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Check EDF Type

Detailed EDF format description

for a detailed explanation of the EDF format see the description page

EDF Type Overview

Only EDF+ files can be stored in either a continuous (EDF+C) or discontinuous (EDF+D) format, while EDF files can only be continuous. A discontinuity within the EDF+ file would occur when the recording is stopped and subsequently started again, resulting in a lapse in recording time. There are two ways to account for the missing data during the non-recording period:

  • Continuous: to keep the timeline in the file continuous, the data record during the non-recording time can be filled with zeros. This would maintain the timeline within the file.
  • Discontinuous: ignore the time the recording stopped and "Glue" the different recording sessions together. This creates a jump in the timeline of the EDF+ file.

For most applications, the EDF+ file will need to be in EDF+C format. The majority of softwares and analysis tools require this.

Convert EDF Type

You need to ensure all EDF+ files are in continuous format (EDF+C). This is easy to check within data2bids.

  1. Ensure your input directory has been organized prior to opening within data2bids.
  2. Within data2bids select the input directory and check the EDF Type column. You should flag any file that is in EDF+D format.

  3. Once you have identified the files that are in EDF+D format, open EDFBrowser, select Tools at the top and Convert EDF+D to EDF+C.

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  4. A dialog box will open allowing you to select one of the identified files that is in EDF+D format, select one file.

  5. Once conversion is complete you will notice the original file remains but now there are several smaller files with a 4 digit suffix accounting for the number of times the recording was stopped/started.