A Microprocessor-Based Instrument for Neural Pulse Wave Analysis

A neural pulse waveform analyzer, which uses an Intel 8080A Microprocessor to help separate pulse data received from sensory organ nerves, has been developed. The analyzer sorts data pulses according to their rise amplitudes, rise times, fall amplitudes, and fall times, all of which are measured relative to the maxima and minima points of the input waveform. The display is in the form of four histograms on an oscilloscope operated in the X-Y-Z mode. Each histogram shows the distribution of each parameter measured. With the aid of movable cursors (two on each histogram), discrimination windows may be set about peaks of interest to locate and isolate the four related parameters of a single pulse type. Simultaneous discrimination with respect to all four parameters can be accomplished using this apparatus in conjunction with a suitable nerve pulse discriminator.