P -dits: Probabilistic d -dimensional bits for extended-variable probabilistic computing

Probabilistic Ising machines (PIMs) show promise in solving optimization problems. However, the binary nature of probabilistic bits (p-bits) does not permit the natural mapping of more than two state variables, which are common in real-world applications. To sidestep the potential increase in time to solution for these problems, the authors investigate the concept of a d-dimensional probabilistic bit (p-dit). Three different implementations of p-dit-based computers show large improvements over traditional PIMs, showcasing their adaptability.