Regenerative memory in time-delayed neuromorphic photonic resonators

Sci Rep. 2016 Jan 19:6:19510. doi: 10.1038/srep19510.

Abstract

We investigate a photonic regenerative memory based upon a neuromorphic oscillator with a delayed self-feedback (autaptic) connection. We disclose the existence of a unique temporal response characteristic of localized structures enabling an ideal support for bits in an optical buffer memory for storage and reshaping of data information. We link our experimental implementation, based upon a nanoscale nonlinear resonant tunneling diode driving a laser, to the paradigm of neuronal activity, the FitzHugh-Nagumo model with delayed feedback. This proof-of-concept photonic regenerative memory might constitute a building block for a new class of neuron-inspired photonic memories that can handle high bit-rate optical signals.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Equipment Design / instrumentation*
  • Equipment Design / methods
  • Feedback
  • Information Storage and Retrieval / methods*
  • Lasers
  • Light
  • Models, Theoretical
  • Neural Networks, Computer
  • Neurons / physiology
  • Optical Devices
  • Photic Stimulation / instrumentation*
  • Photons
  • Signal Processing, Computer-Assisted / instrumentation*