A generalized analog implementation of piecewise linear neuron models using CCII building blocks

• Published in: Neural networks Vol. 51; pp. 26 - 38
• Main Authors: Soleimani, Hamid, Ahmadi, Arash, Bavandpour, Mohammad, Sharifipoor, Ozra
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Kidlington Elsevier Ltd 01-03-2014; Elsevier
• Subjects: Action Potentials; Applied sciences; Artificial intelligence; Bifurcation; CCII; Computer science; control theory; systems; Computer Simulation; Computers; Computers, Analog; Connectionism. Neural networks; Costs and Cost Analysis; Exact sciences and technology; Feasibility Studies; Linear Models; Models, Neurological; Monte Carlo Method; Neural Networks (Computer); Neurons - physiology; Piecewise linear model; Programmable analog circuit; Spiking neural network; Time Factors; Programmable analog circuit; Bifurcation; Spiking neural network; Piecewise linear model; CCII; Analog circuit; Spiking neuron; Voltage current curve; Programmable circuit; Neural network; Topology; Modeling; Linear model; Complementary MOS technology; Feasibility; Large scale; Reconfigurable architectures; Piecewise linearization
• ISSN: 0893-6080; 1879-2782
• DOI: 10.1016/j.neunet.2013.12.004

This paper presents a set of reconfigurable analog implementations of piecewise linear spiking neuron models using second generation current conveyor (CCII) building blocks. With the same topology and circuit elements, without W/L modification which is impossible after circuit fabrication, these circuits can produce different behaviors, similar to the biological neurons, both for a single neuron as well as a network of neurons just by tuning reference current and voltage sources. The models are investigated, in terms of analog implementation feasibility and costs, targeting large scale hardware implementations. Results show that, in order to gain the best performance, area and accuracy; these models can be compromised. Simulation results are presented for different neuron behaviors with CMOS 350 nm technology.