Associative Memory Study: Architectures and Technology

This report summarizes current work in technologies and architectures for associative or content addressable memory. Associative memory is better suited for several specific tasks such as database applications than conventional memory. However, its higher cost and complexity has, until now, limited its use to small, special purpose applications such as translation look-aside buffer used in a computer virtual memory system or network router tables. The conclusions indicate the using new optical technology in associative processors is a promising approach.