VP of AI and ML at Synopsys, Thomas Andersen joins us to discuss designing AI chips. Tuning in, you’ll hear all about our guest’s illustrious career, how he became interested in technology, tech in East Germany, what it was like growing up there, and so much more! We delve into his company, Synopsys, and the chips they build before discussing his role in building algorithms. 

Key Points From This Episode:

• A warm welcome to today’s guest, Thomas Andersen. 
• How he got into the tech world and his experience growing up in East Germany. 
• The cost of Compute AI coming down at the same time the demand is going up. 
• Thomas tells us about Synopsys and what goes into building their chips. 
• Other traditional software companies that are now designing their own AI chips. 
• What Thomas’ role looks like in machine learning and building AI algorithms. 
• How the constantly changing rules of AI chip design continue to create new obstacles. 
• Thomas tells us how they use reinforcement learning in their processes.
• The different applications for generative AI and why it needs good input data.  
• Thomas’ advice for anyone wanting to get into the world of AI. 

Quotes:

“It’s not really the technology that makes life great, it’s how you use it, and what you make of it.” — Thomas Andersen [0:07:31]

“There is, of course, a lot of opportunities to use AI in chip design.” — Thomas Andersen [0:25:39]

“Be bold, try as many new things [as you can, and] make sure you use the right approach for the right tasks.” — Thomas Andersen [0:40:09]

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Thomas Andersen on LinkedIn

Synopsys

How AI Happens

Sama