title: VLSI processors for signal detection in SETI.
abstract: The objective of the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) is to locate an artificially created signal coming from a distant star.  This is done in two steps:  (1) spectral analysis of an incoming radio frequency band, and (2) pattern detection for narrow-band signals.  Both steps are computationally expensive and require the development of specially designed computer architectures.  To reduce the size and cost of the SETI signal detection machine, two custom VLSI chips are under development.  The first chip, the SETI DSP Engine, is used in the spectrum analyzer and is specially designed to compute Discrete Fourier Transforms (DFTs).  It is a high-speed arithmetic processor that has two adders, one multiplier-accumulator, and three four-port memories.  The second chip is a new type of Content-Addressable Memory.  It is the heart of an associative processor that is used for pattern detection.  Both chips incorporate many innovative circuits and architectural features.
authors.affiliation: Department of Electrical Engineering, Stanford University, CA 94305-4055.
authors.forename: J F
authors.initials: JF
authors.lastname: Duluk
authors.forename: I R
authors.initials: IR
authors.lastname: Linscott
authors.forename: A M
authors.initials: AM
authors.lastname: Peterson
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Burr
authors.forename: B
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Ekroot
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Twicken
mesh_terms: D001256:Astronomy / Q000295:instrumentation; D003142:Communication; D003199:Computer Systems / Q000639:trends; D004867:Equipment Design; D018559:Exobiology / Q000295:instrumentation*; D005118:Extraterrestrial Environment; D011846:Radio Waves; D013057:Spectrum Analysis / Q000295:instrumentation*