downloads
New TDT Drivers (04/30/2004) are available on the TDT Software Updates page and downloads of help files for OpenDevloper and SykofizX have recently been added to the System 3 Manuals and Help Files download page.

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New Products

Multiprocessors - These new high performance processors can supercharge your system.

In the fourth quarter of 2003 TDT introduced the RX5 Pentusa, the first multiprocessor device in a new family of high performance real-time devices. This new generation of processors enhances the System 3 product line, offering more processing power and faster throughput at an affordable price. The Pentusa serves as a base station for our Medusa preamplifiers and is designed to process high channel count neurophysiology data in real-time. It links together multiple DSPs into a single integrated hardware device and streamlines hardware connection and software control of high channel-count input. With simultaneous access to up to four preamplifiers, a single Pentusa device can program and control up to 64 data acquisition channels.

This summer we will begin shipping the RX6 Piranha, our second high performance processor for the System 3 platform. The Piranha’s design combines high performance DACs and ADCs with the new multiprocessor architecture to support complex research, multimodal, and experimental paradigms on a single, high bandwidth device. With the Piranha you’ll be able to combine binaural stimulation (120 kHz bandwidth) with multi-channel acquisition of physiological responses (with optional Medusa fiber optic ports), run mice ABRs or DPOAEs on a single device, or explore 3-D sound with complex real-time audio presentation, multiple sound sources, HRTF filters, and many tap FIRs.

Cutting Edge DSP
Both Multiprocessor devices incorporate the newest and fastest member of the Analog Devices Sharc family of digital signal processors. Faster clock and processing speeds combine to increase the processing speed between two and four times over the standard Sharc chip.

The multiprocessors put up to five of these ultra-fast DSPs at your command, creating a real-time processor with more speed and power than ever before. This means that for typical processing chains, multi-processor users will normally see a 10x-20x overall improvement in processing. The new DSPs also have enhanced memory allowing more program memory, and consequently better programming efficiency.

Enhanced RPvds Capabilities
Even greater gains in performance are possible using a new series of specialized multi-channel components in the RPvds graphical language. Running exclusively on our high performance processors, these multi-channel components are much more efficient than standard components. The new multi-channel capabilities decrease the total number of RPvds components necessary to accomplish a given multi-channel processing task.

Higher Throughput
The new distributed architecture boosts transfer rates between the multiprocessor hardware and the PC by up to four times that of our classic processor systems. This is accomplished by singling out one of the multiple DSPs as the principal processor for data I/O. Commands and data are transferred back and forth between master RX5 DSP and the PC at up to 24 Mbit aggregate transfer rates. This minimizes the bottleneck for both 1) controlling the hardware and viewing the results and 2) for applications with continuous data streaming back to the PC.

Application Software
As part of the System 3 platform, the multiprocessors are supported by a variety of TDT software including OpenEx.

Multiprocessor Features:

• 3.6 GIPs Peak Performance
• Cutting-edge DSPs
• Powerful multi-processor architecture
• Support for multiple Medusa PreAmps
• 24 MegaBit Data Transfer Rate
• Link multiple base stations for even more power
• System 3 & RPvds Compatible

Find out more about the Pentusa on our Website.

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New software for psychophysical experiments - Our new software gives Psychoacousticians more choices.

This software supports both System 3 and System II! Check out this comparison of PsychRP and SykofizX.
TDT’s Guide to Psychoacoustic Software:

Microwire Arrays - Need customized electrode arrays and reliable performance? You can get both when you get your arrays from TDT. Get ordering information on the TDT Website.

Coming Soon - OpenEx users be on the look out for a new release of OpenDeveloper and the official release of OpenExplorer, a new data mining tool for OpenEx users.

OpenExplorer - Order Now!

OpenExplorer is a powerful data mining tool for the OpenEx software suite. Flexible plotting features allow you to explore the relationships between recorded data, stimulus parameters, and other defined events. With OpenExplorer you can quickly sort through complex data sets and display these relationships dynamically.

A graphical interface makes it easy to select the data and plot type for each cell. By tapping into the powerful data sorting capabilities provided by the OpenEx TTank data server, OpenExplorer can plot data using any stored parameter. Simply drag parameters to the control area to select the X and Y axis. You can also drag parameters to implement data filters or create custom filters in an easy to use spreadsheet format.

After your plots are configured, OpenExplorer allows you to view data snap shots of activity or animate an array of data across time. With OpenExplorer you’ll be able to explore a single data set using virtually any combination of stimulus, behavioral, or environmental data.

