MERIDIAN TESTING PROGRAM V.2.0
USER’S MANUAL
GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR EXAMINATION PROCEDURE:
An examinee should take off all metallic items--watches, rings, glasses, jewelry--which may interfere with the readings. Hands and feet should not be moistened with oils, lotions or excessive perspiration. Avoid stimulants (coffee, alcohol, drugs) that affect the nervous system prior to testing. Before taking a measurement wait for some time (about two hours) after exercise, meal, etc. A person should be calm and relaxed. The examinee should not hold the passive electrode too firmly or too lightly as it can alter the measurements (too firm of contact creates higher readings; too light of contact lowers the readings).
Make sure the moistened cotton on the active/passive probe is in contact with the metal of the probe. The cotton should not be too wet or too dry. Keep the cotton moist throughout the testing. If the skin of the examinee is wet with oil, lotion, or perspiration gently dab the excess moisture to avoid friction on the hands and feet (hands and feet in TCM method, hands in SU-JOK method). During testing the examiner should not press too hard or too lightly on the examined points. An examiner should not touch the examinee during the testing (touch the measurement point only with the active/passive probe).DISCLAIMER AND LIABILITY
The unit is used under the sole responsibility of the user without liability to the manufacturer. We assume no liability for damage or loss resulting from misuse, mishandling of any Meridian Testing Program v.2.0 software component. We make no guarantees or warranties with respect to the contents or the use of this manual and/or Meridian Testing Program v.2.0 software unit.
The information provided in this manual is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional. You should not use the information in this manual for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other treatment. You should consult with a health care professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem. You should not stop taking any medication without first consulting your physician.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Electric cardiac pacemaker; coagulation failure; congenital deformity of central nervous system; implantable cardio stimulator; individual intolerance to current electricity; injury on a skin after electro stimulation; state of acute psychic excitement or intoxication (alcohol), pregnancy.
SOFTWARE LICENSE AGREEMENT
The Association of Alternative Medicine grants Buyer non-exclusive right to install and use Meridian Testing Program v.2.0 on a single computer and a single terminal for the purpose of operating products purchased by Buyer from the Association of Alternative Medicine.
You may install one additional copy on a laptop or a home computer provided that it is owned by you, for your use for archival purposes.
The Software’s content is protected by copyright laws. Buyer may not rent, lease, loan the Software without the prior written notice of the Association of Alternative Medicine. Buyer may not disassemble, copy, reverse engineer, decompile, modify, sublicense, assign, create a derivative work from, or use the Software in any manner except as stated in this Agreement.
Except as set forth in this paragraph, the Software is licensed “As Is” without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied, by statute or otherwise, including but not limited to the implied warranties of merchantability, non-infringement and fitness for any particular purpose. We do not guarantee or warrant the suitability of the Software or that it will meet your requirements.
The liability of the Association of Alternative Medicine under the warranty set forth above shall be limited to the amount paid by Buyer for the product.
The Association of Alternative Medicine and its suppliers will not be responsible for any indirect, incidental, special, or consequential damages (including damages for loss of business, loss of profits, etc.) whether based on breach of contract, tort and negligence, product liability and the like the Association of Alternative Medicine’s liability to Buyer will be limited to the amount paid for the product.
OVERVIEW OF THE SOFTWARE
The Meridian Testing Program v.2.0 is a tool that can be used to precisely assess body health via meridian measurements The device is intended for evaluating the functional activity of organs and systems based on the Ryodoraku (Nakatani) method.
The main objective of the software is to become integrated with a computer thereby becoming more user-friendly for a practitioner. It preserves all of the functionality of the original method but allows the practitioner to send results of meridian measurements directly to their PC and create accurate, patient-friendly graphical print outs at each visit. The direct reading from probe to computer saves the practitioner's time and allows him to obtain information of the entire body within five minutes. The software is easy to learn, and are fast and simple to use.
SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
Make sure that your computer meets the following requirements to avoid problems that will result from not having the following specifications:
Pentium IV or above
The operating system Windows XP, Vista, Windows 7
RAM 256 Mb or above
100 Mb of free space on the hard disk
Keyboard
CD-ROM drive
Mouse or compatible indicating device
One free input/output USB-port
Printer that supports Windows operation system
SOFTWARE INSTALLATION
Before installing the software make sure that the computer satisfies with the technical requirements.
Put the CD with “Meridian Testing Program v.2.0” software into CD-ROM drive.
