Methods and apparatus for implementing neural networks using 3d non-volatile memory arrays

Abstract

Methods and apparatus for neural network arrays are disclosed. In an embodiment, a neural network array includes a plurality of strings, each string having a drain select gate transistor connected to a plurality of non-volatile memory cells that are connected in series and function as synapses, and a plurality of output nodes, each output node connected to receive output signals from a plurality of drain terminals of the drain select gates. The array also includes a plurality of input nodes, each input node connected to provide input signals to a plurality of gate terminals of the drain select gates, and a plurality of weight select signals connected to the plurality of non-volatile memory cells in each string, respectively. Each weight select signal provides a selected voltage to a selected non-volatile memory cell to cause the selected non-volatile memory cell to conduct current according to a selected characteristic of the selected non-volatile memory cell.