ABSTRACT
This paper explores the architectural implications of integrating computation and molecular probes to form nanoscale sensor processors (nSP). We show how nSPs may enable new computing domains and automate tasks that currently require expert scientific training and costly equipment. This new application domain severely constrains nSP size, which significantly impacts the architectural design space. In this context, we explore nSP architectures and present an nSP design that includes a simple accumulator-based ISA, sensors, limited memory and communication transceivers. To reduce the application memory footprint, we introduce the concept of instruction-fused sensing. We use simulation and analytical models to evaluate nSP designs executing a representative set of target applications. Furthermore, we propose a candidate nSP technology based on optical Resonance Energy Transfer (RET) logic that enables the small size required by the application domain; our smallest design is about the size of the largest known virus. We also show laboratory results that demonstrate initial steps towards a prototype.
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Index Terms
Architectural implications of nanoscale integrated sensing and computing
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Architectural implications of nanoscale integrated sensing and computing
ASPLOS 2009This paper explores the architectural implications of integrating computation and molecular probes to form nanoscale sensor processors (nSP). We show how nSPs may enable new computing domains and automate tasks that currently require expert scientific ...
Architectural implications of nanoscale integrated sensing and computing
ASPLOS 2009This paper explores the architectural implications of integrating computation and molecular probes to form nanoscale sensor processors (nSP). We show how nSPs may enable new computing domains and automate tasks that currently require expert scientific ...
Architectural Implications of Nanoscale-Integrated Sensing and Computing
The authors explore nanoscale sensor processor (nSP) architectures. Their design includes a simple accumulator-based instruction-set architecture, sensors, limited memory, and instruction-fused sensing. Using nSP technology based on optical resonance ...








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