493 results about "Buffer amplifier" patented technology

A reliable, safe, accurate, low noise, inexpensive, portable amplifier circuit is adapted to accurately amplify both AC and DC neural response signals. A patient or subject is electrically connected to a multi-channel system for electrically measuring the patient's AC and DC neural response signals at a plurality of locations using electrodes connected through a multi-electrode cable. The neural response signals are input to a digital DC amplifier to filter, amplify and digitize the neural response signals. Digitized neural response signals are converted to optical signals and transmitted via a fiber optic cable to an interface that is preferably connected to a patient stimulus generator (e.g., a Ganzfeld stimulator or pattern stimulator for multi-focal ERG). The system also includes a stand-alone computer such as an IBM® compatible Personal Computer (PC) for two-way communication with the interface via a standard data interface cable (e.g., a USB cable). In the preferred embodiment, a digital DC amplifier is worn by the patient and receives each neural response signal at a two-conductor balanced input; a surge suppression circuit limits excessive voltage transients at the input. The neural response signal is next input to a balanced buffer amplifier stage for impedance matching and the buffered neural response signal is then input to a balanced, adjustable pre-amplifier stage having an adjustable gain which can be varied (e.g., from ×1 to ×64). The buffered, amplified neural response signal is then digitized for storage in a memory and transmission to a fiber-optic digital transmission circuit. An adjustable impedance element generates a DC offset compensation signal used to control a D.C. offset compensation amplifier to generate an offset control signal for input to gain-adjustable pre-amplifier stage, to maximize sensitivity and usable dynamic range.