WinEPG
WinEPG comes with everything that is required for visual-feedback, recording and analysis of tongue-palate contact patterns with the exception of a PC ( laptop or desktop PC running Windows XP or Windows 7 32-bit preferred).
The PC must have two free USB sockets and a soundcard with ( for best results) “line-in”.
WinEPG comprises of the following units:
Multiplexer
The EPG palate is connected into the multiplexer unit which hangs around the neck of the palate wearer. The multiplexer connects to the EPG3 scanner.
EPG3 scanner unit
The EPG3 scanner has connections for two multiplexer units and a switch to connect either palate to the PC display.
Serial Port Interface (SPI)
The SPI combines the EPG data from the scanner with audio data from the microphone and transmits it to the PC. t also offers stereo line level input as an alternative to a microphone. Volume controls are provided for all three audio inputs. The SPI also has a synchronisation signal output. The sync signal is not used with the standard WinEPG software. See Multichannel for details on how it is used.
Medical Isolation Transformer (MIT)
If EPG is to be used to provide therapy in a clinical setting as opposed to being used as a phonetic research tool, then EPG is classified as a medical device. As such it needs to comply with safety standards. The Medical Isolation Transformer is a heavy box which sits on the floor and plugs into the mains supply. All electrical equipment associated with EPG (ie. computer, EPG system, printer) are then powered through the MIT.
WinEPG records EPG at 100Hz (see multichannel for higher EPG frame rate).
EPG palates
EPG palates are not sold as part of WinEPG. Palates must be custom-made for each user of the system and purchased separately. EPG palates are currently manufactured by two independent palatemakers in the UK. It is also possible to train dental technicians in other countries to make them. See page on palate designThere are two compatible styles of EPG palate. The contact layout of these EPG palates is standardised to anatomical landmarks so that patterns from different speakers are, to a degree, comparable.
We also manufacture a multichannel extension to WinEPG which allows other instrumentation to be synchronised with audio and EPG such as airflow, EMA, VICON or ultrasound. Please enquire for more details