Analog Devices and Computers - University of Florida模拟设备和电脑-佛罗里达大学.ppt

Analog Devices and Computers Thomas J. Bergin ? Computing History Museum American University Analog Analogue , n [Gk) analogos] , a thing or part that is analogous; that which corresponds with something else in construction, function, qualities, etc. Analogy n. [Gk) analogia , proportion, equality of ratios] 1. a similarity or likeness between things in some circumstances or effects, when the things are otherwise entirely different; 2. In mathematics, an equation between ratios; as, Napier’s ratios; 3. An explaining of something by comparing it point by point with something else. Websters New Twentieth Century Dictionary Unabridged, 2nd Edition Analog Devices, for example... slide rule: an instrument consisting of a ruler with a central sliding piece, both being marked with logarithmic scales; used in making rapid mathematical calculations. (Websters, op. cit.) clock, n., [ME clock], an instrument for the measurement of time by the motion of its parts, indicating hours, minutes, and often seconds, by hands which move upon a dial plate. It usually consists of a frame containing a train of toothed wheels operated by springs and weights and regulated by a pendulum or balance wheel. (ibid.) 400 B.C. to ....A.D.? Astrolabe: instrument to perform over 1,000 different astronomical observations and calculations Ptolemy: Hipparchus of Bithynia, ca.180-125B.C. Position of the sun and principal stars for any hour of a given day of the year find the latitude of the observer (day or night) calculate the number of hours of daylight calculate the number of hours of twilight at both sunset and sunrise find the time (day and night) Antikythera device: Incorporated sophisticated gears, including differential gears found in the Aegean Sea by sponge divers in 1900 vessel was on its way from Rhodes to Rome 30 different gears Tide Predictors Lord Kelvin (William Thompson, 1824-1907) Y = A cos(u) + B cos(v) + C cos(w)+... up to 12 cosine terms U.S. Coastal and Geodetic Survey de