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Components of a Polygraph Machine

The document describes the major components and parts of a polygraph or lie detector machine. It discusses the four main components: 1) the pneumograph which records breathing patterns, 2) the galvanograph which records electrodermal responses, 3) the cardiosphymograph which records blood pressure, pulse and heart rate, and 4) the kymograph which records the outputs on a chart. It also lists and describes several accessory parts and how the major components are attached to measure physiological responses from a subject during a polygraph examination.

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Erica Marie Bagon
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3K views6 pages

Components of a Polygraph Machine

The document describes the major components and parts of a polygraph or lie detector machine. It discusses the four main components: 1) the pneumograph which records breathing patterns, 2) the galvanograph which records electrodermal responses, 3) the cardiosphymograph which records blood pressure, pulse and heart rate, and 4) the kymograph which records the outputs on a chart. It also lists and describes several accessory parts and how the major components are attached to measure physiological responses from a subject during a polygraph examination.

Uploaded by

Erica Marie Bagon
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
  • The Instrument
  • Other Parts of the Polygraph
  • Attachment of the Major Components
  • References

Module: Lie Detection Techniques (3/1)

CHAPTER V
THE INSTRUMENT

At the end of this chapter the students should be able to learn: 


Describe the different parts of polygraph machine and its function; 
Define the accessory parts on its major components.

The instrument used in Polygraph Examination is often called as “Polygraph or


Polygraph Machine, Lie Detector, or Deceptograph” as earlier mentioned in the past
chapters. Polygraph is defined as an instrument or device capable of producing
recordings of physiological phenomena that may be used as the basis for the
application of a reliable technique for diagnosing truth or deception. The machine itself
does not detect lies or deception, it only records the physiological
phenomena/changes that occur when the subjects tells a lie or deception. It is the
Examiner who detects deception through the use of a lie detector or polygraph.

The machine/instrument has four (4) major parts or components, these are;

1. Pneumograph – this
occupy the two top/upper
pens of the instrument which
records the thoracic and
abdominal breathing patterns
of respiration. This is
accomplished through the use
of a pneumograph consisting
of two hollow corrugated tubes
about seven inches in length,
each attached to a unit by a rubber
Module: Lie Detection Techniques (3/1)

hose no longer than six feet and no larger than one quarter inch in diameter. This
breathing pneumo unit is a low pressure unit. The inhalation/exhalation of the
subject causes the tubes to expand and contract, thereby reflecting the change
through bellows to the pen into the chart.

2. Galvanograph – this is the longest and the third pen of the instrument. The
electrodes are attached to the index finger and the ring finger of the left hand, or to
the palmar and dorsal surfaces of the left hand. The electrodes used for obtaining
the recording of the GSR or electrodermal responses, are fastened to the hand or
fingers by means of the passage of an imperceptible amount of electrical current
through the hand or fingers bearing the attached electrodes, a galvanometer unit
provides recording of the variation in the flow of the electrical current.

3. Cardiosphymograph – this is the fourth and the bottom pen of the


instrument. This cardio unit is a mechanically operated unit. It is a high pressure
system. This system records changes in mean blood pressure, rate and strength
of pulse beat by means of a medical blood pressure cuff containing a rubber
bladder that is wrapped around the upper arm, in a manner that places the bladder
against the brachial artery. The bladder is connected to the rubber hose, past a
pressure indicating gauge to a very sensitive bellows and its connected lever
system that powers the pen. The polygraphist inflates the bladder with a hand
pump to a constant air pressure that will provide tracing amplitude of 0.75 to 1 inch
with a dicrotic notch situated about the middle of the diastolic limb of the tracing.

4. Kymograph – this is the chart recording unit of the instrument. It has a


synchronized motor that drives the chart at the rate of six inches per minute and
its speed constant is vital because the vertical lines, which are spaced either at
one-half or one inch interval, represents five or ten seconds interval on the chart.
This provides the polygraphist with a means of determining pulse rate and question
spacing.
Module: Lie Detection Techniques (3/1)

OTHER PARTS OF THE POLYGRAPH

1. Pen lifter – it raises or lowers pens to 3 positions.

2. Program pacer – a programmable cueing device for question and answer


spacing.

