A CMOS analog parallel array processor chip with programmable dynamics for early vision tasks

A bio-inspired model for an analog programmable array processor (APAP), based on studies on the vertebrate retina, has permitted the realization of complex programmable spatio-temporal dynamics in VLSI. This model mimics the way in which images are processed in the visual pathway what renders a feasible alternative for the implementation of early vision tasks in standard technologies. As a result, a prototype chip, designed and fabricated in 0.5µm CMOS, renders a computing power per area and power consumption that is amongst the highest reported for a single chip. Design challenges, trade-offs and some functional tests results are presented in this paper.