POWERLAB®

TEACHING SERIES
Owner’s Guide
This document was, as far as possible, accurate at the time of release. However, changes may have been
made to the software and hardware it describes since then. ADInstruments Pty Ltd reserves the right to
alter specifications as required. Late-breaking information may be supplied separately.

Trademarks of ADInstruments
PowerLab®, LabChart®, LabTutor®, Lt®, LabAuthor® and MacLab® are registered trademarks of
ADInstruments Pty Ltd. The names of specific recording units, such as PowerLab 8/35, are trademarks of
ADInstruments Pty Ltd. LabTutor Server, Chart and Scope (application programs) and LabTutor Online are
trademarks of ADInstruments Pty Ltd.

Other Trademarks
Apple, Mac and Macintosh are registered trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc.
Windows, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10 and Windows Vista are either registered trademarks or
trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Document Number: U-PL26T/OG-D. Date of issue: 08/22

Copyright © ADInstruments Pty Ltd, 2022. All rights reserved. PowerLab, MacLab, LabChart, LabTutor,
Lt and LabAuthor are registered trademarks of ADInstruments Pty Ltd. Chart and Scope (application
programs), LabTutor Server and LabTutor Online are trademarks of ADInstruments Pty Ltd. The names
of specific recording units, such as PowerLab 16/35, are trademarks of ADInstruments Pty Ltd. Windows
8, Windows 7, Windows 10, Windows Vista and .NET Framework are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
Apple, the Apple logo, MacOS, and Macintosh are trademarks of Apple Computer Inc. registered in the U.S.
and other countries. Acrobat and Adobe are registered trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated. Igor
is a trademark of Wavemetrics Inc. MATLAB is a registered trademark of The MathWorks Inc. Grass is a
trademark of Astro-Med Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Web: www.adinstruments.com
Manufactured in Australia by: ADInstruments (Sydney) Pty. Ltd., 13/22 Lexington Drive
Bella Vista 2153 New South Wales
Technical Support: support.au@adinstruments.com
Documentation: documentation@adinstruments.com

ADInstruments Pty Ltd. ISO 9001:2015 Certified Quality Management System

Reg. No. 1053

ii PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 Contents
1 Safety Notes 1
Statement of Intended Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Safety and Quality Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
General Safety Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Bio Amp Safety Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Isolated Stimulator Safety Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Cleaning and Sterilization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Inspection and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Transport and Storage Conditions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Operating Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

2 Overview 7
How to Use This Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Software Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
PowerLab Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
The PowerLab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
The Front Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Analog Output. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Analog Inputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Isolated Stimulator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
The Bio Amp Inputs (Inputs 3 and 4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
The Rear Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Audio Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
I2C Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
USB Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Digital Input and Output Connectors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Power Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Checking and replacing fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
The Bio Amp Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Supplied Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Other ADInstruments Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

iii PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 3 Setting Up 19
The PowerLab Self-test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Connecting the PowerLab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
ADInstruments Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Lt Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
LabChart Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
The Isolated Stimulator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Choosing How Stimulation Should Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
The Bio Amp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Signal Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Setting the Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Filtering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

4 Technical Aspects and Specifications 28

How it Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
The Analog Inputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
The Analog Outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
The External Trigger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Bio Amp Input (Inputs 3 & 4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
The Isolated Stimulator Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
PowerLab Accuracy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Connectors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Digital Input and Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
I2C Expansion Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Input Connectors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
USB Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Earthing and Ground Loop Noise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Electromagnetic Compatibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

5 Troubleshooting 46
Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
PowerLab LED Error Sequences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

6 Glossary 51

iv PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 Chapter 1

Safety Notes
Statement of Intended Use
All products manufactured by ADInstruments are intended for use in teaching and
research applications and environments only. ADInstruments products are NOT
intended to be used as medical devices or in medical environments. That is, no product
supplied by ADInstruments is intended to be used to diagnose, treat or monitor a
subject. Furthermore no product is intended for the prevention, curing or alleviation of
disease, injury or handicap. ADInstruments products are intended to be installed, used
and operated under the supervision of an appropriately qualified life-science researcher.
The typical usage environment is a research or teaching lab or hospital. ADInstruments
equipment is not intended for use in domestic environments.
Where a product meets IEC 60601-1 it is under the principle that:
• this is a more rigorous standard than other standards that could be chosen.
• it provides a high safety level for subjects and operators.

The choice to meet IEC 60601-1 is in no way to be interpreted to mean that a product:
• is a medical device,
• may be interpreted as a medical device, or
• is safe to be used as a medical device.

Safety and Quality Standards

In accordance with European standards PowerLab systems also comply with the
electromagnetic compatibility requirements under EN61326-1, which encompasses the
EMC directive.

Quality Management System ISO 9001:2008

ADInstruments manufactures products under a quality system certified as complying
with ISO 9001:2008 by an accredited certification body.

1 PowerLab - Owner’s Guide

 Regulatory Symbols
Devices manufactured by ADInstruments that are designed for direct connection to
humans and animals are tested to IEC60601-1:1998 and IEC60601-1:2005 (including
amendments 1 and 2) and EN61326-1:2006, and carry one or more of the safety symbols
below. These symbols appear next to those inputs and output connectors that can be
directly connected to human subjects.

B (body protected) symbol. Equipment marked with this symbol is

suitable for connection to humans and animals provided there is not
direct electrical connection to the heart and provides basic protection
against electric shock.
BF (body protected- floating) symbol. This means that the input
connectors are suitable for connection to humans and animals provided
there is no direct electrical connection to the heart and provides
increased protection against electric shock over B rated applied parts.

Warning symbol. The exclamation mark inside a triangle means that the
! supplied documentation must be consulted for operating, cautionary or
safety information before using the device.

CE Mark. All front-end amplifiers and PowerLab systems carry the CE

mark and meet the appropriate EU directives.

UKCA Mark. All front-end amplifiers and PowerLab systems carry the
UKCA mark and meet the appropriate UK directives.

Refer to booklet symbol. This symbol specifies that the user needs
to refer to the Instruction manual or the booklet associated with the
device.

Date of Manufacture/ Manufacturer’s name symbol. This symbol

indicates the date of manufacture of the device and the name of the
manufacturer

WEEE directive symbol. Unwanted equipment bearing the Waste

Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive symbol requires
separate waste collection. (See disposal section at the end of this
chapter)

Further information is available on request.

2 PowerLab - Owner’s Guide

 Safety Standards
IEC Standard - International Standard - Medical Electrical Equipment
IEC 60601-1:2012 General requirements for safety

! General Safety Instructions

To achieve the optimal degree of subject and operator safety, consideration should
be given to the following guidelines when setting up a PowerLab system either as
stand-alone equipment or when using PowerLab equipment in conjunction with other
WARNING: equipment. Failure to do so may compromise the inherent safety measures designed
into PowerLab equipment.
This equipment is
not intended to be The following guidelines are based on principles outlined in the international safety
modified or serviced standard IEC 60601-1: General requirements for safety – Collateral standard: Safety
by the user. requirements for medical systems. Reference to this standard is required when setting
No user serviceable up a system for human connection. The user is responsible for ensuring any particular
parts inside. configuration of equipment complies with IEC60601-1-1.
Refer servicing to PowerLab systems (and many other devices) require the connection of a personal
authorised computer for operation. This personal computer should be certified as complying with
ADInstruments IEC 60950 and should be located outside a 1.8 m radius from the subject (so that the
service centre. subject cannot touch it while connected to the system). Within this 1.8 m radius, only
equipment complying with IEC 60601-1 should be present. Connecting a system in this
way obviates the provision of additional safety measures and the measurement of
leakage currents.
Accompanying documents for each piece of equipment in the system should be
thoroughly examined prior to connection of the system.
While it is not possible to cover all arrangements of equipment in a system, some
general guidelines for safe use of the equipment are presented below:
• Any electrical equipment which is located within the SUBJECT AREA should be
approved to IEC 60601-1.
• Only connect those parts of equipment that are marked as an APPLIED PART to
the subject. APPLIED PARTS may be recognized by the BF symbol which appears
in the Regulatory Symbol section of these Safety Notes.
• Never connect parts which are marked as an APPLIED PART to those which are
not marked as APPLIED PARTS.
• Do not touch the subject to which the PowerLab (or its peripherals) is connected
at the same time as making contact with parts of the PowerLab (or its peripherals)
that are not intended for contact to the subject.
• Cleaning and sterilization of equipment should be performed in accordance
with manufacturer’s instructions. The isolation barrier may be compromised if
manufacturer’s cleaning instructions are not followed.

3 PowerLab - Owner’s Guide

 • The ambient environment (such as the temperature and relative humidity) of the
system should be kept within the manufacturer’s specified range or the isolation
barrier may be compromised.
• The entry of liquids into equipment may also compromise the isolation barrier. If
spillage occurs, the manufacturer of the affected equipment should be contacted
before using the equipment.
WARNING: • The Powerlab depends on the presence of a Protective Earth for electrical safety.
To avoid risk of This is usually provided from the power outlet through a power cord but some
electric shock, this facilities may not have a safety earth available from the power outlet. Such
equipment must power outlets are identifiable by having only two connections on the power
only be connected outlet instead of three. If this is the case, a protective earth must be connected to
to a supply mains the PowerLab to ensure electrical safety. A suitable means of achieving this is to
with protective use the Ground Connector (sometimes known as a POAG) mentioned in the Rear
earth Panel section of this Owner’s Guide.
• If using the Ground Connector for protective earthing, the attached wire must
be cable of carrying the maximum current allowed by the circuit breaker and
must be electrically insulated. It must be connected to an equi-potential source
(a metal stake drive into the soil is a typical situation). A licensed electrician must
perform this installation.
• Power cords should never be modified so as to remove the earth connection. The
integrity of the Protective Earth connection between each piece of equipment
and the Protective Earth should be verified regularly by qualified personnel.
• PowerLabs are compatible with electrical safety devices (sometimes known as
Safety Switches, Ground fault circuit interruptor, Residual Current Devices or
Earth-leakage Circuit Breaker). ADInstruments recommends the use of such
devices supplied in fixed wiring installations.
• Avoid using multiple portable socket-outlets (such as power boards) where
possible as they provide an inherently less safe environment with respect to
electrical hazards. Individual connection of each piece of equipment to fixed
mains socket-outlets is the preferred means of connection.
• When used in ambient temperatures of 38 degrees Celcius and above, do not
touch PowerLab enclosure continuously for more than a minute.
• To safely shut down the PowerLab, press the stop button and then close
LabChart. Turn the PowerLab off at the inlet switch.
If multiple portable socket outlets are used, they are subject to the following constraints:
• They shall not be placed on the floor.
• Additional multiple portable socket outlets or extension cords shall not be
connected to the system.
• They shall only be used for supplying power to equipment which is intended to
form part of the system.

