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Ising Computer

Advanced Research into AI

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    A major challenge facing AI is the enormous computational load it imposes, of which combinational optimization makes up a large part. Hitachi has devised a computing technology based on a new paradigm that is capable of solving combinatorial optimization problems efficiently using an Ising model, and has built a prototype 20k-spin Ising computer chip using a 65-nm process. An Ising chip represents a combinatorial optimization problem by mapping it onto an Ising model based on the spin of magnetic materials, and solves the problem by taking advantage of the system’s natural tendency to converge. This convergence is implemented using a CMOS circuit. In addition to demonstrating its ability to solve combinatorial optimization problems and operate at 100 MHz, the prototype chip has been demonstrated to consume approximately 1,800 times less power to obtain the solution than would be required by a conventional computer with a von Neumann architecture.

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    ABOUT THE AUTHORS

    Masanao Yamaoka, Ph.D.

    Center for Exploratory Research, Research & Development Group, Hitachi, Ltd. He is currently engaged in research into computers based on new concepts. Dr. Yamaoka is a member of the IEEE.

    Chihiro Yoshimura

    Center for Exploratory Research, Research & Development Group, Hitachi, Ltd. He is currently engaged in research into computers based on new concepts.

    Masato Hayashi

    Center for Exploratory Research, Research & Development Group, Hitachi, Ltd. He is currently engaged in research into computers based on new concepts.

    Takuya Okuyama

    Center for Exploratory Research, Research & Development Group, Hitachi, Ltd. He is currently engaged in research into computers based on new concepts.

    Hidetaka Aoki

    Hitachi Asia (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. He is currently engaged in the research and development of green computing. Mr. Aoki is a member of the Information Processing Society of Japan.

    Hiroyuki Mizuno, Ph.D.

    Center for Technology Innovation–Information and Telecommunications, Research & Development Group, Hitachi, Ltd. He is currently engaged in research into information and telecommunications technology. Dr. Mizuno is a member of the IEEE.

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