Basic EEG sensing technology is extremely mature and relatively cost-effective, thanks to its wide distribution in the clinical world.
MEG is beautiful physics in action: superconductive materials and quantum effects contribute to the principles of this brain imaging instrument.
MEG and EEG are two complementary techniques. Even though they are both sensitive to neural currents, they differ in many respects in terms of the technology involved, the subject's preparation and comfort, and the sensitivity of the measurements.
How is possible to measure extremely minute magnetic fields that are a billionth time weaker than the Earth's magnetic field in an environment where MRI scanners might be just next door?
Exciting recent developments however contribute to constant progress in cost-effectiveness, practicality and the future of MEG sensing science.
Functional brain imaging generally requires presenting various stimuli to a subject or a patient. The MEG environment imposes certain constraints on the equipment being used.