Obsessively, optimizing.
Today, we released Pulse Pal v1.1. This update includes hardware and software improvements to the original Pulse Pal. These updates are freely available on Github.
Here's what we upgraded in version 1.1:
Hardware
- A redesigned 4-layer printed circuit board reduces the output channel noise floor by >50%
- A new 3D printed arm improves lateral support of the oLED screen
- Small improvements to the enclosure design make assembly easier
Firmware
- The thumb joystick menu top can optionally enter a screensaver mode, to preserve the oLED display
Software
- The MATLAB API now uses the low-latency USB serial interface provided by Psychtoolbox 3, when installed.
The upcoming Pulse Pal 2 was redesigned from the ground up with even more capabilities and performance advances, but these improvements come at a cost - we moved beyond the constraint of using only through-hole components. To keep Pulse Pal accessible, Version 1.1 is intended to make a few final improvements to the publication version of Pulse Pal 1, for researchers who have acquired a Leaflabs Maple board and prefer simpler assembly with just a soldering iron, a 4-40 tap and a screwdriver.
