Manual VISIOSTAR

Instrumentation
DIFRA
VISIOSTAR
Visual stimulator
Operating manual*
Instrumentation DIFRA SA
Rue de l’Eglise n°84
B-4840 Welkenraedt
BELGIUM
Tel./fax +32 (0)87 89 80 80 / +32 (0)87 89 80 89
Email : info@difra.be
Web site : http://www.difra.be
(*) The specifications herein are subject to change without notice version 1.0
VISIOSTAR Operating manual 13. Nov. 2008
Contents
Contents...................................................................................................2
Chapter I..................................................................................................3
General information.......................................................................3
Introduction...........................................................................3
Chapter II.................................................................................................4
Unpacking instructions...................................................................4
Examination of the packing..................................................4
Standard contents of the packing..........................................4
Examination of the device....................................................4
Complain in case of damages...............................................4
Chapter III................................................................................................5
General description........................................................................5
Display device.......................................................................5
NAC bus...............................................................................5
Disoft software......................................................................5
Summary of the different versions........................................6
Accessible parts on the front panel.......................................6
Accessible parts on the rear panel.........................................6
Chapter IV...............................................................................................7
Connections....................................................................................7
Electric connection...............................................................7
Interface NAC.......................................................................7
Video connection..................................................................8
DISOFT configuration..........................................................9
Chapter V...............................................................................................11
Operation mode............................................................................11
VISIOSTAR loader......................................................................11
Description..........................................................................11
Firmware replacement........................................................12
Image exchange..................................................................14
Maintenance........................................................................16
Chapter VI.............................................................................................17
Guarantee and service..................................................................17
Chapter VII............................................................................................18
Accessories...................................................................................18
Chapter VIII...........................................................................................20
Appendix......................................................................................20
Technical specifications......................................................20
Return Report Form............................................................21
Registration.........................................................................22
Table of illustrations...........................................................23
DI1605/TM/01-E Page 2 of 23 S.A. Instrumentation DIFRA

Chapter I
General information
Introduction
This manual is the operating manual of the VISIOSTAR, visual stimulator

manufactured by Instrumentation DIFRA in Belgium.
The VISIOSTAR allows to stimulate visually the patient for the diagnosis of its vestibular
system. With the help of your ENG/VNG system, it performs the calibration of the system and
allows you to study nystagmus occurring during the following tests: random saccades, smooth
pursuit and optokinetic.
Important note: at every person who will use or maintain the VISIOSTAR, it is highly
recommended to read this manual and to master this device, before using it.
This manual is divided into 8 sections:
I General information
II Unpacking instructions
III General description of the device
IV Installation procedure
V Operation mode
VI Guarantee and service
VII Accessories
VIII Appendix
As with any piece of sophisticated equipment, maximum benefit will be delivered if

special attention is paid to the care and maintenance of the device as well as thorough master its
capabilities and functions.
If additional service is required, please contact Instrumentation DIFRA:
S.A. Instrumentation DIFRA N.V.

84, Rue de l'Eglise
B-4840 WELKENRAEDT
Tel. : 00-32-87/89.80.80
Fax. : 00-32-87/89.80.89

Chapter II
Unpacking instructions
Examination of the packing
Before opening the package, please inspect the packing against all noticeable damage. In
that case, immediately advise the carrier of the damages and keep the carton as proof.
The VISIOSTAR is delivered in a package designed for transportation. Keep it in case of

back shipment.
Standard contents of the packing
Qty Designation Part number
1 VISIOSTAR DI 1605
1 Coaxial CINCH cable X200 CINCH 10M
1 Power cord IEC 10 Amperes (only for 230V device) X200 ALIM10A
1 RJ45 blue cable X200 RJ45 BL
1 NAC bus ending resistor X502 CANTERMIN
1 Operating manual DI160500/UM
Examination of the device
Neither the device nor its accessories must present any default of appearance at its
reception. Carefully inspect the box in case the carton has been damaged while transportation!
In case of problems, contact the carrier and Instrumentation DIFRA.
Complain in case of damages
Any missing or malfunctioning part should be immediately reported to the supplier of

the device. Attach to your complaint a copy of the invoice, serial number and a detailed report
of the problem. The serial number is on the rear panel on the identification label.
Instrumentation DIFRA takes no responsibility in case of misuse of the device.

