An Ultra-Low-Power Synthesizable Asynchronous AER Encoder for Neuromorphic Edge Devices

Abstract

This paper presents a fully synthesizable, treebased Address-Event Representation (AER) encoder designed for scalable neuromorphic computing systems. To achieve high throughput while maintaining strict compatibility with commercial EDA workflows, the asynchronous design employs a bundled-data protocol within a semi-decoupled micropipeline. The architecture replaces traditional transparent latches with standard edge-triggered flip-flops, enabling digital synthesis and place-and-route (PnR) using Cadence toolkits. A cross-coupled NAND-based random-priority arbiter is embedded within the encoder of each tree node to resolve event collisions efficiently. An 8-event AER prototype is fabricated in 65 nm CMOS technology utilizing a purely digital standard-cell flow. Post-fabrication silicon measurements validate the design, demonstrating a peak throughput of 33 MEvent/s and an average event latency of 50 ns, equating to a propagation delay of 17 ns/(event-bit). The design consumes only 435 fJ per encoded event.