Everything in digital computing, on the CPU (machine code) level IS achieved by direct manipulation of (only) numbers. And I mean EVERYTHING.

From the end of the article: "You get an Android tablet. And an Android laptop. And that's something nobody but ASUS can yet offer." Hmmm. I remember reading about Always Innovating's Touch Book about 1-2 years ago, with characteristics similar to this tablet/laptop. And they have a new one called Smart Book, that have two tablets plus keyboard in one, with support for Android, ChromeOS, Ubuntu and their own Linux variant. I just checked their site, and surprise, surprise, they caught ASUS's "invention" too... http://www.alwaysinnovating.com/home/index.htm

I bought an extra-cheap gamepad (Gmax, made in China, around $4), 2 transistors, 4 resistors and a 9-pin connector (around $1) and made an Atari-to-USB adapter out of it. Gamepad had all the USB logic that I needed (I just needed to connect transistors on two directions to make a +5V contact). I even managed to put all inside its original case, so I can use it as a gamepad if I wish (not likely, though, it's really bad). Anyway, if you're looking for a cheap Atari adapter, this is something that is cheap and it works :)