A high voltage, constant current stimulator for electrocutaneous stimulation through small electrodes

A high-voltage stimulator has been designed to allow transcutaneous stimulation of tactile fibers of the fingertip. The stimulator's output stage was based upon an improved Howland current pump topology, modified to allow high load impedances and small currents. The compliance voltage of approximately 800 V is achieved using commercially available high-voltage operational amplifiers. The output current accuracy is better than +/- 5% over the range of 1 to 25 mA for 30 microseconds or longer pulses. The rise time for square pulses is less than 1 microsecond. High-voltage, common-mode, latch-up power supply problems and solutions are discussed. The stimulator's input stage is optically coupled to the controlling computer and complies with applicable safety standards for use in a hospital environment. The design presented here is for monophasic stimulation only, but could be modified for biphasic stimulation.