A computer the size of a grain of rice.

American experts have created the world's smallest automated computer, about the size of a grain of rice.

The M3 computer is only about the size of a grain of rice. Photo: University of Michigan

The Michigan Micro Mote (M3) computer is a 32 mm cube. It's the result of over a decade of research by a team of experts and students from the University of Michigan's Computer Science department, aiming to create the smallest possible computer to meet the demands of today's smart connected devices.

"To be a complete computer, a system must have data input, the ability to process and store data, make decisions about what to do next, and have data output," said Professor David Blaauw.

The device can now capture images, record temperature and pressure, and then send the information to a base station, using sensors for input data and radio for output data. A 1 mm² solar cell is used to power the computer.

The M3 features a miniature Phoenix microprocessor, measuring just 915 x 915 µm², operating at low voltage with a power consumption of only 500 pW. The M3 can collect and transmit data within a maximum range of two meters. To extend this range, the research team would need to create larger antennas and batteries.

According to IB Times, scientists hope M3 will be used in industrial and environmental monitoring, or implanted in the human body for medical monitoring purposes.

According to VnExpress.