VLSI Implementation of Neural Networks

The recent resurgence of interest in neural networks (NNs) has resulted in the application of NNs to a variety of problem domains. The initial results show great promise, which in tum is motivating research in appropriate implementation technologies. Several approaches are now being explored; at one extreme of the spectrum is algorithmic research for software running on a conventional computer, whereas at the other extreme researchers are exploring radically new computational structures, such as optical computing. A more conservative approach relies on adapting the existing silicon-based CMOS VLSI (complementary metal oxide semiconductor, very large scale integration) technology to the unique needs of NN computation