Nerd’s Words (sm)

Today we’re going to re-visit a Nerd’s Words from some time ago. The topic at that time was Why Computers are Important and Where They Are Going.

A number of significant advances have occurred in the five years since I wrote that blog, some on the drawing board, some actually in use. So let’s review the topic.

Computers are important for two reasons: they give us information, and they help us communicate. They help fill two basic human needs. The computer revolution has progressed to the point where everyone is carrying one nowadays. Or didn’t you realize your cell phone was actually a very powerful computer?

For the Where They Are Going part, five years ago I predicted that humans were going to develop a way to connect directly to computers, a “nerves-to-computer connection” is what I called it. This would be the ultimate “user interface.” Just think it, and it will be provided for you. Cell phone communications without the cell phone. Browse the Web without having to pick up a mouse or click a keyboard. No screens, just send the visuals directly to your optic nerves.

Far-fetched, huh? Well, no.

In May of 2009, Intel (You remember Intel. Invented the microprocessor? Makes the processor that’s probably in your computer now? Thirty-five billion, one hundred million dollars sales in 2009?) Intel announced that in five years they would have an implantable device that would allow us to control the mouse and keyboard with thoughts.

Now, when someone says “in five years,” that means, “I don’t know when, but we’re working on it,” so this is not going to pop up in your local drug store in time for Christmas 2010, but Whoa!

In the past year there have been two articles in Scientific American about connecting electrodes into monkeys’ brains and having them control machines.

An article in Newsweek told of an airline pilot, who lost his foot, receiving a new foot that connects directly to the nerves in his leg. He can walk, run, and control an airplane with his new foot. It almost isn’t a prosthesis. It’s a replacement.

How’s this help you with the problem of getting and sending your email?

Well, maybe it doesn’t. But a computer-in-the-brain may yet happen in our lifetimes. The problem is still enormous, but humanity has never shied away from enormous problems.

-LLiioonneell
Lionel Goulet
(781) 209-0856
Te Deum

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