On-line data acquisition system using an Apple computer: ISI and PST histograms.

A combined hardware/software system for the study of the temporal distributions of spike data is described. Through extensive use of assembly language subroutines the program is able to simultaneously acquire, analyze and display the incoming data. Production of a "Temporal Memory Map" makes possible the examination of acquired data at a wide variety of different bin widths. Interaction with the user is made extremely simple. Provisions are included for the labelling and printing of the output histograms and for the compact storage of data onto floppy disks. Maximum temporal resolution is 0.1 millisecond and maximum total acquisition width is 12.8 minutes. Hardware requirements beyond the basic computer consist of an external signal conditioning circuit and a slot-independent peripheral card containing two integrated circuits. The system has been successfully used in the analysis of neural and EMG evoked responses and should be widely useable in other applications.