SLOW POTENTIAL TOPOGRAPHY

Several studies analyzing slow and long-lasting changes in scalp-recor ded brain potentials have recently been published (e.g., Vitouch, Baue r, Gittler, M. Leodolter, & U. Leodolter, 1997). Such long-lasting cha nges turned out to be applicable as a fairly direct measure of cortica l activity. Combined with multichannel recording, slow potential recor ding can serve as a data source for a noninvasive functional topograph y in cognitive psychophysiology. This paper describes methodological a spects crucial for true DC recording. Special properties of this brain activity signal will be addressed in the light of its complex origin. Since DC-EEG topography appears to be very promising for future resea rch, specific aspects of multichannel DC-EEG handling, data processing , imaging, and analysis are specifically discussed. Finally, the advan tages that cognitive psychophysiology may gain from DC-EEG topography are addressed.