A 14-meter, half-ton computer
For many major technology companies, the race to develop the smallest possible computer is a major concern, but one Briton has set out to do just the opposite.
James Newman from Cambridge has decided to build a massive 14-meter processor, which will include 14,000 transistors and 3,500 LED lights.
Newman started this project three years ago and has so far spent at least 20,000 pounds (about 28,000 euros), he told the BBC news network. He expressed his hope that his daring feat would have educational value, but admitted that transporting the perfected "device" would be particularly difficult as it is likely to weigh about half a ton when completed.
“I was fascinated by the idea of being able to watch this thing work,” said Newman, who is a computer engineer. “I think in pictures and I wanted to be able to see how a computer and not just be knowledgeable about the theory,” he added. “The original purpose of this project was as a learning exercise and I’ve really learned a lot so far.”
Newman hopes to have the massive processor completed by the end of this year.
“When it’s installed and fully functional, there won’t be much room for us in the living room,” he joked. “One of my fantasies is to have it running the length of the entire hallway.”
“My mother keeps asking me, ‘What can it do?’ and I always say, ‘It’s a computer, it can do anything.’ My friends think it’s crazy, but I think they’re a little jealous that I have the luxury of making my idea a reality,” he added.
Source: defencenet
