The Life Electronic

I have briefly discussed the concepts of advanced anthropomorphic androids, living cyborgs, biologically and mechanically augmented humans and animals, as well as artificial biological entities (ABE's.) I would like to introduce another unique concept to the current stream of dialog, electronic or software based life forms and electro-biological systems. It may seem that these entities are just advanced computers or AI infused androids, but the differentiation can be significant. Imagine if you will a system of life forms that exist within a framework (an electronic infrastructure) and is made up entirely of living code - electronic DNA. This electrobiomechanical system could start out being designed by humans for specific tasks (like maintaining the electrical grid of a metropolis.) This electronic system of beings would be fully functional and interactive, performing complex operations like communication, procreation, evolving and adapting to optimize their environment. Does this sound like the SF novel "Prey" by author Michael Crichton or SF cult-classic "The Lawnmower Man"? I think all too often we view emergent technologies with a "Frankenstinian" mentality. We should note that there might be those real life examples of rogue inventions and unforeseen effects, but that those effects and isolated agents would be mitigated by numerous limiting factors and would eventually be subdued and reformed. Even the worst serial killer always meets his or her end. The man-eating animals that we encounter often find their way onto the dinner table of some hunter. In short, it is the system itself (or the limiting factors within) that eliminates the more destructive or chaotic elements of that system. These artificial systems would branch out and become natural after some time - given that the software system was able to evolve and adapt as any other life form and biological system does. I know that this seems like a stretch, but it is absolutely possible. That being said, I'm not looking for the next version of Linux to procreate and re-route our power grid through the ionosphere. God knows it'll come close though!