Abstract
A microcomputer-based biofeedback traning system was described. The main components of this system were microcomputer, color cathode ray tube (CRT), analog-digital converter, mini-floppy disk drive, and printer. Various physiological responses could be converted to digital data through analog-digital converter circuit, then processed by microprocessor. This system had a firmware which easily controlled high-resolution color graphic display, so that visual feedback stimuli could be presented in either geometric or numeric form on the CRT. In addition, other information such as training criteria, past performance level etc., could be displayed on the CRT simultaneously. Mini-floppy disk was used for a storage of large quantity of data, and printer for data output. For each application of this system, it was necessary to modify only software or program without any alteration of hardware. It increased the flexibility in controlling biofeedback stimuli. The program was written in both machine language and BASIC language including high-resolution color graphic subroutines. These graphic subroutines could control 280H×192V colored dots one by one. It was possible to configure almost any stimulus form on the CRT. An outline of software logic was given with reference to a practical application to EMG biofeedback training. Critical advantages of this system for biofeedback were discussed.