With OpenExplorer you can:

• Display neural activity as a function of electrode array geometry, stimulus parameters, or external events
• Animate playback of data for dynamic visualization of neural activity
• Drag-and-drop selection of variables for X and Y axis
• View data in customizable plots, including activity, histogram, and feature plots
• Sort data on the fly

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Tech Talk

Tips and Tricks

This article includes some tips and tricks for dealing with common issues or anomalies. Two of the tips provided here deal with issues related to installing Microsoft Windows service packs. Users should be aware that service packs can sometime create problems with the TDT Drivers. Because service packs can't always be uninstalled, it is a good idea to review the TDT Tech Notes before installing any service packs. You’ll find more helpful news, anomalies, and tips in the Tech Notes section of our Website.

System II and Windows XP Service Pack 1
Users can not use the System II hardware with the Windows XP service pack 1 security patches. Do not install Windows XP along with System II hardware if you cannot disable the security patches. System II hardware functions on all versions of Windows prior to XP. If you have any questions about operating system compatibility please call TDT.

TDT Drivers and Windows 2000 SP4
Installing TDT drivers (with the Gigabit as the default option) on a PC running Windows 2000 SP4 causes the PC to crash on start-up. Immediately after installing the drivers the PC is unable to boot properly. Avoid this service pack and upgrade to Windows XP, if possible.

Running Multiple TDT Applications
TDT System 3 hardware can only communicate with one application at a time. Addressing the hardware from multiple applications can generate data errors as well as potential hardware crashes. Programs such as BioSig and SigGen, which could be run at the same time with System II hardware, can cause communication problems when run at the same time with System 3 hardware. OpenEx applications avoid this issue by having a single application acting as server to client applications that control the hardware.

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FAQs

This article includes just a sample of the information you’ll find in the Frequently Asked Questions section of our Website. Please see the Support page on the TDT Website for links to more FAQs on installation issues, OpenEx, RPvds, ActiveX, SigGenRP, and BioSigRP.

Question: When attempting to run a project in OpenProject, the ‘Errors occurred in mode change. Remedy errors and try again.’ message is displayed in OpenWorkBench and it will not record data. Why does this happen and how can I remedy it?
Answer: The most common reason for this message to appear when running a file for the first time is a problem with the path for the RCO file listed on the Devices property sheet. The path listed must exactly match the path to the file on your system. There are several steps involved in resolving this issue. Remember to update the property sheet after each step.

First, correct the path on the Devices property sheet. You can correct the path by typing the path or browsing to the file. When the RCO file is selected, click the Test button to see if the RCO file is loaded on the appropriate device. If the test fails despite selecting the right RCO file, open the zBusMon utility and make sure all modules are visible. Repeat this step for each Device property sheet.

Next, select the tank on the Tank property sheet. The tank may still be listed but the green arrow will not appear to the left of the tank name until it is selected again.

Finally, enter the circuit header on the Stores property sheet. To enter the circuit header, click the arrow to the right of the Circuit Header field and select the header from the drop down list. Repeat this step for each Stores property sheet.

Question: I need to record data into a tank that already exists in my computer, but the tank does not show up in the tank list in OpenWorkbench. How can I access that tank?

Answer: To access a tank in Workbench or in Scope, its associated files (tbk, tsq and tev files) must be stored and registered on the computer. If the files already exist on the computer, but you don’t see the tank in Workbench, right-click the list of tanks in Workbench, select Add Tank, and then navigate to and select the tbk file associated with that tank. This will add the tank in the registry and you will be able to access it in Workbench, Scope, and Browser.

If the tank still does not show up on the list, but gives no error message on being added, then it’s probably registered but isn’t being displayed because the list has exceeded its limit. The list can only display 100 tanks. If you click on a tank in the list and select Remove Tank, then you’ll see the tank that you last added at the very end of the list.

Question: I need to re-program my Pentusa microcode but can not erase it in the RPProg, Device Programmer. How do I proceed?
Answer: The RX5 is updated using the System 3 Device Programmer, similarly to other processors. However, the device's microcode is erased differently. To update the RX5 see the step-by-step instructions available in the Support area of the TDT Website.

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Hardware News - Find out about design improvements to the RA16PA, EC1, and more.

We've recently made several engineering changes to improve the performance of select System 3 hardware modules. If any of the issues listed below affect your system, you may contact April, our customer support advocate, at (386)462-9622 to request further information.

RA16PA, Serial numbers < 6000:
RA16PA and RA4PA generated a 3 kHz noise that masked neural activity.
Update: The preamplifiers have been modified to eliminate the noise.

EC1/ES1, Serial numbers < 3000:
There was a direct electrical pickup of the acoustic signal from the EC1/ES1 by both high and low impedance electrodes.
Update: EC1s and ES1s have been modified to decrease direct electrical pickup by about 6 dB.