Chapter III
General description
VISIOSTAR uses micro-controller and digital signal processor to offer you the best of
digital technology. The device is fully controlled by computer via the NAC bus.
VISIOSTAR requires a NAC connection with a computer, the software DISOFT and a
display device like a video projector or a television.
Display device
Two types of display device can be used with the VISIOSTAR : a video projector or a
television.
We recommend you to use a video projector that can provide you a bigger image. We
test and approve display devices with the VISIOSTAR. Contact Instrumentation DIFRA to get
up to date references of such displays (video projector or television).
A television can be used in local where there is not enough space to use a video projector.
NAC bus
The NAC bus is designed by Instrumentation DIFRA in order to connect all devices to the
computer with only one cable. The NAC bus offers a simple, reliable and electrically safe way
to connect devices to the computer and the software DISOFT.
Disoft software
DISOFT is the software that controls all DIFRA devices. It records all data and analyze
signals from exams.
Illustration 1: Disoft software

Summary of the different versions
Ref. Description
DI 160500 VISIOSTAR 230V
DI 160501 VISIOSTAR 230 V with a 70cm television
DI 160502 VISIOSTAR 230V with a video projector
DI 160510 VISIOSTAR 115V
DI 160512 VISIOSTAR 115V with a video projector
Accessible parts on the front panel
Power led: Indicates the status of the device.

● Blinking: during its start up sequence, after power up and during around 10 sec.
During this, the video output is not functional.
● On: Device is ready to work. The device sends a black screen to the display and
wait for a command from the computer.
● Off: if the VISIOSTAR is powered on, you are in download mode otherwise the
device is shut down or not powered.
Power led
Illustration 2: VISIOSTAR front panel
Accessible parts on the rear panel
● I Main switch
● F Fuses
● P1 Power supply socket with earth
● C1&C2 NAC Bus connectors
● S Selector for mode selection
○ Two buttons up: Download mode;
○ Two buttons down; Classic mode, position for normal use.
● V Video output
● L Label with informations: Device type, video output, fuse rating, ...
C2 I
S
C1 V P1 F L
Illustration 3: VISIOSTAR rear panel

Chapter IV
Connections
The VISIOSTAR shall not be used in rooms where are explosive risks.
Electric connection
The VISIOSTAR requires a “P” power source with ground, by means of the “C” power
cord (See Illustration 23), which is delivered together with the device.
Prior to connecting the VISIOSTAR to the mains, the wall plug, fuse rating and the
mains wall outlet should be checked.
Illustration 4: Electric connection
Interface NAC
VISIOSTAR has an interface designated to the connection on the NAC bus. The
integrated profile is based on the standard CAN2.0A till 500kbit/s. The communication
protocol is designed and specific to DIFRA products.
The two connectors NAC (RJ45-8) are parallel cabled. This allows you to chain
different devices that have an NAC interface (only Instrumentation DIFRA manufactured
devices). Devices have to be connected following a bus topology “in a line”. Avoid the bus
topologies of “star” or “ring” type.

Illustration 5: NAC bus topology
For devices that have only one NAC connector (Like Personal computer, IDEASIII and
LEDBAR), use T-connector and dead-end feeder (shorter than 0.5m) (available as accessory).
If the device constitutes the last element of the NAC bus, an ending resistance has to be
connected on the free NAC connector. Two ending resistances have to be connected on your
line bus. In conformity with the ISO 11898 norm, it’s highly recommended to use a bus cable
with a particular impedance of 120Ω. To connect your device to your NAC Bus, do only use
cables that are delivered by Instrumentation DIFRA.
The maximal length of the NAC bus cable is about 70 meters.
Video connection
VISIOSTAR has a composite video output. Depending of its configuration, the

composite video output follows the NTSC standard or the PAL standard. Following to your
order, you will receive a compatible device with the standard used in your country.
NTSC video standard is mainly used in North America.
PAL video standard is used in Europa.
The video output of the VISIOSTAR has to be connected to a display device. We

recommend to use a video projector and the best solution is to use one of the video projector
that fulfills our tests. Contact Instrumentation DIFRA to get the references of these projectors.
You can also use a television or whatever display with a video composite input. But in
most cases, the screen width will be smaller than with a video projector.
Connect one side of the furnished CINCH cable at the video output of the VISIOSTAR
and the other side on composite video input of the video display. Follow the display user
manual in order to set the correct input.
When the VISIOSTAR is connected to the video display and powered on, it displays a
black screen even without NAC connection.

