Well, I guess the A and the S are fairly self explanatory. So this is probably a reach. However...

I would really like to know if one were to procure an ASIC device (eg: BFL, KnCMiner, etc) - would it be theoretically possible that one of these units could be re-purposed down the road? Maybe after X months/year of mining, one could then unleash said unit on folding proteins, SETI, whatever.

I know that this would make a lot of people rest more easily in buying one of these (especially those with SO that may share our interest in this emerging technology although not at today's upfront prices) - even if such a repurposing is still somewhat of a reach.

So I'm crazy right? Or is it theoretically possible and if so, are we talking cold fusion level or what?