DNA Based Computing

Biology > Biotechnology
Computer and Technology
Engineering > Bioengineering
Engineering > Biomedical

DNA Based Computing

An analysis at how engineering and biology have surpassed the silicone chip. It looks at this new technology and its contributions.

3,500 words () | 7 sources | MLA | 2002 Canada

Paper Summary:

This report compares the silicon-based computer and the emerging DNA-based computer. The study focuses on the major components involved in both, their method of use, and general reasons for use, all centered around the engineering and biological principals that are critical to the success of the DNA-based computer. Detailed and scientifically rigorous statements of the principles are provided along with a detailed definition of key terms, which can be found in the glossary at the end of this report. Sample problems and calculations are provided throughout the report to illustrate the method of use and abilities of this new way of computing. Based on the computing abilities and potential of the DNA-based computer, a discussion of the advantages and disadvantages, as well as the social and ethical concerns associated with the technology is presented.

Table of Contents
Abstract
1.0 Introduction
2.0 Overview and Background
3.0 Major Components Involved
4.0 Method of Use
5.0 General Reasons for Use
6.0 Advantages and Disadvantages
7.0 Social and Ethical Concerns
8.0 Conclusion
References
Glossary

From the Paper:

"The abilities and power of computers to this day have increased, almost exponentially, since the dawn of their creation. Every year the speeds of microchips more than double while their size continues to shrink. This exponential growth of silicon chip speed and inverse of size has come to be known as Moore's Law . As advancements in micro silicon chip production continue, however, more and more obstacles are faced due to the increase in complexities of the problems for which they are required. More computing power is required while costs need to be controlled. The answer to this is to build a radically different type of computer that uses DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) as oppose to silicon to store and manipulate data. The practicality of this new design is still far off, however, it is believed that this new technology can produce DNA-based computers that would be far superior than today's supercomputers at a fraction of their size and, ultimately, their costs. A part-by-part comparison of both the silicon-based computer and the emerging DNA-based computer under the conditions of the major components involved in both, their method of use, and general reasons for use, will be discussed. Also, their potential in society will be evaluated based on their advantages and disadvantages in regards to storage abilities, cost effectiveness, and reliability of use, as well as, social and ethical concerns involving their effect on the future of computing, society, way of life, and potential misuses of this new technology. This report describes and evaluates the emerging technology of DNA based computers based on their engineering and biological principals, and provides a comparison of this prospect to the silicon-based computers used widely in all areas of today's society."