DISOFT configuration
In the recording screen of the software, there are settings for each exams. These settings
can be modified by entering the options screen. The options screen is available for each exam.
To enter in this screen, select the exam in the available tests column. Click on “Options”. You
get one of the following screen depending of the available test.
Illustration 7: Smooth
Illustration 6: Optokinetic settings pursuit settings
Illustration 9: Random
Illustration 8: Spontaneous settings saccades settings

Illustration 10: Illustration 11:

Calibration saccades Calibration pursuit settings
settings
These settings configure DISOFT for the use of the VISIOSTAR. To save all these
settings, exit DISOFT with “Configuration saveguard” marked (See Illustration 12).
Illustration 12: Save

configuration in DISOFT
For all other configurations and settings see DISOFT User Manual.

Chapter V
Operation mode
See DISOFT User Manual for configuring and utilizing exams.
VISIOSTAR loader
Description
VISIOSTAR loader is a software that enables you to update or modify some parameters
of the device memory. These parameters are :
● Firmware;
● Panorama for the horizontal optokinetic;
● Image for dot replacement.
These modifications are possible with the NAC bus between the computer and the
VISIOSTAR. Modifications will be stored in the memory of the VISIOSTAR.
Launch the software “VISIOSTAR loader”.
A B C D E
Illustration 13: VISIOSTAR loader main windows
Function description:
● A: Read ID button: not used.
● B: Mickey button: replace the image that can replace the dot as stimulus.
● C: Panorama button: replace the panorama view in the horizontal optokinetic exam.
● D: Program button: replace the firmware of the VISIOSTAR
● E: Counter: in image exchange, allow to follow progresses of the process.

Firmware replacement
Firmware of the VISIOSTAR can be updated in order to get the last device improvement
or bug correction.
The update requires the software “VISIOSTAR loader” and a “RWStimu.ldr”file. The
“RWStimu.ldr” file contains the new firmware for the device.
1. Turn on the VISIOSTAR.

2. Launch the software “VISIOSTAR loader”.
3. Click on “Program” button (see Illustration 13).
4. A pop-up window appears (see Illustration 14) and ask to change the position of the
“Mode selection” button on the backside of the VISIOSTAR (see Illustration 3). Push
upside the selector. Device is now in download mode.
Illustration 14: Pop-up window

for download mode
5. Click on “OK” when you have positioned the selector upside.

6. Select the new file “RWStimu.ldr” on your computer. And click on “OK” when you
have selected it.
Illustration 15: New firmware selection

7. Process will first erase the memory and the previous firmware from the device.
Illustration 16: Memory

erasing
8. The counter (“E” on Illustration 13) will show you the progression of the upload
process.
9. Firmware exchange will process until you get the “Transfer finished” window.
Illustration 17: Transfer

finished
10. Click on “OK” of the pop up window will automatically close the software.
11. Replace the selector of the mode selection down and wait until the power led (see
Illustration 2) is always ON.
12. The firmware of the VISIOSTAR is now updated and you can use it as usual.

Image exchange
Two images can be changed: the panorama used for the horizontal optokinetic and the
image that can replace the dot. The process is similar, so the two changes will be explained in
the same time.
1. First thing to do is to create new images. The VISIOSTAR requests to have images in a
specific format.
• Images have to be in a “*.bmp” file. This format can be obtained with the software
“PAINT” in a Windows operating system.
• The BMP file has to be in a 256 colors, also called 8 bits. This can be done with the
function “Save as” of Paint and by a correct selection of the file format.
Illustration 18: Paint configuration for 256 colors
• The size of the image is important.

○ For the Mickey image, size is fixed: 48 x 48 pixels.
○ For the panorama, vertical size is fixed at 576 pixels and horizontal size can vary
from 720 to 13848 pixels. 720 pixels is the length of one screen. If you use
such length the image will be fixed in optokinetic. You should have at least 4 to
5 screens with the image. A value close to 3600 pixels is better.
You can also obtain or set the image size with “PAINT”, in the menu “Image”
select “Attributes”

Illustration 19: PAINT attributes
2. With your new images, we will upload them in the memory of the VISIOSTAR.
3. Start you VISIOSTAR.
4. Launch the software “VISIOSTAR loader” (see Illustration 13).
5. Click on the “Mickey” button (Button “B” on Illustration 13) if you want to change this
image or on the “Panorama” button (Button “C” on Illustration 13) if you want to
change the panorama.
6. A pop-up window appears (see Illustration 20) and ask to change the position of the
“Mode selection” button on the backside of the VISIOSTAR (see Illustration 3). Push
upside the selector. Device is now in download mode.
Illustration 20: Pop-up window

for download mode
7. Click on “OK” when you have positioned the selector upside.

