LABNIRS

LABNIRS

Shimadzu
Toward Next-Generation Optical Brain-Function Imaging

The LABNIRS (Laboratory Near-Infrared Spectroscopy) system by Shimadzu is a cutting-edge, high-density fNIRS neuroimaging platform designed to deliver exceptional performance in brain function research. Utilizing near-infrared light to non-invasively monitor changes in oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin, LABNIRS allows researchers to visualize and analyze hemodynamic responses in the cerebral cortex with remarkable spatial and temporal precision.

This system is engineered with modularity, flexibility, and precision at its core, supporting a wide range of experimental setups and participant profiles—from infants to adults, and from basic research to applied clinical studies. Its lightweight, flexible fiber-optic optodes allow for custom probe configurations, while its robust hardware and advanced software provide high-speed, high-resolution measurement capabilities. LABNIRS is fully compatible with EEG, TMS, eye tracking, and other multimodal systems, making it ideal for cutting-edge multimodal neuroscience research.

Key Features

  • High-Density, Multi-Channel Recording
    LABNIRS supports up to 142 measurement channels with a maximum of 40 optode sets (comprising 40 sources and 40 detectors). This allows full-coverage mapping of the prefrontal, motor, and parietal cortices.
  • Three-Wavelength Laser Diodes
    Each source uses three different wavelengths (780, 805, 830 nm), enabling precise separation of oxy-Hb and deoxy-Hb signals, and providing enhanced depth sensitivity.
  • High Sampling Rate & Time Resolution
    With a 10 ms sampling interval, LABNIRS captures fast hemodynamic responses, ideal for cognitive and task-based research involving rapid stimulus presentation.
  • Flexible Optode Layout
    The customizable fiber probe system adapts to different head sizes, shapes, and experimental designs, including infant, child, and adult participants. Optical fibers are held securely in soft, adaptable holders for comfort and stability.
  • Real-Time Data Visualization & Feedback
    Advanced software tools provide real-time monitoring, allowing users to visualize hemodynamic changes during data acquisition for live feedback and adaptive protocols.
  • Multimodal Integration
    LABNIRS integrates seamlessly with EEG, TMS, MEG, motion tracking, and eye-tracking systems, offering comprehensive multimodal analysis capabilities.
  • Comfortable and Quiet
    LABNIRS is non-invasive, quiet, and comfortable—ideal for sensitive populations, developmental studies, or real-world behavioral research.

Applications

  • Cognitive Neuroscience & Psychology
    Explore brain function during memory, language, attention, emotion, and decision-making tasks.
  • Developmental Research
    Study neurodevelopment in infants and children with optodes designed for small head sizes and minimal discomfort.
  • Clinical and Rehabilitation Research
    Investigate brain plasticity, motor recovery, and cognitive rehabilitation after stroke or injury.
  • Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCI)
    LABNIRS’ real-time capabilities make it suitable for BCI studies and neurofeedback applications.
  • Hyperscanning & Social Interaction Studies
    Use multi-subject recording configurations to simultaneously track brain activity in dyads or groups during naturalistic interactions.

Optional Add-Ons

  • Hyperscanning Mode: Record from multiple subjects simultaneously for social neuroscience studies.
  • Infant and Child Cap Systems: Soft, adjustable headgear ensures secure placement and comfort.
  • MRI Coregistration: Combine LABNIRS data with structural MRI for precise anatomical localization.
  • Motion Detection Integration: Add motion tracking for dynamic behavioral paradigms.
  • Trigger & I/O Extensions: Synchronize with external stimuli, EEG, eye trackers, and more.

Why Choose LABNIRS?

Shimadzu’s LABNIRS combines cutting-edge optical technology, a flexible and user-friendly design, and seamless compatibility with other systems to deliver a robust and reliable fNIRS platform for advanced human brain research. Whether you're running cognitive load studies, hyperscanning paradigms, or pediatric neurodevelopment research, LABNIRS offers precision, comfort, and versatility that scale with your scientific ambition.

