A brain-computer-interface, or BCI, is a communication system in which your brain does not use nerves to give orders to your body or to the world outside. "A BCI provides its user with an alternative method for acting on the world". Sounds great, doesn't it? (more) To put it colloquial: A BCI is an artificial extension of the brain in order to control your new robot arm, your computer or even your washing machine.

BCIs fall into two categories: dependent and independent ones. Most people assume that the goal of a BCI is 'mind-reading', i.e. simply to listen in on brain activity as reflected in the electrical signals sent out by individual neurons or the brain as a whole. That, so the assumption goes, enables the BCI to determine the wishes of the person concerned. This is the radio-concept of BCI. Turn on and stay tuned. In fact it is a bit more complicated. Actually, for its user, a BCI rather resembles a gym. (more)