2014-09-30 (Tu) tDCS Unit

One of the owner's of Twin Cities Transhumanists was really excited about tDCS (transcranial direct current stimulation) units. These devices apply a minute current (2mA) through electrodes on the scalp and body. Testing has shown increased learning ability when used for short durations and they do this without side effects.

If you have not read my disclaimer do so now. If you do not do your due diligence and research before applying electricity to your body then please read no further and do not get any wild ideas from me. 

He consulted me regarding building one of these months ago but the idea never took hold so I concentrated on other projects. Then, two things happened. The first was that he bought an inexpensive unit and reported how pleased he was after testing on himself. The second was thing was when he sent me a link and I saw how simple a tDCS unit could be.

Do not try this at home

Since I browse electronic supply sites the way a teenage boy browses porn I recognized the enclosure being used in the unit he ordered and could deduce that the parts inside must be minimal. Finally, I had the ambition to build a tDCS unit myself. The Twin Cities Transhumanists guy I mentioned has elaborate plans for an automated unit and is already working with another member on that project. I need to start small or I can't be of any help.

I can show you the parts I've ordered but until everything is tested I don't know if they're correct so it may be wise for you to wait until I strap this to my own noggin and close the switch.

Enough background.
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A commercial tDCS unit was seen packaged in a standard 9V switched battery enclosure. Since the enclosure space is minimal the components must be minimal. Constant Current Diodes, also called Current Regulating Diodes, were researched. Most require a precision resistor placed between the cathode and signal pin but Semitec makes a 2mA diode which has the appropriate resistor built into the package. Since the parts are also being sourced with the intention of an amateur electronics workshop minimal assembly is crucial.


Components such as wire leads, shrink tube, sewing snaps, and electrodes were not ordered yet. A 3mA panel display was purchased form Amazon to test the output after construction or during operation. Schematics were sketched to show the basic circuit components and arrangement. A second ladder diagram was sketch from that. The ladder diagram was drafted but does not include the ammeter. This is not important since the meter would be an external device.

 Symbolic sketch of schematic

Ladder diagram sketch

Drafted schematic

To do:
  • Assemble
  • Measure. Safety check
  • Test
  • Write detailed instructions

Journal Page


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