A Brain The Size Of A Planet

Research work in the field of computer power consumption is underway at Stanford University. One of the greatest problems with providing more computer power is the actual power required to drive it. The human brain operates at a much higher level but requires significantly less power to do so.

In order to have a computer operating as an equivalent of the human brain would require about 10-20 megawatts or thereabouts. A small to medium power stations output. The reason behind this is the high power required in order to ensure the high degree of accuracy needed. Even operating at its most basic a computer is over-powered to ensure the transistors operate correctly. In comparison, the human brain only requires about 20 watts of power. Here.