Asynchronous Control

A mode of interaction with a computer or assistive device where the user can issue commands at any time of their choosing, rather than being constrained to respond within system-defined time windows. In brain-computer interface research, asynchronous control is contrasted with synchronous control, where the system dictates when input can occur. Asynchronous control is considered more practical for real-world assistive technology applications because it mirrors natural human interaction patterns — users activate devices when needed, not on a schedule.