Computer-aided signal handling for speech research

Of the total time and effort expended on an experiment in speech research, a significant fraction is usually spent on signal-handling tasks such as collecting and inspecting speech tokens, and making test tapes. Such tasks can be done more quickly, easily, precisely, and reliably with the aid of an interactive signal-handling program implemented on a laboratory computer. This paper describes how Editor, a versatile yet easy-to-use signal-handling program at Bell Laboratories, is used to cope with a variety of signal-handling tasks in speech research. The paper seeks to create an awareness of the scope and power of computer-aided signal handling by describing Editor as a working model. The description emphasizes concepts relevant to the design and implementation of any system for handling signals with the aid of computers.