analogue computer
<computer, hardware> A machine or electronic circuit designed to work on
numerical data represented by some physical quantity (e.g. rotation or
displacement) or electrical quantity (e.g. voltage or charge) which varies
continuously, in contrast to digital signals which are either 0 or 1.
For example, the turning of a wheel or changes in voltage can be used as input.
Analogue computers are said to operate in real time and are used for research in
design where many different shapes and speeds can be tried out quickly. A
computer model of a car suspension allows the designer to see the effects of
changing size, stiffness and damping.
(1995-05-01)
Nearby terms:
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Analytical Machine