To copy the software from the CD on the hard drive of the computer locate the 
file.
Open it with the left click of the mouse
and the installation process begins.
The software is ready to be installed on your computer. Click the 
button to continue the installation wizard.
The software informs you
that it is ready to be installed on your computer. Press the 
button.
When the software is successfully installed on your computer you will see the following window:
button to complete the installation.
STARTING AND EXITING THE SOFTWARE
Before starting the device software make sure that the unit is connected to the computer and is switched on. If the unit is on, a sound is generated when the device is turned on.
Check the connections of the device: the USB-port cable to the computer, as well as the active/passive probe, the passive electrode.
To start the program, click on the software’s icon.
The Introductory window will appear on your screen.
If there is no information about patients in the database, you will see an empty “Clients” field. Before starting a test, add the patient to the database.
If client information is already in the database, it appears in the Introductory window of the client list.
If you want to exit from the program click the on the 
button, which is in the program Title Bar.
ELEMENTS OF THE SOFTWARE’S MAIN WINDOW
After the start of the program the Introductory window appears on the screen. Some elements are typical for all windows in Windows, some are specific for the device’s software.
TITLE BAR
Title bar is on the top of the program window. The name of the program (Meridian Testing Program v.2.0) is indicated in Title bar. The title bar is always highlighted by a blue color. It indicates which window is active at the given moment.
The window control buttons on the right in the
title bar allow you to: minimize the window into a button on a taskbar 
, maximize the window on full
desktop 
, minimize the window to the panel size 
or close the window
TOOLBOX PANEL
Click File -> Exit - use File and Exit tabs to exit the program.
Click Options -> Settings to change text and color settings in the software.
As this software is compatible with several devices, choose the type of device you are using when you run the software and before starting a test.
Go to Options -> Settings – Device
After your device is successfully found you will see the next window
Note: in our example we used the device Biopulse-Probe
Click Information -> About to get information about software.
Click Information -> Registration – to register the software.
Clients list
The Clients list is always present in the Introductory window of the program.
It is a management database, which records client
information (such as name, last name, phone, etc.) and test histories.
To choose a client from the list click on the client’s Name.
The line with the selected client will be highlighted in
blue.
You can also create a new client’s card, edit or
delete information directly from the client list window.
Click the 
button to enter a new client.
A new client card window will be displayed. This card should be filled in with the client’s information.
Type in the Name, Surname, Date of birth, Sex, Height and Weight, Address, and contact details such as Web Site, E-mail, Phone numbers. Comments may also be added to the card.
When you finish typing all the information, press the 
button. The program will ask you:
If you want to delete a client from your database, choose his or her Name and
press 
The program will ask you to confirm deletion.
Note: once you delete the client, all his information is deleted together with all measurements and can’t be recovered.
Click the 
button
to search for a client by Name, Surname, Date of birth, Date of test.
To begin the search, press the 
button.
To edit information about a client, select the client’s name and press the ‘Edit’ button.
‘Start a test’ button
begins the meridian measurement function. Do
not forget to choose your device type when running the software. The software will need to locate the device
you are using. (For example, Biopulse TC.)
To start a measurement choose a client from your Client database or introduce a new client. Click the
button.
Results’ review button
If you want to view one of the previous tests choose
the client’s name and testing time, then press the 
button.
‘Delete’ button
To delete unnecessary tests from the client’s card, remove the tests by clicking the
button.
The program will ask you to confirm the deletion.
Note: Once you delete the testing, it cannot be recovered.
In the Comments field you can enter notes about a patient and diagnostic results.
To start Ryodoraku diagnostics prepare the device as follows:
● Check the connection of the passive electrode, detecting probe, USB port cable.
● Insert the moistened cotton into the active/passive electrode’s search cup and switch on the unit.
● Choose a client from the list or introduce a new one.
Click the 
to start the
new measurement.
Testing window
The 
window has 6 tabs which help you when working
with the software.
They are:
Testing
The software provides you with 2 types of points displaying and measuring:
1) according to TCM (Traditional
Chinese Medicine);
2) according to Su Jok method (Korean
variety of acupuncture) where points are located on fingers.
The points are displayed according to TCM as a default.
The 
button changes the mode of testing points.
- shows the name of the point which is
displayed at the current moment and where the measurement is to be carried out. The software directs you in performing all 24 point measurements. Every point is
graphically illustrated. The patient and
practitioner may view and follow the points on the screen. The pictures clearly show the precise location
of the acupuncture point to examine. It
is simple even for new users.
