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Using a Personal Computer to Perform Real-Time Signal Processing in Cochlear Implant Research

Cochlear implants are electronic devices that have enabled individuals with severe to profound hearing losses to regain some hearing. There is, however, substantial variability in speech perception performance among users of cochlear implants. One factor that may contribute to the individual differences is the way in which the device converts acoustic sound waves into electrical stimulation: the speech processing strategy. With the goal of improving these speech processing strategies, researchers have traditionally implemented them on specialized digital signal processors (DSPs). This approach requires specialized programming knowledge and is often expensive and time consuming. We have taken a new approach to simplify the implementation of real-time speech processing strategies by using a PC. This paper describes the functionality and construction of a cochlear implant (CI) speech processor based on a personal computer: a PC processor. This represents a new paradigm in the development of the next generation cochlear implants. Both the continuous interleaved sampling (CIS) and the n-of-m speech processing strategies, two clinically available strategies, were implemented. The n-of-m processing scheme was tested by several adult CI users. Results confirmed that the PC processor we designed and built functions within its specifications. New speech processing strategies developed using the PC processor may help specify and develop the next generation of neural auditory prostheses. Key Words—Cochlear Implants, Speech Processing, Stimulation Strategies