Method for designing an initialization function for programming a memory element

A storage device comprising a memory element which comprises a changeable physical quantity for storing information, the physical quantity in a drifted state. The memory element being configured for setting the physical quantity to an initial state. The physical quantity of the memory element drifts from the initial state to the drifted state. The initial state of the physical quantity is computable by means of an initialization function, which depends on a target state of the physical quantity and the target state of the physical quantity is approximately equal to the drifted state of the physical quantity. An integrated circuit may further comprise an assembly of memory elements and further comprise a neuromorphic neuron apparatus for simulating a layer of a neural network. Other aspects refer to computer implemented methods for (i) setting up a storage device comprising a memory element or (ii) designing an initialization function. Initialization function may be f(G)=a*e-b*G+c where G is a selected target stage, f(G) is the corresponding initial state of the physical quantity and a,b,c are coefficients.