8. Select the new image and click on the OK button (see Illustration 15).
13. Process will first erase the memory and the previous firmware from the device (See
Illustration 16).
9. The counter (“E” on Illustration 13) will show you the progression of the upload
process.
10. When the upload is finished. You get the message shown in Illustration 17.
14. Click on “OK” of the pop up window will automatically close the software.
11. Replace the selector of the mode selection down and wait until the power led (see
Illustration 2) is always ON.
12. The image of the VISIOSTAR is now updated and you can use it as usual.

Maintenance
No service operation may be carried out by the user.
An annual checking of your VISIOSTAR will guarantee a precise and reliable operation.
The cleaning of the apparatus must be only carried out by means of a wet linen.
Do not clean with large water, not to use corrosive substances.

Chapter VI
Guarantee and service

The VISIOSTAR is warranted by Difra to be free of defects in materials and
workmanship at the time of purchase for a period of one year.
The warranty covers both piece parts and labor. The warranty is only applicable if the
original invoice mentioning model, serial number and purchase date is presented. Costs and
risks of transport as well as removal and installation of VISIOSTAR, and any other costs
directly or indirectly related to the actual repair of the VISIOSTAR, are not covered by this
warranty.
The warranty is not applicable:

• to damages caused by accident, negligence, modifications, use of non-DIFRA spare
parts, improper use or installation;
• to damages caused by lightening, water, fire, acts of war, public disturbances, incorrect
main voltages, incorrect ventilation or any other cause beyond the control of DIFRA;
• for repairs performed by non-authorized repair shops;
• if such repairs damage this VISIOSTAR.

Chapter VII
Accessories
Cable CINCH 10m
Order n°: X200 CINCH10M
Illustration 21: CINCH cable
NAC cable 3m
Order n°: X200 RJ45BL
Illustration 22: NAC cable

Power cord 10A

Order n°: X200 ALIM 10A
Illustration 23: Power cord
NAC ending resistor

Order n°: X200 CAN TERMIN
Illustration 24: NAC ending resistor

Chapter VIII
Appendix
Technical specifications1
Power supply
DI 16050...........................................................................230 VAC 50Hz
DI 16051...........................................................................115 VAC 60Hz
Power input.......................................................................................... 10 Watts

Fuses
-230-......................................................................................2 x 0,25 A T
-115-........................................................................................2 x 0,5 A T
Connection..................................................................................................NAC
Video output.....................................................Composite video PAL or NSTC
Weight..........................................................................................................3 kg
Dimension
Width............................................................................................310 mm
Depth............................................................................................280 mm
Height.............................................................................................80 mm
Classification IEC601-1...........................................................................Class I
The technical manual can be obtained on written request by the biotechnical service
1
These specifications are given for information only and are subject to change without notice.
Return Report Form
Company
Address
Phone Return address:

Fax
E-mail Instrumentation DIFRA

Rue de l'Eglise, 84
Contact person
B-4840 Welkenraedt
Date BELGIUM
Following item is reported to be:

 returned to Instrumentation DIFRA for :
 repair
 exchange
 other: ________________________
 defective as described below with request of assistance
 repaired locally as described below
 showing general problems as described below
Item
Type: Quantity:
Serial no.: Supplied by:
Included parts:
Important – Accessories used together with the item must be included if returned.
Description of problem or the performed local repair:
Returned according to agreement with:

 Instrumentation Difra
 Other
Person: _______________________________
Date: _______________________________
E-mail or Fax no. to whom Instrumentation Difra may confirm reception of the returned goods:
____________________________________________________________________________________
 The above mentioned item is reported to be dangerous to patient or user
In order to ensure instant and effective treatment of returned goods, it is important that this form is filled in and placed together
with the item.
Please note that the goods must be carefully packed, preferably in original packing, in order to avoid damage during transport
(packing material may be ordered from Instrumentation Difra)

Registration Ref. : 16DIF017

Rev. : 18.02.99/001
Page : 22/23
Questionnaire « Service and Products Evaluation »
Written by : Approved by :
m b A G E
ediocre ad verage ood xcellent
Evaluation of the services delays
• Quotations
• Deliveries
• Interventions
Evaluation of the service quality
• Quotations (legibility, explanation,…)
• Deliveries
• Interventions
Suggestions :
______________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
Evaluation of the products

• User’s manual
• Finishing quality
• Reliability
• Use
• Evolution (if applicable)
Suggestions :
______________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
Your global degree of satisfaction

Remarks:
______________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________

Table of illustrations
Illustration 1: Disoft software.......................................................................................................5

