Making smaller, faster, cheaper computers

A forecast of technological developments in the processes involved in manufacturing computers. The forecast is based on two principles. The first principle is demonstrated (albeit in nascent form) by scanning probe microscopes, which even now let us move individual atoms and molecules. The second principle is self-replication, which will let us inexpensively make things in enormous quantities. Taken together, these two principles will revolutionize how we make computers-and quite a few other things as well. Watkins' vision of growing complex 3D computers is moving closer to reality.