Open the box of digital neuromorphic processor: Towards effective algorithm-hardware co-design

Guangzhi Tang, Ali Safa, Kevin Shidqi, Paul Detterer, Stefano Traferro, Mario Konijnenburg, Manolis Sifalakis, Gert Jan Van Schaik, Amirreza Yousefzadeh

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

4 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Sparse and event-driven spiking neural network (SNN) algorithms are the ideal candidate solution for energy-efficient edge computing. Yet, with the growing complexity of SNN algorithms, it isn't easy to properly benchmark and optimize their computational cost without hardware in the loop. Although digital neuromorphic processors have been widely adopted to benchmark SNN algorithms, their black-box nature is problematic for algorithm-hardware co-optimization. In this work, we open the black box of the digital neuromorphic processor for algorithm designers by presenting the neuron processing instruction set and detailed energy consumption of the SENeCA neuromorphic architecture. For convenient benchmarking and optimization, we provide the energy cost of the essential neuromorphic components in SENeCA, including neuron models and learning rules. Moreover, we exploit the SENeCA's hierarchical memory and exhibit an advantage over existing neuromorphic processors. We show the energy efficiency of SNN algorithms for video processing and online learning, and demonstrate the potential of our work for optimizing algorithm designs. Overall, we present a practical approach to enable algorithm designers to accurately benchmark SNN algorithms and pave the way towards effective algorithm-hardware co-design.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication2023 Ieee International Symposium On Circuits And Systems, Iscas
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc.
Number of pages5
ISBN (Electronic)9781665451093
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2023
Externally publishedYes
Event56th IEEE International Symposium on Circuits and Systems, ISCAS 2023 - Monterey, United States
Duration: 21 May 202325 May 2023

Publication series

NameIeee International Symposium On Circuits And Systems

Conference

Conference56th IEEE International Symposium on Circuits and Systems, ISCAS 2023
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityMonterey
Period21/05/2325/05/23

Keywords

  • Network

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