How does the T.O.V.A. compare to other CPTs?
Accuracy: By using an external measuring device (the T.O.V.A. Microswitch) and a precision testing environment (PTE), the T.O.V.A. controls measurements and timing with ±1 ms accuracy.
Duration: Research shows many individuals with attention problems can process information normally for 10-15 minutes and then experience difficulty. The T.O.V.A. is the only CPT that measures attention variables for a full 21.6 minutes for 6+ year olds. T.O.V.A. keeps the task long and boring.
Stimuli: Unlike other commercially available CPTs that use numbers or letters, the T.O.V.A. uses geometric shapes so that language and learning disabilities do not interfere.
Simple task: Unlike most CPTs that use complex tasks that are influenced by learning or working memory, the T.O.V.A. uses a simple go/no-go task to obtain an objective measure of sustained attention.
Must a clinician administer the T.O.V.A., or may we train the office staff to do so?
The proper use and interpretation of assessment tools are the responsibility of the clinical professional. The T.O.V.A. is simple enough to administer, and materials and support are provided to train most anyone in the proper administration and use of T.O.V.A.
What ages does the T.O.V.A. cover?
The visual norms for the TOVA go from 4 years to 80+, by age and gender. The auditory has norms from 6 to 29+, by age and gender with more being collected and added as often as possible.
Why are there two T.O.V.A.s- the visual T.O.V.A. and the auditory T.O.V.A.-A.?
A significant number of individuals process visual information differently than auditory information and may have attention problems in one modality but not the other. Thus, T.O.V.A. can measure both modalities.
What are the differences between the Clinical and the Screening versions of the T.O.V.A?
The actual tests are exactly the same- only the interpretation statements are different. The Screening version is for use in non-clinical settings, such as schools, and does not use any diagnostic terms in the report. The Screening Report states whether the performance was within normal limits or not and if a referral to a clinician is warranted.
In contrast, the Clinical version reports whether the performance is or is not suggestive of an attention disorder, including ADHD.
How long are the visual T.O.V.A. and the auditory T.O.V.A.-A.?
The TOVA tests run 21.6 minutes for 6 years old and older.
How long is the short version of the visual T.O.V.A. for 4 and 5 year olds?
The visual T.O.V.A. is 11.6 minutes long which is only half of the full test - one quarter of stimulus infrequent and one quarter of stimulus frequent. The auditory T.O.V.A.-A. does not go below 6 years old since research has shown that the hearing spectrum has not developed enough discrimination to differentiate the sounds.
Can I run the audio and visual tests simultaneously?
No. The auditory T.O.V.A.-A. and visual T.O.V.A. tests are two separate tests with their own norms and reports. If you want to run auditory and visual tests for a subject, you will end up with two separate files, use two scoring credits, and have two different T.O.V.A. reports.
Can I get help to understand the test results?
Yes. Even though each T.O.V.A. report is interpreted, an Interpretation Guide that reviews an entire T.O.V.A. report section by section comes with your T.O.V.A. software. It may be in print or PDF format. The T.O.V.A. kit also contains an informative DVD that explores many aspects of the T.O.V.A. and attention deficits in general.
If you would like a FREE clinical consult about T.O.V.A. results, you may fax the T.O.V.A. Interpretation Form, the Analyzed Data Form, and the Information and Results Form, along with your telephone and email contact information, to 1-800-452-6919 or 1-562-594-7770, and one of our clinical support staff will contact you as soon as they can for a private consultation.
Please be sure that there are no identifying names on the T.O.V.A. protocols.
How do I print out the test report?
In order to view, print, or export T.O.V.A. results, the test needs to be scored/interpreted. Once the test has been scored/interpreted, you can then PRINT, EXPORT, or VIEW results.
Version 7.0: With the scored test file opened, go to FILE and select PRINT. Then on the Print window, select what files you want to print by putting an ‘X’ in each box, using the space bar. Hit
to send the documents to the DOS printer. You may see the “Printing Form…” message flash by as they get sent to the printer. Version 7.3: With the scored test file opened, go to FILE and select PRINT. Then on the Print window, select what files you want to print by putting an ‘X’ in each box, using the space bar. Hit
to send the documents to the DOS printer. A print preview window may appear. Press the icon of the printer to send the report to any windows printer. You may need to wait until the file is completely printed before returning to T.O.V.A.
How can I change the gender or age of the subject?
In 7.0: Open the file, go to the age or gender field…change the information, hit
Version 7.3: Open the file, go to the desired field and make the change. You can now view or print the new report’s results. To permanently change the results, you need to go to FILE and select SAVE.
