Designing Networks of Spiking Silicon Neurons and Synapses

Since the properties of transistors are well matched to the properties of ionic channels in nerve membranes, Mead has advocated the use of analog VLSI for the construction of arti cial neural systems [1]. The current state of the art in realistic single-neuron designs is the silicon neuron of Mahowald and Douglas [2], which exhibits the spiking, refractory, and adaptation characteristics of cortical neurons. The next step in this emerging engineering discipline is the construction of networks of spiking silicon neurons and synapses. This task will require the design and characterization of simple neuron and synapse circuit primitives, and the integrated development of suitable design tools, particularly for schematic capture and simulation.