Brain-like Computing Gains Momentum for Smaller and More Efficient Electronics

Sunday - September 3 2023, 23:13 UTC - 1 year ago

Researchers at EPFL have revealed a groundbreaking technology that seamlessly integrates two-dimensional semiconductors with ferroelectric materials to improve energy efficiency and add new functionalities in computing. The novel combination of devices combines traditional digital logic with brain-like analog operations, while the integrated Negative Capacitance Tunnel Field-Effect Transistor optimizes power consumption with a record low voltage requirement. This technology opens up a wide range of possibilities for electronic devices in the future.

We live in an analog world of continuous information flow that is both processed and stored by our brains at the same time, but our devices process information digitally in the form of discrete binary code, breaking the information into little bits (or bytes). Researchers at EPFL have revealed a pioneering technology that combines the potential of continuous analog processing with the precision of digital devices. By seamlessly integrating ultra-thin, two-dimensional semiconductors with ferroelectric materials, the research, published in the journal Nature Electronics, unveils a novel way to improve energy efficiency and add new functionalities in computing. The new configuration merges traditional digital logic with brain-like analog operations.

The innovation from the Nanoelectronics Device Laboratory (Nanolab), in collaboration with Microsystems Laboratory, revolves around a unique combination of materials leading to brain-inspired functions and advanced electronic switches, including the standout negative capacitance Tunnel Field-Effect Transistor (TFET). In the world of electronics, a transistor or "switch" can be likened to a light switch, determining whether current flows (on) or doesn't (off). These are the famous 1s and 0s of binary computer language, and this simple action of turning on and off is integral to nearly every function of our electronic devices, from processing information to storing memory.

The TFET is a special type of switch designed with an energy-conscious future in mind. Unlike conventional transistors that require a certain minimum voltage to turn on, TFETs can operate at significantly lower voltages. This optimized design means they consume considerably less energy when switching, thus significantly reducing the overall power consumption of devices they are integrated into.

According to Professor Adrian Ionescu, head of Nanolab, "Our endeavors represent a significant leap forward in the domain of electronics, having shattered previous performance benchmarks, and is exemplified by the outstanding capabilities of the negative-capacitance tungsten diselenide/tin diselenide TFET and the possibility to create synaptic neuron function within the same technology." .

Sadegh Kamaei, a PhD candidate at EPFL, has harnessed the potential of 2D semiconductors and ferroelectric materials within a fully co-integrated electronic system for the first time. The 2D semiconductions can be used for ultra-efficient digital processors whereas the ferroelectric material provides the possibility to continuously process and store memory at the same time. Combining the two materials creates the opportunity to harness the best of the digital and analog capacities of each. Now the light switch from our above analogy is not only more energy efficient, but the light it turns on can burn even brighter.

Kamaei added, "Working with 2D semiconductors and integrating them with ferroelectrics has been difficult, but this study opens such a wide range of possibilities for novel functionalities and improves performance in comparison to the traditional transistor-based systems. We are looking forward to much more better and energy efficient advancements." .