Applications of random-pulse machine concept to neural network design

摘要

Neural networks can reach their true potential only when they are implemented in hardware as massively parallel processors. This paper presents the random-pulse machine concept and shows how it can be used for the modular design of neural networks. Random-pulse machines deal with analog variables represented by the mean rate of random-pulse streams and use simple digital technology to perform arithmetic and logic operations. This concept presents a good tradeoff between the electronic circuit complexity and the computational accuracy. The resulting neural network architecture has a high packing density and is well suited for very large-scale integration (VLSI). Simulation results illustrate the performance of the basic elements of a random-pulse neuron.