datumin

Datumin is a fictional crystalline mineral used in speculative fiction and role-playing settings as an ultra-high-density data-storage material. In most portrayals, datumin occurs as a translucent, iridescent crystal formed in asteroid belts or other remote caches, and requires specialized processing to extract usable memory chips. The term is often derived from Latin datum meaning “given” or data, with the suffix -in to suggest a physical form.

In fiction, datumin is described as having exceptionally high data density, non-volatile stability across wide temperature ranges, and resistance to radiation. Readout and writing are typically depicted as photonic or spintronic processes, with data imprinted by nanoscale lithography or quantum states. Some sources describe finite write cycles, while others claim near-infinite endurance, depending on the narrative.

In-universe uses center on archival storage, starship computer cores, and encrypted data vaults. Because of its density and permanence, datumin drives plot devices involving memory recovery, data tampering, or hidden knowledge buried in ancient caches. Handling protocols are strict, and unpolished crystals may erode data integrity or release stored information unpredictably if mishandled.

Formation and distribution are commonly attributed to exotic astrophysical or geologic processes, such as primordial nebula conditions or specialized volcanic activity on large moons. In many stories, datumin is rare and valuable, reinforcing themes of information scarcity, control over knowledge, and the ethics of data ownership.

Relation to real science remains speculative; datumin is a fictional material used to explore ideas about memory, storage limits, and the materiality of information. See also memory crystal, fictional mineral, data storage in fiction.