Bio Amp Safety Instructions

The Bio Amp inputs displaying any of the safety symbols are electrically isolated from
the mains supply in order to prevent current flow that may otherwise result in injury to
the subject. Several points must be observed for safe operation of the Bio Amp:

4 PowerLab - Owner’s Guide

 • All PowerLab units with a built-in Bio Amp are supplied with a 3-lead or 5-lead
Bio Amp subject cable and lead wire system. Bio Amps are only safe for human
connection if used with the supplied subject cable and lead wires.
• All PowerLab units with a built-in Bio Amp are not defibrillator-protected. Using
the Bio Amp to record signals during defibrillator discharges may damage the
input stages of the amplifiers. This may result in a safety hazard.
• Never use damaged Bio Amp cables or leads. Damaged cables and leads must
always be replaced before any connection to humans is made.

! Isolated Stimulator Safety Instructions

The Isolated Stimulator outputs from the PowerLab with a built-in isolated stimulator
are electrically isolated and safe for human connection. However, they can produce
pulses of up to 100 V at up to 20 mA. Injury can still occur from careless use of these
devices. Several points must be observed for safe operation of the Isolated Stimulator:

• The Stimulus Isolator must only be used with the supplied bar stimulus electrode.
• The Isolated Stimulator output must not be used with individual (physically
separate) stimulating electrodes.
• Stimulation must not be applied across the chest or head.
• Do not hold one electrode in each hand.
• Always use a suitable electrode cream or gel and proper skin preparation to
ensure a low-impedance electrode contact. Using electrodes without electrode
cream can result in burns to the skin or discomfort for the subject.
• Subjects with implantable or external cardiac pacemakers, a cardiac condition,
or a history of epileptic episodes must not be subject to electrical stimulation.
• Always commence stimulation at the lowest current setting and slowly increase
the current.
• Stop stimulation if the subject experiences pain or discomfort.
• Do not use faulty cables, or those that have exhibited intermittent faults.
• Do not attempt to measure or record the Isolated Stimulator output while
connected to a subject using a PowerLab input or any other piece of equipment
that does not carry the appropriate regulatory symbol (see Regulatory Symbols
above).
• The Isolated Stimulator should not be used as a therapeutic device. The
PowerLabs are not intended as diagnostic, therapeutic or patient care
equipment. Doing so may result in severe risk to the safety of the subject
Always check the status indicator on the front panel. It will always flash green each time
the stimulator delivers a current pulse. A yellow flash indicates an ‘out-of-compliance’
(OOC) condition that may be due to poor electrode contact or electrode cream drying
up. Always ensure that there is good electrode contact at all times. Electrodes that
are left on a subject for some time need to be checked for dry contacts. An electrode
impedance meter can be used for this task.
• Always be alert for any adverse physiological effects in the subject. At the first
sign of a problem, stimulation must be stopped, either from the software or
by flicking down the safety switch on the front panel of any built-in Isolated
Stimulator.

5 PowerLab - Owner’s Guide

 Cleaning and Sterilization
ADInstruments products may be wiped down with a lint free cloth moistened with
industrial methylated spirit. Refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines or the Data
Card supplied with transducers and accessories for specific cleaning and sterilizing
instructions.

Inspection and Maintenance

PowerLab systems and ADInstruments front-ends are all maintenance-free and do
not require periodic calibration or adjustment to ensure safe operation. Internal
diagnostic software performs system checks during power up and will report errors if a
significant problem is found. There is no need to open the instrument for inspection or
maintenance, and doing so within the warranty period will void the warranty.
Your PowerLab system can be periodically checked for basic safety by using an
appropriate safety testing device. Tests such as earth leakage, earth bond, insulation
resistance, subject leakage and auxiliary currents and power cable integrity can all be
performed on the PowerLab system without having to remove the covers. Follow the
instructions for the testing device if performing such tests. If the PowerLab system
is found not to comply with such testing you should contact your ADInstruments
representative to arrange for the equipment to be checked and serviced.

Environment
Electronic components are susceptible to corrosive substances and atmospheres, and
must be kept away from laboratory chemicals.

Transport and Storage Conditions

• Temperature in the range 0–40 °C
• Non-condensing humidity in the range 0–95%.

Operating Conditions
• Temperature in the range 5–35 °C
• Non-condensing humidity in the range 0–90%.

Disposal
• Forward to recycling center or return to manufacturer.
• Unwanted equipment bearing the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment
(WEEE) Directive symbol requires separate waste collection. For a product
labeled with this symbol, either forward to a recycling center or contact your
WEEE Directive nearest ADInstruments representative for methods of disposal at the end of its
symbol working life.

6 PowerLab - Owner’s Guide

 Chapter 1

Overview
Your PowerLab® recording unit, together with a range of specialized application
programs, provides a versatile data recording and analysis system when used with a
Windows or Macintosh computer. This chapter provides an overview of the PowerLab
system and describes the basic features, connectors and indicators of the PowerLab.
Note that the software supplied with the PowerLab should be installed before you
connect the PowerLab to your computer.

Figure 1–1

The PowerLab
Teaching series:
PowerLab 15T,
PowerLab 26T

7 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 How to Use This Guide
This owner’s guide describes how to set up and begin using your PowerLab recording
unit. The chapters provide an overview of the PowerLab system (the combined software
and hardware package), and a more detailed look at the features of your recording unit
and its connection to your computer. The appendices provide technical information
about the recording unit and solutions to problems. At the end of this guide is a glossary
of hardware terms and an index.

Software Installation
You should install ADInstruments application software before connecting or using your
PowerLab.
If you are using PowerLab with Lt please refer to the kuraCloud Desktop help available
at https://support.kuracloud.com/desktop-app.
The Getting Started with PowerLab manual provides full installation instructions for the
LabChart software.

PowerLab Check
Please do not attempt to connect the PowerLab to a power outlet or computer or turn it
on until you have checked it as described below.

1. Check that all items in the accompanying packing list are included in the box.
2. Check that there are no obvious signs of external damage to the PowerLab.
3. Check that there are no obvious signs of internal damage, such as rattling. Pick
up the PowerLab, tilt it gently from side to side, and listen for anything that
appears to be loose.
If anything is missing or the PowerLab seems to be damaged in any way, contact your
authorized ADInstruments representative immediately. Up to date contact addresses
are available from the ADInstruments website.

Connection information is in the next chapter.

8 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 The PowerLab
This section describes the connectors and indicators of the PowerLab 15T and 26T.

The Front Panel

The front panel (Figure 2–1 to Figure 2–2) provides the connectors for obtaining external
signals, and indicators for various functions. This section describes each of the front
panel features:

• Power and Status indicator LEDs

• Trigger indicator LED and BNC connector (not on PowerLab 15T)
• Output BNC connectors
• Input DIN connectors
• Isolated Stimulator switch, indicator LEDs and output connectors
• Bio Amp connector

Indicators
The Power and Status indicators on the front panel should flash briefly while the
PowerLab is starting up. Under normal conditions, the Power indicator should glow
blue and stay lit. This simply shows that the PowerLab is getting power.
The Status indicator should flash yellow and then stay green when the PowerLab is
switched on, and again when an ADInstruments application is opened. It provides some
visual indication of what the PowerLab is doing, and will flash different patterns and
colors depending on the state of the PowerLab. See Table 3–1 for details.

Trigger
The external trigger connector of the PowerLab 26T allows you to use an external signal
to synchronize recording to an external event. This input can handle voltages of up to
±12 V. The threshold voltage (the voltage above which the trigger circuit activates) is 2.0
volts for a rising edge. When the trigger threshold is crossed, the indicator beside the
external trigger connector will glow yellow. The external trigger is described in more
detail in Appendix A, and the software documentation covers its practical use in normal
recording.

9 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 PowerLab
15T Output 1 Input 2 Isolated Stimulator Bio Amp
ON
Figure 1–2 3&4
Power Pulse
The front panel Status OOC
of the WARNING 100V @ 20mA
PowerLab 15T

Power and Analog output Analog input Isolated Stimulator Bio Amp
Status connectors connectors connectors connector
indicators

PowerLab
26T Output Input Isolated Stimulator Bio Amp
Figure 1–3 1 2 ON
3&4
The front panel Power Pulse
Status OOC
of the WARNING 100V @ 20mA
Trigger
PowerLab 26T 3 4

Trigger indicator and connector

Analog Output
The PowerLab can generate a stimulus voltage through its analog output sockets
(marked Output + and –), giving positive, negative or differential stimuli, depending
on the sockets used and the software settings. By default, the outputs are used for
complementary (differential) stimulation, where Output + is positive and Output – is
negative.
When Output + is used, a positive stimulus voltage (set up in the software) gives a
positive voltage output, and a negative voltage a negative one. When Output – is used,
the voltage outputs are inverted. When both output sockets are used, the stimulus is
the difference between the voltages at the positive and negative outputs: you could
generate up to a 20-volt pulse, using a setting of ±10 V.
You can use either the analog output or the isolated stimulator, but not both at once.

