A neural network is made up of many pieces that work together to perform the various tasks that are expected of the network. Various neural network tools are needed to set up and interpret the information that will be used. When these are correctly used and set up, a neural network functions in a way similar to a human brain, with information being picked up by artificial neurons which relay the information to the central processing unit (CPU) for interpretation and use.
Artificial neurons are one of the most important neural network tools. They interpret data and perform calculations at a very rapid speed, and then output their interpretations to the CPU. Although the CPU is capable of performing calculations as well, the reason that neurons are used is so that many neurons can simultaneously perform the simpler calculations so that the CPU isn’t overburdened with information. The CPU is then free to work with the data of several neurons simultaneously.
Another of the important neural network tools is the computational model. This is the framework for a neural network. The computational model determines the way that the neurons interact with the information they deal with and how they communicate this to the central processing unit.
To help the network adapt to changes in its environment, the computational model may be altered while in use. Advanced neural networks may perform this alteration on their own. These kinds of neural networks are called adaptive systems. They do not require additional neural network tools, but are likely to involve more neurons and a more advanced CPU than a non-adaptive neural network. The software that these networks use may be more advanced as well.
Neural networks require software in order to perform their functions and interact with human users. These neural network tools come in different varieties depending on the network that the user is trying to set up and interact with. The software in a network instructs the components about which information they are supposed to interpret and how.
With these main neural network tools in place, users are able to create and manipulate a network to meet their needs. Neural networks are used in a number of applications. Though there are a few exceptions, most neural networks rely on the same neural network tools to perform their functions and relay information from one part of the system to another.