Frequently Asked Questions – DSPW Wireless Neuroscience Tools
Short version
General information
Question: Does DSPW make wireless Wi-Fi interfaces for Intan RHD2000 headstages and ICs?
Answer: Yes. DSPW offers multiple battery-powered solutions for 16 and 32 channel Intan RHD devices.
Question: What is the max sampling rate of the DSPW wireless interface?
Answer: Up to 30 kS/s per channel for 28 channels or less, 20 kS/s per channel for 32 channels.
Question: How long does the RCB-W4x-LVDS battery last when streaming data?
Answer: Approximately 1 to 6 hours of continuous streaming data depending on battery size, use, active channels and sample rate.
Question: How long does the RCB-W4x-LVDS battery last when powered on in standby mode, waiting for start stream command?
Answer: Approximately 6 to 48 hours standby time depending on battery size.
Question: Can I use DSPW RCB-W24x-LVDS devices with Open Ephys GUI?
Answer: Yes. We provide a Plugin to integrate DSPW wireless modules seamlessly with Open Ephys GUI.
Question: Which computer platforms (OS) does the DSPW RCB Wi-Fi Plugin for Open Ephys GUI support?
Answer: Our Plugin supports Windows 10/11, MacOS, and Linux. Contact DSPW for specific OS version support.
Answer: Yes. DSPW offers multiple battery-powered solutions for 16 and 32 channel Intan RHD devices.
Question: What is the max sampling rate of the DSPW wireless interface?
Answer: Up to 30 kS/s per channel for 28 channels or less, 20 kS/s per channel for 32 channels.
Question: How long does the RCB-W4x-LVDS battery last when streaming data?
Answer: Approximately 1 to 6 hours of continuous streaming data depending on battery size, use, active channels and sample rate.
Question: How long does the RCB-W4x-LVDS battery last when powered on in standby mode, waiting for start stream command?
Answer: Approximately 6 to 48 hours standby time depending on battery size.
Question: Can I use DSPW RCB-W24x-LVDS devices with Open Ephys GUI?
Answer: Yes. We provide a Plugin to integrate DSPW wireless modules seamlessly with Open Ephys GUI.
Question: Which computer platforms (OS) does the DSPW RCB Wi-Fi Plugin for Open Ephys GUI support?
Answer: Our Plugin supports Windows 10/11, MacOS, and Linux. Contact DSPW for specific OS version support.
Long version
Table of Contents (FAQ is under development)
Table of Contents (FAQ is under development)
General Questions
What is DSP Wireless?
DSP Wireless (DSPW) designs, develops, and sells wireless Wi-Fi interfaces for neuroscience and electrophysiology research. Researchers can record neural data from freely-moving animals without cables.
Who are DSPW products designed for?
Neuroscience labs, electrophysiology labs, and universities for brain, behavior, and neural circuit studies.
Where is DSP Wireless located?
Portsmouth, New Hampshire, USA.
What is DSP Wireless?
DSP Wireless (DSPW) designs, develops, and sells wireless Wi-Fi interfaces for neuroscience and electrophysiology research. Researchers can record neural data from freely-moving animals without cables.
Who are DSPW products designed for?
Neuroscience labs, electrophysiology labs, and universities for brain, behavior, and neural circuit studies.
Where is DSP Wireless located?
Portsmouth, New Hampshire, USA.
Products
What is the RCB-W24A-LVDS?
The RCB-W24A-LVDS is our head-mounted wireless Wi-Fi interface for Intan RHD2000 electrophysiology headstages. It's a lightweight, battery-powered module with a small battery optimized for head mounting. It streams 32 channels of neural data at 20,000 samples per second over standard Wi-Fi networks while minimizing weight burden on the animal.
What is the RCB-W24B-LVDS?
The RCB-W24B-LVDS is our jacket or table-mounted wireless interface with a larger battery for extended recording sessions. While heavier than the W24A, it provides longer battery life and the weight can be distributed via a jacket or table mount rather than head-mounted. It maintains the same core functionality: 32-channel streaming, Wi-Fi connectivity, and compatibility with Open Ephys.
Choosing Between Models
Which model should I choose: W24A or W24B?
