The modular map

The modular map is a fully digital implementation of an artificial neural network (ANN) inspired by the self-organising map (SOM). By utilising a combination of full custom and semi-custom design techniques a device has been developed that implements 256 neurons. While an individual device is a self-contained neural network suitable for real-time applications, these devices have been designed as building blocks for modular neural network systems to provide a scaleable implementation. These devices can be combined to form massively parallel implementations of the SOM in a way that minimises increases in training time for the network.