EEGer Minimum Requirements
Choosing a Computer for EEGer
The most important things to consider are that the computer has:
- A Supported Windows Operating System (Windows 10 or higher recommended). EEGer is not compatible with Macs or Chromebooks.
- At least two USB ports (three or more are recommended).
- An HDMI port (or other display port) to connect the computer to an external monitor or TV.
- A dedicated graphics card (computer meets minimum requirements).
Compatible Operating Systems
EEGer is compatible with Windows operating systems, it is not compatible with computers using ChromeOS or MacOS.
EEGer is compatible with both Windows 10 and Windows 11 computers. Windows 10 is recommended for its stability, but many new computers will have Windows 11 preinstalled. The differences between Windows 10 and Windows 11 are minor, so it is okay to choose Windows 11 if that is what is available.
USB Ports
A minimum of two USB ports are required to connect the EEG amplifier and EEGer Security Dongle. It is recommended to purchase a laptop with more than two USB ports, but this is not required. An external USB hub can be used to connect more peripheral devices to the computer if needed.
Connecting to an External Display
An external display allows for training and adjustments to occur simultaneously and is required for some games. Typically, a computer monitor or television is used. Most monitors and televisions connect to the computer using an HDMI cable. There are no special requirements for an external display, but some things to consider when purchasing one for use with EEGer:
- The size of the screen and the space where training will happen.
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Whether sound will be played from the computer, external display, or a speaker.
Note: Not all monitors include speakers, and only certain connections (like HDMI) can transfer sound.
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That the external display and computer have the same type of connection, or that an adapter is available.
Note: Most computers have HDMI ports, but some smaller models will use Mini-HDMI ports.
Note: It is possible to use USB-powered portable displays or even a tablet as an external monitor, but these typically require more setup and can be temperamental. It is recommend to have a standard monitor available as a backup when using a special connection type.
Dedicated Graphics Card
EEGer is a graphically demanding program that processes a lot of data in real-time. It is important for any computer used with EEGer to have a dedicated graphics card to avoid performance issues during training.
Computers marketed as 'gaming' laptops will typically include a dedicated graphics card that meets EEGer’s requirements. Some of the laptops we have used in the past with the software have been ASUS TUF, ASUS ROG, and ASUS STRIX laptops. We have also found that the Acer Nitro laptops perform nicely, as well as the HP ProBook and HP Envy laptops. We have not used a lot of the Dell G series laptops, but they are an affordable option that meet the software's minimum requirements.
Low-end gaming laptops can run the software well, but they will be bulkier/heavier than more expensive computers. Some gaming laptops also have a 'gamer aesthetic' that clinicians or clients might dislike and wish to avoid. Some users choose to use high-end productivity laptops. These are typically targeted to people who use graphically demanding programs for video editing or 3D modeling. They tend to be more expensive than gaming laptops but are generally less bulky and more professional looking.
Many laptops will include features that do not add to the EEGer experience but do add to the price tag. This is why it’s not possible to shop for a computer based only on the price tag, and why it is important to check what features it has. Some laptops may include RGB lighting that clients could find distracting. Other laptops will have expensive features like a touchscreen which, while convenient, is not needed for EEGer.
Minimum EEGer Requirements
If you have a laptop in mind that you would like our insight on, please send us a link. We can review the computer’s specs and provide suggestions on what to look for or avoid.
