Chaos computing: a unified view

Chaos computing is a non-traditional new paradigm that exploits the extreme non-linearity of chaotic systems. This article presents a unified theoretical view of chaos computing. It introduces the fundamental concept and the unique features that are characteristics of chaos computing, and discusses various implementation approaches. Basic aspects of digital chaos computing to realise logical gates are introduced, followed by two specific techniques: (1) direct utilisation of the threshold mechanisms; (2) an application of the chaos neuron model. After presenting these approaches, we discuss general characteristics of digital chaos computing. Other digital, analog and digital/analog hybrid forms of chaos computing are also considered. Potential advantages of chaos computing include: high speed, low power and low cost, a general-purpose form of computing, re-configurable or dynamic logical architecture, implementation of continuous logic, robustness against noise, and parallel and distributed computing.