A real-time clustering microchip neural engine

Abstract

This paper presents an analog current-mode VLSI implementation of an unsupervised clustering algorithm. The clustering algorithm is based on the popular ART1 algorithm [1], but has been modified resulting in a more VLSI-friendly algorithm [2], [3] that allows a more efficient hardware implementation with simple circuit operators, little memory requirements, modular chip assembly capability, and higher speed figures. The chip described in this paper implements a network that can cluster 100 binary pixels input patterns into up to 18 different categories. Modular expansibility of the system is directly possible by assembling an N×M array of chips without any extra interfacing circuitry, so that the maximum number of clusters is 18×M and the maximum number of bits of the input pattern is N×100. Pattern classification and learning is performed in 1.8µs, which is an equivalent computing power of 4.4×10 9 connections per second plus connection-updates per second. The chip has been fabricated in a standard low cost 1.6µm double-metal single-poly CMOS process, has a die area of 1cm 2 , and is mounted in a 120-pin PGA package. Although internally the chip is analog in nature, it interfaces to the outside world through digital signals, and thus has a true asynchronous digital behavior. Experimental chip test results are available, obtained through digital chip test equipment. Fault tolerance at the system level operation is demonstrated through the experimental testing of faulty chips.