JSTS:Journal of Semiconductor Technology and Science

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Neuron Circuit Using a Thyristor and Inter-neuron Connection with Synaptic Devices

  • Ranjan, Rajeev (Inter-university Semiconductor Research Center (ISRC) and Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Seoul National University) ;
  • Kwon, Min-Woo (Inter-university Semiconductor Research Center (ISRC) and Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Seoul National University) ;
  • Park, Jungjin (Inter-university Semiconductor Research Center (ISRC) and Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Seoul National University) ;
  • Kim, Hyungjin (Inter-university Semiconductor Research Center (ISRC) and Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Seoul National University) ;
  • Park, Byung-Gook (Inter-university Semiconductor Research Center (ISRC) and Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Seoul National University)
  • Received : 2014.12.09
  • Accepted : 2015.04.10
  • Published : 2015.06.30
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Abstract

We propose a simple and compact thyristor-based neuron circuit. The thyristor exhibits bi-stable characteristics that can mimic the action potential of the biological neuron, when it is switched between its OFF-state and ON-state with the help of assist circuit. In addition, a method of inter-neuron connection with synaptic devices is proposed, using double current mirror circuit. The circuit utilizes both short-term and long-term plasticity of the synaptic devices by flowing current through them and transferring it to the post-synaptic neuron. The double current mirror circuit is capable of shielding the pre-synaptic neuron from the post synaptic-neuron while transferring the signal through it, maintaining the synaptic conductance unaffected by the change in the input voltage of the post-synaptic neuron.

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References

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