Abstract
The IBM PC keyboard is a convenient response panel for subjects in a reaction time task when the stimuli are presented on the same machine. However, there is a mean delay of about 10 msec and a random error of ±7.5 msec (±5 msec on the AT or PS/2). Our analyses show that for typical single response experimental situations, this added variance is acceptable. With mouse buttons, timing resulted in a delay of 31 ±2 msec if the mouse ball was steady but 45 ±15 msec if it was moving, and a 25-msec refractory period before a second response could be detected. With keys connected to the game port, timing was accurate to 1 msec. For timing the interval between two nearly simultaneous responses, only the game port method is recommended. Any research application should provide an external check on reaction timing accuracy and should correct any mean error.
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Graves, R., &Bradley, R. (1987). Millisecond interval timer and auditory reaction time programs for the IBM PC.Behavior Research Methods, Instruments, & Computers,19, 30–35.
Graves, R., &Bradley, R. (1988). More on millisecond timing and tachistoscope applications for the IBM PC.Behavior Research Methods, Instruments, & Computers,20, 408–412.
Segalowitz, S. J. (1987). IBM PC Tachistoscope: Text stimuli.Behavior Research Methods, Instruments, & Computers,19, 383–388.
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Preparation of this article was supported in part by grants from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada to S. J. Segalowitz and to R. E. Graves.
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Segalowitz, S.J., Graves, R.E. Suitability of the IBM XT, AT, and PS/2 keyboard, mouse, and game port as response devices in reaction time paradigms. Behavior Research Methods, Instruments, & Computers 22, 283–289 (1990). https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03209817
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03209817