A
conjuring trick that would have impressed
the alchemists of old -- producing bits of
silver seemingly out of thin air -- is the
basis of a nanoscale electrical switch that
could one day replace today's semiconductor
technology. Prototypes show potential for
both memory and logic chips. Full
story
Braille
display drives biochip
The tiny channels in labs-on-a-chip resemble blood
vessels. This has inspired scientists to try to
grow cells and even tissue in the chips in order
to test substances like drugs. A key issue is how
to make pumps and valves for the devices. A computer-controlled
Braille display turns out to be a ready-made solution.
Adaptive
lights organize traffic
Big city rush-hour traffic can leave drivers feeling
like ants. Some of the self-organizing principles
that keep insects communities humming along for
traffic management could make for faster commutes.
A scheme to allow traffic lights to act on their
own in response to local conditions shows promise.
