FAQ

Why an integer neuron model by default? Integer arithmetic makes spikes identical across Python, JAX, the browser and C, which makes results reproducible and lets the apps simulate live with the same kernel. More detailed models (two_compartment, hh) run on the same networks when needed.

Can I model a whole cortical area with Hodgkin–Huxley neurons? Ask the estimator first: python -m neurogenesis estimate --neurons 3e8 --synapses-per-neuron 5000 --model hh. On one machine the answer is no (tens of terabytes of synapse memory); the toolbox refuses before trying.

Is the toolbox specific to one species or brain area? No. Region names, cell types, stimuli and tasks belong to your project. Species-specific knowledge (e.g. transmitter effects) is planned as data profiles outside the core.

Do evolved circuits explain biology? They show what a mechanism can do in the simulation. Statements should be phrased as “in this simulation”; biological claims need biological evidence.

How long can delays be? Up to 255 ticks (the storage bound of the delay column). The kernels keep a multi-word spike history, (max_delay + 32) // 32 words per neuron (8 words at 255), and give identical spikes in Python, JAX, the browser and nglif. Developmental stages write the distance-derived delay unchanged unless you set a max_delay Param, in which case clipped synapses are counted in a warning.

How large can networks be? The CSR conversion and the browser kernel currently use 16-bit column indices (at most 65,535 neurons); NGB1 and nglif already use 32-bit indices. Lifting the limit everywhere is roadmap task K3.

My results changed after updating the toolbox. Freeze network fingerprints in your project (Using the toolbox as a Python dependency) and pin the toolbox commit.

PLACEHOLDER

Questions collected from users once the repository is public.