Neural Interfaces

Neural Interfaces

Neural interfaces capture and amplify nerve impulses and/or muscle movements, translating them into digital commands for an electronic device or a computer interface. Neural interfaces let a person move a computer cursor just by thinking about it, or fire an interface-equipped gun without having to pull a trigger. A neural interface also permits commands to be entered "with the speed of thought" ... which is often not much faster than speech.

There are three categories of neural interface: cybernetics, neural input receivers, and direct neural interfaces. All require some training before they can be effectively used. The interface software must be taught to recognize the user's brain or muscle patterns. Apply familiarity penalties when switching from a normal device to a neural-interface controlled device – or vice versa.

Neural Input Receiver (TL9)

These systems pick up neural signals indirectly from the user's muscle movement, eye/facial movement, or brain waves. They pick up basic commands (equivalent to a few menu options), but cannot transmit sensory feedback back to the user. They're built into wearable devices such as goggles or contact lenses for hands-free operation, usually in concert with a physical HUD display.

Neural Input Headset (TL9): Picks up brain waves. It can replace a computer mouse or equivalent device. $50, 0.1 lb. A/100 hr. LC4.

Neural Input Pad (TL11): Senses neural impulses when touched. It is used in elevators, doors, smart guns, and other gadgets with simple controls. $50, neg. weight. LC4.

Direct Neural Interface (TL9-11)

Usually referred to as a "neural interface," this sophisticated device allows the user's brain to communicate with computers and control complex equipment. It can do anything that a neural input device can do, and much more. The interaction is two-way: data displays, physical feedback, and other sensory information can be transmitted directly into the user's brain. There is no need for a user to touch controls or see physical data displays. He can have the equivalent of a HUD overlaid on his visual field, so he can "live" in augmented reality. A direct neural interface is required for certain technologies, such as dream teachers, sensies, and total virtual reality.

When using a neural interface, the user is opening up his nervous system and brain to intrusion – or even being hacked. Like any networked computer, the user's safety depends on his encryption systems, the products he uses, and those associates or superiors to whom he grants access.

There are several versions of direct neural interface available. At TL9, all require implants. At higher TLs, less invasive interfaces are possible.

Neural Interface Implant (TL9): This involves implanting sensitive electrodes in the brain along with an implanted communicator. See Direct Neural Interface Implant in the Cybernetics section.

Neural Interface Helmet (TL10): This "crown of thorns" helmet invades the skull with tiny nanowires. They inflict no damage, but users may find the idea disturbing! The helmet takes four seconds to don or remove; yanking it off before disconnecting causes 1d injury. It includes a cable jack and radio micro communicator. $10,000, 2 lbs., C/100 hr. LC3.

Neural Induction Helmet (TL10^): The same system, but a non-invasive neural induction process "writes" data to the brain. $5,000, 2 lbs., B/100 hr. LC3.

Neural Induction Pad (TL11^): A tiny version of the helmet above, worn as a hair ornament or built into a device. $500, neg. weight. LC4.

Neural Induction Field (TL11^): This works like a neural induction helmet, except that it covers an area. Anyone entering the field is connected to the systems it controls. A chair-sized field is $50,000, 25 lbs. Larger fields are $200,000 and 100 lbs. plus $10,000, 100 lbs., per square yard the field covers; they're usually built into a floor. LC2.

Brainlocks (TL9)

Any neural input device or neural interface may include a brainlock. This is an interface programmed to only accept a user who has a specific brainwave pattern. The "user list" can be hard-wired into the system (making it impossible to change); otherwise, any interfaced user can use a password to alter the lock's parameters.

If attached gadgets have multiple functions, only some might be brainlocked. An elevator operated by induction pad may allow anyone to travel between the first and ninth floors, while restricting access to the executive suite. A brainlock can also grant partial access to computerized records or other data, based on Security Clearance or other criteria. A brainlock has no extra cost. LC4.