The measurement point which is red and blinking a white color is the one
you are measuring at the current moment.
In TCM mode the measurement order
is as follows:
1) 3 Palm and 3 back points of the left hand
2) Continue to the points on the left foot
3) 3 Palm and 3 back points
of the right hand
4) Continue to the points on
the right foot
Our point display differs from traditional Ryodoraku order. It is changed for measurement convenience to test first the central part of the foot and then the lateral parts of the foot. However this does not alter the exam accuracy.
If you want to choose the Su Jok measurement
method, push the button to shift from TCM to Su Jok
method. Follow the points’ illustration to locate and complete all 24
measurement points.
To shift back to TCM mode click on the button.
The button 
performs calibration when it is necessary
for a user.
In some cases there is a need to make some calibration depending on a season, country and some other factors. There are 2 options helping you to do so.
You can add to the initial value either a percentage that you choose (plus or minus) or a digit value to the initial one.
The Information field displays the first and last name of an examinee, and the testing date and time.
The values of skin conductance are located on the right side of the Testing window.
The display consists of the numerical values of the skin conductance and a dynamic yellow line. The yellow line is a real time graphing of your skin conductance received from the organs’ representative points.
The vertical line on the left side of the graph displays numerical values of skin conductance level.
shows the average value of the skin conductance during the first second
of measurement
shows
the average value on the 2-d second of measurement
shows the average value on the 3-d second of measurement
Yellow line – displays real time graphing of a point measurement
The program automatically calculates and enters the average skin conductance level for the particular point measurement. All readings are displayed in the evaluation form under the display scale.
The description and rules of the TESTING process.
Step one:
The device is connected to the computer with the USB-port cable. The active/passive probe or electrode is
connected to the device. Start the “Meridian Testing Program v. 2.1” software.
Make all necessary general requirements prior to
examination.
Note: the device does not need calibration as similar devices require and always works correctly.
Step two:
Make a small size cotton swab. Moisten it with water or salt solution and squeeze the cotton swab into the active/passive probe’s cup. Make sure that the moistened cotton is in contact with the metal of the probe. The cotton should not be too wet or too dry. It is fine to remoisten the cotton to maintain moisture during the test.
Step three:
Have the client hold the probe not too loosely or too tight.
Step four:
With the feet resting on nonconductive ground the client seats comfortably on a chair or lies on a bed. The examinee should not contact metal or wall furnishings.
Step five:
Without probing or palpating, place the active/passive measuring probe with moistened cotton over the examinee’s test point a сcording to the point’s illustration. The reading begins at that moment. The yellow line steadily rises to a certain value where it gradually stabilizes. The measurement of each point is performed within 3 seconds. The program automatically gets three measurement readings of the meridian conductance value on each second. The software calculates the average value of the point.
Every measurement value is accompanied by a beep when
you place the probe on the skin. The value is recorded in the evaluation form
(under the display scale). Alternatively you can press the 
button or press ‘enter’ on the PC
keyboard to enter the examined value in the Measurements’ results field.
After 3 seconds the running yellow line stabilizes and reaches the end of display scale. After 3 seconds place the probe over the next point to begin testing. There is a function that will shift the software to another point without pressing the push-button on the detecting probe.
If you check the Auto Next box, the software will automatically shift to another point when you complete measuring previous point. You can choose the time when the software shifts to another point. For example, if you select 0 seconds, it shifts you to the measurement of another point at once; if you select from 1 till 60 seconds, the program shifts to another point within 1, 2, …..60 seconds depending upon the time chosen.
To go to the next measurement place the electrode on the examinee’s skin in accordance with the next point’s illustration.
If you press the push-button before the expiration of
3 seconds from the moment of the first pressing, or if there was a mistake
press the 
button and shift to the necessary point. To
repeat this or any other point, press the button to go to the next point or the
button to shift to a previous point. Shifting
back and forth allows you to test a point which is displayed in the program.
This function helps you to avoid erroneous data input.
button deletes
all measured data during examination.
On completion of measuring the last point the device automatically saves the twenty-four values and creates a test summary displayed in five different diagrams according to Traditional Chinese Medicine or Su Jok method.