Note: If the age drops to 4-5 or increases to over 5, the test form changes, and data can be PERMANENTLY LOST. DO NOT save the changes unless you are sure they are what is needed for the report. Changing test versions may lose data that CAN NOT be retrieved.
Do I have to create a new file for each test?
Yes. Every test you give should have its own file.
Why can't I have a folder for each client with all of their tests in it?
That would be handy, and we are working on a better database management system for future versions of T.O.V.A. Check the website to stay updated on the latest version.
If I re-open a test, will I use another Interpretation credit?
No. Re-opening a test will not use another scoring credit. Scoring credits are used when there are data available, and the test has not been scored before. You will always be given a warning before a credit is used. It will say something like, “This will use 1 credit.
If you hit
If a test has already been scored, and you go to score it again, it will not use an additional credit, and you will not see the “Use 1 credit” notice.
How do I compare the results of two or more tests?
Whenever you open up two to four scored tests at one time in 7.3, you can go to Interpretation and select COMPARE TESTS to view all of the results on the screen. If you go to FILE and select print, you can print out the comparison chart. It is a very useful way to show patients or parents the main areas of attention measured graphically and over time.
How do I give a second test?
Administering additional tests, whether they are visual or auditory, will create an additional file for each test and use an additional scoring credit for each test scored.
Steps from within T.O.V.A.: From ‘Windows Mode’, go to FILE and select NEW TEST, then select ‘New Session’…it should then ask you if want to use an ‘Active’ test file (an already opened file) or OPEN a New Subject file to pick from the file list, the highest session file for someone who has already had tests administered.
When performed correctly, you should NEVER get an ‘Overwrite’ message, and you should end up with unique files for ever test administered.
Why do I have to fill out the customer/registration form?
So we can setup your account and keep you informed of upgrades, workshops, news, and new opportunities for you to expand your knowledge of the T.O.V.A. and attention disorders. If you need to register your T.O.V.A., please complete the T.O.V.A. Registration/Customer Form.
Why can't I view the PDFs from the website?
Internet Explorer and Adobe may be having issues. Save the files to your hard drive and then open them offline. Right-click and select "Save Target As..." then you can save the PDF document and there should not be any conflict.
How do I order additional T.O.V.A. Interpretation Credits?
Using a touch tone phone, call our 24 hour automated ordering system at 1-800-452-6919 (US) or direct 1-562-594-7710. You will need your unique T.O.V.A. serial number and Customer Number and know how many scoring credits you would like to purchase before placing the order. If you are not sure about ordering or need assistance, you may download the Ordering Hints document form the Technical Support page or contact The TOVA Company for assistance. You may fax or email your request by using our Order Authorization Form, available on the Technical Support page or contact The TOVA Company for assistance.
How do I add T.O.V.A. Interpretation Credits?
In 7.3 TOVA, you need to be in TEST MODE to check your hardware and add credits. Though some PCs may see the scorebox hardware in T.O.V.A. ‘Windows Mode’, all PCs need to see the hardware in TEST MODE.
From Test Mode, go to SETUP and from the list select ‘Request Credits’. When you enter the Request Credits field, there will be a place for the “ACTIVATION KEY’ that you would have received from the ordering system. Each ‘Activation Key’ is 16 digits and will only be accepted once. If you are not sure about your order or need assistance, please feel free to download the Ordering Hints document from the Technical Support page or contact The TOVA Company for assistance.
What's my Serial Number?
This is the unique 6 digits identification number of your T.O.V.A. hardware as well as your account number at The TOVA Company. You would use this in all correspondences with us since it’s how we look up your account information. You can access your T.O.V.A. Serial Number from within T.O.V.A. by going to TEST MODE and from the SETUP menu, select CHECK/TEST Scorebox.
The T.O.V.A. Serial Number is also printed on a blue identification sticker on the T.O.V.A. scorebox (where the hardware connects to the PC) and on the printed T.O.V.A. reports.
What's my Customer Number?
For security purposes, your T.O.V.A. Customer Number is only on your welcome letter when you get your T.O.V.A. software. This 6 digits number is required when you are ordering T.O.V.A. scoring credits. We use it to validate your account and identify your T.O.V.A. version and setting that you have enabled.
Why does my Serial Number on the T.O.V.A. screen have no zero or two zeros in front?
Version 7.0 may report an extra zero on the ‘Request Credits’ screen when reporting the T.O.V.A. Serial Number. Under the OPTIONS menu, the T.O.V.A. will omit the zero on the ‘Test Scorebox’ screen. No matter which version, the T.O.V.A. Serial and Customer Numbers are 6 digits and are unique to the T.O.V.A. hardware.
