Nanotechnology
Description:
Nanotechnology is the science and technology of building electronic circuits and devices from single atoms and molecules. If nanotechnology continues to develop, a new manufacturing technology could develop which will let us inexpensively build computer systems with quantities of elements that are molecular in both size and precision and are interconnected in complex and highly idiosyncratic patterns. Characteristic dimensions are less than about 1,000 nanometers.
Enablers:
- Advancements in science
- Advancements in technology
- Research
- Need for smaller & lighter devices & circuits
- Need for less expensive devices & circuits
Inhibitors:
- Funding
- Commercial viability
Web Resources:
Engines of Creation: The Coming Era of Nanotechnology
http://www.foresight.org/EOC/EOC_Chapter_5.html#section01of06
Foresight Institute: Preparing for Nanotechnology