Macro-Computing

Macro-Computing explores computing systems built using unconventional, large-scale materials and methods, diverging from traditional microelectronic circuits. This repository documents experimental approaches to constructing logic systems and processor-like architectures using physical, macro-scale mediums such as soil, metal sheets, and other innovative materials. The goal is to investigate alternative computing paradigms that leverage accessible, natural, recycled, or industrial materials for educational, theoretical, and practical exploration.

Overview

Macro-Computing focuses on creating functional computational systems at a human-visible scale, where components like logic gates are constructed from unconventional materials. These systems replicate fundamental computing operations (AND, OR, XOR, NOT) and combine them into processor-like architectures. By using non-traditional materials, Macro-Computing offers insights into computation, material science, and sustainable technology.

Getting Started

To explore the Macro-Computing systems:

1. Review the two papers linked in the Whitepapers section for detailed methodologies and findings:
   • Soil-Based Logic Gates and Processor-Like System
   • Metal Sheet-Based Logic Gates and Processor-Like System
2. Experiment with the described setups using locally sourced soil, recycled metal sheets, or other materials like compost, water-based electrolytes, plastics, or biochar.
3. Contribute to the repository by sharing your own experiments or improvements, particularly in novel material applications or environmental sensor networks.
4. Review the Soil Based Half-adder Processor Example

Example - Soil Based Half-adder Processor

Whitepapers

• Soil-Based Logic Gates and Processor-Like System: Implements logic gates using layered soils and electrical inputs in pottery pots, leveraging soil conductivity to mimic digital logic. Applications include education, environmental integration, and research.
• Metal Sheet-Based Logic Gates and Processor-Like System: Uses metal sheets to build logic gates and processor-like structures, focusing on industrial applicability and durability.

Purpose and Applications

Macro-Computing serves as a research platform and educational tool, demonstrating how computing concepts can be applied outside silicon-based electronics. Key applications:

• Education: Hands-on experiments with soil, metal, and other materials to teach logic gates and processor architectures.
• Sustainability: Eco-friendly computing using natural, recycled, or organic materials, reducing reliance on silicon.
• Recycled Material Circuits: Metal-based systems use recycled sheets for robust, scalable, and cost-effective logic gates, ideal for outdoor installations and low-tech solutions.
• Environmental Sensor Networks: Metal circuits integrate with sensors for data collection and processing, enabling feedback systems for agriculture or urban planning.

Exploration of Other Materials

Beyond soil and metal, Macro-Computing experiments with:

• Organic Matter (Compost): Variable conductivity for bio-computing and agricultural monitoring.
• Water-Based Electrolytes: Conductive solutions for aquatic or temporary installations.
• Recycled Plastics: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant gates for wearable or urban sensors.
• Biochar: Stable, carbon-rich material for long-term sensor networks and soil health monitoring.

These materials expand versatility, support sustainability, and inspire interdisciplinary research. Each presents unique challenges, but together they enable diverse applications—from community-driven projects to environmental monitoring and artistic installations.

Macro-Computing GitHub Repository