Positronic brain

Data's positronic brain

A positronic brain is a central processor designed to provide consciousness to a robot or android.

The term was invented by science fiction author Isaac Asimov, referring to an "iridium sponge" that could be programmed with philosophical ideas.

Positronic Brains in Star Trek

In Star Trek, androids such as Data have positronic brains. Doctor Noonien Soong is the only person in the Star Trek setting known to be capable of constructing a successful positronic brain.