Eye Tracking Laboratory
The Lab
The MACCS Eye Tracking Laboratory consists of an EyeLink-II eye tracking system connected to a portable host PC. The system uses three cameras: two high speed cameras allow for binocular (or dominant-eye monocular) recording of eye movements; the third camera tracks four infrared markers mounted on the display screen, allowing the EyeLink software to automatically compensate for small head movements by tracking the position of the subject's head in relation to these markers on the screen. This means that a chin rest, or head restraint, is not required. Pupil measurements are recorded at a rate of 500 samples per second, affording analysis of visual scanpaths and smooth 
pursuit eye movements. Experiments can be run using a customised stimulus presentation program developed at MACCS for use with the PC. This system allows researchers to perform a wide variety of eye movement experiments without needing programming knowledge to develop them.
Data analysis can be undertaken with the Eyelink Data Viewer software or an in-house program written in Visual Basic. The Data Viewer software enables detailed analysis of eye movements within specified regions of interest or reaction times. The MACCS application allows for an easy visual comparison of scanpaths between trials, as well as producing statistics on basic gaze parameters (including counts, onsets and durations of fixations, saccades, and blinks) within pre-defined time periods. It also allows filters to be applied so that events meeting certain criteria are considered for analysis.
The MACCS Eyelink II lab has been designed to be mobile. The host computer is in a "lunchbox" configuration that is basically a small desktop computer with an inbuilt monitor, keyboard, mouse and handles for easy movement. The stimulus delivery computer is a Dell laptop, which is easily transportable. The whole system packs into two padded wheeled containers for easy transportation. When unpacked in its usual location on campus the laptop can be plugged into a docking station such that it will use a high quality CRT monitor for stimulus presentation.
Current Projects
Information for Lab users
How to use the Equipment
The Eyelink lab is located in C5C454. Copies of Eyelink-II Hardware and Software manuals from the manufacturer can be accessed in hard copy in the laboratory.
Data Analysis
For a copy of the in-house analysis program, please see one of the staff contacts below. Note that this program performs most reliably when run on a PC.
The Eyelink Data Viewer software can be downloaded freely from the SR research forums. It will run in a reduced capacity mode unless you have the USB data viewer key inserted into your Windows or Mac computer.
Room Booking
To use the Eyelink II or the Data Viewer Key you must book them out using the MACCS room booking system. The Data Viewer key is under "Equipment".
Do not book the lab for more time than you need. All day bookings are to be avoided. In the case of the Data Viewer Key it must remain on campus and when not in use returned to the Eyelink Lab.
Contact Staff
Useful Links