Neural Impulse Driven Computer Interface

14.08.2008 by Eva via AKIBA Today

Since the beginning of August, the Tsukumo PC Main Store has been offering the OCZ Neural Impulse Actuator (NIA) – an interface that allows you to interact with a personal computer using brain waves.

One of the features of the device is the ability to control mouse clicks and other movements without using your hands. Built by OCZ Technology, based in America, the device is geared towards PC gamers and gizmo fetishists, and it is now available at Tsukumo through import. It "reads your mind" using a headband which converts neural impulses into signals for your computer, read by a device which connects via USB, the commands of which are set up using the accompanying software.

The system is inspired by the electrocardiograph and other modern medical technology. When worn at the forehead, the headband reads both brain wave and facial muscle movement, converting these into electric signals. These perceptions are then used to control various aspects of game play. Each reaction can be set as to represent the equivalent of one keyboard stroke or mouse click. The device cannot, however, be used identically to a mouse or standard USB game controller. In addition, initial set up and calibration of the device is necessary before use.

In regard to system requirements, Mr. Suzuki, floor sales staff at Tsukumo, said, "You'll need Windows XP or the 32-bit edition of Vista, and at least 512 megs memory. The accompanying instruction manual also recommends at least a 1 gig processor, but I'd say the absolute low end – especially for PC gaming – would be a dual-core. I'd really recommend a quad."

And, what about the product's reception? "Well, at first we didn't get too many orders and people thought it'd be really difficult to use. However, after we introduced the product on the store blog, we really basked in the gaze of many computer hobbyists and game makers. Reservations have been going up ever since."

The NIA comes with headset, set-top box, cable, and English instruction manual at a set retail price of 24,800 yen. Tsukumo is open from Monday-Saturday 10:30 – 8:00, and Sundays 10:30 – 7:30.

This story is brought to you by AKIBA Today