Illustration 2: VISIOSTAR front panel........................................................................................6
Illustration 3: VISIOSTAR rear panel..........................................................................................6
Illustration 4: Electric connection................................................................................................7
Illustration 5: NAC bus topology.................................................................................................8
Illustration 6: Optokinetic settings................................................................................................9
Illustration 7: Smooth pursuit settings...........................................................................................9
Illustration 8: Spontaneous settings...............................................................................................9
Illustration 9: Random saccades settings.......................................................................................9
Illustration 10: Calibration saccades settings..............................................................................10
Illustration 11: Calibration pursuit settings.................................................................................10
Illustration 12: Save configuration in DISOFT...........................................................................10
Illustration 13: VISIOSTAR loader main windows....................................................................11
Illustration 14: Pop-up window for download mode...................................................................12
Illustration 15: New firmware selection......................................................................................12
Illustration 16: Memory erasing..................................................................................................13
Illustration 17: Transfer finished.................................................................................................13
Illustration 18: Paint configuration for 256 colors......................................................................14
Illustration 19: PAINT attributes.................................................................................................15
Illustration 20: Pop-up window for download mode...................................................................15
Illustration 21: CINCH cable......................................................................................................18
Illustration 22: NAC cable..........................................................................................................18
Illustration 23: Power cord.........................................................................................................19
Illustration 24: NAC ending resistor..........................................................................................19

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Instrumentation

DI1605/TM/01-E Page 2 of 23 S.A. Instrumentation DIFRA

This manual is the operating manual of the VISIOSTAR, visual stimulator

This manual is divided into 8 sections:

As with any piece of sophisticated equipment, maximum benefit will be delivered if

If additional service is required, please contact Instrumentation DIFRA:

S.A. Instrumentation DIFRA N.V.

DI1605/TM/01-E Page 3 of 23 S.A. Instrumentation DIFRA

The VISIOSTAR is delivered in a package designed for transportation. Keep it in case of

Standard contents of the packing

Qty Designation Part number

Examination of the device

Complain in case of damages

Any missing or malfunctioning part should be immediately reported to the supplier of

Instrumentation DIFRA takes no responsibility in case of misuse of the device.

DI1605/TM/01-E Page 4 of 23 S.A. Instrumentation DIFRA

Illustration 1: Disoft software

DI1605/TM/01-E Page 5 of 23 S.A. Instrumentation DIFRA

Summary of the different versions

Accessible parts on the front panel

Power led: Indicates the status of the device.

Illustration 2: VISIOSTAR front panel

Accessible parts on the rear panel

DI1605/TM/01-E Page 6 of 23 S.A. Instrumentation DIFRA

Illustration 4: Electric connection

DI1605/TM/01-E Page 7 of 23 S.A. Instrumentation DIFRA

Illustration 5: NAC bus topology

The maximal length of the NAC bus cable is about 70 meters.

VISIOSTAR has a composite video output. Depending of its configuration, the

NTSC video standard is mainly used in North America.

PAL video standard is used in Europa.

The video output of the VISIOSTAR has to be connected to a display device. We

DI1605/TM/01-E Page 8 of 23 S.A. Instrumentation DIFRA

DI1605/TM/01-E Page 9 of 23 S.A. Instrumentation DIFRA

Illustration 10: Illustration 11:

Illustration 12: Save

DI1605/TM/01-E Page 10 of 23 S.A. Instrumentation DIFRA

Illustration 13: VISIOSTAR loader main windows

DI1605/TM/01-E Page 11 of 23 S.A. Instrumentation DIFRA

1. Turn on the VISIOSTAR.

Illustration 14: Pop-up window

5. Click on “OK” when you have positioned the selector upside.

Illustration 15: New firmware selection

DI1605/TM/01-E Page 12 of 23 S.A. Instrumentation DIFRA

Illustration 16: Memory

Illustration 17: Transfer

DI1605/TM/01-E Page 13 of 23 S.A. Instrumentation DIFRA

Illustration 18: Paint configuration for 256 colors

• The size of the image is important.

DI1605/TM/01-E Page 14 of 23 S.A. Instrumentation DIFRA

Illustration 19: PAINT attributes

Illustration 20: Pop-up window

7. Click on “OK” when you have positioned the selector upside.

DI1605/TM/01-E Page 15 of 23 S.A. Instrumentation DIFRA

No service operation may be carried out by the user.

Do not clean with large water, not to use corrosive substances.

DI1605/TM/01-E Page 16 of 23 S.A. Instrumentation DIFRA

Guarantee and service

The warranty is not applicable:

DI1605/TM/01-E Page 17 of 23 S.A. Instrumentation DIFRA

Illustration 21: CINCH cable

Illustration 22: NAC cable

DI1605/TM/01-E Page 18 of 23 S.A. Instrumentation DIFRA

Power cord 10A