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Innovation Providing New Multiple Functions in Phase-Change Materials To Achieve Cognitive Computing

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 February 2011

Stanford R. Ovshinsky
Affiliation:
Energy Conversion Devices, 2956 Waterview Drive, Rochester Hills, MI48309
Boil Pashmakov
Affiliation:
Energy Conversion Devices, 2956 Waterview Drive, Rochester Hills, MI48309
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Abstract

This paper describes a basic new scientific and technological approach for information and computing use. It is based on Ovonic cognitive devices that utilize an atomically engineered Ovonic chalcogenide material as the active medium. We demonstrate how such a device possesses many unique functions including an intrinsic neurosynaptic functionality that permits the processing of information in a manner analogous to that of biological neurons and synapses. Our Ovonic cognitive devices can not only accomplish conventional binary computing, but are capable of non-binary generation of information, storage, encryption, higher mathematics, modular arithmetic and factoring. Uniquely, almost all of these functions can be accomplished in a single nanosized device. These devices and systems are robust at room temperature (and above). They are non-volatile and also can include other volatile devices such as the Ovonic Threshold Switch and Ovonic multi-terminal threshold and memory devices that can replace transistors.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Materials Research Society 2004

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References

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