# Key Ideas from IRC Discussions on Transhumanist Technology

• An open-source electroporator project called "Culture Shock" is being developed with a $30 bill of materials, using induction rather than expensive capacitors, though critics raised concerns about its micropython implementation, FET-based square wave generation, and potential electromagnetic noise issues.

• A group is developing an open-source ultrasound imaging device using FTDI chips for data transfer to PCs, with plans to implement mechanical scanning via stepper motors (32 microsteps) as an alternative to more complex phased array technology.

• The ultrasound project team discussed signal processing approaches, planning to prototype algorithms in MATLAB before moving to production code, with Texas Instruments' "Embedded Processor Software Toolkit for Medical Imaging" mentioned as a valuable resource.

• Advanced ultrasound features like Doppler imaging were deemed possible through software updates, while 3D imaging would require additional hardware including accelerometers and gyroscopes, with the team referencing existing projects like "murgen-dev-kit" on GitHub.

• Participants debated PCB design software options, contrasting open-source KiCad (improved through CERN funding) with proprietary alternatives like Eagle and Altium, highlighting tensions between accessibility and open-source principles in DIY biohacking.

• A theoretical approach to natural language processing for IRC logs was proposed, using multi-dimensional concept space mapping to separate conversation threads by topic, which could help filter relevant information from high-volume channels.

• Productivity tools discussion centered on location-based reminders as "prospective memory amplifiers," with participants comparing systems like Todoist, OmniFocus, and GTD methodology for task management.