Web-based Psychomotor Vigilance Test

A browser-based implementation of the Psychomotor Vigilance Test, a standardized measure of sustained attention and simple reaction time widely used in fatigue and sleep research.

Live at adityashanghavi.github.io/PVT

PVT instructions screen PVT active test screen
What it is
Browser-based PVT
Runs entirely in the browser, no installation or hardware needed
Measures
Reaction time & lapses
Standardized metrics consistent with clinical PVT benchmarks
Use case
Vigilance & fatigue research
Accessible tool for field and lab studies alike

The problem

Traditional PVT devices are expensive and lab-bound
Field studies need lightweight, portable assessment tools
Fatigue research requires frequent, low-friction testing

What it does

Measures simple reaction time to randomized visual stimuli
Tracks response speed, lapses, and false starts
Exports results for downstream statistical analysis

Technical approach

Built entirely in JavaScript, no backend required
High-precision timing using the browser Performance API
Configurable trial parameters to match study protocols

Why it matters

Enables PVT administration in any setting with a browser
Lowers the barrier for vigilance and fatigue research
Complements wearable physiological sensing with behavioral data

Technology stack

JavaScript HTML / CSS Browser Performance API Cognitive Assessment Human Factors