Choose RCB-W24A if:
Both models have identical core capabilities (32 channels, 20 ksps, Wi-Fi streaming, Open Ephys compatibility). The choice depends on your mounting preference and battery life requirements. Standby time is many hours with either model.
Contact us to discuss which model best fits your specific experimental needs.
RCB-W24A-LVDS
What is the RCB-W24A-LVDS?
The RCB-W24A-LVDS is our head-mounted wireless Wi-Fi interface for Intan RHD2000 electrophysiology headstages. It's a lightweight, battery-powered module with a small battery optimized for head mounting. It streams 32 channels of neural data at 20,000 samples per second over standard Wi-Fi networks while minimizing weight burden on the animal.
What is the RCB-W24B-LVDS?
The RCB-W24B-LVDS is our jacket or table-mounted wireless interface with a larger battery for extended recording sessions. While heavier than the W24A, it provides longer battery life and the weight can be distributed via a jacket or table mount rather than head-mounted. It maintains the same core functionality: 32-channel streaming, Wi-Fi connectivity, and compatibility with Open Ephys.
Choosing Between Models
Which model should I choose: W24A or W24B?
Choose RCB-W24A if:
- You need head-mounted configuration
- Weight is a critical concern (natural behavior studies)
- Your recording sessions are typically 1 hour or less continuous streaming data.
- Maximum mobility and minimal burden required
- Animal's natural head movement is important
- You can use jacket or table mounting
- You need extended battery life for longer sessions
- Weight can be distributed (jacket-mounted)
- Recording sessions extend beyond 1 hour continues streaming duration
Both models have identical core capabilities (32 channels, 20 ksps, Wi-Fi streaming, Open Ephys compatibility). The choice depends on your mounting preference and battery life requirements. Standby time is many hours with either model.
Contact us to discuss which model best fits your specific experimental needs.
RCB-W24A-LVDS
- Headmount device for rat or larger animal model.
- Wireless Wi-Fi interface for Intan RHD2132 and RHD2216 headstages
- Use as an Intan headstage "Hat". Slide your existing Intan headstage into the board guides.
- 32 channels, 20 ksps per channel, 16 channels 30 ksps per channel
- Battery-powered, lightweight, uses DSPW battery board and DSPW battery charger.
- Jacket mount on animal larger than rat or table mount.
- Wireless Wi-Fi interface for Intan RHD2132 and RHD2216 headstages
- 32 channels, 20 ksps per channel, 16 channels 30 ksps per channel
- 12-pin Omnetics connector for Intan SPI cable attachment.
- Battery powered. Replaceable, rechargeable battery. COTS battery charger.
- W24A is smaller and lighter. Headmount device. Multi-board solution.
- W24B is larger and heavier. Jacket mount. Plastic PLA enclosure.
- Both support up to 32 simultaneous channels at 20 ksps per channel
- Both support up to 16 simultaneous channels at 30 ksps per channel
Compatibility
Is it compatible with Intan headstages?
Yes! Our RCB WiFi products are specifically designed to work with Intan RHD2000-series headstages via LVDS (Low-Voltage Differential Signaling) interface. If your headstage uses Intan RHD2132 or RHD2216 amplifier chips with LVDS output, it should be compatible.
Intan headstage compatibility
- Designed for Intan RHD2132 and RHD2216 headstages.
- Not compatible with RHD2164 headstages.
- DSPW RCB devices use the same 12-pin Omnetics connector used by Intan
DSPW solutions work with Intan SPI cables. - Link: intantech.com/RHD_SPI_cables.html
Does it work with Open Ephys?
Absolutely. We provide the DSPW RCB Wi-Fi Plugin for Open Ephys GUI, which enables seamless integration with Open Ephys software (versions 0.6.7 and 1.0). This allows real-time recording and visualization of your wireless neural data.
Open Ephys integration
- Supports Open Ephys GUI (v0.6.7 and v1.x) with DSPW RCB Wi-Fi Plugin
- Windows 10/11 available today.
- MacOS and Linux available soon.
What software do I need?
You can use any of our FREE software options:
Software options
- Open Ephys GUI (recommended)
- Custom software via Network API
- Matlab/Octave and Python scripts are being developed.
Do I need special Wi-Fi equipment?
