# Key Points from #hplusroadmap IRC Discussion

• A DIY human-computer interface project called "The Human Connection" was shared, utilizing MEMS microphones and an LPC4370 microcontroller for potential BCI applications (https://hackaday.io/project/1620-the-human-connection-1st-impression).

• Participants discussed using inexpensive PIN photodiodes (~$1) for X-ray detection and spectroscopy, noting they can achieve approximately 120eV resolution, making them viable for DIY radiation detection projects.

• Technical plans were outlined for an X-ray spectrometer using the LPC4370 microcontroller and potentially an FPGA to process data at 80 MSPS, specifically for detecting thickness during Focused Ion Beam (FIB) milling by measuring Bremsstrahlung radiation.

• The conversation covered biohacking topics including implantable magnets (like those from Grindhouse Wetware) and associated safety concerns, particularly regarding MRI machines.

• Detailed technical discussion explored high-speed serial communications (SERDES) and 8b/10b encoding schemes used in technologies like InfiniBand, Gigabit Ethernet, and FiberChannel.

• Participants shared expertise on high-speed PCB design considerations, including proper bypassing capacitors, trace length matching for differential pairs, and signal integrity in high-frequency applications.

• The group discussed cell line development for antibody production, including methods to prevent novel genetic insertions from being bred out through antibiotic selection and the challenges of continuous growth/selection bioreactors.