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FAQ: How are fixations / saccades defined?
#1
The EyeLink online parser identifies saccades and fixations using a method called "saccade picking." This approach works by constantly monitoring the eye's speed (velocity) and change in speed (acceleration).

Think of it like a speed limit for the eye; any movement that exceeds a set threshold is classified as part of a saccade, while anything below it is considered part of a fixation.

Standard Thresholds
By default, the parser uses the following thresholds:
  • Velocity Threshold: 30°/s
  • Acceleration Threshold: 8000°/s²
Defining a Fixation
Based on this method, a fixation is defined by the saccades that surround it:
  • A fixation begins the moment the preceding saccade ends (when eye velocity and acceleration drop below the thresholds).
  • A fixation ends the moment the subsequent saccade begins (when eye velocity and acceleration rise above the thresholds).
For more information about the EyeLink parser, please refer to Section 4.3 of the EyeLink User Manual for your hardware: