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Why does Data have to use a computer in Star Trek?


In the earlier episodes of The Next Generation is where I noticed it, and I realise he could be inputting commands into the command terminal, but why isn't his positronic brain interfaced with the command console in that case?


I can't remember the exact example but there are episodes where he goes to the computer to look things up despite having encyclopedic knowledge of everything which could be known by the computer. Any explanation?



Answer



Because it's complex and not a good idea.



In "A Fistful of Datas" exactly that is tried.


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It resulted in a mix-up of Datas thoughts and ideas with the computers database almost crippling the ship. Data in turn was "infected" with gun-slinger personality-traits from a program running on the holodeck.



LAFORGE: We think our interface experiment may have caused one of the computer's core subroutines to be altered.


DATA: When the interface malfunction occurred, subroutine C forty seven was replaced by elements from my personal programming.


RIKER: What does C forty seven control?


LAFORGE: Library computer access, replicator selection, recreational programming. No critical systems.


DATA: That would explain why your music composition programme began playing The Slavonic Dances. I have been analysing the collected works of Antonin Dvorak.


LAFORGE: It's the same with Doctor Crusher's play, and with the food replicators.



RIKER: The replicators on decks four through nine are producing nothing but cat food.


PICARD: Cat food?


DATA: I have been formulating nutritional supplements for Spot.



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