Tech

  1. Tech

    Electronics in the Round: Mixing plastic and silicon yields form-fitting circuitry

    Investigators used ordinary integrated-circuit fabrication techniques to pattern arrays of silicon-based transistors onto a flat, deformable sheet of plastic.

    By Peter Weiss
  2. Computing

    Writing faster with your eyes

    A new method for gaze-operated, hands-free text entry is faster and more accurate than using an on-screen keyboard.

    By Kristin Cobb
  3. Tech

    Micromachine runs on nuclear power

    Radioactivity creates electric fields that wiggle a tiny lever.

    By Peter Weiss
  4. Tech

    Eau, Brother!

    The combination of advanced sensor materials and powerful computer chips promises devices that can sense threats ranging from bacteria in food to explosives in land mines.

    By Sid Perkins
  5. Tech

    Shrinking toward the Ultimate Transistor

    Scientists demonstrate transistor action in an atom—or two.

    By Peter Weiss
  6. Tech

    Software bugs cost big bucks

    An epidemic of software errors in industrial computer programs is costing the United States $60 billion per year.

    By Peter Weiss
  7. Tech

    Voltage from the Bottom of the Sea: Ooze-dwelling microbes can power electronics

    Some types of bacteria living in seafloor mud can generate enough electricity to power small electronic devices.

    By Sid Perkins
  8. Tech

    Putting squish into artificial organs

    Artificial organs and tissues may someday feel more like the real thing if a new, rubbery polymer supplants mostly stiff materials available today for tissue engineering.

    By Peter Weiss
  9. Tech

    Building a Supermodel

    Researchers are combining ergonomics and biological research with computer power to build a virtual human that can simulate human biology from anatomy down to the genetic code.

    By Sid Perkins
  10. Computing

    Scouring the Web

    Looking for the perfect Web search engine? It probably doesn’t exist, but you can find out the strengths, weaknesses, and quirks of various Net-scouring tools at the “Search Engine Showdown” Web site, maintained by Montana State University librarian Greg R. Notess. Check out the inconsistencies report and sample tips for efficient searching. Go to: http://www.notess.com/search/

    By Science News
  11. Tech

    Making a Little Impression: New chip-making method may mold the industry

    A simple mechanical means of embossing silicon may offer an alternative to conventional chip-making methods.

    By Peter Weiss
  12. Tech

    Tiny rockets may advance minisatellites

    A new type of miniaturized rocket may bring microspacecraft one step closer to reality.

    By John Pickrell