Incorporating a Galvanic Skin Response (GSR) system into a radionic device can provide measurable biofeedback that may enhance the traditional “stick plate” experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to implementing this integration.
Low-Cost GSR Systems Available for Purchase
1. Arduino-Compatible GSR Modules
Grove GSR Sensor ($15-25)
- Available from: Seeed Studio, Amazon, or Mouser Electronics
- Benefits: Simple analog output, well-documented, plug-and-play with Arduino
- Purchase link: Seeed Studio Grove GSR
Olimex EKG/EMG/GSR Shield ($25-40)
- Available from: Olimex website, Mouser, or Digikey
- Benefits: Provides multiple biofeedback sensors in one board
- Purchase link: Olimex Shields
2. Standalone GSR Systems
Wild Divine IomPE ($75-100)
- Available from: Amazon or eBay (often available used)
- Benefits: Complete system with finger sensors and USB interface
MindPlace ThoughtStream USB ($150-200)
- Available from: MindPlace website or Amazon
- Benefits: Purpose-built for biofeedback, includes software
- Purchase link: MindPlace
3. DIY Approach
- Basic DIY GSR Kit ($10-20)
- Components: Two stainless steel/conductive electrodes, 100k ohm resistor, 10k ohm resistor, LM358 op-amp, breadboard
- Available from: Adafruit, SparkFun, Amazon
- Benefits: Lowest cost, fully customizable
Integration with Radionic Instruments
Physical Integration
Replacing the Stick Plate:
- Remove or augment the existing stick/rate plate on your radionic device
- Mount GSR electrodes in an ergonomic position for thumb/finger contact
- Consider using conductive metal discs, preferably stainless steel or nickel-plated brass
- For comfort, embed electrodes in a shaped acrylic or wooden panel
Circuit Integration:
- For Kelly-type radionic devices: Connect the GSR output to the variable potentiometer circuit
- For Hieronymus-type devices: Interface the GSR with the amplifier stage
- For digital radionic instruments: Connect the GSR sensor to an analog input on your microcontroller
Display Options:
- Analog meter: Connect GSR output through appropriate resistors to drive a panel meter
- LED bar graph: Use LM3914 IC to create a visual display of GSR readings
- Digital display: Interface with Arduino or similar to show numerical values
Wiring Diagram for Basic Integration
Css
[GSR SENSOR] --> [Buffer Op-Amp] --> [Low-Pass Filter] --> [Radionic Circuit Input]
\--> [Display/Meter]
Software Considerations (for digital radionic devices)
- Create a threshold detection system that registers significant GSR changes
- Implement averaging to remove momentary fluctuations (rolling average of 5-10 samples)
- Consider implementing a calibration routine at startup
Practical Implementation Steps
Basic GSR-Enhanced Stick Plate:
- Purchase Grove GSR Sensor ($15-25)
- Connect to Arduino Nano ($10-15)
- Program Arduino to read GSR values and translate to LED brightness
- Mount electrodes and LED in a comfortable handheld enclosure
- Total cost: $30-50
Advanced Integration:
- Use MindPlace ThoughtStream ($150-200)
- Split the sensor output to your radionic device
- Add a selector switch to choose between traditional stick plate and GSR input
- Program threshold detection for “hits” during rate scanning
- Total cost: $175-250
Professional Setup:
- BITalino R-IoT Kit ($200)
- Custom 3D-printed electrode housing that matches your radionic instrument
- Wireless connection to eliminate interference
- Custom software to correlate readings with radionic settings
- Total cost: $250-350
Important Considerations
- Electrode Material: Use high-quality, non-allergenic metals (surgical stainless steel preferred)
- Skin Contact: Clean electrodes regularly with alcohol wipes
- Electrical Safety: Ensure proper isolation if connecting to mains-powered devices
- EMI Shielding: Shield GSR circuits to prevent interference from radionic components
- Calibration: GSR readings vary dramatically between users – implement a calibration system
Where to Purchase Complete Systems
United States:
- PSITEK (www.psitek.net) – Offers various radionic instruments and components
- Amazon.com – Good source for Arduino and Grove components
United Kingdom:
- Radionic Association UK (www.radionic.co.uk) – Specialized radionic equipment
- Mindsetsonline.co.uk – GSR and biofeedback equipment
Worldwide:
- eBay – Often has used biofeedback equipment at lower prices
- AliExpress – Inexpensive Arduino and GSR modules (but quality varies)
By integrating GSR technology with traditional radionic practices, you can potentially enhance the subtle energy detection capabilities while adding a measurable biofeedback component to your work.
