Implementation of memristive neural networks with spike-rate-dependent plasticity synapses

Abstract

The property of changing resistance according to applied currents of memristors makes them candidates for emulating synapses in artificial neural networks. In this paper, we introduce a memristive synapse design into neural network circuits. Combined with modified integrate-and-fire (I&F) complementary metal-oxide-semiconducter (CMOS) neurons, the memristive neural network shows similarities to its biological counterpart, in respect of biologically realistic, current-controlled spikes and adaptive synaptic plasticity. Then, the spike-rate-dependent plasticity (SRDP) of the synapse, an extended protocol of the Hebbian learning rule, is originally implemented by the circuit. And some advanced neural activities including learning, associative memory and forgetting are realized based on the SRDP rule. These activities are comprehensively validated on a neural network circuit inspired by famous Pavlov's dog-experiment with simulations and quantitative analyses.