Introduction

The Narbis neurofeedback smart glasses rely on precise EEG sensor connections to monitor brain activity effectively. The glasses use specialized algorithms for noise detection and artifact suppression, which means they can differentiate real brain signals from unwanted noise. For the NASA training algorithms to work correctly and provide the best feedback, it is crucial to ensure proper sensor placement. The longer the headset is on your head, the better the sensor signal tends to become. Therefore, it's helpful to put on the headset first, adjust the sensors, and let it rest for a moment while you start the tablet and begin the training.

This guide will help you ensure the sensors are properly connected and provide troubleshooting steps if the sensor circles are red, preventing calibration and training.

1. Hair Management for Long or Thick Hair

• Use a ponytail and hairband to pull hair away from the ears, ensuring the side sensors make proper contact with the skin.

• Part the hair at the top center of the head to allow the top sensor to reach the scalp.

• For better sensor placement, ensure all hair is moved out of the way as much as possible.

2. Skin Preparation

• Clean the areas: Use the cleaning wipe included or a damp cloth with drinking water to remove oil, sweat, or hair styling products that may interfere with the connection.
  

• Hydrate the skin: Lightly moisten the areas where the sensors will touch with a damp cloth dipped in drinking water. This step may not always be required but can be helpful when you are having problems with sensor connection or are using Narbis in a dry environment.

• Apply Narbis Sensor Gel: For improved conductivity, apply a small amount of Narbis sensor gel to the sensors or/and directly to the skin where the sensors touch.

3. Preparing for Sensor Connection

Proper Fit

• Adjust the glasses for a snug fit: The top sensor and side arm sensors should rest firmly against your head. Ensure there’s no gap between the sensors and your skin.

• Sensor arm adjustments: The sensor arms are fully bendable and adjustable. Pre-adjust them inward and downward so they fit snugly on your head and around your ears.
  

• Nose piece adjustment: The nose piece is adjustable and you can bend and shape it to fit your nose for comfort. 
  

Detailed Adjustment Instructions

1. Side Sensors (Around the Ears):

1. Hold the frame with one hand and, with the other hand, bend and twist the sensor arm to shape it tightly around the back of your ear.
   
2. Ensure the rubber strips on the underside of each sensor remain in contact with the skin around the ear as much as possible.
   

1. Part the hair at the top center of your head to allow the sensor to comb through and make contact with the skin.
2. Adjust the top sensor arm downward so it rests on your head with a comfortable amount of force, avoiding hovering or floating.
3. Once placed, gently slide the sensor back and forth along the scalp to help the black rubber tips comb further through the hair and make direct contact with the skin.
   

4. Troubleshooting Red Sensor Circles

You will see the "Checking Sensors" screen once you select to begin the training. This is an important step to ensure the sensors have good contact with your head and that they are correctly reading your brain patterns. Checking sensors will take a minimum of 10 seconds, and up to 1 minute. During that time, the system is analyzing the signal coming from the sensors to ensure they are working correctly. Please remain as still as possible during this test. If the test has passed, you will see the sensors turn green on the tablet screen, and you will be able to select "Continue" to start training.

If the sensor circles on the calibration screen are red instead of green after 1 minute:

Step 1: Adjust the Glasses

• Reposition the glasses and ensure all sensors make firm contact with the skin.

• Verify the top and side sensors are correctly placed and adjusted as per the instructions above.

Step 2: Check the Sensor Areas

• Confirm the sensors are clean and free of debris.
  

• Rehydrate the sensors with a damp cloth, apply the Narbis sensor gel to the sensors or/and area of skin on head where the sensors rest.

• Inspect the sensors for visible damage; if damaged, contact support.

Step 3: Stay Still During Calibration

• Avoid movement while the glasses are calibrating.

• Ensure the glasses are not shifting or sliding during setup.

Step 4: Check for Interference

• Make sure there are no power cords touching your body or near your chair.

• Try a new location, moving away from anything plugged into a wall power outlet, including Wi-Fi routers and other electronic devices.

Step 5: Reattempt Calibration

• Close the Narbis app by tapping the "Square" button at the bottom right of the tablet screen, then swiping up to close the app. 
  

• Open the Narbis and retry connection. You may need to restart the tablet after rmultiple failed sensor checks if the tablet cannot find and connect to the armband and glasses. 

Step 6: Dampen the Sensors and Skin

• If you are still encountering problems with the sensor check, dampen a paper towel with drinkable water and apply a small amount of moisture to the sensor and the area of skin the sensor is touching behind each ear and on top of the head, through the hair.

5. Advanced Tips

• Conductive Gel: For persistent issues, applying Narbis sensor gel or another conductive gel can improve connectivity.

• Environmental Factors: Ensure you are in a stable environment without excessive electrical interference (e.g., near Wi-Fi routers or large electronics).

• Monitor Sensor Performance During Training: Occasionally, during training, you may notice the lenses stop shifting and the focus graph on the app becomes a flat line instead of a smooth curve. This is due to an interruption in the sensor connection and can be caused by a loose or dirty sensor, excessive movement, or interference. Please follow the steps outlined above to improve the sensor check if this occurs.

6. If the Problem Persists

If you’ve followed these steps and the sensor circles remain red:

1. Restart the Glasses and Tablet: Power off and on before attempting calibration again.

2. Recheck Placement: Confirm all adjustments to fit, skin, and hair management have been made.

3. Contact Support: 

   • Send a photo of the glasses on your head during calibration.

   • Include any error messages displayed.

7. Final Notes

Proper sensor connection ensures you get the most out of your Narbis training sessions. Most issues can be resolved with these tips, but we’re always here to help if you need additional support.

Need Help?
Schedule a support session with our team for personalized guidance.