10 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 WARNING: Analog Inputs
PowerLab inputs The analog inputs can record external signals from ±10 V down to the microvolt (μV)
and outputs are range, without the need for additional external amplification.
not electrically Each analog input has an independent programmable gain amplifier with its own
isolated (except for filtering. Note that applying more than ±15 V to the analog inputs can damage the
the Bio Amp input
circuitry.
and the Isolated
Stimulator outputs) The PowerLab 15T has two independent analog inputs marked Input 1 and 2; the
and so should nev- PowerLab 26T has four such inputs marked 1–4.
er be connected to
human subjects.
These 8-pin DIN connectors can be used as:

• Single-ended inputs, where the difference between the signal and ground is
recorded.
• Differential inputs, where the difference between the positive and negative input
signals is recorded.
• Pod connectors, which allow the connection of ADInstruments pods, or those
transducers designed for direct connection.
On the 15T model PowerLab, the impedance between the earthing stud (ground
connection) and the input connector grounds is close to zero.
Note that with the PowerLab 26T:

• ADInstruments front-ends, such as the FE221 Bridge Amp, can be used with
inputs 1 and 2 and inputs 3 or 4 by connecting them with the DIN-to-BNC
adaptor.
• When an ADInstruments pod or smart transducer is connected to either input 3
or 4, the corresponding Bio Amp input is turned off. Note that if you wish to use a
non-smart transducer to input 3 or 4 an MLAC22 or MLAC31 smart adapter must
be used.

Isolated Stimulator
The PowerLab 15T and 26T have a built-in, isolated, constant-current pulse stimulator
that can be used for any general-purpose stimulation with humans. The Isolated
Stimulator section of the front panel has two output sockets, two indicator lights and a
safety switch. Note that you cannot use the analog output and the isolated stimulator at
the same time.
The stimulus output is supplied via two 4 mm shrouded banana sockets; the left-hand
(red) socket is positive, the right-hand (black) socket is negative. These are designed for
use with shrouded male 4 mm plugs (the shrouding is to prevent accidental stimulation
while fitting or removing the plugs). The bar stimulus electrode supplied with the
PowerLab uses such plugs.

11 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 The output is capable of supplying 100 V pulses at currents up to 20 mA, so it should be
treated with caution. The Isolated Stimulator Pulse indicator is an LED that indicates
the current status of the Stimulator. It will flash green for every stimulus pulse, and
may seem to glow green constantly at higher stimulus frequencies. The OOC (out-of-
compliance) indicator is a yellow LED. When lit, it indicates that the output is overloaded
or out of compliance (compliance is the ability to supply voltage to meet the required
current). This means that the impedance of the tissue being stimulated is too high, or
there is a poor electrical connection (possibly due to electrode drying), and that the
Isolated Stimulator can no longer supply constant current stimulation. If this should
happen, try reducing the output current amplitude, and check all connections.
To provide an additional level of safety, a safety switch is located on the front panel
to allow the output to be switched on and off as needed. The switch should be flicked
down to turn the output off: doing so disconnects the output sockets from the internal
circuitry, allowing connections to be made safely while the PowerLab is on.

The Bio Amp Inputs (Inputs 3 and 4)

The PowerLab 15T and 26T have a connector for two Bio Amp inputs, marked Bio Amp
Input 3 & 4. These biological amplifiers perform electrically isolated measurements of
biological signals, such as electrocardiograms (ECG) and electromyograms (EMG). The
two Bio Amp inputs have a common six-pin connector with a shared ground signal and
are internally configured to use channels 3 and 4 of the PowerLab.
The PowerLab comes supplied with a 5-lead Bio Amp cable and lead wires. The Bio Amp
inputs should only be used with the supplied Bio Amp cable and approved leads. Other
cables may not meet safety requirements. Note: with the PowerLab 26T, connecting
an ADInstruments pod or smart transducer to either analog input 3 or 4 turns off the
corresponding Bio Amp input.

The Rear Panel

The rear panels of the PowerLab (Figure 2–4 to Figure 2–5) provide the sockets to
connect the PowerLab to the computer, other devices and the power outlet. This section
describes each of the rear panel features:
• Audio connector (PowerLab 26T only)
• I2C connector (not on PowerLab 15T)
• USB connector
• Digital input and output connectors (PowerLab 26T only)
• Ground connector
• Power switch and socket.

12 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 Figure 1–4
The rear panel
of the
PowerLab 15T

Ground USB connector Digital Output Device rating Power switch

connector information and socket

Figure 1–5
The rear panel
of the
PowerLab 26T

I2C connector Audio connector Digital Input Ground Device rating Power switch
connector information and socket

WARNING: Audio Connector

As with all audio The PowerLab 26T has an audio output to monitor the Bio Amp channels. It provides
devices, there is a stereo sound (using signals from Inputs 3 and 4). The 3.5 mm stereo socket can be used
risk of temporary with a wide range of headphones or externally powered speakers. The audio output
hearing damage if is particularly helpful when monitoring nerve firings, to assist in the placement of
used carelessly. It electrodes, for instance.
is recommended
headphones are
attached to the I2C Connector
PowerLab audio The I2C port (not on PowerLab 15T) provides power and control signals for front-ends
socket prior to manufactured by ADInstruments. Many front-ends can be daisy-chained together and
attaching the
connected through the I2C port, so long as there are enough analog inputs on the
headphones to
ears. PowerLab. A maximum current of 50 mA can be provided through this bus, so it should
not be used for third-party devices that require more current than that.

USB Connector
The PowerLab connects to your computer using a USB 2.0 connector and cable,
therefore your computer must have USB connectors to receive data from the PowerLab.
You can safely disconnect or reconnect a USB-connected PowerLab while the computer
remains on. However, ADinstruments software should not be running while you do this.

13 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 Read the details on USB in Appendix A of this guide before connecting your PowerLab to
your computer.

Digital Input and Output Connectors

The digital input and output ports (PowerLab 26T only) let you monitor and control
external devices, respectively, with the PowerLab.
The digital input monitors state changes: you can have a predefined comment
automatically inserted during recording when a digital input changes to a particular
state. The eight lines of the connector allow monitoring of up to eight devices. The digital
output can turn on and off external devices, for example pumps, relays, and indicator
lights, or can signal to some other device. The eight lines of the connector allow control
of up to eight devices.
Technical details of the digital input and output connectors are given in Appendix A.
Note that any cables connected to either the digital input or output must be less than 3
m in length in order to maintain EMC compliance.

More information on the use of digital inputs and outputs is given in the Help for the
software.
Ground Connector
A special earthing (grounding) stud is provided on the rear panel of the PowerLab. This
is an equipotential bonding connection post compatible with the DIN 42801 standard.
The earthing stud is directly connected to the earth pin of the power socket and the
PowerLab chassis. It is used as a primary earth connection (equipotential connection
point) in situations that require this type of connection, or if there is no ground provided
via the power cord. Safety standards in laboratories and similar environments may
require additional grounding protection when connecting equipment to human
subjects, and their relevant standards or guidelines should be observed.

Power Connector
The power switch on the back right of the PowerLab turns the PowerLab on and off; the
3-pin IEC power socket is used to connect your PowerLab to a power cable. The power
supply is universal, and can use all common international mains power supplies (100–
240 V AC, 50/60 Hz).
The PowerLabs are now fitted with replaceable fuses. If the Power LED on the PowerLab,
does not illuminate with power applied, it may be that one or both of the replaceable
fuses has blown.Fuses should only be of the rating and type as specified below:
• 250VAC Slo Blo (usually marked “T”)
• 1A
• 20 x 5mm

14 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 ! Checking and replacing fuses
Ensure the power lead is disconnected before attempting to replace a fuse.
WARNING:
The fuses are contained in the fuse drawer. To remove the drawer, the top and bottom
Do not position plastic tabs need to be squeezed simultaneously while pulling the drawer away from
device so as to the PowerLab (a small flat-bladed tool is useful for this task). The old fuses should spring
make it difficult to free of the drawer once removed from the inlet. Load the new fuses back into the drawer
operate the discon- and carefully push back into the inlet. Note that the fuse drawer is polarized and can
nection device only be put back in one orientation. For further assistance please contact your nearest
when an appliance ADInstruments representative
coupler, mains
plug or any other
separable plug is
used as a means
for isolation.

Figure 1–6
Removing and
replacing fuses

Fuses in fuse
drawer

The Bio Amp Cable

Connections are made to the Bio Amp inputs using the supplied Bio Amp cable and
leads. The cable plugs into the six-pin input socket on the front panel: a notch in the
plug ensures that polarity is correct. Only the supplied Bio Amp cable and leads should
be used. Other cables may not meet safety requirements. The PowerLab 26T and 15T
are supplied with a 5-lead Bio Amp cable and lead wires; it uses a shared ground signal
for its Bio Amp channels. The cable is of the sort often used for ECG or EMG work, a
Tronomed D- 2540 cable, and has a cable yoke with five sockets for the leads.
The supplied leads click into place in the cable yoke, and have snap connectors at the
other end to connect to typical ECG electrodes. The leads are color-coded for ease of
identification.
ADInstruments supplies other types of lead wires that connect to the Bio Amp cable
yoke, such as EEG Flat Electrodes. Also available are disposable and reusable electrodes,
electrode cream (for reusable electrodes), electrode paste, and abrasive gel for lightly
abrading the skin before the electrodes are attached.

15 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 Figure 1–1
The Bio Amp
cable yoke, with
5 leads attached To Electrodes To Bio Amp
input

Supplied Accessories
Accessory Applied part
type
MLADDF30 Stimulating Bar Electrode
BF
MLA2540 5 Lead Shielded Bio Amp
BF
MLA2505 Shielded Lead Wires (5 pk)
BF
MLAC22 BNC to DIN Smart Adapter -

MLAC25 DIN 8 Plug to BNC Cable (2m) -

MLC405 USB Cable -

TN1012/ST Pulse Transducer

B
MLAC01 BNC to BNC Cable (1m) -

Note: Refer Glossary for the definition of an Applied part

16 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 Other ADInstruments Hardware
ADInstruments has a range of optional devices that can be connected to your PowerLab.
They extend the types of experiments you can conduct and the data you can record,
and include:
• Pods — small, low-cost signal conditioners for specific tasks, for use with
precalibrated transducers, and which are automatically recognized by the
PowerLab and application software.
• Front-ends — advanced signal conditioners which are automatically recognized
by the PowerLab and software, and which provide specialized data acquisition
features (not used with the PowerLab 15T).
• Transducers — either for use with a specific pod, or which plug directly into the
PowerLab, depending on their type.
A PowerLab can usually have as many pods or transducers connected to it as it has
appropriate connectors. All are easily transferred between PowerLabs.
Full information on such hardware is available from your local ADInstruments
representative or from the ADInstruments website.

