Applications of random-pulse machine concept to neural network design

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.