1. I read that, due to base noise in the universe, computer chip parts emit signals when an energy threshold above or below the base noise range is passed.
Neuron action potentials are fired also when a minimal threshold in voltage differential in the electrochemical gradient is reached. It seems, sensory neurons also had to deal with environmental noise to become more efficient, or at least transmit useful information. If so, that would be the same principle as in semiconductors.
2. When prairie dogs are foraging, one always serves as the lookout in case of danger. They have words. For example, something like “kee” means “coyote”. When the lookout emits the sound “kee” in a medium pitch and low frequency, say kee……….kee……….kee……….kee………., that means a coyote is in the area. If the lookout changes the pitch and frequency higher, say KEE..KEE..KEE..KEE.., that means the coyote is too close and all run to get into their holes in the ground.
Groups of neurons also use frequency and intensity as message types or message differentiation. The similarities and the basic engineering problems seem to be the same.