17 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 Chapter 3

Setting Up
This chapter describes:
• The PowerLab’s internal self-test.
• The USB connection between the PowerLab and the computer.
• The software features specific to the built-in Isolated Stimulator and Bio Amp.

Figure 3-1
PowerLab 15T

18 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 The PowerLab Self-test
The PowerLab performs a diagnostic self-test each time it is switched on.
Before connecting it to the computer for the first time, you should test that your
PowerLab is functioning properly, as follows:

1. Connect the PowerLab to a power outlet using the power cable that came with
your unit. Turn on the power at the wall.
2. Turn on the power switch located on the rear of the unit, and observe the Power
and Status indicators on the front panel while the PowerLab is starting up:
• The Power indicator should glow blue while the PowerLab is on.
• The Status indicator should flash yellow and then stay green.

Table 3-1 If the Status indicator stays green, the internal diagnostic check has completed
Status Indicator codes successfully. The PowerLab can now be switched off and connected to the computer.

Status Indicator Meaning

Green Idle, initialized, and waiting for a command from the
computer.
Orange Sampling, or communicating with the computer.
Four red flashes The PowerLab has detected a low-level software or
then one orange hardware fault. It will repeat until the PowerLab is turned
off.
Red flashes The PowerLab has detected an internal fault during the
power-up test. It will repeat until the PowerLab is turned
off.

If the Power indicator does not glow blue when the power switch is turned on, then
there is a problem with the power source, power cable or PowerLab itself. Check the
connections and cables.
If the Status indicator is flashing red, then the PowerLab has detected an error during
the self-test. Restarting the PowerLab should clear a temporary problem.
If the PowerLab does not seem to be getting power, or the Status indicator flashes red,
even after restarting, refer to the ADInstruments website (www.adinstruments.com/
support/tsupport/education) or contact your authorized ADInstruments representative.
Do not attempt to repair the PowerLab yourself.

19 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 Figure 3-2
USB Icon

Connecting the PowerLab

Use the USB cable supplied with your PowerLab to connect the USB port on the back
panel to the USB port on the computer, or to an active USB hub connected to the
computer (see Figure 2–2). USB ports and cables should be marked with a trident-
like icon (Figure 2–1). Further detail about USB connections is provided on page 41 of
Appendix A.

Figure 3-3
Connecting a
PowerLab to a
computer with USB

ADInstruments Software
The integration of hardware and software in the PowerLab system allows all hardware
functions, including those of any connected signal conditioners, to be controlled from
within the software.

Lt Software
When the PowerLab is used with Lt, the Lt contents have pre-configured settings for
the PowerLab, and for any signal conditioners needed for the experiment. For more
information about the Lt application please refer to https://support.kuracloud.com/

LabChart Software
When the PowerLab is used with the LabChart application, the PowerLab functions
are set up from within that software. The software controls for most functions, such as
sampling speed, are described in the documentation for LabChart. For more information
about the LabChart application please refer to the LabChart Help.
The software controls specific to the signal conditioners built into the PowerLab 26T
and 15T (an Isolated Stimulator and two Bio Amps) are described below.

20 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 The Isolated Stimulator
The PowerLab 26T and 15T have both normal and isolated outputs, and you can switch
between them in software. The Isolated Stimulator provides software-controlled,
isolated, constant-current pulse stimuli that can be used with human subjects. The
stimulus is produced at the outputs on the front panel of the Stimulus Isolator. The
stimulus is independent of the PowerLab sampling rate and can be generated whether
the PowerLab is sampling or not. The stimulus is set up using the Stimulator dialog.
Choose Setup > Stimulator.... to display the Stimulator dialog (Figure 2–3).
When setting up the Stimulus Isolator, you:

• Choose how stimulation should start.

• Choose a preconfigured stimulus type or mode.
• Optionally, on Windows, create a custom stimulus waveform.
• Set stimulus parameters, such as start delay, pulse width and current amplitude.
Note that if you connect a Stimulus Isolator front-end to a PowerLab 15T or 26/T, only
the external stimulator is used.

Choosing How Stimulation Should Start

Stimulation can be set to start in different ways:

• When sampling starts: stimulation begins automatically when the LabChart

Start button is clicked, and continues until sampling stops. Use the On and
Off buttons to control pulse delivery, if necessary.
• Manually: stimulation begins when Stimulate in the dialog is clicked, and
continues until sampling stops. Use the On and Off buttons to control pulse
delivery, if necessary.
• Independently of sampling: stimulation begins when On in the dialog is
clicked, whether or not LabChart is sampling.

21 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 Choose how simulation should start

Figure 3-4
The Stimulator dialog, Choose a stimulus
Windows type preset

Specify a custom
stimulus
waveform

Configure the
range of valid
parameter values
in the Parameter
Settings dialog

Set stimulus
parameters

22 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 Choosing a Stimulus Type
The Stimulator only offers the Isolated Pulse stimulation mode. This generates a
rectangular pulse stimulus that starts at zero current, is raised to the set current
amplitude for the set pulse width (duration), and then falls to zero current again. By
default, the stimulator is off and the current amplitude is set to zero.

Creating a Custom Stimulus Waveform

In LabChart, you can:
• Specify whether parameter controls are displayed in the Stimulator and
Stimulator Panel dialogs.
• Define a sequence of segments to create a custom stimulus waveform.
Click Custom... to display the Waveform Customization dialog. Further details about
using this dialog are available in the LabChart Help.

Setting Stimulus Parameters

You use the text boxes and sliders to set values for the stimulus parameters. In
LabChart, you can use the Settings dialog for each parameter to configure the range of
values available to the parameter text box and slider controls. Using suitable values can
improve the precision of control over the stimulus parameter when using the slider and
spinner controls.
In LabChart, the following stimulus parameters can be set:
Start Delay: the wait time before stimulation is delivered, once the stimulus waveform
has been started.
Repeats: the number of times the stimulus waveform is repeated, once started.
Max Repeat Rate: the maximum frequency with which the stimulus waveform is
repeated (either 0.1—20 Hz or 6—1200 /min), or the interval between each pulse start
(0.05—10 s).
Pulse Width: the duration of each pulse. The pulse duration is restricted to the range
from 50 μs to 200 μs for safety reasons.
Current: the amplitude of the stimulus current (0 to 20 mA).
End Delay: the wait time at the end of a stimulus segment, after which the next segment
is delivered. This is not the same as a Delay segment.

Marker Channel
If you choose a channel from the Marker Channel pop-up menu, then the start time of
a stimulus pulse is marked by a small data spike (this adds to any data in that channel).

The Stimulator Panel

Once you have set up stimulation using the Stimulator dialog, you can easily start or
stop stimulation or change settings while sampling, by using the Stimulator Panel.
Choose Stimulator Panel from the Setup menu to open it

23 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 You can specify which parameter controls are displayed in the panel using checkboxes
in the Panel column of the Waveform Customization dialog. See the LabChart Help for
details.
The Stimulator Panel ‘floats’ in front of the active window, can be moved around with
its title bar, and can only be dismissed by clicking its close box.

Figure 3-5
The Stimulator Panel
This button appears when
manual stimulation is selected

The Bio Amp

The PowerLab 26T and 15T have two-channel Bio Amps, which are internally configured
to use channels 3 and 4. The Bio Amp dialog allows software control of the combined
input amplifiers and filters in the PowerLab and Bio Amps. The signal present at a
channel’s input is displayed so that you can see the effects of changes straight away.
Once settings in the dialog are changed, click OK to apply them.
The Bio Amp dialog appears when you choose Bio Amp… from a Channel drop-down
menu (or click Bio Amp… in the Input Settings column in the Channel Settings dialog).
To set up many channels quickly, click the arrows by the dialog title, or press the right
or left arrow keys on the keyboard, to move to the equivalent dialogs for adjacent
channels. This skips channels that are turned off. The channel number is shown next to
the arrows, and the channel title (if any) is shown in the vertical Amplitude axis of the
dialog.

Signal Display
The input signal is displayed so you can see the effect of changing the settings— no data
is recorded while the Bio Amp dialog is open. The instantaneous signal value is shown at
the top left of the display area.
You can stop the signal scrolling by clicking the Pause button at the bottom right of the
data display area. Time-axis scaling controls work in a similar way to the Chart View.

24 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 Setting the Range
The Range pop-up menu lets you select the input range, or sensitivity, of the
channel — the combined range of the PowerLab and Bio Amp. Changing the range in the
Bio Amp dialog is equivalent to changing it in the Chart window. The default setting (if
you have not loaded a settings file) is 20 mV, rather than 10 V, and the ranges go down to
100 μV in eight steps.

Signal amplitude
Figure 3-6
The Bio Amp dialog
for Windows

Range pop-up
menu

Filtering
options

Amplitude axis

Click this to open the Units Conversion dialog Pause and Scroll buttons

Filtering
Each of the Bio Amps in the PowerLab has low-pass, high-pass and mains filter circuitry
that can be adjusted to suit the recording. Note: the settings for one filter type may
restrict the possible settings for the other.
High-Pass Filtering. The High Pass pop-up menu gives a choice of two high-pass
filters: 0.5 and 10 Hz. The high-pass filter allows high frequencies in the signal to pass,
and removes frequency components below the filter frequency (including any DC
signal). These filters are useful for removing slowly moving baselines, such as motion or
respiration artifacts, particularly in ECG (EKG) recordings.
Low-Pass Filtering. The Low pass pop-up menu gives the choice of eight low-pass
filters: 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 Hz, and 1 and 2 kHz. These filters are useful for
removing high-frequency signals, such as noise.
DC Restore. Click DC Restore to reduce the time constant of the high-pass filter so that
the filter can rapidly adjust to an altered baseline value.

