What happen to the idea of using living organisms to make computers faster?

Question

I remember when I was in college 15 years ago my computer science classes were talking about the possibility of using organisms to make computers faster.

I haven't heard anything in awhile about it, has science given up on this idea? Or are they still pursuing it?

Answer 1

First, the reason computers have been getting faster is that living organisms (people) have been working hard at it.

Second, no one could figure out a way to do anything better by combining them. It's not a good division of labor. Computer designers are accustomed to determinism and reliability. We've done best by letting the humans do what they do best, and letting the computers do what they do best.

We do use computer chips as biological sensors. We do use computers to help control prosthetics. But no attempt to integrate living organism to augment computers has succeeded. If some people are still trying to do it, they are understandably not saying much.

Answer 2

The bio-chip is still a Concept, Sean.

However, there is a lot we do learn everyday, from the human body.

I've been working on making prosthetic limbs for amputees which can work the real limbs, responding to neural signals; for over 3 years now; and trust me, when you compare the needs of such a simple device as a "cyborg" arm, the computing quantum and speed required makes us wonder where are we right now.

While most people are getting the 64 bit technology as "State of the Art", the 128 bit is already ready to roll out, because of the studies that are being done for this kind of project; and we are still a long way away from home!?

You'd be really zapped with the kind of stuff that's already ready but hasn't come to the Market, simply because the older technologies still haven't paid off to break even.

Well, 'nuff said.

Cheers.

Answer 3

That sounds like a step in a bad direction, unless you like the idea of becoming a borg drone. LOL

Answer 4

Yeah they are Biochips.

Answer 5

***** what the hell are you talking about??