What does an increase in the low-frequency filter setting likely affect?

An increase in the low-frequency filter setting primarily affects data collection quality by allowing lower frequency signals to be attenuated or filtered out, which can lead to a loss of essential components of the signal being recorded. In sleep studies, these low-frequency signals often include important physiological rhythms, such as heart rate variability or certain brain wave activities, that are crucial for accurate analysis. By raising the low-frequency filter setting, you might inadvertently eliminate these important signals, resulting in data that does not accurately reflect the true state of the subject being monitored.

Maintaining an appropriate low-frequency filter setting is vital for preserving the integrity of the collected data, ensuring that all vital sign fluctuations relevant to the analysis remain intact. Properly setting this filter enhances the quality of the recorded signals, providing clearer insights into the physiological processes during sleep.