25 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 Mains Filter. The mains filter allows you to remove interference at the mains frequency
(typically 50 or 60 Hz). This is an adaptive filter and should only be used when the signal
to mains noise ratio is less than 36 dB, that is the mains noise amplitude is greater
than 1/64 of the signal amplitude. More details on the mains filter can be found in the
LabChart Help Center.
Anti-alias.
Select Anti-alias to apply a sample rate-dependent low-pass filter that prevents aliasing
artifacts. The input signal is sampled and digitized at 100 kHz. The AD converter
incorporates a low-pass filter of fixed cutoff frequency (49 kHz). When LabChart samples
at 100 kHz, the converted samples are passed on unchanged. At all other LabChart
sampling rates, an additional (digital) filter is optionally applied to the AD converter’s
100 kHz output stream. This is a decimating FIR filter whose cutoff frequency is set to
the Nyquist value: half the LabChart sampling frequency. It thus acts as an automatic
anti-aliasing filter, providing optimum noise rejection in the recorded data. Attenuation
in the stop band is at least 40 dB. Note that anti-aliasing is disabled at sampling rates
below 100 Hz so as to prevent the delay that otherwise occurs as samples pass through
the FIR filters.
The anti-aliasing filter characteristics are chosen to give the fastest step response
without overshoot (corresponding to an analog Bessel filter). Such a response is suited
to most types of physiological recordings. In the frequency domain, the filter response
starts to roll off well below the cutoff frequency. In certain (relatively uncommon) types
of measurement, a maximally flat response is desirable; this can be obtained by turning
anti-aliasing off.

Inverting the Signal

Selecting Invert allows you to invert the signal on the screen. It provides a simple way
to change the polarity of the recorded signal without having to swap the connections to
the recording electrodes.

26 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 Chapter 4

Technical Aspects and

Specifications
This appendix describes some of the important technical aspects of your PowerLab, to
give some insight into how they work. You do not need to know the material here to use
your PowerLab. It is likely to be of special interest to the technically minded, indicating
what the PowerLab can and cannot do, and its suitability for particular purposes. You
should not use it as a service manual: user modification of the PowerLab voids your
rights under warranty.

Figure 4-1
PowerLab 26T

27 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 How it Works
The PowerLab is essentially a smart peripheral device specifically designed to
perform the various functions needed for data acquisition, signal conditioning, and
pre-processing. It contains its own microprocessor, memory and specialized analog
amplifiers for signal conditioning.
All sampling, output and communication functions are controlled by an internal
microprocessor. The PowerLab uses USB 2.0 to communicate with the computer, if the
computer is USB 2.0 compliant. This provides data transfer rates of up to 480 Mbits per
second. If the computer only supports USB 1.1 the data transfer rate will be slower.
The 15T PowerLab has two analog inputs, whereas the 26T PowerLab has four analog
inputs. They are used to record external signals prior to digitizing. Each of these input
amplifiers connects to a separate 16-bit ADC (analog-to-digital converter) that samples
at 100 000 samples per second. The sampling process is handled independently of the
processor core through a sampling control engine using direct memory access. The CPU
assembles groups of samples into blocks and then transmits them to the computer,
where the software receives, records and displays the data.
Two 16-bit DACs (digital-to-analog converter) are used to provide an analog output or
stimulation capability through the analog outputs of the PowerLab (marked ‘Output’
on the front panel). The DACs can produce constant DC voltage levels or waveforms
under software control. Stimulation frequency is completely independent of the analog
input sampling rate. The output of the DACs is fed through a programmable attenuation
network to produce different output ranges. The signal is then split into a positive and
negative output through buffer amplifiers. The outputs are capable of driving up to 20
mA into a load.
The PowerLab uses an IEC60601-1 (medically) compliant switching power supply. This
provides a universal input that handles all common international voltage supplies
and frequencies without the need to change voltage ranges. This power supply is also
internally protected in the case of a problem. It is important to note that the PowerLab
has a limited amount of power available for external devices. Because of these power
limitations, you should not use the PowerLab as a power source for external devices
other than those produced by ADInstruments.

28 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 The Analog Inputs
PowerLab input amplifiers have been designed with a considerable amount of
computer-controlled gain (up to × 2000). Thus it is possible to record a variety of signals
CAUTION: without any external pre-amplification. Each analog input is a separate DC amplifier with
programmable gain able to be set independently (the gain is set through the software
Applying more than
range control). The PowerLab inputs can be set by the software to be either single-
±15 V to
ended or differential. In the differential setting, the amplifier measures the difference
the input can damage
the input circuits. between the positive and negative inputs, irrespective of ground.
It is important to note that the PowerLab grounds the inputs to amplifiers not in use.
It also grounds each amplifier and measures the DC offset voltage when the gain is
changed. In this way, the software corrects for any DC drift or offset in the circuits that
may develop over time or between readings.
Input impedance is one megohm. On the 15T model PowerLab, the impedance between
the earthing stud (ground connection) and the input connector grounds is close to zero.

WARNING:
The Analog Outputs
The analog outputs provide computer-controlled variable outputs (±10 V) that can be
Analog outputs are used with the LabChart and Scope applications either directly as a stimulator, or to
not to be used for control peripheral devices. All stimulation voltage is generated by the PowerLab via the
connection to output sockets on the front of the PowerLab (marked Output + and –), giving positive,
human subjects.
negative, differential, depending on the sockets used and the software settings.

Figure 4-2
The analog output +10V
+
stage, set up for a -10V
From DAC
differential stiimulus
GND

+10V
-
-10V

By default, the outputs are used for complementary (differential) stimulation, where
Output + is positive and Output – is negative. When Output + is used, a positive stimulus
voltage (set up in LabChart or Scope) gives a positive voltage output, and a negative
voltage a negative one. When Output – is used, the voltage outputs are inverted. When
both output sockets are used, the stimulus is the difference between the voltages at the
positive and negative outputs: you could generate up to a 20-volt pulse, given a ±10 V
range setting.

29 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 The External Trigger
The external trigger input (not on PowerLab 15T) is marked ‘Trigger’ on the front panel
and provides a digital input for synchronizing sampling with external devices. It allows
either a voltage level or a contact closure to trigger recording. Note that for either mode
the trigger signal must be present for at least 3 μs to register as an event. When a trigger
event occurs, the indicator light will glow yellow.
When set up through software to use a voltage level, above which a rising edge trigger
event is registered, the external trigger level is 2 V. The external trigger input is off for
input voltages between –12 V and the external trigger level, and on between that level
and +12 V. The input will be overloaded if the voltage is outside the range –12 V to +12 V.
The trigger input is isolated whenset up for a voltage level.
The equivalent circuit of the external trigger has two diode protection.In the external
contact closure mode, the trigger input will respond to a direct short between the center
pin and outer ring of the BNC. This can be achieved with an external relay contact, a
manual push-button or a microswitch. The trigger input is not electrically isolated when
set up for contact closure.

Figure 4-3 +3.3V

The equivalent circuit Trigger
(BNC connector)
of the external trigger
1.2Kohm
input, when set up for Resistor

a voltage level
100pF
47Kohm
Resistor
The equivalent circuit for the external closure trigger is shown in Figure A–3. The BNC
input connects to a TTL circuit via a resistor circuit and has two-diode protection.

Figure 4-4 +3.3V

Trigger
The equivalent circuit
(BNC connector)
of the external trigger 47Kohm
1.2Kohm
input, when set up for Resistor Resistor
contact closure
100pF

In order for the external trigger to work, a voltage must be applied between the outer
ring and the inner pin of the connector. Applying a voltage just to the center pin may not
work.

30 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 Bio Amp Input (Inputs 3 & 4)
The PowerLab 15T and 26T have one common connector for two Bio Amp channels,
marked Bio Amp 3 & 4. These two independently controllable, electrically isolated,
biological amplifiers are suitable for a range of basic physiological measurements. The
two Bio Amp inputs are internally configured to use channels 3 and 4 of the PowerLab.
The Bio Amps have a common six-pin connector with a shared ground.
Each amplifier consists of an electrically isolated, AC coupled, differential amplifier with
programmable gain able to be set independently (the gain is set through the software
range control: the less the range, the more the gain). The gain is controlled by optically
isolated digital control signals from the nonisolated section. The signal is then applied
to an isolation amplifier which provides electrical isolation of the input stage from the
supply.
The non-isolated stage consists of a series of filters and amplifiers. The first part of the
stage is a high-pass filter designed to remove any DC components from the signal and
the isolated stage. This is followed by amplification and an active notch filter. The notch
can be turned on or off under software control as needed. The frequency of the notch
filter is automatically set to either 50 or 60 Hz to match the frequency of the connected
power supply.
The low-pass filter is an eighth-order, switched-capacitance, Bessel-type filter, with
a software-selectable range of frequencies. The output of the biological amplifier is
then passed to the standard PowerLab input amplifier circuit. On the PowerLab 26T an
amplifier connected to the output of the biological amplifier is used to provide an audio
output facility that can be used with headphones or powered speakers.

Auto
restore
Isolation amplifier

Figure 4-5 Signal +

HPF Output
Block diagram for one Input -

of the two
Reference Audio output(26T)
Bio Amplifiers
(Input 3 & 4) IGND

Gain control

IGND GND

HPF control

IGND GND

Isolation barrier

31 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 The Isolated Stimulator Output
The Isolated Stimulator output provides a software-controlled, isolated, constant-
current pulse stimulator that can be used for any general purpose stimulation.
The output stage consists of a high-voltage, constant-current source that can produce
pulses of variable duration and amplitude under full software control. The current source
can deliver pulses up to 20 mA at 100 V maximum compliance levels; its amplitude is
controlled by optically isolated digital control signals from the non-isolated section.
The output to the subject is through high-isolation optical couplers.
Software and hardware safety features limit the energy delivered by the pulses to within
international safety standards. The pulse duration of the stimulator can be set from 50
μs to 200 μs, and the pulse frequency can be adjusted between 1 pulse per minute and
20 pulses per second.
The Isolated Stimulator Pulse indicator is an LED that is used to indicate the current
status of the Stimulator. It will flash green forevery stimulus pulse, and may seem to
glow green constantly at higher stimulus frequencies. The OOC (out-of-compliance)
indicator is a yellow LED. When lit, it indicates that the output is overloaded or out of
compliance (compliance is the ability to supply voltage to meet the required current).
This means that the impedance of the tissue being stimulated is too high, or there is
a poor electrical connection (possibly due to electrode drying), and that the Isolated
Stimulator can no longer supply constant current stimulation. If this should happen, try
reducing the output current amplitude, and check all connections.

