Probabilistic Computing Based on Random Devices

Abstract

Recently, a new type of computing called as probabilistic computing approach has shown its broad application in various problems ranging from combinatorial optimizations and machine learning to quantum simulation where a randomly fluctuating bit (p-bit) constitutes a basic building block. This computing scheme tackles computationally hard problems in specific domains that can be efficiently solved using probabilistic algorithms compared to conventional deterministic computers. Here, we broadly review several aspects of this computing scheme starting from its building blocks and system network to working principles/algorithms and a family of problems that can be solved. By leveraging emerging nano-devices together with existing CMOS technology, we believe probabilistic computers can not only provide a valuable new approach to tackling computationally hard problems but also reveal the unknown power of probabilistic samplings by improving the speed and energy efficiency significantly.