A low-cost, MR-compatible olfactometer

Behav Res Methods. 2006 May;38(2):307-13. doi: 10.3758/bf03192782.

Abstract

We present a design for an olfactometer, suitable for fMRI experiments, that can be constructed at extremely low cost. The olfactometer presents odors directly to the nose via a nasal cannula at unobtrusively low flow velocities, with no large assemblies required on or near the subject's face. The olfactometer can be controlled manually, or by computer via a serial interface. A validation study verified that the olfactometer reliably presents odors to test subjects. Errors and response latency times decreased with increased flow rate in an orderly manner, as expected.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Equipment Design
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / instrumentation*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Odorants
  • Reaction Time
  • Smell*