Figure 4-6
Stimulator Stimulate Output
Block diagram of the Transformer
Power
Isolated Stimulator driver
Supply
Stimulus Isolator
switch

Current setting DAC

Constant current source

Stimulate
Stimulator pulse
INDICATORS
safety control
Out of Compliance
Stimulate

Isolation amplifier

32 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 PowerLab Accuracy
The PowerLab was calibrated at the factory to an accuracy of better than 0.1%.
Some ‘zero drift’ or ‘gain drift’ can occur with time. This can affect the accuracy of
measurements, especially at the highest input gains. The unit can be recalibrated, but
in most circumstances this is not necessary in its lifetime.
Calibration facilities. It is good practice to calibrate a measuring system from the
transducer to the output. After applying two known values to a transducer (say at
20% and 80% of full scale) and recording the signal, you can use the units conversion
feature of ADInstruments software to convert and display transducer readings in the
appropriate units. This will compensate for any minor inaccuracies in amplifier gain and
transducer calibration.
DC drift compensation. When a recording is started manually or by triggering, or
the gain is changed, the input signal to the amplifier is grounded and any DC, due to
amplifier drift of temperature and age, is measured. The measured voltage is removed
from the input signal through software correction, in a process transparent to the user.

Connectors
This section of the appendix contains ‘pinout’ and electrical details of some of the
connectors fitted to the PowerLab. You should read it carefully before attempting to
connect cables other than those supplied with the unit to the PowerLab. Using cables
that are wired incorrectly can cause internal damage to the PowerLab and will void your
rights under warranty. For further information or advice please contact your nearest
ADInstruments representative.

Digital Input and Output

The digital input port and digital output port are 15-pin connectors situated on the back
panel of the PowerLab 26T. The eight digital input lines respond to 3.3 V logic signals
with a threshold of 1.2 V, and have a 10 kΩ input impedance. The eight digital output
lines can turn on and off, or signal to, up to eight external TTL devices. The digital output
lines are capable of driving 8 mA each.
The inputs and outputs conform to industry standard HCMOS structures powered with
a 5 V supply. The digital input and output ports both have a pin which can supply power
to solid-state relays or similar devices. Total aggregate current from these pins is 200
mA continuous at 5 V. The digital input signals should not exceed 5 V.
Note that any cables connected to either the digital input or output must be less than 3
m in length in order to maintain EMC compliance.

33 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 Figure 4-7
The pin assignments Digital Input Digital Output

OUT 1
OUT 2
OUT 3
OUT 4
OUT 5
OUT 6
OUT 7
OUT 8
for the digital input

IN 1
IN 2
IN 3
IN 4
IN 5
IN 6
IN 7
IN 8
and output
connectors
1 8 8 1
9 15 15 9

GROUND

GROUND
5V

5V
I2C Expansion Connector
The I2C port on the back panel of the PowerLab 26T provides expansion support for
ADInstruments front-ends. This port provides both power and control signals for these
front-ends. The I2C bus has a daisy-chain structure that allows simple connection
of additional front-ends to the system. A PowerLab can have as many front-ends
connected to it as it has analog input connections. You should not attempt to run other
external devices from the I2C port: it is designed for use only with ADInstruments front-
ends. Only 50 mA maximum current can be provided through this bus, so it should not
be used for third-party devices as they may draw more current.

Front-end power I2C control signals

UNREG+15V
UNREG-15V
UNREG+7V

Figure 4-8
DGND

The pin assignments

DSD
SDA
DSC

IN T
SCL

for the I2C connector

5 1
9 6

34 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 Figure 4-9
The pin assignments
for the analog inputs

Input Connectors
The input connectors (Figure 4–9) of the PowerLab 15T and 26T are 8-pin DIN connectors.
They allow the connection of ADInstruments pods — small, low-cost signal conditioners
for specific tasks, for use with precalibrated transducers. Transducers designed for
direct connection can be provided with power and control through the connectors.
Note that with the PowerLab 26T:
• ADInstruments front-ends, such as the FE221 Bridge Amp, can be used with
inputs 1 and 2 (but not inputs 3 or 4) by connecting them with the DIN-to-BNC
adaptor.
• When an ADInstruments pod is connected to either input 3 or 4, the corresponding
Bio Amp input is turned off.

USB Connection
PowerLabs have a USB 2.0 port, and connect to a computer with USB ports or a PCI
USB card installed, allowing high data transfer rates to USB 2.0- compliant computers
(slower transfer to USB 1.1-compliant computers).
The signal must be transmitted in a certain time; in practical terms this means cables
between any USB devices, including hubs, must be no more than 5 meters (16 feet) in
length, and with hubs in the chain, devices must be no more than 30 meters (98 feet)
from the computer. For proper use and reliable results, the PowerLab needs a high-
speed connection. Your PowerLab is supplied with a high-speed USB cable. If you
replace the USB cable, buy a high-speed cable (fully shielded, twisted-pair and standard
USB connections: a Type A plug at one end and a Type B plug at the other).

35 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 When devices that transfer a lot of information, such as scanners and video cameras,
are connected to the same USB tree and are used at the same time as a PowerLab,
sampling rates may be limited considerably (in LabChart) . All computers (both PC and
Macintosh) usually have several independent USB ports. Using these, rather than a hub,
to connect multiple devices will avoid them competing for capacity (bandwidth).
You can safely turn on or off, or disconnect or reconnect, a USB-connected PowerLab
while the computer remains on, as long as the application program is off when you do it.

Earthing and Ground Loop Noise

The prime function of earthing is safety, that is, protection against fatal electrocution.
Safety concerns should always override concerns about signal quality. Secondary
functions of earthing are to provide a reference potential for the electrical equipment
and to mitigate against interference.
The earthing (grounding) stud provided on the back panel of the PowerLab is a
potential equalization post and is compatible with the DIN 42801 standard. It is directly
connected to the earth pin of the power socket and the PowerLab chassis. The earthing
stud can be used where other electronic equipment is connected to the PowerLab, and
where conductive shields are used to reduce radiative electrical pick-up. Connection to
the stud provides a common earth for all linked devices and shields, to reduce ground-
loops.
The earthing stud can also be used where a suitable ground connection is not provided
with the mains supply by connecting the stud to an earthed metal infra-structure,
such as a metal stake driven into the ground, or metal water piping. This may also be
required in laboratories where safety standards require additional grounding protection
when equipment is connected to human subjects. Always observe the relevant safety
standards and instructions.
Note that magnetically-induced interference in the recorded signal can be reduced by
minimizing the loop area of signal cables, for example by twisting them together, or by
moving power supplies away from sensitive equipment. This can reduce the inductive
pick-up of mains frequency fields. Please consult a good text for further discussion of
noise reduction

36 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 Specifications

Analog Inputs
Number of input channels: 15T: 2 DIN
26T: 4 DIN

Configuration: DIN are single-ended or differential BNC are single-

ended
Amplification ranges: Range Resolution
± 10 V 313 μV
±5V 156 μV
±2V 62 μV
±1V 31 μV
± 500 mV 15 μV
± 200 mV 6 μV
± 50 mV 1.5 μV
± 20 mV 625 nV

Maximum input over-voltage: ± 15 V

Input impedance: 15T: 1 M150 pF
26T: 1 M150 pF (Inputs 1 & 2)
1 M150 pF (Inputs 3 & 4)
Input Coupling: DC or 0.15 Hz (software selectable)
-3dB bandwidth: 49 kHz
DC drift: Software corrected
CMRR: > 105 dB at a gain of 100
Interchannel crosstalk: > 90 dB
Signal-noise ratio: > 100 dB (± 10 V range)
Accuracy error: Less than 0.2 %
Non-linearity (max): 0.1 %
Filters - Low pass: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000, 2000 Hz
and Anti-alias
- Notch: Mains

37 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 POD Connectors (DIN)
General features: Combined power, I2C and single-ended or
differential analog input signals on one connector,
support SmartPod transducers, etc.
Supply voltage: ± 5 V regulated
Maximum current: 50 mA per pod connector
Communications: 2-wire I2C
Signal input: Positive and negative analog inputs and analog
return
Connector type: 8-pin DIN with metal surrounds

Sampling
ADC sampling: Simulaneous across channels
ADC resolution: 24-bits (16-bits resultant)
ADC linearity: ±0.0006 % FSR (INL)
Available sampling rates: 100 000 samples/s down to 10 min/sample

Bio Amp Input- Inputs 3 & 4 (PowerLab 15T & 26T)

Number of channels: 2
Input configuration: Differential with common isolated ground
Amplification ranges: Range Resolution
± 20 mV 625 nV
± 10 mV 313 nV
± 5 mV 156 nV
± 2 mV 62 nV
± 1 mV 31 nV
± 500 μV 15 nV
± 200 μV 6 nV
± 100 μV 3 nV

Gain accuracy: 1%
Non-linearity: 1%
Noise: < 1 μVrms (0.5 - 2 kHz)
Maximum input over-voltage: ± 5 V

38 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 Input leakage current: < 4 μArms @ 120 V, 60 Hz
< 4 μArms @ 240 V, 50 Hz
DC blocking: ±0.3 V
Baseline restoration: Automatic or user-controlled
Input impedance: 100 MΩ to isolated ground (~500 pF per lead) using
supplied Bio Amp subject cable and lead wires
Safety: IEC60601-1 approval
Isolation rating: 4000 V ACrms (1 minute)
IMRR: 130 dB
CMRR: 110 dB
Filters - High pass: Single pole 0.5 Hz and 10 Hz
- Low pass 10, 20, 50, 100, 250, 500, 1000, 2000 Hz
- Notch Mains
Audio output (26T only): Stereo ouput socket supplying an analog audio signal
from both bio amp channels. Suitable for earphones,
headphones and most externally powered speakers.
Output is 300 mV at full scale

Output Amplifier
Output configuration: 2 Outputs- Complementary
Output resolution: 16-bit
Maximum output current: 20 mA
Accuracy error: Less than 0.2 5
Linearity error: ±0.5 LSB (INL) (typical)
±0.5 LSB (DNL) (typical)
Output ranges: ± 10 V
±5V
±2V
±1V
± 500 mV
± 200 mV
Output slew rate: 2.3 V/μs
Settling time (G=1, 10 V step): 5 μs
Output impedance: 0.001 Ω

39 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 Isolated Stimulator Output (PowerLab 15T & 26T)
Output configuration: Constant-current stimulator with hardware limited
repitition rate
Isolation rating: 4000 Vrms to ground as per IEC60601-1
2000 Vrms to Bio Amp inputs
Pulse duration: 50 - 200 μs (software selectable)
Compliance voltage: 100 - 110 V typical
Output current: Software selectable, but hardware limited to a maximum
of 1000 Hz and 200 μs for safety
Safety indicators: Green and yellow indicators. Green flash indicates
delivery of a valid stimulus. Concurrent green and yellow
flash indicates an out-of-compliance condition.
Safety switch: Provides physical disconnection of the stimulator from
the subject.

