Neuron-MOS continuous-time winner-take-all circuit for intelligent data processing

Abstract

A unique circuit architecture has been developed for winner-take-all (WTA) circuits operating in continuous time using neuron-MOS (/spl nu/MOS) technology. The /spl nu/MOS WTA identifies the location of the winner as an oscillating node of a multiple-loop /spl nu/MOS ring oscillator. The nonoscillating mode of operation has been also obtained by a proper design of delay elements. High accuracy search for the winner has been achieved by the introduction of a new digital/analog merged feedback control. The circuit operation has been demonstrated and all verified by test circuits fabricated by double-polysilicon CMOS processes.