NEURAL INTERFACE SYSTEMS USER REFERENCE (6th Ed.)

3: Chip Classification, Protocols, and Safety

3.1 Overview of Neuro-Chip Technology

Neuro-chips ("N-Chips") are data storage devices designed to interface directly with the human limbic and sensory systems via an authorized Neural Port. Chips are engineered to transmit neural-coded data in real time, resulting in full-sensory immersion of memory or emotional states.

WARNING: Use of unauthorized or modified chips can result in neural bleed, identity fragmentation, emotional dysregulation, or long-term cognitive erosion.

3.2 Chip Classification

Neuro-chips ("N-Chips") are categorized according to their core function, content type, and structural stability. Each classification is associated with a shell color for quick visual identification during inspections and scans.

Code: E-Class
• Type: Emotion Seed
• Shell Color: Red
• Usage: Encoded pure emotional states. Approved for therapeutic use, emotional regulation, and counseling under licensed protocols.

Code: M-Class
• Type: Memory Stone
• Shell Color: Blue
• Usage: Full-sensory memory replay chips. Used for personal archiving, legal testimony, and historical preservation.

Code: H-Class
• Type: Hybrid Integration
• Shell Color: Purple
• Usage: Blended emotional-memory profiles. Higher instability. Common in immersive entertainment, experimental therapy, and emotional rehabilitation programs.

Code: S-Class
• Type: Synthetic Construct
• Shell Color: Green
• Usage: Entirely fabricated experiences. Commercial-grade simulations used in training environments, dreamscapes, and synthetic entertainment platforms.

Code: X-Class
• Type: Corrupted/Unknown Data
• Shell Color: Black
• Usage: Unauthorized, fragmented, or encrypted chip data. Highly dangerous. Risk of neural collapse, hallucinations, or permanent identity degradation. Illegal to possess or interface without Level-5 clearance.

Expanded Notes:

E-Class chips are rated for limited usage periods (maximum 4 hours continuous exposure) to minimize emotional burnout.

M-Class chips are serialized and metadata-locked upon certified recording to prevent tampering.

H-Class chips often display memory drift or emotional resonance overlap after extended use; users are advised to undergo periodic reality checks post-session.

S-Class chips are regulated less strictly but remain under observation for signs of long-term escapism addiction.

X-Class chips are banned under the NeuroData Protection Act (NDPA, 2093). Any possession or transfer is treated as a Class-1 violation.

Unauthorized manipulation of chip classifications ("shell cracking") for reclassification purposes is a federal offense under MIC Code 7.2.4.

3.2.1 Illegal Chip Variants

While chip classification is strictly enforced by the Memory Integrity Council (MIC), illegal modifications and unregistered variants continue to circulate via black-market channels. These altered chips—often referred to as "burned," "flared," or "ghosted"—pose significant psychological and neurological risks.

Variant: Flared Chip
• Nickname: "Hot Loop"
• Description: An E-Class chip modified to emit overclocked emotional output. Highly addictive. Often causes emotional flooding or rapid dependence.