External Trigger (not on PowerLab 15T)

Trigger mode: TTL level or contact closure, software selectable
Trigger threshold: +1.3 V (rising edge), +1.1 V (falling edge)
Hysteresis: 0.3 V
Input load: HCMOS
Maximum input over-voltage: ±12 V
Minimum event time: 3 μs

Expansion Ports (not on PowerLab 15T)

I2C expansion port: Power and control bus for front-end units. Supports a
number of front-ends equal to the number of PowerLab
analog inputs. Interface communications rate of up to 10
Kbits/s.
Digital ports (26T only)
- Output: 8 independent lines, TTL output level (8 mA maximum
load per line)
- Input: 8 independent lines, TTL input level, threshold 1.2 V, 10
kΩ input impedance, 5V maximum

Microprocessor and Data Communication

CPU: Digital Signal Processor – Freescale DSP56858
Data communication: Hi-speed USB 2.0 (max of 480 Mb/s transfer) compatible
with USB 1.1 hosts.

40 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 Physical Configuration
Dimensions (h × w × d): 65 mm × 200 mm × 250 mm (2.56" × 7.9" × 9.8")
Weight: 1.7 kg (3 lb 12 oz)

Operating Requirements
Operating voltage range: 95–264 V AC, 47–63 Hz
Rated Power: 35 VA
Power requirements: ~10 W
Operating conditions: 5–35 °C, 0–90% humidity (non-condensing)

Safety
Earth leakage current: Less than 300 μA
Safety device compatibility: 10 mA
Transport and
Storage conditions: 0–40 °C, 0–95% humidity (non-condensing)
Equipment: The PowerLab must be connected to safety earth via the
power supply cable to ensure electrical safety.

41 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 Regulatory Information
Safety: Complies with IEC 60601-1:2012 (tested by TÜV SÜD PSB,
Singapore)
EMC: Complies with IEC 60601-1-2:2014 (tested by EMC
Technologies, Sydney, Australia)

Operation: Continuous

Body protection rating

(Applied parts only): (BF)

Unsuitable uses: Do not use in the presence of flammable anaesthetic - air

mixtures. Avoid operating near high voltage, RF or strong
magnetic fields that may cause interference.
Method of Disposal: Forward to recycling centre or return to manufacturer.

ADInstruments reserves the right to alter these specifications at any time.

42 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 Immunity test IEC 60601 test level Compliance level Electromagnetic environment
guidance

Conducted RF 3 Vrms 3V Recommended separation

IEC 61000-4-6 150 kHz to 80 MHz distance
(see TableB–2 p. 50)

Radiated RF 3 V/m 3 V/m Recommended separation

IEC 61000-4-3 80 MHz to 2.7 GHz distance
(see TableB–2 p. 50)

Electrostatic discharge ±8 kV contact ±4 kV contact Floors should be wood,

IEC61000-4-2 ±15 kV air ±8 kV air concrete or ceramic tile.
If floors are covered with synthetic
material, the relative humidity
should be at least 30%.

Electrical fast transient/ ±2 kV for power supply ±2 kV for power supply Mains power quality
burst lines lines should be that of a typical
IEC61000-4-4 commercial or hospital
environment.

Surge ±0.5, 1 kV line-line ±0.5, 1 kV line-line Mains power quality

IEC 61000-4-5 ±0.5, 1, 2 kV line-ground ±0.5, 1, 2 kV line-ground should be that of a typical
commercial or hospital
environment.

Voltage dips, short <5% UT (>95 % dip in <5% UT (>95% dip in Mains power quality
interruptions and UT) for 0.5 cycle UT) for 0.5 cycle should be that of a typical
voltage variations commercial or hospital
on power supply 40% UT (60% dip in UT) 40% UT (60% dip in UT) environment. If the
input lines for 5 cycles for 5 cycles user of the devices
IEC61000-4-11 require continued operation
70% UT (30% dip in UT) 70% UT (30% dip in UT) during power mains
for 25 cycles for 25 cycles interruptions, it is recommended
that the devices
<5% UT (>95% dip in be powered from an
UT) for 5 sec uninterruptible power
supply or a battery.
Power frequency 3 A/m 3 A/m Power frequency magnetic
(50/60Hz) magnetic fields should be at
field levels characteristic of a
IEC 61000-4-8 typical location in a typical
commercial or hospital
environment.

Table 4-1 Immunity Test compliance

43 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 Electromagnetic Compatibility
The PL15T02 PowerLab 15T and PL26T04 PowerLab 26T (the devices) have been tested
to comply with IEC 60601-1-2:2014. The relevant basic EMC standards are IEC 61000-4-2,
IEC 61000-4-3, IEC 61000-4-6, IEC 61000-4-8, IEC 61000-4-11 and CISPR 11.

Emissions
• The devices are suitable for use in all establishments other than domestic
and those directly connected to the public low-voltage power supply network
that supplies buildings used for domestic purposes. There may be potential
difficulties in ensuring electromagnetic compatibility in other environments, due
to conducted as well as radiated disturbances.

Immunity
• Mains power quality should be that of a typical commercial or hospital
environment. If the user of the device requires continued operation during
power mains interruptions, it is recommended that the device be powered from
an uninterruptible power supply or a battery.
• Power frequency magnetic fields should be at levels characteristic of a typical
location in a typical commercial or hospital environment.
• Floors should be wood, concrete or ceramic tile. If floors are covered with
synthetic material, the relative humidity should be at least 30%.

Separation Distances
• The devices are intended for use in an electromagnetic environment in which
radiated RF disturbances are controlled.
• Portable and mobile RF communications equipment should be used no closer
to any part of the device, including cables, than the recommended separation
distance in the table below.
• Field strengths from fixed RF transmitters, as determined by an electromagnetic
site survey, should be less than the compliance level in each frequency range.

Separation distance
Rated maximum output
150 kHz to 800 MHz 800 MHz to 2.7 GHz
power of transmitter, P
d = 1.17√P d = 2.33√P
0.01 W 0.1 m 0.2 m
0.1 W 0.4 m 0.7 m
1W 1.2 m 2.3 m
10 W 3.7 m 7.4 m
100 W 11.7 m 23.4 m

44 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 Troubleshooting

This section describes most of the common problems that can occur when using your Power-
Lab unit. It covers how these problems are caused and what you can do to alleviate them. If
the solutions here do not work, earlier chapters or your software guide may contain possible
remedies. If none of the solutions here or elsewhere appears to help, then consult your ADIn-
struments distributor.

Most of the problems that users encoutner are connection problems and can usually be fixed
by checking connections and starting up the hardware and software again. Very rarely will
there be a problem with the PowerLab itself.

Problems
The Power Indicator light is off, even though the Power cable is plugged into the mains
and is turned on

This may be because a fuse has blown.

• However, first check and see if the switch on the Rear panel has been turned on. If not,
turn it on and then check if the Power indicator light turns on.
• If it doesn't, inspect the replaceable fuses and replace if necessary. Refer to section
'Checking and replacing fuses' in Chapter 2. If this still doesn't fix the problem, contact
your local technical support office.

The fuse drawer may have been dislodged in handling or transport. Ensure it is seated cor-
rectly by pushing firmly against it with a finger.

The Status indicators fail to light up when the software is started, or the device commands
do not appear where they should

The I2C cable or one or more BNC-to-BNC cables from the front-end to the PowerLab are not
connected, have been connected incorrectly (to the wrong input or output, for instance), or are
loose.
• Turn everything off. Check to see that all cables are firmly seated and screwed in. BNC
cables from the front end must be connected to a positive input on the PowerLab. Make

45 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 sure the input is the same channel from which you expect to use the front end in the
software. Start up again to see if this has fixed the problem.

You are using an early version of the software. You must be using version 7 or higher of Lab-
Chart.
• Upgrade to the latest version of the software. Contact your ADInstruments distributor
for information.

The BNC or I2C cable is faulty

• Replace the cable and try again. Immediately label all cables proved faulty so that you
don’t use them again by accident.

The PowerLab, or a portion of it, is faulty

• This is the least likely event. Contact your ADInstruments distributor to arrange for
repairs

On starting up the software, an alert indicates that there is a problem with the PowerLab
or driver

The correct drivers are not installed on your computer (LabChart has them built in).
• Reinstall the software.

You are using an early version of the software. You must be using version 7 or higher of Lab-
Chart.
• Upgrade to the latest version of the software. Contact your ADInstruments distributor
for information.

The BNC or I2C cable is faulty

• Replace the cable and try again. Immediately label all cables proved faulty so that you
don’t use them again by accident.

The PowerLab, or a portion of it, is faulty

• This is the least likely event. Contact your ADInstruments distributor to arrange for
repairs

The Stimulator Status indicator shows yellow

This means that the Stimulator is out of compliance (OOC). You could be attempting stimula-
tion while the output safety switch is turned off (in the down position).
• Turn the safety switch on (move to the up position).

The impedance of the tissue could be too high for the Stimulator to supply constant current at
the level requested, or there is an inadequate electrical connection to the subject.
• Reduce the output current amplitude.
• Check the connections for proper contact and try again. Ensure the connection is not
dry (apply electrode cream) and that the leads are properly connected.

46 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 The Bio Amp trace will not zero properly when adjusting high-pass filtering

This Bio Amp is receiving signals at a level that has saturated the input amplifier, resulting in a
large offset. This is normally due to poor contact between the electrodes and the subject.
• Check the connections for proper contact and try again.