Seamless Integration with BioSemi ActiveTwo and ActiveThree EEG Systems

One of the most powerful features of Shimadzu’s LABNIRS system is its exceptional compatibility with BioSemi’s ActiveTwo and ActiveThree EEG amplifiers, enabling truly multimodal neuroimaging. Through this integration, researchers can simultaneously record high-density fNIRS and EEG data with precise temporal synchronisation, unlocking unique insights into the dynamic interplay between electrical and hemodynamic brain activity.

Combined EEG-NIRS Cap for Optimal Co-Localization

To ensure perfect spatial alignment of EEG electrodes and NIRS optodes, we offer a combined EEG-NIRS cap specifically designed for concurrent use of LABNIRS and BioSemi systems. The cap layout is optimized to maintain excellent optical coupling while adhering to international EEG placement standards (10-20 or 10-10 systems). It supports a wide variety of configurations—whether you're using 32, 64, or 128 EEG channels alongside dense fNIRS probe arrays.

Accurate Synchronisation of EEG and fNIRS Data

Accurate time-locking between modalities is critical for high-quality multimodal analyses. LABNIRS and BioSemi systems are synchronized via hardware trigger signals and supported by dedicated software tools to ensure sub-millisecond alignment between EEG and NIRS recordings. This enables high-resolution temporal correlation between electrophysiological responses and hemodynamic changes during cognitive tasks, motor execution, or sensory processing.

EEG-NIRS Merger Tool

Our EEG-NIRS Merger Tool streamlines the fusion of EEG and NIRS datasets into a single, synchronized file. Compatible with major analysis platforms such as MATLAB, Brainstorm, and EEGLAB, this tool allows researchers to explore cross-modal signal relationships, perform artifact correction across modalities, and co-visualize brain activity in both electrical and metabolic domains. The Merger Tool supports flexible epoching, signal quality checks, and export in standard formats for advanced statistical modeling and machine learning applications.

Together, LABNIRS and BioSemi create a complete multimodal neuroimaging ecosystem—offering real-time, synchronized insights into both the fast neural oscillations of EEG and the slower vascular dynamics captured by fNIRS. This integration is ideal for research in:

  • Neurovascular coupling
  • Cognitive workload and fatigue
  • Sensorimotor integration
  • BCI and neurofeedback
  • Developmental and clinical neuroscience

Watch our 2-part video series on how EEG and NIRS are combined, recorded and analysed with the LIGHTNIRS and ActiveTwo!

Read more
Measuring Method3-wavelength absorbance calculation (780, 805, 830 nm)
Measuring ItemAmounts of relative change from initial value of oxygenated hemoglobin (oxyHb), deoxygenated hemoglobin (deoxyHb), and total hemoglobin (totalHb)
Light source3-wavelength near-infrared semiconductor laser Class 1 [IEC60825-1 (2007)] l1 780±5 mm l2 805±5 mm l3 830±5 mm
Number NIRS Emittors/Detectors4 to 40 sets (142 channels max.)
Sampling Rate166Hz (6ms)
DetectorMultialkali photomultiplier tube
FiberMulticomponent glass bundle fiber
External I/O (Option)Digital input terminal (BNC) 12, TTL level (non-insulated) Digital output terminal (BNC) 12 Analog input terminal (BNC) 8, 0-10 V
ComputerCPU: Dual-Core, 2 GHz equivalent or higher OS: Windows 7 Professional
LCD Display22-inch, wide aspect model, 1920 x 1200 pixels
Operating Temperature15-30 °C Less than 5 °C/h during measurement
Operating Humidity45 to 85 %RH (with no condensation)
Storing Temperature-10 to +60 °C
Pollution Degree2
Electrical Installation CategoryCategory II
Power Supply100/110/120/200/220/230/240 V AC 50,60 Hz 1100 VA
Interrupting Capacity1000 A
External Dimensions (W x H x D)610 x 1090 x 750 (not including protrusions or LCD)
Weight230kg

Important Note: This product is for research applications only. Not a medical device as defined in Regulation (EU) 2017/745 (EU MDR), Swiss Medical Devices Ordinance (MedDO, SR 812.213), or FDA 21 CFR Part 860. Not designed or intended to be used for diagnosis, treatment of disease or any other medical purposes.

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