1. A process for the parallel processing of signals by a neural network, said neural network comprising (a) a multiplicity of inputs for a matrix with rows and columns connected by interconnected elements and (b) active elements interacting with said matrix, said processes comprising the steps of (1) applying a signal to said multiplicity of inputs wherein switches present in said matrix are located such that each of said inputs is made between a switch in said matrix and the input of one of said active elements and such that, with the switch open, essentially no processing of information occurs, and (2) closing said switches wherein the parallel processing of said applied inputs is initiated.