[net.general] A strange idea for a new type of memory

mes (10/23/82)

     This is a call to interested and/or knowledgeable  peo-
ple  who  might  have  some ideas about the possible uses of
photoreversible pigments in logical devices such as  memory.
(If that looks complicated, see the explanation).  Comments,
information, and other assistance regarding this  pipe-dream
will be appreciated.

Explanation

     In plants, evolution has  already  produced  a  pigment
capable  of reverting from one absorption form to another in
what are known as phytochromes.  These compounds are  essen-
tially  proteins  with an attached light-absorbing chromato-
phore portion.  Red light causes  the  phytochrome  (Pr)  to
convert to the Pfr form, which is capable of reconverting to
the Pr upon absorbing far-red light.

     There are several problems with using this as a logical
device,  (Aside  from  the obvious engineering difficulties)
however:

    1) It is impossible to avoid a racemic mixture.
    2) Although Pr to Pfr takes about < 10E-12 seconds,
       Pfr to Pr takes more than 1 second.
    3) Phytochrome is unstable,
       and will eventually revert to one form.

     Therefore, another related (possibly) compound must  be
sought after.  What nature took millions of years to do, man
should be able to accomplish in a few.

     There are  some  possibilities  that  photon  circuitry
would  be able to explore or exploit, given the proper logi-
cal devices, photomultipliers, pathways, etc.:

    1) Propogation speed approaching c (in vacuum) than electrons
       in current circuitry, allowing more i.p.s.

    2) New twists in
        a) pattern recognition
        b) holographic memory
        c) signal (dx) processing
        d) image processing

    3) Simultaneous pathway use by polarized signals,
       regardless of direction.

    4) ?

     It should be understood that the  two  contributors  of
this  article  are  not  giants  in the fields of physics or
organic chemistry; nor do they yet have the  time  necessary
to  explore  this subject until certain degree (M.S. Biology
and M.S. Computer Science) obligations are met.  History has
shown  that fresh ideas produced at the right time and place
can go far, so, have fun.