Samsung, in collaboration with Harvard University, has published new research that suggests it is possible to develop a brain-inspired memory chip.
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In a paper published in Nature Electronics, researchers from the collaborating institutions proposed that the map of the brain's neural connections could be replicated using an array of nanoelectrodes. They explained that the nanoelectrode array could be used to record the electrical signals produced by the large number of neurons found in the brain. These signals could then be used to update the neural map, indicating where neurons connect to each other and how strong the connections are, the researchers said.
Once copied, the neural map could then be pasted into a three-dimensional network of high-density solid-state memory, such as commercial flash memory used in solid-state drives or resistor RAM.
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In this way, the memory chip will contain characteristics of the brain, such as low power, easy learning, adaptation to the environment, autonomy and cognition, the researchers said.
The paper also suggests a possible way to speed up neural map pasting, where the map needs to be downloaded directly to a memory chip.
“The vision we are presenting is extremely ambitious,” said Donhee Ham, a member of the Samsung Advanced Institute of Technology. “But working towards such a heroic goal will push the boundaries of machine intelligence, neuroscience and chip technology.”
Looking ahead, Samsung plans to continue its research into neuromorphic engineering as part of its AI chip development.
During the last quarter, the South Korean giant recorded its best operating profit in almost three years, recording around 46 million euros in sales and 9 million euros in operating income.
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The company's chip business posted operating income of around 5 million euros, more than half of the total.
Market conditions improved in the memory market, leading to stronger-than-expected increases in average selling prices for both DRAM and NAND chips, Samsung said.