RX5, Serial numbers < 2000:
Some RX5 devices display timing and data transfer errors causing bad data to be stored to buffers.
Update: A design change has been implemented to prevent this problem in new devices. If you experience problems with your device, contact TDT for assistance.

FI5, Serial numbers < 5000:
Problems with syncing racks and timing data transfers caused large data transfers and repeated short data transfers to fail. This issue is usually seen as a data loss issue when using OpenEx.

PI5, Serial numbers < 3000:
Update: Modifications have been made to the FI5, PI5, and device microcode to resolve this issue. TDT will contact owners of affected systems to provide upgrade instructions.

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Anomalies and Tech Note Updates

The Tech Notes area of the TDT Website is regularly updated with all new anomaly or hardware modification news. Be sure to check for updated information whenever you are experiencing a problem.

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We're hiring! - Find out about Careers at TDT.

Careers at TDT

Due to continued growth we are actively recruiting for the following positions:

• Biomedical Research and Development Engineer
• Technical Support Professional
• Technical Sales Specialist

To apply e-mail cover letter and CV to info@tdt.com or fax to (386) 462-5365.

TDT offers competitive salary and benefits along with a challenging and rewarding work experience. TDT is a great place to work so give us a call or send someone you know a link to our Website today!

Biomedical Research and Development Engineer

Tucker-Davis Technologies is a leading developer of high performance signal processing workstations for neurophysiology and sensory research. We are currently seeking an R&D Engineer to assist our staff in developing neuroscience instrumentation and software. In this role, the candidate will be working with scientists and engineers in the research and development of advanced neurophysiology laboratory equipment, software and analysis algorithms.

The selected candidate will be specifically responsible for the design, development, prototyping and testing of devices for neurophysiology data acquisition and control. The primary area of specialty is real-time and post-hoc biomedical signal processing applied to bioelectric signals (action potentials, LFP, EEG, EMG, EKG). Other areas of interest include implantable devices, sensory neurophysiology research, and functional testing.

The candidate will apply established and develop novel mathematical and statistical techniques to acquire, process, and analyze neural signals, write technical reports detailing procedures, outcomes, and observations, and provide guidance and support to engineering/manufacturing staff during the application of new processes. He/She will have some combination of experience with digital signal processing, statistics, electrophysiology research, electronics, and software design and development.

This position requires a degree in neuroscience, biomedical, mechanical, or electrical engineering and 2-3 years of experience in the field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Masters degree a plus. The ideal candidate will possess excellent problem solving and computer skills including Windows OS, MS Office, MATLAB, C/C++/VC++ and/or Visual Basic programming. This position has an outstanding potential for creativity and growth.

Technical Support Professional

Use your technical expertise to help our customers understand and use our equipment. . Strong PC skills; excellent math and analytical skills; Matlab, C, Delphi, or VB programming skills; and digital signal processing experience are essential for this pivotal role. In addition to direct customer support responsibilities you’ll be called upon to contribute technical content for product documentation, participate in product testing, and act as a technical resource for our sales staff. The ideal candidate will have an engineering or science degree, at least one year of experience working in a research lab setting, an unending supply of patience, and a healthy sense of humor.

Technical Sales Specialist

The Technical Sales Specialist is a primary contact for existing and prospective customers regarding product information and is responsible for learning and understanding the company’s products, their capabilities and value in order to assist potential and existing customers with technical questions and with configuring equipment quotes for their particular application. Must possess the knowledge and ability to effectively and confidently communicate about and/or demonstrate hardware or software to generate new business and to help solve customer problems.

The primary responsibility of this position is to provide technical assistance to the sales department in order to maximize sales for the company and to reach sales objectives.

A Great Place to Work - A Great Place to Live

About TDT

About Gainesville Area Recreation

Alachua County Facts

TDT products are used in basic and applied research in the neurophysiology, hearing, and speech sciences; which serves to improve and enhance the quality of life for many. Our success in serving these markets has lead to steady long-term growth. As with any successful technology company, TDT continues to invest in new product R&D enabling us to continually update and create new products to meet the needs of our customers, expand into new markets, and continue this pattern of growth. At TDT we believe that each employee contributes directly to TDT's growth and success and we strive to provide a work environment that is conducive to both personal and professional growth.

TDT is located in Alachua, Florida only seven miles from Gainesville and the University of Florida. Our area is known for its beautiful rivers, lakes, and natural springs. TDT's corporate offices are located on the edge of the San Felasco Nature Preserve. Nearby Gainesville provides a wealth of cultural and popular entertainments and Alachua and other surrounding communities offer antique shopping and a thriving local art community. We are also only a few hours from Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa and Daytona Beach.

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