Neural Recording Systems Comparison

​Understanding Different Technologies for Neural Data Acquisition

When to Choose DSPW RCB Products
✅ Perfect Match (Choose DSPW):
  • Need real-time streaming for immediate data access
  • Freely-moving animal behavior studies
  • Using Intan RHD2000 headstages already
  • Working with Open Ephys GUI workflow
  • 32 channels sufficient for your application
  • Rat-sized or larger animals
  • Implanted electrodes (intracranial, depth, arrays)
  • Multi-hour recording sessions (battery life)
  • Standard Wi-Fi infrastructure acceptable
  • Research-grade data quality required
  • Publication-quality results needed
  • Budget-constrained projects - RCB is optimized for labs with limited search resources

⚠️ Consider Carefully (May Work):
  • Mouse-sized animals - weight constraints may be challenging
  • Very long recording sessions - battery swapping may be needed
  • More than 32 channels - single RCB supports up to 32
  • Surface electrodes - technically possible but not optimized

❌ Not Ideal (Consider Alternatives):
  • Need multi-day continuous recording → Data logger better suited
  • Surface EEG cap studies → Dedicated EEG system needed
  • Human research → Different regulatory/safety requirements
  • Consumer wellness applications → Consumer devices appropriate
  • No computer access during recording → Data logger needed
  • Non-Intan headstage systems → Incompatible interface
  • More than 32 channels → Different system needed

Competitive Landscape Note
⚠️ Verify Product Availability:
When comparing wireless neural recording options:
  • ✅ Confirm the company is still in business (2025)
  • ✅ Verify the product is currently available for purchase
  • ✅ Check that technical support is still provided
  • ✅ Ensure software/firmware updates are maintained
  • ✅ Validate documentation is current

Some wireless neural recording products referenced in older literature are no longer available.
DSPW is actively operating with:
  • Current product availability
  • Ongoing development
  • Full technical support
  • Regular software updates
  • Active presence at major conferences (NIH BRAIN, SFN)

System Requirements for DSPW RCB-W24x-LVDS
Required Components:
Electrodes: Any compatible with your headstage - Your choice of vendor- Neuronexus or similar- Link:www.neuronexus.com
Headstage: Intan RHD2132 or RHD2216 series with LVDS - Intan Technologies - link: intantech.com/index.html 
Wireless Interface: RCB-W24A or RCB-W24B - DSP Wireless
Wi-Fi Router: 2.4 GHz, 802.11 b/g/n - Most COTS routers. We use TP-Link Archer AX21 for testing.
Computer: Windows10/11, (Mac, Linux soon) - Your lab equipment
Recording Software: Open Ephys GUI + DSPW pluginFree (Open Ephys) - Free download - link: open-ephys.org 

Cost Considerations
Initial Investment:
DSPW RCB System:
  • Medium upfront cost (low cost for research equipment)
  • Uses standard Wi-Fi equipment (low cost)
  • Compatible with existing Intan headstages
  • Free recording software (Open Ephys)
  • No proprietary infrastructure required
Ongoing Costs:
  • Minimal ongoing costs
  • Standard Wi-Fi equipment maintenance
  • Battery replacement (rechargeable)
  • No subscription or licensing fees
  • Free software updates
Alternative Systems:
  • Data loggers: Higher cost range
  • Other Wi-Fi solutions: More than 32 channels, Higher cost range
  • Proprietary wireless: Often higher cost with proprietary receivers

Quick Selection Matrix
​Answer these questions to determine fit:
  1. Need real-time data? → If YES: DSPW  | If NO: Data Logger OK
  2. Implanted electrodes? → If YES: DSPW or Data Logger | If NO: Check alternatives
  3. Using Intan headstages? → If YES: DSPW perfect match | If NO: Check compatibility
  4. Animal research? → If YES: DSPW or Data Logger | If NO: Check alternatives
  5. Publication quality needed? → If YES: DSPW or Data Logger | If NO: Consumer OK
  6. 32 channels sufficient? → If YES: DSPW works | If NO: Check alternatives
  7. Multi-day recording? → If YES: Data Logger better | If NO: DSPW works

Additional Resources
  • Detailed specifications: See Product page
  • Technical documentation: See Downloads page
  • Application examples: Contact DSPW
  • Custom requirements: Contact DSPW 

Questions about which system is right for you?
Contact DSP Wireless:
  • www.dspwi.com
  • Describe your specific research application
  • We'll help determine if DSPW RCB is the right fit

Last Updated: October 2025