Special Note:
If the active/passive probe does not start reading right away make sure that the cotton swab is moistened enough and the probe is connected to the device. A stable running yellow line shows that the measurement is accurate; however, a break in the line can indicate a broken signal. Continue to measure the point and wait a while. A break often happens if the skin conductance is not sufficient and if the energy level is low. The measurement won’t be accurate as it won’t show the information about your health.
To view the graphical summaries press the 
button.
Diagram
button contains the examination summary in four
different graphs according to TCM or Su Jok method.
Results may be viewed in 4 different formats: Bar №1 (split graph between the left and right meridians), Bar № 2, Linear (diagram), and Circular (pie chart).
These graphs provide a summary of the meridian examination. The user can view which meridians are out of their physiologic balance (if the meridians are depressed or elevated) in the four different style graphs.
In this version of the software you can view and save unlimited quantity of tests for each client.
If you want to see the split between left and right meridians choose Bar №1, then click on the date you want to view (if it is not a current test).
If you want to view the second type of graph style, choose Bar №2
and select the date.
Linear graph style the user can choose to view several previous tests from the client’s history to compare them with each other over a span of time or the current test with previous examinations.
To do so choose the Linear box 
, click on the dates you want to view and the
program will display each test in its own color.
The advantage of this function allows you to compare the last examination with previous ones and view any changed physiological responses.
The last graph style is a Circular chart.
To view test results in a circular chart style you need check the ‘circular’ box 
and select the date you want to view.
The software also provides an analysis of the meridians’ ratio according to the five elements.
Symptoms
Symptoms of unbalanced meridians can be viewed
from the ‘Symptom’ window.
Click on the ‘Symptoms’ tab and the software
displays possible symptoms.
Analysis
This window is used for viewing different ratios for a particular patient.
Ratios Review
The ratio of the musculoskeletal system shows the state of all that is connected with the musculoskeletal system.
The Metabolism ratio shows you the functions of absorption, digestion, and excretion
The Mental state ratio is used to evaluate the condition of mental activity.
Autonomic Nervous System ratio
External-Internal Analysis
Excess vs. Deficient channels
Circular chart
All measurement charts may be printed.
You can check the boxes with the print settings
you want to be printed out.
When you check the ‘Diagram’ box you can also choose one of the 5 graph styles you want to print.
In the ‘Annotation’ field you can write notes, an analysis of the examination, treatment plan, and other information.
The print mode can be adjusted to print in full color, with minimal color, or black and white.
HOW TO INTERPRET RYODORAKU ANALYSIS INFORMATION
Vertically on the chart are numbers from 0 to 200; horizontally are the names of the meridians. The chart is divided into left and right sides corresponding to the left side meridians and to the right side meridians. For each meridian there are two values corresponding to the left and right branches of the meridian (For example, LU of the left side and LU of the right side).
Every letter symbol has its own coding according
to Chinese terminology:
Lu-Lung meridian, Pc-Pericardium meridian
(Heart constrictor), Ht-Heart meridian,
Si-Small intestine meridian, Th-Three heaters
meridian (Triple energizer),
Li-Large intestine meridian, Sp-Spleen/Pancreas
meridian, Lv-Liver meridian,
Ki-Kidney meridian, Bl-Urinary bladder, Gb-Gall
bladder meridian,
St-Stomach meridian
The corresponding Ryodoraku symbols are:
H 1–lungs meridian,
H2-heart constrictor (pericardium)meridian, H3–heart meridian,
H4-small intestine meridian, H5–triple heater
meridian, H6-large intestine meridian.
F1-spleen/pancreas meridian, F2-liver meridian, F3-kidney meridian, F4-urinary meridian, F5-gall bladder meridian, F6-stomach meridian.
The white stripe on the chart designates a physiological balance and the average state of a person’s energy. Average values are ideal. If the electric conductivity value exceeds the average state, high (red color) or low (blue color), dysfunctions in the meridian are indicated.The greater the distance from the white stripe in either direction, the worse the condition of the meridian and organ connected with it.
Those values which are too high or too low must
be treated, either stimulated or sedated.
Values around 20-30 are often considered
deficient and must be balanced with stimulation. Values higher than 70 are
considered elevated and must be balanced with sedation. Average readings are
from 30 to 70.
As a user becomes more experienced in testing and interpreting the charts, he or she can obtain information about the client’s general energy level, mental state, musculoskeletal system, metabolism function, and the state of the autonomic nervous system. By examining the red and blue columns a user can determine which systems and organs have excessive or deficient energy.