3. Paper tear bar – provides cutting edge for convenient removal of charts.

4. Foam Pen Hold-Down – keeps pens in place when instrument is being


transported.

5. Attaché compartment – storage for all forms and supplies. Slightly smaller in
Executive Ultra Scribe.

6. Accessory Storage & Optional Calibration Checking Fixture – slightly


smaller in Executive Ultra Scribe.

7. Subject Connections – stylish grouping provides neat, professional


appearance.

Facilitates set-up and storage.

8. Mechanical Pneumo Module – recording part of mechanical Pneumo


Channel.

9. Galvanic Skin Response Module – recording part of GSR channel.


Module: Lie Detection Techniques (3/1)

10. Multi-function Module – selectable recording module that can be used


as:

a. Electronic pneumo channel

b. Electronic cardio channel

c. Cardio activity monitor

d. Cardio tech or other accessories.

11. Mechanical cardio module – recording part of mechanical cardio


module.

12. Paper storage compartment – holds two spare rolls of chart paper or
other supplies.

13. AC power receptacle – power cords connects here; international


standard design for easy cord replacement.

14. Power switch and circuit breaker – applies power to instrument. Built-
in resettable circuit breaker protects instruments and eliminates need for fuses.
To reset simply press OFF and then ON again.

15. Chart drive roller lever – lifts chart drive roller for paper change and
chart removal.

16. Power analyzer – automatically indicates whether wall outlet is properly


wired and grounded for proper instrument operation and subject safety.

17. Stimulus marker – marks significant events on the chart.


Module: Lie Detection Techniques (3/1)

18. Sphygmomanometer Dial – reads operating pressure of cardio


channels.

19. Pneumo 1 – pneumatic connection for upper (thoracic) pneumograph.


Not connected in instrument with only one Pneumo Channel.

20. Pneumo 2 – pneumatic connection for lower (abdominal) pneumograph.

21. Cuff – pneumatic connection for Cardio Channel subject cuff tubing.

22. Pump – pneumatic connection for hand pump used to inflate subject
cuff.

23. Mechanical cardio switch – disengages Mechanical cardio Module


from pneumatic system for low pressure Electronic Operation.

ATTACHMENT OF THE MAJOR COMPONENTS OF POLYGRAPH

A polygraph is in fact several instruments combined to simultaneously record changes


in blood pressure, pulse, respiration and skin resistance. The electrical conductivity of
the skin’s surface can also be measured through the increasing sweat gland activity
that reduces the skin’s ability to carry electrical current.

The pneumograph tube is fastened around the subject’s torso and belly. The blood
pressure cuff is placed on the right arm in such a way that the rubber bladder
Module: Lie Detection Techniques (3/1)

part should be located over the brachial artery. The electrodes or Galvanic Skin
Reflex (GSR) is attached on the palm or index finger and ring finger of the left hand of
the subject. Position the subject in a manner that he looks straight ahead with the
instrument and the examiner to the right side or rear somewhat ahead of the
kymograph or chart drive so that the polygraph tracings will not distract him.

TOPICS VIDEO LINKS


MAJOR COMPONENTS [Link]
OF POLYGRAPH
INSTRUMENT

Parts of Polygraph [Link]


Instrument and Polygraph
Examination

Polygraphy Part 5 [Link]


References:
King - eo, Chester (2006). Introduction to Specific Lie Detection . Unpublished notes from
the University of the Cordilleras: Baguio City

[Link] l
[Link]

Common questions

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The pneumograph component of a polygraph machine records the thoracic and abdominal breathing patterns of respiration. It functions through two hollow corrugated tubes attached to the subject, which expand and contract with inhalation and exhalation. These changes are transferred to bellows connected to pens, producing a respiration tracing. The physiological phenomenon it records is the change in breathing patterns, which can indicate stress associated with deception .

