Man machine interface
From Edenmush
A man machine interface (MMI), sometimes referred to as a brain-computer interface, direct neural interface or a brain-machine interface is a direct communications pathway between a human brain and an external mechanical device. Early interfaces were composed of bulky headsets and computer hardware. Over time however these units have shrunk in size and complexity, most external units now no more than slim headbands or collars giving their wearers direct and discreet access to the Net. Recent technological advances have seen a trend towards implanting cyberware directly into the human body, obsoleting the need for MMI Units altogether.
Specialized Units
While a basic MMI Unit is sufficient for basic communications and data retrieval processes, they do not contain the necessary power for more data intensive tasks. To this end a fair number of specialized units can be employed to extend to abilities of a standard communications MMI. These units range from mass produced and cheap store-bought models, to expensive custom built units, powerful and utilitarian military models and even experimental and possibly dangerous devices fresh out of research and development.
Most infamous of these is the cyberdeck or deck, a device that allows its user to enter the simulated reality of cyberspace in order to more effectively manipulate data and communicate with others. While the vast majority of those using decks are hobbyists, enthusiasts or business people far more talked about are the various hackers and crackers whom for a variety of reasons utilize their skill within cyberspace to manipulate, steal, modify, or destroy various items of data, often at the behest of a paying customer or corporate entity.
On the more mundane end of the spectrum lies the standardized simstim unit. A portmanteau of simulated stimulation, simstim is a technology much akin to television when compared to the cyberdeck. At its basis the unit is intended to entertain, whereby a person's brain and nervous system is stimulated to simulate the full sensory experience of another person. Often this takes the form of recorded soap-opera type programs revolving around the lives of specific simstim Idols.
