Dynamic Computing Random Access Memory

TL;DR

This paper introduces DCRAM, a memcomputing-based memory architecture utilizing memcapacitive systems, offering parallel, polymorphic logic operations with low energy consumption, compatible with existing CMOS fabrication.

Contribution

The paper presents a practical implementation of memcomputing using memcapacitive systems, demonstrating a new memory architecture called DCRAM that enables versatile logic operations and energy efficiency.

Findings

DCRAM performs multiple logic functions with a single architecture.

Energy per operation can be as low as a few femtojoules.

DCRAM is compatible with current CMOS fabrication processes.

Abstract

The present von Neumann computing paradigm involves a significant amount of information transfer between a central processing unit (CPU) and memory, with concomitant limitations in the actual execution speed. However, it has been recently argued that a different form of computation, dubbed memcomputing [Nature Physics, 9, 200-202 (2013)] 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.