>[clipped stuff about visual prosthetics]
>
> I saw something on this on the Discovery channel. It was pretty
> interesting. They have been currently experimenting with 8 x 8 sensor
> arrays, but they believe they can achieve a much higher sensor density than
> this. The difficulty is attaching the electronic device to the nervous
> system. It is currently done by surgically attaching nerves to fine wires
> on the backside of the device. The person then has to "learn" to organize
> the inputs into a coherent pattern.
If I recall, the subjects gained the ability to recognize objects
and forms, and to easily navigate a room or even around streets. Was
there some debate about gaining the ability to recognize faces?
> Note however, that an
> external power supply is required.
I believe that this was one of the major problems, they discussed
solar power or some such idea? I really wish I could remember where I saw
this! (Damn, I forgot to take my memory pills!)
>
> As far as augmentation goes, reportedly the device allowed the test subjects
> to see well into the infrared range and in extremely low light levels. This
> is a consequence of the sensor technology, and not really an intentional
> goal of the device. It would be a useful augmentation though!
I look forward to the day when such enhancements are both
practical and affordable. I'm itching to enhance in such a physical
manner, in the meantime I'll have to content myself with hard work and
self-discipline.
>
> -James Rogers
> jamesr@best.com
>
______________________________________________________________________________
>H >H
Roderick A. Carder-Russell
Transhumanist/Immortalist/Cryonicist
Suspension Member - Alcor Foundation
specializing in man-machine symbiosis
e-mail: rodc@shore.net WWW: http://www.shore.net/~rodc/home.html
>H >H
------------------------------------------------------------------------------