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Chapter 5 • Alternative Access Technologies 145

may be improved through use of a dedicated noise-cancelling headset or external micro-
phone. By placing the microphone close to the user, background noise is eliminated. An
external microphone can also be particularly helpful for users with quiet voices or who
prefer to speak at a low volume. Microphones are available with standard analogue 3.5 mm
audio jack connections, digital USB or Bluetooth connection.

Brain–Computer Interface

Brain–computer interfaces (BCI) ‘translate brain activity into new outputs that replace,
restore, enhance, supplement, or improve natural brain outputs’ (Huggins and Wolpaw,
2014). BCI can be implantable, i.e., the sensors are inserted within the brain, or noninva-
sive, where brain signals are acquired using external techniques such as electroenchepha-
lography (EEG) or functional magnetic resonance imaging. BCI as an access method for
electronic assistive technology has been studied since the 1990s, and has been proposed
as an access method for communication aids, computer access, gameplay and exoskel-
eton control (Daly and Huggins, 2015).
However, reporting on the 2013 BCI Meeting, Daly and Huggins note that while suc-
cessful trials have been reported in laboratory and home trials, the technology is ‘still
clinically immature’ (Daly and Huggins, 2015). Zickler et al. (2011) conducted trials
with BCI for computer access and reported good performance but none of the users felt
36
the system was practical for daily use. The intendiX EEG-based BCI is a commercially
available BCI.

Key Points

• Access technologies are a crucial component of an assistive technology system.
• Choosing an access technology involves considering the user’s skills and preferences,
the device which is to be controlled and the task or function.
• Different access technologies may be required for different assistive technologies and
functions.
• Functional and comfortable seating and positioning are essential for effective use of
access technologies.
• Developing control skills with an access technology requires time and practice and in
many cases support.
• Effective access may be achievable with accessibility options that are readily available
and built into the device.
• Assessment and support for access technologies in many cases requires a
multidisciplinary team.

36 intendiX brain–computer interface: http://www.intendix.com/.