Before you record a baseline or do a meditation training session, GoDeeper must first do a Signal check to make sure that the Muse is giving it a clear EEG signal. There are four ovals corresponding to each of the four sensors on the Muse. A new row of ovals appears each second to indicate the quality of the signal at each sensor. If it seems like GoDeeper is more finicky than the Muse about getting a good signal before allowing you to start meditating, you are right! Research requires a higher signal quality standard.
Here is what the colors mean and tips for how to get to all greens:
Black means that the app isn’t getting any signal from the Muse. If the ovals are all black, make sure the Muse is turned on and connected via Bluetooth. If the Muse is on, then it is probably not connected.
Orange means the signal is Noisy. That’s usually from movement. Muscles make electrical noises that overpower the EEG signal. So it is important to be still during the signal check and while meditating. Sometimes Orange can be fixed by wetting the sensors.
Yellow means there is a Weak signal. This can be fixed by refitting the headband, making sure there is no hair or glasses between the electrode and your skin, and putting moisture on the electrode that is yellow. Saliva is a convenient source of moisture and a very good conductor of electricity because it is salty. Yes, licking your Muse is a great way to get a good signal! You can also wait until a thin bead of sweat forms under the electrode. PRO TIP: Turn on the Muse and put it on BEFORE opening the GoDeeper app. It gives more time for sweat to form and make a good electrical connection.
Green means there is a Good signal. We need to see ten seconds or rows of good signal to proceed to meditating or recording a baseline.