How many Interpretation credits do I have?
We do not have access to your T.O.V.A. system. You will have to check your T.O.V.A. hardware to see how many unused scoring credits you have. From within TEST MODE, go to Setup and select ‘Check Scorebox’. The Check Scorebox screen will indicate how many scoring credits are remaining on your T.O.V.A. scorebox. You may add to them at any time by calling our automated ordering system with your Serial Number and Customer Number ready.
Can I test without having any Interpretation credits, and will the data be saved?
Yes. T.O.V.A. 7.x will allow you to run tests and save the data without scoring the tests or having scoring credits. Whenever T.O.V.A. asks you to AUTOSAVE, just click OK and return to WINDOWS MODE to complete your session. When you do have credits, you would open the file needing to be scored, go to TEST MODE and from within TEST MODE, go to Interpretation, and interpret the test. It will then use 1 credit. Click OK to auto save and exit back to Windows Mode to print to your windows printer, export, data, or close the file and exit the program.
Why do I have to pay per Interpretation credit?
The charge for Interpretation credits enable us to charge less for the T.O.V.A. kits, to provide many FREE service -- such as technical support, clinical support, software upgrades, and replacement parts. It also funds special projects, support ongoing research, and offer other discounted programs for clinical training and schools to help make the T.O.V.A. as accessible as possible.
How much do Interpretation credits cost?
Each scoring credit is $15.00 within the US and $10 international. (All funds are US.)
Are there any discounts for large orders of Interpretation credits?
Yes. We are happy to give bulk discounts for large orders of scoring credits:
| # Credits | Discount | Per Credit/US | Per Credit/Intl |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100 – 199 | 10% | $13.50 US | $9.00 US |
| 200 – 499 | 12% | $13.20 US | $8.80 US |
| 500 or more | 15% | $12.75 US | $8.50 US |
Please see our Bulk Discount Rates or contact The TOVA Company for additional information.
When will I receive my bill for the Interpretation credits that I ordered?
We will invoice (bill) at the end of each month for scoring credits ordered. If you placed the order in January, we will send the bill in February, and then you have 30 days to pay.
How can I pay my bill?
We accept VISA, MC, American Express, PayPal, Checks, Money Orders, and wire transfers. (Note: wire transfers generate bank fees.) Please see our Payment Terms or Pay By Wire Transfers for additional payment information.
I can’t order scoring credits. Why is my account inactive?
Non-registration: If you have not registered or setup your account with The TOVA Company, we may not have your account information that is necessary to use the ordering system.
Invalid Serial or Customer Number: If you are not using the correct Serial and Customer Numbers, you will not be able register with the ordering system.
Purchase Order Accounts: Some facilities require Purchase Orders before ordering. If your facility uses them, you need to get a hard copy P.O. from your facility and fax/email it to us so that we may complete your order with proper authorization.
Account Balance Due: If an account is past due on a payment, and it falls into arrears, ordering privileges may be suspended until the account is brought current.
Inactivity: If an account has not had any activity for some time, it may be shut it down until we hear from the end user to update the account.
Lost/Missing account information: If we lost contact with you, and the account is missing contact information, the ordering system may be shut off until we receive the necessary data to update our records. Updating the account information or registering the account may help.
Can I bill the insurance company for T.O.V.A. tests? What are the billing codes?
Yes. However, insurance billing is almost an art and varies from state to state and among insurance companies.
We have prepared some helpful information to assist you in billing for the T.O.V.A. Please download T.O.V.A. Billing Information or contact The TOVA Company for additional information.
How do I know what version I have?
The software version will show on the footer or header of a T.O.V.A. report or on the main demographic page of the T.O.V.A. screen.
How do I know if I have the latest version of the T.O.V.A.?
Check the www.tovatest.com website to stay up to date on the latest versions available.
When is the next T.O.V.A. version going to come out?
The next generation T.O.V.A.s are being developed now. The new platform T.O.V.A. will allow the use of USB connections instead of parallel ports, work on Windows XP, 2000, and VISTA all while maintaining superior timing and accuracy. We will also be able to update the T.O.V.A. much faster than ever before. We will be able to incorporate new norms, new findings, and new features into the T.O.V.A. almost instantly with web, online, and on the fly updates.
Do you have a Mac OSX version of T.O.V.A.?
We have had a Mac version in the past, and we are currently working on a new Mac OSX for Intel version.
