This paper presents a new algorithm for tuning the weights and bias currents of a Hopfield neural network. Generally Hopfield networks are suitable for solving combinatorial optimization problems, their main advantages being their low computational complexity and acceptable memory resource requirements. The main limit in practical use is choice of suitable coefficients to link the weight and bias current values to the conditions surrounding the problem to be solved. The algorithm presented in the paper, which is mainly based on fuzzy logic, determines these coefficients automatically thus limiting the human intervention required. The authors also define fuzzy rules that reproduce the manual experience they have acquired in determining the coefficients of the Hopfield network in a number of applications. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.