Computing
- Tech
Teaching robots right from wrong
Robots of the future will face tricky dilemmas. Researchers are working on tools to help robots make the right choices and keep people safe.
- Physics
Single atoms become teensy data storage devices
Most people consider a thumb drive to be an amazingly small device for storing data. But this new system uses a ten-thousandth the number of atoms of today’s data-storage devices.
- Computing
Germs power new paper batteries
New paper-based batteries rely on bacteria to generate electricity. These ‘papertronic’ power systems may be a safer choice for remote sites or dangerous environments.
- Tech
Wired and weird: Meet the cyborg plants
By mixing electronics with greenery, engineers have made plants that conduct electricity, detect bombs and send email.
- Computing
When your stuff spies on you
More ordinary objects are going online. These make up the Internet of Things. But as they collect data about you and your world, they also bring security risks.
- Computing
The Internet of Things wants to link all facets of our world
The Internet of Things means everyday objects are becoming computers. Can people harness this technology to make the world better?
- Computing
How to build computer chips only 3 atoms thick
Scientists have engineered an ultrathin material only three atoms thick. The material could be used to make extremely slender computer chips.
- Physics
Explainer: How batteries and capacitors differ
Both batteries and capacitors can power electronic devices. Each, however, has different properties which may provide benefits — or limitations.
- Tech
Build the drone of your dreams
Drone fans can now use new computer software to design and ‘test’ their own customized flying machines before putting time and money into building them.
- Computing
LEDs offer new way to kill germs in water
Growing ultraviolet-light-emitting diodes on thin, flexible sheets of metal holds promise for water disinfection and other applications.
- Computing
Computer hackers take to the cloud
People use cloud computing for storing files online. A new study shows the dark side of the cloud: These services can harbor malware.
- Physics
Wind power gets downsized — but in a good way
Two young scientists have developed ways to tap into wind power on a small scale.
