# neural Turing machine

> neural network with external memory

**Wikidata**: [Q25325414](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q25325414)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neural_Turing_machine)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/neural-turing-machine

## Summary
A Neural Turing Machine (NTM) is a memory-augmented neural network that integrates a neural network with external memory. It functions as a computational model used in machine learning, distinguishing itself from standard architectures by decoupling processing from memory storage. It is a subclass of both artificial neural networks and memory-augmented neural networks.

## Key Facts
- **Short Name:** NTM
- **Class Type:** Subclass of **Artificial Neural Network** and **Memory-Augmented Neural Network**.
- **Core Mechanism:** Characterized as a neural network with **external memory**.
- **Primary Function:** Serves as a computational model based on connected, hierarchical functions.
- **Chinese Alias:** 神经图灵机
- **Google Knowledge Graph ID:** /g/11cn9ygxcf
- **Wikipedia Presence:** Maintains entries across 9 distinct language editions.
- **Academic Source:** Described by the source "Neural Turing Machines."

## FAQs
### Q: What defines a Neural Turing Machine?
A: A Neural Turing Machine is defined by its architecture, which combines a standard neural network with an external memory resource. This structure places it within the specific class of memory-augmented neural networks.

### Q: How is an NTM classified within machine learning?
A: It is classified as a subclass of artificial neural networks, which are broadly defined as computational models based on connected, hierarchical functions.

### Q: Is the Neural Turing Machine related to standard artificial neural networks?
A: Yes, it is a direct subclass of the artificial neural network. It shares the foundational properties of these computational models but extends them with specific memory-augmented capabilities.

## Why It Matters
The Neural Turing Machine represents a significant architectural evolution in the field of artificial neural networks. While standard artificial neural networks rely on fixed internal states or hidden layers to process information, the NTM addresses the limitation of memory by introducing an external memory component.

This distinction is critical because it moves the model closer to the functionality of a traditional computer (which separates the processor from the memory) while retaining the learning capabilities of a neural network. By being a subclass of memory-augmented neural networks, the NTM allows for more complex algorithmic tasks that require the storage and retrieval of data over long sequences. Its existence as a distinct computational model highlights the effort to bridge the gap between rigid digital computers and flexible, learning-based neural systems.

## Notable For
- Being a primary example of a **Memory-Augmented Neural Network**.
- Integrating **external memory** directly into a neural network architecture.
- Existing as a specialized **subclass** of the broader artificial neural network hierarchy.
- Possessing a distinct Google Knowledge Graph ID (**/g/11cn9ygxcf**).
- Being recognized globally with entries in **9 different Wikipedia languages**.

## Body
### Architectural Classification
The Neural Turing Machine (NTM) is a computational model structured within the hierarchy of machine learning systems. It is explicitly classified as a **subclass of artificial neural networks**. This places it alongside other computational models that utilize connected, hierarchical functions to process data. Furthermore, it is categorized specifically as a **memory-augmented neural network**, distinguishing it from standard architectures that lack dedicated external memory components.

### Definition and Core Function
The primary definition of the NTM, as derived from academic sources and Wikidata, is a **neural network with external memory**. Unlike conventional neural networks that might store information implicitly within weights, the NTM utilizes a distinct memory bank. This architecture is designed to mimic the separation of processing and memory found in traditional computing, adapted for the learning paradigms of neural networks.

### Global and Digital Identifiers
The entity has established recognition across multiple knowledge platforms:
*   **Wikipedia:** The topic has a "sitelink_count" of 9, indicating it is documented in nine different language editions (including English, Chinese, Spanish, and others).
*   **Google Knowledge Graph:** It is tracked under the ID `/g/11cn9ygxcf`.
*   **Aliases:** It is also known by the Chinese alias **神经图灵机**.

### Academic Context
The concept is formally "described_by_source" as **Neural Turing Machines**, anchoring its definition in specific academic literature. This source establishes the framework for understanding the NTM as a fusion of neural network processing with external memory storage capabilities.