The mechanical cardio switch in a polygraph machine disengages the mechanical cardio module from the pneumatic system, allowing for low pressure electronic operation. This function is important as it provides an option to switch between mechanical and electronic measurement modes, enabling flexibility in recording cardiovascular responses. Such adaptability is crucial for customizing tests according to specific requirements and enhancing the accuracy of data collected .

The polygraph machine ensures safety and operational integrity through features like the power analyzer and the built-in circuit breaker. The power analyzer automatically indicates if the wall outlet is properly wired and grounded, which is critical for both instrument operation and subject safety. The circuit breaker protects the equipment by allowing reset after overloads without needing fuse replacements, ensuring that the machine remains operationally secure .

The galvanograph component of a polygraph machine contributes to detecting lies by measuring the electrodermal response or changes in skin conductance, which is influenced by sweat gland activity. Electrodes attached to the subject's fingers carry an imperceptible current, and variations in this current, caused by increased perspiration during stressful or deceitful situations, are recorded. This physiological change, recorded by the galvanograph, can suggest deception when consistent with other data .

The polygraph machine is designed with practical benefits in mind, such as the attaché compartment for organized storage of supplies, the foam pen hold-down for secure transport, and subject connections for a neat setup. This configuration facilitates efficient preparation and execution of tests, ensures orderly handling of materials, and presents a professional setup which can enhance examiner credibility and subject confidence during examinations .

The kymograph acts as the chart recording unit for the polygraph machine. It has a motor that drives the chart at a constant rate of six inches per minute. This speed is critical because the vertical lines on the chart, spaced at either half-inch or one-inch intervals, represent a time interval of five to ten seconds. Consistent speed allows accurate measurement of pulse rates and helps with question alignment during the examination .

The polygraph's capability to simultaneously measure multiple physiological responses—such as respiration, blood pressure, and skin conductance—significantly increases the reliability of lie detection. Simultaneous measurement allows for a comprehensive assessment of involuntary physiological reactions, which are critical in identifying signs of stress or arousal associated with deception. By cross-referencing different physiological data, the examiner can assess consistency and rule out artifacts, enhancing the test's validity .

Accessory parts of a polygraph, such as the pen lifter, program pacer, and power analyzer, enhance functionality and reliability by improving precision and setup efficiency. The pen lifter adjusts the pens to correct positions for accurate chart recordings, the program pacer aids in timing questions and responses, and the power analyzer ensures proper and safe operation by evaluating outlet wiring. These components ensure the polygraph functions correctly, providing reliable physiological data .

Correct positioning involves fastening the pneumograph tubes around the subject's torso and belly, placing the blood pressure cuff on the right arm over the brachial artery, and attaching GSR electrodes on the fingers of the left hand. Proper alignment ensures accurate measurement of physiological responses necessary for detecting deception. Misplacement can cause artifacts or inaccurate readings, jeopardizing data integrity and test accuracy .

The cardiosphymograph component of a polygraph measures changes in mean blood pressure, pulse rate, and pulse strength. These cardiovascular indicators can fluctuate with emotional states; notably, anxiety or stress often accompanying deception can cause elevated blood pressure and heart rate. The cardiosphymograph, using a blood pressure cuff, tracks these changes to assess physiological responses suggesting emotional arousal during the test .

Module: Lie Detection Techniques (3/1) CHAPTER V THE INSTRUMENT At the end of this chapter the students should
Module: Lie Detection Techniques (3/1) hose no longer than six feet and no larger than one quarter inch in diameter. T
Module: Lie Detection Techniques (3/1) OTHER PARTS OF THE POLYGRAPH 1. Pen lifter – it raises or lowers pens t
Module: Lie Detection Techniques (3/1) 10. Multi-function Module – selectable recording module that can be used as:
Module: Lie Detection Techniques (3/1) 18. Sphygmomanometer Dial – reads operating pressure of cardio channels.
Module: Lie Detection Techniques (3/1) part should be located over the brachial artery. The electrodes or Galvanic Ski

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