Knowledge Base

Problem

Users want to configure a Maze Engineers tap/vibration device connected to an EthoVision PC and deliver a controlled tap stimulus triggered by EthoVision trial control.

Details

Applies to EthoVision XT setups where a Maze Engineers tap device is connected via serial (COM) port through a Noldus adapter. Users need to know the correct ConductAdapterUI settings and how to link the device to EthoVision's trial control system to deliver a precisely timed tap.

Solution

**Step 1 – Configure ConductAdapterUI:**
1. Open ConductAdapterUI on the EthoVision PC.
2. Select the COM port assigned to the adapter (e.g., COM4—verify in Windows Device Manager).
3. Set **Tap time = 10** and **Total Taps = 1**.
4. Click **Start**.
5. Confirm the execution log shows the command: `AA BB 00 01 01 0A 01 00 CC DD`.
- The corresponding video-tracking command is: `c=0, t=1, f=10, v=1`.

**Step 2 – Configure EthoVision XT:**
1. Install and enable the **HardwareInterface SerialPort** component in EthoVision.
2. Go to **Setup > Experiment Settings > Use of Trial Control Hardware**.
3. Add the tap device as a serial output and configure the output command to match the parameters above.
4. In your trial control rules, add an action to send the serial command at the desired trial event (e.g., at trial start or on a zone entry).
5. Run a test trial and verify the tap is delivered at the correct moment by reviewing the trial control log.