This commentary article extends Vimal's [J Integr Neurosci 7:49-73, 2008] concept of protoexperience by outlining a two-factor approach to the localization of consciousness within the physical matter of the brain consistent with contemporary theoretical physics, molecular and system biology, and neuroscience. Specific hypotheses based on this approach predict on clearly stated grounds the occurrence or non-occurrence, and degrees of intensity of consciousness within the human brain and possibly in related species based on the combination of protoconsciousness with energetic activating agents. In this it comprises a mechanics of consciousness.