A computer interface for psychophysical and speech research with the Nucleus cochlear implant

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Abstract
A computer interface has been designed and implemented that allows presentation of biphasic pulse stimuli to patients with the Nucleus Ltd./Cochlear Corporation cochlear implant. The one version of the interface connects to a standard parallel output part of a PC or AT compatible computer, and another version plugs directly into a standard PC/XT bus slot. The host computer sends a stream of bytes to the parallel port that specifies the configuration of the desired output pulses. Upon receipt of the data, the interface generates the appropriate burst sequence that is delivered to the patient''s external transmitter coil. The coded information is interpreted by the internal receiver that delivers the pulse to the specified electrodes at the specified amplitude and pulse width. This interface makes it possible to interleave pulses on two or more electrode pairs, to modulate the amplitude or timing of a pulse sequence, or to sweep a stimulus across the electrode array. Investigators can achieve stimulus control with this interface that allows them to conduct psychophysical, electrophysiological, and speech experiments not possible through the patient''s speech processor or with available clinical interfaces.