# Collaborative Research: FET: Medium: Field Programmable Oscillator Ising Machines

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Yale University (CT) · $474,980

## Abstract

Combinatorial optimization (CO) problems are pervasive under the hood of modern life. CO problems underlie artificial intelligence, autonomous driving, logistics in healthcare/power grids/transportation, robotic maneuvering, wireless communications, error tolerant data storage, and many other societally important technologies. In recent years, new ways to solve these problems (using "analog oscillator" mechanisms) have emerged that promise far greater solution effectiveness than current techniques can achieve---if appropriate semiconductor "chip" implementations can be devised. The main goal of this project is to design, fabricate and demonstrate such chip implementations, along with systems that utilize them. Achieving this goal will lead to improved efficiencies solving a variety of societally important combinatorial optimization problems. Dissemination and training are also important components of this project. 

The specific scheme being investigated is called oscillator Ising machines (OIMs). OIM simulations have predicted high success rates solving various combinatorial optimization problems. However, integrated circuit (IC) implementations have had difficulty delivering such predicted levels of performance. In this project, the investigators will identify technological reasons for this discrepancy, and devise measures to address them. A key feature is an IC fabric that supports programmable interconnectivity between analog units. The impact of noise and device variab

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2504588
- **Awardee organization:** Yale University (CT)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** FL6GV84CKN57
- **PI:** Rajit Manohar
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** Neuromorphic Computing, MEDIUM PROJECT
- **Estimated total:** $474,980
- **Funds obligated:** $328,193
- **Transaction type:** Continuing Grant
- **Period:** 06/15/2025 → 05/31/2029

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2504588

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2504588, Collaborative Research: FET: Medium: Field Programmable Oscillator Ising Machines. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2504588. Licensed CC0.

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