Memristors' Potential for Multi-bit Storage and Pattern Learning

Abstract

Memristor is a two-terminal device, termed as fourth element, and characterized by a varying resistance depending on the charge (current) flown through it. This leads to many interesting characteristics, including a memory of its past states, demonstrated in its resistance. Smaller area and power consumed by memristors compared to conventional memories makes them a more suitable choice for applications needing large memory. In this paper we explore one of the unique properties of memristors which extends their suitability by allowing storage of multi-bit data in a single memristor. Their ability of storing multi-bit patterns will be shown via a simplified proof and simulations. This characteristic can be advantageous for many applications. In this paper particularly, we briefly discuss its advantages in pattern learning applications.