Implint.com
Explanation of Implantable Internet Devices

An implint is an implantable device that provides the person in whom it is implanted with some degree of internet connectivity. Although true implints have not yet been developed, there are some implantable medical devices that are already capable of limited connectivity with the internet - uploading or downloading specific types of data. In laboratories today, monkeys have been trained to reach things on a computer screen through impulses from implanted electrode arrays in their brains. The neural impulses in the brain are intercepted and used to control the electronic device. There is hope that this line of investigation will some day lead to the generation of motor neuroprosthetics for humans that restore independent control of the body lost due to spinal cord injury, sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, stroke, and different conditions. In addition to the technological issues of implantable connectivity machines, there are also privacy, safety, and security issues which should be addressed before such instruments are implemented a wide dimension. Implantable chips and ID machines for use in pet animals are one product, but the use of ICCDs in people is a different substance. For example, will the limits between voluntary and involuntary use of ICCDs be overstepped with proposals to implant ICCDs to track certain categories of people such as paroled criminals? Could security breaches concerning ICCDs result in harm to the host? Both technological and ethical considerations should be addressed before such instruments are used in humans. Hopefully progress in addressing the issues of privacy and safety will keep up with technological advancements. Research is underway to develop techniques of direct connection from the human brain to data processors. One avenue under investigation is monitoring and translating the electrical impulses transmitted by the brain. Two-way media could involve translating thoughts into something significant to a calculator and translating output from a machine into significant thoughts for humans. Neural networks will likely help data processors to more quickly recognize and work upon the intricate patterns that the human brain creates. High-precision direction connections between the human nervous system (possibly the brain itself) and integrated circuit computing systems remain primarily in the arena of science fiction. However, the "communicators" and "tricorders" of Star Trek a quarter-century ago have found their way into the ubiquitous cellphones and hand-held data processors (PDAs) of today, so one should not be so quick to dismiss the science fiction of today. Click on pictures for more information on biotech and neurotech T-shirts: Questions and suggestions concerning the site Implint.com may be sent to: Implint.com © 2006 by Implint.com