No! Our products work with commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) Wi-Fi routers. Most standard 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi router (802.11 b/g/n) will work. We use TP-Link routers in our testing.
Wi-Fi requirements
- Standard 2.4 GHz routers. We use TP-Link routers
- No special hardware needed
Our RCB devices are designed for rat-sized or larger animal models. The lightweight design minimizes burden on the animal while maintaining robust wireless connectivity.
Supported animal models
- Rats, rabbits, and rat-sized or larger animals
What do I need to get started?
- DSPW RCB-W24x-LVDS wireless interface device
- Intan RHD2132 or RHD2216 headstage (purchased separately from Intan Technologies)
- Intan SPI cable (if not using RCB-W24A which has integrated carrier)Wi-Fi router
Technical Questions
How does wireless streaming work?
The RCB module connects directly to your Intan headstage via LVDS interface. It digitizes and transmits the neural data over Wi-Fi to your recording computer running Open Ephys GUI or custom software. The system uses standard Wi-Fi protocols for reliable, real-time streaming.
What is the wireless range?
Range depends on your Wi-Fi router and environment, but typically 3-10 meters with standard COTS routers. For larger experimental spaces, you can use Wi-Fi range extenders or multiple access points or use wired Ethernet cable from router to PC. Range is increased in open air, reduced if there are doors or walls.
Is the data quality as good as wired systems?
Yes. Our wireless systems are designed to maintain research-grade data quality. With proper setup (see Application Note AP1: Maximizing Data Integrity), you can achieve publication-quality recordings comparable to traditional tethered systems.
How long does the battery last?
Battery life depends on RCB version, usage patterns and recording duration. You should see 1 hour of continuous streaming data for the smaller battery versions, 4 hours plus with the larger battery versions. Specific runtime information is provided in the user manuals. Batteries are rechargeable for repeated use.
Can I record EEG, EMG, or ECG signals?
Yes! While optimized for neural recording, our RCB products can record any bioelectric signals that the Intan RHD2000 amplifiers support, including EEG, EMG, and ECG.
What about latency?
DSPW wireless streaming maintains low latency suitable for real-time applications. Specific latency characteristics depend on your Wi-Fi network configuration and recording software.
How does wireless streaming work?
The RCB module connects directly to your Intan headstage via LVDS interface. It digitizes and transmits the neural data over Wi-Fi to your recording computer running Open Ephys GUI or custom software. The system uses standard Wi-Fi protocols for reliable, real-time streaming.
What is the wireless range?
Range depends on your Wi-Fi router and environment, but typically 3-10 meters with standard COTS routers. For larger experimental spaces, you can use Wi-Fi range extenders or multiple access points or use wired Ethernet cable from router to PC. Range is increased in open air, reduced if there are doors or walls.
Is the data quality as good as wired systems?
Yes. Our wireless systems are designed to maintain research-grade data quality. With proper setup (see Application Note AP1: Maximizing Data Integrity), you can achieve publication-quality recordings comparable to traditional tethered systems.
How long does the battery last?
Battery life depends on RCB version, usage patterns and recording duration. You should see 1 hour of continuous streaming data for the smaller battery versions, 4 hours plus with the larger battery versions. Specific runtime information is provided in the user manuals. Batteries are rechargeable for repeated use.
Can I record EEG, EMG, or ECG signals?
Yes! While optimized for neural recording, our RCB products can record any bioelectric signals that the Intan RHD2000 amplifiers support, including EEG, EMG, and ECG.
What about latency?
DSPW wireless streaming maintains low latency suitable for real-time applications. Specific latency characteristics depend on your Wi-Fi network configuration and recording software.
Purchase & Ordering Questions
How do I purchase an RCB product?
Visit our website at www.dspwi.com and go to the Store page. You can also contact us directly for quotes, product availability, and ordering information.
Are products available for immediate purchase?
Product availability varies. Typically we build to order. Check our Recent News section on the homepage for availability info.
Do you ship internationally?
Not at this time. We currently ship to the US only.
Can I try before I buy?
Not available at this time. Contact us to inquire when demo units or evaluation opportunities might happen.
How do I purchase an RCB product?
Visit our website at www.dspwi.com and go to the Store page. You can also contact us directly for quotes, product availability, and ordering information.
Are products available for immediate purchase?
