Chapter 5

Author: Gary H. Glover (Stanford University)

Section 5.1. Introduction: Requirements for fMRI Hardware
Section 5.2. The Magnet and Spectrometer
5.2.1: Block diagram of a MRI system
5.2.2: Choice of magnetic field strength, B0
5.2.3: Safety implications of high magnetic fields

Section 5.3. Gradient Coils
5.3.1: Overview of gradient coils
5.3.2: Biological considerations for fast gradient switching
5.3.3: Whole body, insertable or head dedicated?

Section 5.4. Radio-Frequency Coils
5.4.1: Volume head coils
5.4.2: Surface coils
5.4.3: Safety considerations of RF coils

Section 5.5. Special considerations for fMRI
5.5.1: Data throughput
5.5.2: Stimulus considerations
5.5.3: System tests

Section 5.6. Future Developments in MRI Hardware
5.6.1: Head only scanners
5.6.2: Very high performance gradients
5.6.3: Real-time fMRI

Section 5.7. Concluding Remarks