How to stream EEG data from EMOTIV to TouchDesigner

Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) are quickly becoming a powerful tool for artists, developers, and researchers. If you’re working with EMOTIV EEG headsets and want to integrate real-time brain data into multimedia projects or interactive installations using TouchDesigner, there are a couple of proven ways to do it.

Streaming EEG Data via OSC (Open Sound Control)

One of the most popular methods for syncing Emotiv data with TouchDesigner is using BCI-OSC, an OSC (Open Sound Control) streaming tool offered by EMOTIV. This tool enables you to stream some data streams from EmotivBCI in real time over a local network, making it easy to bring brainwave information directly into TouchDesigner. Please see an example here. 

With BCI-OSC, you can stream the following data types into TouchDesigner:

• Mental Commands
• Facial Expressions
• Performance Metrics (Low-resolution)

Many developers have already implemented successful integrations with OSC. With a bit of configuration, TouchDesigner can receive Emotiv data streams and use them to drive visuals, audio, or interactive media experiences. You can subscribe to the BCI-OSC license here:

👉 BCI-OSC on EMOTIV Store

Using Cortex SDK and API

For those with a programming background, another powerful option is to use EMOTIV’s Cortex SDK and API. This method gives you more control and flexibility, allowing you to develop custom data pipelines and stream EEG data directly into TouchDesigner via your own code.

With the Cortex API, all data streams are available to stream into TouchDesigner including raw EEG, motion data, frequency bands, facial expression, and performance metrics, synchronize them with external inputs, and send them into TouchDesigner using custom scripts. This route is ideal for developers who want to create fully tailored BCI applications or advanced interactive systems. 

With Cortex API & SDK, you can stream the following data types into TouchDesigner:

• Mental Commands
• Facial Expressions
• Performance Metrics (Low-resolution and High-resolution)
• Motion data
• Frequency Bands

Note: Access to the Cortex API and SDK may require a specific license depending on the headset you’re using and the type of data you wish to stream. Please contact our Support team with your project details, and we’ll help you find the most suitable option.

Which option should you choose?

• For quick and easy integration: Use BCI-OSC for straightforward real-time streaming to TouchDesigner.
• For advanced control and customization: Use the Cortex SDK and API, especially if you’re comfortable with Python, C#, or JavaScript.

Whether you’re creating generative art, building immersive installations, or exploring brainwave-driven design, EMOTIV headsets offer powerful capabilities to bring your ideas to life. By integrating with TouchDesigner through either OSC or the Cortex API, you can turn brain data into interactive reality.

If you have questions about setup, subscriptions, or licensing, don’t hesitate to contact our Support team. We’re here to help!