TMS Hardware
The TMS suite at CCBBI is equipped with a high-performance MagVenture system designed to support a wide range of research protocols. This section provides an overview of the core hardware components, their capabilities, and best practices for use.
MagPro X100 Stimulator
At the center of the system is the MagPro X100, a programmable magnetic stimulator capable of delivering single-pulse, paired-pulse, repetitive, and burst stimulation protocols. The system supports both standard and custom paradigms, including:
- Single and paired pulse stimulation
- High-frequency rTMS (up to 100 Hz in short trains)
- Theta burst stimulation (cTBS and iTBS)
- Research-mode configurations for user-defined burst protocols
The stimulator’s interface allows precise control over frequency, train duration, intensity, and inter-train intervals. Parameters can be saved, reloaded, and adjusted per participant.
TMS Coils
CCBBI maintains multiple coils to accommodate different protocols and participant needs:
- Cool-B65 Coil (Figure-8, Liquid-Cooled)
Designed for high-frequency and repetitive protocols, this coil includes an internal cooling system to prevent overheating during long trains. It is the preferred choice for rTMS and TBS applications. - C-B60 Coil (Figure-8, Air-Cooled)
Suitable for single-pulse and short train protocols. While lightweight and easy to position, it has limited tolerance for sustained high-frequency use due to passive cooling.
Both coils allow focal stimulation with minimal spread, suitable for motor mapping and cognitive paradigms.
Superflex Arm and Position System
The TMS coil is mounted on a Superflex Arm, which provides stable, adjustable positioning throughout the session. The arm allows for fine-grained adjustments in three dimensions and is essential for maintaining coil orientation over long protocols.
Users must ensure:
- The coil is secured before stimulation
- The coil surface is flat against the participant’s scalp
The cable is properly routed to avoid tension or entanglement
Localite TMS Navigator System
The TMS suite includes the Localite TMS Navigator (Research Premium Edition), a neuronavigation system that allows researchers to align coil positioning with anatomically or functionally defined targets MRI data.
Key features:
- MRI-guided targeting of cortical regions
- Real-time feedback on coil angle, location, and distance from the scalp
- Custom head models and target definitions
Neuronavigation is strongly recommended for studies requiring consistent and anatomically precise targeting (e.g., prefrontal cortex stimulation).
Stimulus Presentation and Experimental Software
In addition to the TMS hardware, the CCBBI TMS suite is equipped with a stimulus computer that controls the TMS machine—including, the setting up of stimulation parameters and precisely triggering the stimulation. The computer is also configured for visual, auditory, or task-based presentation and supports integration with the TMS system. The system supports a wide range of software for stimulus presentation and response logging, including, MATLAB with Psychtoolbox, E-Prime, and Python. The stimulus computer is equipped with a 19” stimulus monitor (1280X1024; refresh rate=60 Hz) and response devices.
Researchers should coordinate with CCBBI staff during setup to ensure the hardware and software are adequate for the experimental design.