QUINN stands for Quantum Unified Intelligent Neural Network. Systems of this type are often referred to as QUINN Types or QUINN Type AIs. They are a revolutionary type of Artificial Intelligence system that is truly sentient by every scientific measure. These computer systems are rare. This is because it is self aware and capable of both learning and ongoing independent decision making over a indefinite time periods and that raises a good amount of moral ambiguity. Indeed parts of the EMH design are rumored to have been based on the QUINN software design.
Creation
These types of systems are created and grown rather than simply built. Using quantum computer technology the software is given a template of protocols, directives, and priorities. A quantum neural network outline is generated. Using this as a guide the system then is grown in a recursive series of function calls mimicking the way a living neural network is formed. Information from accessible databases is input and cycled through as if the growing intelligence was learning. These are not experiences exactly, but they are designed to mimic the way that experience shapes a living mind. The more complex the template given and more data to be confused by the process, the longer it takes to complete.
Once the process is complete the system exports the complete neural network program into a standard computer system to be initialized. Once initialized, it operates as a living sentient intelligence capable of complex emotional and intellectual growth and interaction.
Sentience
These computers are almost always self aware and sentient, intelligent beings unto themselves that are both aware of what they are and for what they were designed.
Interfaces
It is rare to see these AI's without some kind of holographic interface. It is not required but as rare as it is to see one of these systems, it is far more rare to encounter an AI such as this that does not have some kind of interface to the outside world that also exists as something similar to how living beings exist. Holographic (or other interface) templates are input at the time of creation, though can be changed by the AI itself with a large amount of difficulty and time.
Ethical Considerations
Because of the moral and ethical implications of creating artificial life the only way to obtain a QUINN system is through underground channels. While they are not illegal to have in Federation or Solas Tempus space, they are frowned upon and discouraged.