Protocol and stimulation parameters
µs
Definition
Pulse width is the duration of an individual electrical pulse or pulse phase, commonly expressed in microseconds.
Aliases and abbreviations
µs · pulse duration · phase width
Editorial record
Published: August 25, 2026 · Reviewed: August 25, 2026
Expanded definition
Pulse width describes how long a pulse—or one phase of a biphasic pulse—lasts. It is different from the time between pulses, the number of pulses per second, and the total session duration.
Together with current amplitude and electrode conditions, pulse width influences charge delivered per pulse and which neural elements may be recruited. The same intensity with a different pulse width is not the same stimulus.
Studies use a range of pulse widths, and the preferred setting may depend on waveform, site, tolerability, device, population, and outcome. It should not be interpreted in isolation.
What the term does not establish
Why the distinction matters
Pulse width is a core protocol variable, and omitting it can make two apparently similar stimulation methods impossible to compare accurately.
Main guide
A method-focused guide to pulse width, frequency, intensity, waveform, and reporting limits.
Explore protocol parametersRelated terms
Protocol and stimulation parameters
Protocol and stimulation parameters
Protocol and stimulation parameters
Protocol and stimulation parameters
Protocol and stimulation parameters
Protocol and stimulation parameters
Editorial scope
This glossary entry supports general education. It does not diagnose, recommend treatment, or transfer findings from one VNS method, protocol, or device to another.