Myoelectric prostheses are well accepted by below elbow amputees but less well by those with higher level amputations. The primary limitation at present lies in the control system. Although these systems have been successful for single device control (hand or elbow), the extension to the control of more than one device (either simultaneously or sequentially) has been difficult. It is the control systems which now limit the performance and, at times, the acceptance of the prosthetic fitting. For the high-level amputee (above-elbow or higher) and especially for the bilateral amputee, the need for improved control systems for multifunction prostheses is critical. Over the past several years the Institute has been developing a myoelectric control system which is easy to operate, yet provides control of many independent prosthetic limb functions.