Qubit Systems' surface electromyograph (EMG) records the electrical activity of muscles. Normal muscle tissue is electrically silent when relaxed. When it is active during a contraction, an electrical current is generated that can be measured at the surface of the skin. The strength of the signal depends upon the number of muscle motor units recruited to contract the muscle.
The C410 LabPro and C901 Logger Pro software record waveforms of the electrical signal on the computer screen. This waveform can be analysed using Logger Pro's Zoom In feature and data analysis capabilities. Either raw data may be collected from the EMG sensor or data that is rectified for easier analysis.
An audible signal is produced as the muscle is flexed so that the subject receives a visual and an aural indication of the strength of the contraction. Both stimuli may be used by the subject to control the contraction of the muscle and the number of motor units recruited. The EMG may also be used to study involuntary muscle movement such as the "knee jerk" reaction.
Qubit Systems' S216 Hand Dynamometer may be used with LabPro in a variety of experiments, or may be combined with the EMG sensor for comprehensive studies of muscle activity. The dynamometer is factory calibrated in kg and lbs. It measures grip strength, relative strength of the left and right hand, muscle fatigue and endurance. It also has grips for measuring finger strength. Its sensitivity ensures that all students may obtain excellent signals, and may participate in the full complement of studies.
A favourite investigation involves the control of grip strength in which students attempt to obtain repeated measurements of the same magnitude. By changing frequency of repetition, muscle control and endurance may be studied. Coupled with EMG measurements, this provides a very informative and entertaining laboratory session.

The S216 Hand Dynamometer is sold separately

All human electrophysiology and human respiratory monitoringproducts produced by Qubit Systems Inc. are not appropriate for medical or clinical applications.

Producing Area:Canada