Product availability varies. Typically we build to order. Check our Recent News section on the homepage for availability info.
Do you ship internationally?
Not at this time. We currently ship to the US only.
Can I try before I buy?
Not available at this time. Contact us to inquire when demo units or evaluation opportunities might happen.
Setup & Support Questions
Is it difficult to set up?
Setup is straightforward for researchers familiar with electrophysiology equipment. Our user manuals provide step-by-step instructions for hardware connection, Wi-Fi configuration, and software setup.
What documentation is available?
We provide:
Do you provide technical support?
Yes. Contact us through our website for technical support, troubleshooting assistance, and questions about your specific research application.
Can you help with custom configurations?
We're happy to discuss your specific research needs. Contact us to explore whether custom configurations or modifications are possible for your application.
Is it difficult to set up?
Setup is straightforward for researchers familiar with electrophysiology equipment. Our user manuals provide step-by-step instructions for hardware connection, Wi-Fi configuration, and software setup.
What documentation is available?
We provide:
- RCB User Manuals (comprehensive setup and operation guides)
- Network API Documentation (for custom software development)
- Application Notes (best practices and troubleshooting)
- Video tutorials on our YouTube channel (@dspwireless)
Do you provide technical support?
Yes. Contact us through our website for technical support, troubleshooting assistance, and questions about your specific research application.
Can you help with custom configurations?
We're happy to discuss your specific research needs. Contact us to explore whether custom configurations or modifications are possible for your application.
Research & Development Questions
Are you developing new products?
Yes! We continuously work on new product variants and improvements based on user feedback and evolving research needs. Check our Recent News section for announcements about upcoming products.
Can I request specific features?
We value input from the research community. Contact us to discuss your specific requirements - your feedback helps shape our product development.
Do you attend conferences?
Yes! We regularly exhibit at major neuroscience conferences including:
Are you developing new products?
Yes! We continuously work on new product variants and improvements based on user feedback and evolving research needs. Check our Recent News section for announcements about upcoming products.
Can I request specific features?
We value input from the research community. Contact us to discuss your specific requirements - your feedback helps shape our product development.
Do you attend conferences?
Yes! We regularly exhibit at major neuroscience conferences including:
- NIH BRAIN Initiative Meetings
- Society for Neuroscience (SFN) Annual Meetings
Data & File Format Questions
What file format does it use?
Our RCB products are compatible with the standard Open Ephys file format, making it easy to integrate with existing analysis pipelines and tools that support Open Ephys recordings.
Can I use my existing analysis software?
If your software supports Open Ephys file formats, it should work with data recorded using our RCB products.
How is data stored?
Data is streamed in real-time to your recording computer where it's saved using Open Ephys GUI or your custom recording software. Storage requirements depend on recording duration and channel count.
What file format does it use?
Our RCB products are compatible with the standard Open Ephys file format, making it easy to integrate with existing analysis pipelines and tools that support Open Ephys recordings.
Can I use my existing analysis software?
If your software supports Open Ephys file formats, it should work with data recorded using our RCB products.
How is data stored?
Data is streamed in real-time to your recording computer where it's saved using Open Ephys GUI or your custom recording software. Storage requirements depend on recording duration and channel count.
Troubleshooting
What if I experience connection problems?
Connection issues are typically related to Wi-Fi configuration or interference.
Refer to:
Where can I find troubleshooting help?
Check the following resources:
Can I get firmware updates?
Firmware updates may be available for product improvements. Contact us for information about updates for your specific RCB model.
What if I experience connection problems?
Connection issues are typically related to Wi-Fi configuration or interference.
Refer to:
- User Manual troubleshooting section
- Application Note AP1: Maximizing Data Integrity
- Contact DSPW technical support for assistance
Where can I find troubleshooting help?
Check the following resources:
- RCB User Manuals (troubleshooting sections)
- Application Notes on the Downloads page
- Contact us for direct technical support
Can I get firmware updates?
Firmware updates may be available for product improvements. Contact us for information about updates for your specific RCB model.
Still Have Questions?
Contact DSP Wireless:
Contact DSP Wireless:
- Visit www.dspwi.com
- Use the contact form on our website
- Email us directly (address on Contact page)
This FAQ is regularly updated. Last updated: October 2025
