A
system that automatically generates visually
distinctive icons to represent files aims
to improve computer navigation. The degree
of similarity between icons reflects the relatedness
of the files. The system even prints out stickers
to help people organize real-world items. Full
story
Simple
search lightens Net load
Searching complex networks like the Internet often
takes a lot of network resources. A simple search
algorithm that randomly forwards queries along a
small number of links allows queries to percolate
through a network efficiently. The key is using
just enough links to cross the threshold that brings
the whole network into reach.
Chip
architecture uses nanowires
As building nanoscale electronic components becomes
easier, researchers are beginning to focus on how
to wire them together into the complicated circuitry
of today's computer chips. The self-assembly processes
that yield the components promise inexpensive chips,
but they also produce high rates of defects. A scheme
for configuring nanoscale logic circuits relies
on redundancy and the ability to route around defective
areas.
Polymer
serves up single photons
Plastic electronics are cheap and easy to produce.
One research team is using plastic to build devices
that emit one photon at a time, boosting prospects
for inexpensive, push-button, room-temperature,
single-photon sources for quantum cryptography and
quantum computing.
