Dynamic computing random access memory

The present von Neumann computing paradigm involves a significant amount of information transfer between a central processing unit and memory, with concomitant limitations in the actual execution speed. However, it has been recently argued that a different form of computation, dubbed memcomputing (D...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:	Nanotechnology 2014-07, Vol.25 (28), p.285201-10
Main Authors:	Traversa, F L, Bonani, F, Pershin, Y V, Di Ventra, M
Format:	Article
Language:	eng
Subjects:	Applied sciences Architecture Computation Computer Systems computing Dynamical systems Dynamics Electronics Equipment Design - instrumentation Equipment Design - methods Exact sciences and technology Expenditures Logic memcapacitive systems memory Nanotechnology Quantum Theory Random access memory
Online Access:	Get full text
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Summary:	The present von Neumann computing paradigm involves a significant amount of information transfer between a central processing unit and memory, with concomitant limitations in the actual execution speed. However, it has been recently argued that a different form of computation, dubbed memcomputing (Di Ventra and Pershin 2013 Nat. Phys. 9 200-2) and inspired by the operation of our brain, can resolve the intrinsic limitations of present day architectures by allowing for computing and storing of information on the same physical platform. Here we show a simple and practical realization of memcomputing that utilizes easy-to-build memcapacitive systems. We name this architecture dynamic computing random access memory (DCRAM). We show that DCRAM provides massively-parallel and polymorphic digital logic, namely it allows for different logic operations with the same architecture, by varying only the control signals. In addition, by taking into account realistic parameters, its energy expenditures can be as low as a few fJ per operation. DCRAM is fully compatible with CMOS technology, can be realized with current fabrication facilities, and therefore can really serve as an alternative to the present computing technology.
ISSN:	0957-4484 1361-6528