Towards an Excitable Microwave Spike Generator for Future Neuromorphic Computing

This paper describes the systematic approach to develop low power consumption excitable neuromorphic spike generators using nano-sized resonant tunnelling diode (RTD), including fabrication, characterization and device modelling and spike circuit simulation. The fabrication process of nano sized RTDs has been developed and devices exhibit peak currents of up to 100 μA. The energy efficiency of the RTD spike generator can reach as low as 0.09 fJ per spike. An accurate small signal model of nano RTD has also been developed and is described. This nano-RTD technology could underpin the development of energy efficient neuromorphic computing in the very near future.