A molecular film has been developed for the neuromorphic computers of the future

Scientists from the Indian Institute have made a significant breakthrough in the development of an analog computing platform that stores and processes data in a molecular film that supports 16,500 conduction states, opening up new opportunities for energy-efficient computing.

A fundamental problem of modern digital computers is excessive energy consumption when performing matrix calculations, which are the basis of many artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms. The new platform solves this problem by significantly reducing energy costs and computing time due to the use of a molecular film in which molecules and ions constantly change their positions, forming a multi-level memory system. This makes it possible to significantly increase the efficiency of processing large data sets, in particular, for training language models.

The main innovation is the molecular film's ability to capture a large number of intermediate states of electrical conductivity, which was previously unattainable for traditional digital devices that are limited to two states — 0 and 1. Researchers have found a way to use precise voltage pulses to control molecular movements and convert each movement into a separate electrical signal, creating a system similar to the human brain. Such an architecture allows simultaneous recording and processing of information in the same place, which is a big step forward in the creation of neuromorphic computing systems.

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However, the scientists had to develop a special board to accurately measure the conduction states, since the existing equipment could not provide the required accuracy of measurements. This board allows you to determine the voltage in millionths of a volt, which opens up access to previously unattainable computing capabilities.

As proof of the effectiveness of the new system, scientists demonstrated its capabilities by reproducing images of the “Pillars of Creation”

strong> — famous astronomical image of the Eagle Nebula. If previously a supercomputer was needed for this, then thanks to the new platform it was possible to perform this task on an ordinary laptop, significantly reducing time and energy costs.

This development is part of the global development of neuromorphic computing systems. For example, in April 2024, Intel presented the Hala Point neuromorphic system, capable of processing information 50 times faster and at the same time consuming 100 times less energy compared to traditional computing systems. Such developments open new horizons for energy-efficient technologies and may revolutionize future computing processes.