Our continuing development of new technology will allow the T.O.V.A. to include additional platform versions of T.O.V.A. for Mac OSX for Intel and Linux.
Check the www.tovatest.com website to stay up to date on the latest versions available.
Will T.O.V.A. work on my computer?
Please see the latest System Requirements. If you are not sure, please contact Technical Support.
Will T.O.V.A. work on my network?
The T.O.V.A. works on a network. The T.O.V.A. needs to be installed by the network administrator, or needs full local admin rights to install and operate. The program would be installed locally, but you can use network resources for printing and data storage. If you need additional network security information, please contact our Technical Support.
Will T.O.V.A. work with VISTA?
Unfortunately, the T.O.V.A. 7 series will not run on Windows VISTA. The next generation T.O.V.A, now in progress, will definitely run on VISTA. And, as always, that will be a free software upgrade (although there may be a non-free hardware upgrade associated with it). Note that if you have a small FAT32 partition on your Windows Vista computer, you can still run the T.O.V.A. from a CD. But it won't have the nice 7.3 features, such as printing to a Windows printer. Contact Technical Support for additional information. Will T.O.V.A. work if I don’t have a parallel port?
Desktop computers may have PCI expansion slots that can be used to add a DOS parallel port. We have good success with PCI parallel cards from Lavalink.com on some computers. Some notebook computers that have a docking station slot on the bottom of the computer, not a USB connection, may be able to work. You may be able to use port expanders or a docking station with 7.3 if the dock or port expander does NOT USE a USB connection. The mini dock or non-USB connections are better at expanding the parallel port off the motherboard. So, if it expands without a USB, then there is a good chance it will work. USB connecting docking stations WILL NOT work. USB converters will not work. We are currently working on a SUB solution so look for it in the near future.
How can I backup my data?
You can copy the contents of the C:\TOVA_7\FILE folder to some other media. All your T.O.V.A. irreplaceable data from testing will be in the T.O.V.A._7\File folder. The program can be reinstalled from the .exe application or cd, but your data can not. Scoring credits are safe on the hardware.
Step by step: Double click on My Computer, double click on the drive where the T.O.V.A. is installed (C: or Local Disk C), double click on the T.O.V.A._7 folder. Inside the T.O.V.A._7 folder, there should be a folder called ‘File’. Right click in the FILE folder and select from the list Copy. Then ‘X’ out and back to My Computer to find your media device (drive). Open the media and right click and select ‘Paste’. You may see the files as they get copied. Now they are on both places.
How can I transfer my T.O.V.A. data to a different computer?
Step by step: Double click on My Computer, double click on the drive where the T.O.V.A. is installed (C: or Local Disk C), double click on the T.O.V.A._7 folder. Inside the T.O.V.A._7 folder, there should be a folder called ‘File’. Right click in the FILE folder and select from the list Copy. Then ‘X’ out and back to My Computer to find your media device (drive). Open the media and right click and select ‘Paste’. You may see the files as they get copied. Now they are on both places. Take you media device to your other computer copy and paste the File folder in the T.O.V.A._7 folder
If I move my switch, will the Interpretation credits go with it?
Yes. Since the scoring credits are kept on the T.O.V.A. hardware, you may move the hardware and the credits will move with the switch. The only thing on the computer’s hard drive is the T.O.V.A. program and your already administered T.O.V.A. test data.
Can I install the T.O.V.A. on more than one computer?
Yes. You can install T.O.V.A. on as many computers as you need although you can only test and score when the T.O.V.A. hardware is attached. It is the T.O.V.A. hardware that keeps you within the software licensing agreement.
If you find that you do not want to keep moving your T.O.V.A. hardware from one machine to another, you may purchase at a discounted price ‘Additional T.O.V.A. Sites’ so you can do simultaneous testing or have additional machines dedicated to running their own T.O.V.A. test. Please contact The TOVA Company for additional information about purchasing additional T.O.V.A. sites.
Where are the Interpretation credits stored?
The T.O.V.A. software and interpreted tests are stored on your computer’s hard drive. The unused scoring credits are kept on the T.O.V.A. hardware, protecting against computer crashes and viruses. The T.O.V.A. program will use one credit to score and interpret a test.
How many additional sites can I have?
You may have as many additional sites as you want. However, to get them at a discounted price, we limit them to 5 -- one fully priced T.O.V.A. kit and up to 4 additional sites at significantly discounted prices. If you want more, the 6th T.O.V.A. would be fully priced and the next 4 would be discounted. And so on. Contact The TOVA Company if you would like to obtain additional T.O.V.A. sites.