绕开光刻机“卡脖子”，中国新型芯片问世！专访北大孙仲：支撑AI训练和具身智能，可在28纳米及以上成熟工艺量产

Core Insights - A Chinese research team has developed a new type of chip based on resistive random-access memory (RRAM) that achieves a precision of 24-bit fixed-point accuracy in analog matrix computations, marking a significant advancement in computational efficiency and energy consumption for AI applications [2][12][15] - This chip can support various cutting-edge applications, including 6G communication, embodied intelligence, and AI model training, while being produced using mature 28nm technology, thus avoiding reliance on advanced lithography processes [2][4][10] Technology Overview - The new chip represents a departure from traditional digital computing paradigms, which rely on binary logic and silicon-based transistors, to a more efficient analog computing approach that directly utilizes physical laws for calculations [4][6][15] - The precision of analog computing has been significantly improved, reducing relative error from 1% to one part in ten million (10⁻⁷), which is crucial for large-scale computations where errors can accumulate exponentially [8][12][15] Innovation Highlights - The chip's innovations include the use of RRAM as a core component, a novel feedback circuit design that minimizes energy consumption while enhancing accuracy, and the implementation of classic iterative optimization algorithms for efficient matrix equation solving [15][16] - The chip's architecture allows for high-speed, low-power solutions to matrix equations, making it suitable for applications that require rapid computations, such as second-order training methods in AI [19][21] Application Potential - The chip is particularly well-suited for medium-scale applications, such as AI model training and 6G MIMO systems, where it can outperform traditional digital chips [18][25] - Future plans include scaling the chip's matrix size from 16x16 to 128x128 within two years, with aspirations to reach 512x512, which would enhance its applicability in various computational scenarios [25][26] Strategic Value - This development provides China with a potential alternative to reliance on advanced processes and NVIDIA GPUs, positioning the country favorably in the global computational landscape [10][11] - The successful demonstration of this new computing paradigm is seen as a critical step towards addressing future computational demands, emphasizing the need for ongoing investment in technology and infrastructure [11][26]