The Bio Amp signal appears to display a constant amplitude oscillation

Frequency interference from power lines can become superimposed on the biological signal
being measured.
• You can use the internal notch filter in the Bio Amp to remove the excessive line voltage
frequency interference (use the checkbox in the Bio Amplifier dialog box).

If you are using cables and leads that were not supplied with your PowerLab, they may be
unshielded or of low quality
• Check to make sure that you are using high-quality shielded cables and high-quality
leads. Only the supplied cables and leads should really be used.

The Bio Amp signal is noisy at lower ranges

This is probably the amplified noise from the electrodes, not a fault as such. There is, in addi-
tion, noise that cannot be avoided by any amplifier (called 'thermal' or 'Johnson' noise).
• Set the low-pass filter to remove the noise. (But be careful, since important components
of the signal could also be attenuated).

This could be due to an electrically noisy environment, particularly if there is some equipment
that produces a radio frequency that interacts with the Bio Amp modulator, giving a hetero-
dyne effect
• Turn off pieces of unnecessary equipment to try and isolate the cause, then either leave
the equipment off, or, if possible, move the subject or equipment outside the area of
any interfering field.
• At the lowest ranges you may have to shield, shorten or even replace the Bio Amp leads,
since they will tend to act as radio receptors.

The Bio Amp signal appears to be unusual, very weak, clipped or distorted in some way

This may be a problem of technique: the sampling rate, range or filter settings may be inappro-
priate for the signal you are recording.
• Make sure the settings are appropriate for the expected signal.

You may be using the wrong Bio Amp cable. The 3-lead Bio Amp cable used with the single Bio
Amp has a different pin arrangement and cannot be used with the Dual Bio Amp/ Stimulator
front- end.
• Use the correct, supplied 5-lead Bio Amp cable.

47 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 PowerLab LED Error Sequences

Table 5.1 below lists all the system, error and fault messages that are generated during
PowerLab operation.

Errors are displayed by one Yellow LED flash, followed by a number of SHORT/LONG Red Flashes
which are specified for each error in the 'Red Light Sequence' of Table 5.1.
The response to fatal errors is to display a red flashing status light. The light will repear a yellow
flash followed by a number of red flashes. If there are 1 to 4 red flashes, they correspond to
errors 1 to 4. If there are five red flashes, they will consist of long and short flashes corresponding
to the binary representation of the absolute value of the five-bit error code.
For example, Abs (–13) => 01101 => short, long, long, short, long.
In this state the PowerLab will not respond to any communications.

48 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

Table 5.1

Er ror Red Light Sequence Meaning F a t a l / Error Name

No. Non-Fatal
-2 LNG, LNG RAM test failed Fatal eRAMFailure

-4 LNG, LNG, LNG, LNG ROM check sum was wrong Fatal eROMCheckBad

-7 SHRT, SHRT, LNG, LNG, LNG Required resource missing Non-Fatal eRsrcMissing

-8 SHRT, LNG, SHRT, SHRT, SHRT Real–time clock won't reset or increment Non-Fatal eClkBad

-11 SHRT, LNG, SHRT, LNG, LNG Command FIFO flags don't read correctly Non-Fatal eCmdFIFO

-12 SHRT, LNG, LNG, SHRT, SHRT ADC FIFO flags don't read correctly Non-Fatal eADCFIFO

-13 SHRT, LNG, LNG, SHRT, LNG DAC FIFO flags don't read correctly Non-Fatal eDACFIFO

-14 SHRT, LNG, LNG, LNG, SHRT DAC state machine won't run Non-Fatal eDACSysBad

-15 SHRT, LNG, LNG, LNG, LNG ADC state machine won't run Non-Fatal eADCTimeOut

-16 LNG, SHRT, SHRT, SHRT, SHRT ADC bad zero: p == value read Non-Fatal eADCZero

-17 LNG, SHRT, SHRT, SHRT, SHRT EEROM wouldn't read Non-Fatal eEEROMBad

-18 LNG, SHRT, SHRT, LNG, SHRT ADC FIFO capacity/speed tests failed Non-Fatal eADCSysBad

-30 LNG, LNG, LNG, LNG, SHRT ADC won’t read consistently Non-Fatal eChanNoisy

49 PowerLab Teaching Series - Owner’s Guide

 Glossary

AC coupling. A filter option. When AC coupling is chosen, a 0.1 Hz highpass filter before the
first amplification stage removes DC and frequency components below 0.1 Hz. This removes
slowly changing baselines.

ADC (analog-to-digital converter). A device that converts analog information into some cor-
responding digital voltage or current.

amplitude. The maximum vertical distance of a periodic wave from the zero or mean position
about which the wave oscillates.

analog. Varying smoothly and continuously over a range. An analog signal varies continuously
over time, rather than changing in discrete steps.

analog input. This refers to the connectors on the front of the PowerLab marked ‘Input’. These
inputs are designed to accept up to ±10 volts. Inputs can be either single-sided or differential
(the latter only in the case of the pod connectors).

analog output. This refers to the connectors on the front of the PowerLab marked ‘Output’.
The analog output provides a software-controlled variable output (±10 V) that can be used
with applications either directly as a stimulator, or to control peripheral devices. Not for use
with human subjects.

analysis. When the PowerLab is not physically connected to the computer, then ADInstru-
ments software can be used to analyze and manipulate existing files if the analysis option is
chosen.

Applied Part. A part which necessarily comes into physical contact with the subject during
normal use

BNC (bayonet nut connector). A type of cable or connector; a BNC-to-BNC cable connects two
BNC connectors.

bridge transducer. A type of transducer using a Wheatstone bridge circuit. In its basic form,
the bridge consists of four two-terminal elements (usually strain gauges) connected to form a
quadrilateral. An excitation source is connected across one diagonal, and the transducer out-
put is taken across the other.

50 PowerLab - Owner’s Guide

 bus. A data-carrying electrical pathway (cables and connectors).

connector. A plug, socket, jack or port used to connect one electronic device to another (via a
cable): a PowerLab to a computer, say.

CPU (central processing unit). A hardware device that performs logical and arithmetical op-
erations on data as specified in the instructions: the heart of most computers.

DAC (digital-to-analog converter). A device that converts digital information into some cor-
responding analog voltage or current.

DC offset. The amount of DC (direct current) voltage present at the output of an amplifier
when zero voltage is applied to the input; or the amount of DC voltage present in a transducer
in its equilibrium state.

differential input. Input using both positive and negative inputs on a PowerLab. The recorded
signal is the difference between the positive and negative input voltages: if both were fed ex-
actly the same signal, zero would result. Can reduce the noise from long leads.

DIN (Deutsche Industrie Norm). A type of cable or connector; there are various sorts with dif-
ferent numbers of pins.

envelope form. The overall shape of a signal, outlined by the minimum and maximum record-
ed values. Often used to display quickly changing signals.

excitation voltage. The voltage supplied to a bridge circuit from which the transducer out-
put signal is derived. Manipulating the transducer changes the measurement elements of the
bridge circuit, producing a change in its output voltage.

external trigger. The input connector on the front of the PowerLab marked ‘Trigger’. This lets
you start recording from an external source. The trigger level (the voltage needed to have an
effect) depends on the hardware and cannot be changed. Recording can also be triggered by
contact closure, if this is set up in the software.

filter. An electronic device or a program that alters data in accordance with specific criteria.
Filters in hardware and software can be used to reduce or to eliminate electronic noise or drift
from data readings.

frequency. The number of complete cycles per second of a waveform. Frequency is usually
expressed in hertz: Hz (cycles per second), kilohertz: kHz (thousands of cycles per second), or
megahertz: MHz (millions of cycles per second).

frequency response. The bandwidth in which a circuit passes a signal without too much at-
tenuation. A low-pass filter’s frequency response is the frequency where the output voltage
becomes 0.707 (1/Ð2) of the input voltage or has been attenuated by 3 decibels. If a low-pass
filter has a frequency response of 200 Hz, say, then the signal is effectively unattenuated up to
150 Hz, and is 0.707 of the original value at 200 Hz.

front-end. An ancillary device that extends PowerLab capabilities, providing additional signal
conditioning and features for specialized work. Front-ends are recognized automatically by the
PowerLab system and seamlessly integrated into its applications, operating under full software
control.

51 PowerLab - Owner’s Guide

 gain. The amount of amplification of a signal.

half-bridge transducer. A bridge transducer only using half of the full-bridge circuit. It consists
of two elements of equal value with an excitation voltage applied across them. The output of
the transducer is taken at the junction of the two elements.

Hertz (Hz). The unit of frequency of vibration or oscillation, defined as the number of cycles
per second. For example, the minimum sampling rate for a human ECG experiment should be
400 Hz (400 samples/s).

high-pass filter (HPF). A filter that passes high-frequency signals, but filters low ones, by
blocking DC voltages and attenuating frequencies below a certain value (the cut-off, or –3 dB,
frequency).

I2C (‘eye-squared-sea’). This connection is used by the PowerLab to control front-ends. It

provides power and communication using a 4-wire serial bus (two wires for standard I2C and
two control lines).

IEC. International Electrotechnical Commission.

IEC60601-1. An IEC standard applicable to medical devices. Equipment compliant with this
standard gives a high degree of protection from electrical and other hazards.

LabChart. An ADInstruments software application that emulates a multichannel chart record-

er, with other powerful options. (Macintosh and Windows versions differ slightly.)

Lt. An ADInstruments cloud based application for teaching that integrates an experiment pro-
tocol, real-time data acquisition, analysis and reporting as interactive pages in a web browser.

low-pass filter (LPF). A filter that passes low-frequency signals and DC voltages, but filters
high ones, attenuating frequencies above a certain value (the cut-off, or –3 dB, frequency).

TTL (transistor-transistor logic). A family of integrated circuits (ICs) with bipolar circuit logic,
used in computers and related devices.
TTL is also a standard for interconnecting such ICs, defining the voltages
used to represent logical zeroes and ones (binary 0 and 1).

USB. Universal Serial Bus.

waveform. The shape of a wave; a graph of a wave’s amplitude over time.

52 PowerLab - Owner’s Guide