Pulse stream VLSI neural networks

Abstract

EPSILON, a large, working, VLSI device, demonstrates pulse stream methods in the wider context of analog neural networks. EPSILON uses dynamic weight storage techniques, but a nonvolatile alternative is desirable. To that end, we have developed an amorphous silicon memory, which we present in experiments incorporating the device in a modest pulse stream neural chip. We have also developed a target-based training algorithm, which we demonstrate in a prototype learning device using a realistic problem. Finally, we explore system-level problems in experiments with a second version of EPSILON in a small, autonomous robot. >