CONICAL

Levels of Modeling


Neural modeling takes place on a variety of levels, depending on the purpose and resources available. More abstract models are easier to analyze and understand, and can be implemented most efficiently on conventional computers. More detailed models mirror biological reality more faithfully, but this complexity reduces our ability to rigorously analyze the system.

Four common levels of modeling, from abstract to detailed, are:

CONICAL's focus is on the most detailed type of model, the compartmental model. However, the Spiker class does allow functionality similar to an integrate-and-fire model. Additional support for kernel-based modeling may be added in the future if there is demand for it. Abstract neural networks are firmly outside the realm of CONICAL's intended purpose, but there is a wide selection of simulators available for them already.

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Last Updated: 7/10/96 Joe Strout.