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Hardware & AnalogAdvanced

Active-electrode front-end prototype

Design an open active-electrode (buffer at the electrode) board that plugs into an existing open-source EEG front end, and compare it with passive electrodes.

Analog designKiCadLow-noise layout

Possible Outcome

Open KiCad files, BOM and a comparison write-up.

You own what you build. Publish it under your own GitHub account with your name and chosen open-source licence.

Why It Matters for Open Neurotech

Active buffering directly at the scalp sensor reduces cable motion artifacts and capacitive mains pickup, especially for dry or high-impedance electrodes.

Starting Points & Technical Notes

These are open-ended suggestions, not specifications or assigned tasks. Change the scope, combine ideas, or take a completely different approach:

  • Select an ultra-low-input-bias-current, low-1/f-noise op-amp suitable for unit-gain buffering on a coin-sized PCB.
  • Include ESD protection and current-limiting series resistance at the electrode input for participant safety.
  • Compare 50/60 Hz pickup and cable-shake artifacts side-by-side against a passive lead of the same length.

Independent Open-Source Work

PiEEG Ltd does not take on volunteers, interns or unpaid workers. Any project you start is your own independent activity under your own repository and responsibility. Read the full ground rules →

Safety First

PiEEG devices are not medical devices. Use battery power only when electrodes are on a person, and never connect to mains power during recording. Liability & safety →