Analog Computers

English translation

← Book details Original PDF →

Transistorized Analog Computer RA 742 — Information Sheet

This is an English translation of the original German-language document (Informationsblatt) published by AEG-Telefunken under the “Datenverarbeitung” (Data Processing) product line.

Page 1 — Overview

AEG TELEFUNKEN — DATENVERARBEITUNG (Data Processing) Information Sheet

Transistorized Analog Computer RA 742

Application

The analog computer RA 742 was developed for university and institute computing centers, for industrial research and development establishments, for simulation and training, and for a wide range of scientific and technical computing tasks. Among transistorized analog computers, it represents the highest performance class. The proven reliability of its circuits, together with the high precision of its computing elements and the extensive range of accessories, distinguish it as particularly well-suited for use as a general-purpose analog computer. The device exceeds in its technical properties many typical problem requirements.

The RA 742 particularly excels in solving differential equations with up to 18 simultaneous variables, and for 2 variables (with the digital add-on), it can be used for hybrid computation.

[Photo of the RA 742 machine — a large rack-mounted analog computer console with panel controls and displays]

Page 2 — Features and Technical Description

Special Features

  • Large number of precision computing elements: integrators, summers, coefficient potentiometers.
  • Simple, clearly arranged programming: visualization of the problem in reduced patch-panel notation; direct overview of the interconnection diagram; programmable using the schematic diagram.
  • Simultaneous (integrated) comparison: comparators are provided in the RA 742 to an adequate degree. Suitable for use in DEX 102 digital add-on.
  • Flexible mode control (RESET, HOLD, OPERATE, and extended modes); controllable via DEX 102.

Further Advantages

  • Compact construction: due to the modular design approach, the computer is very compact; up to 3 modules can be accommodated in the same case dimensions as the RA 742; the Magnetband-Analogspeicher (magnetic-tape analog memory) LZG 102 and the digital add-on DEX 102 can be installed in 1 chassis cabinet.
  • Electronic Resolver ERS 801: for functions (sin, cos, arctan), integration, and coordination transforms — connected directly at the output of analog computers.
  • Noise generator RGF 104.

Computing Elements

  • Coefficient potentiometers: wire-wound, 10-turn.

    • Resistance: 5 kΩ
    • Resolution: 0.02%
    • 3 dB bandwidth at midpoint: > 300 kHz

  • Integrators: (details on page 3)

  • Summers: (details on page 3)

  • Parabolic multiplier: SPM 134

Page 3 — Technical Specifications

Machine Data

Number of elements:

  • Integrators: 4
  • Summers/Amplifiers: (values specified per configuration)
  • Multipliers: 1
  • Potentiometers: 11

Amplifier specifications:

  • Input resistance: 200 kΩ (0.05%)
  • Feedback resistance: 200 kΩ (0.05%)
  • Summers (27°C): 0.05%
  • Drift (temperature coefficient): 0.2°/°C (typ.)

Internal operational amplifier:

  • Supply voltage range: ±15 V
  • Frequency at -3 dB: >100 kHz

Power supply:

  • Mains voltage: 110/127 V or 220/240 V
  • Power consumption: 160 VA
  • Frequency: 50/60 Hz (at voltage variation ± 5%)
  • Protection class: IP 40

Page 4 — Computing Element Details

Parabolic Multiplier (SPM 134)

  • Product error X · Y: 0.1% FS
  • Null-point error X · 0 or Y · 0: 0.05% FS
  • Temperature coefficient: 0.01% FS/°C

Potentiometer

  • Wire-wound, 10-turn
  • Resistance: 5 kΩ
  • Resolution: 0.02%
  • 3 dB bandwidth at midpoint: > 300 kHz

Function Generator

  1. Variable Function Generator For setting arbitrary functions in four quadrants. Approximation by line segments with variable slope; in 20 fixed breakpoints. A 21st potentiometer sets the overall function between −10 V and −10 V.

    • Setting error: ≤ 0.05% FS
    • Long-term drift over 8 h: ≤ 0.05% FS
    • Temperature drift of the setting: ≤ 0.01% FS/°C
    • Output noise: 5 mV typ. (slope 1:1.7); 10 mV typ. (slope 1:5)

  2. Adjustable Universal Function For setting arbitrary functions in four quadrants. Approximation by lines with variable slope and adjustable breakpoints by combining 4 segment elements. 8 types each for input voltage ranges and slope polarities.

  3. Fixed Functions — Approximation errors and inputs:

    • sin(π/2 · X), cos(π/2 · X): ≤ 0.1% FS
    • sin π X, cos π X: ≤ 0.3% FS
    • (2/π) arcsin X: ≤ 0.1% FS
    • +(1/4) lg(−100 X): ≤ 0.5% FS

    Inputs: −10 V … +10 V (trig); +0.1 bis −10 V / −0.1 bis −10 V (log)

Comparator Amplifier

  • Input sensitivity: 1 mV typ.
  • Output signal: binary 0 = 0 V; binary 1 = 10 V
  • Switching time: 10 μs typ.

Comparator Switch

  • Control: binary 0 or 1 via comparator amplifiers or digital add-on elements; optional mechanical or electronic switches.
  • Switching times: 700 ± 100 μs (mechanical); 2 μs (electronic)

Page 5 — Memory, Dimensions, Accessories

Memory Network

  • Storage unit with 2 programmable memory networks
  • Static error: ≤ 0.02% FS
  • Phase error at 1 Hz: ≤ 0.2°
  • Hold error: ≤ 0.2 mV/s

Dimensions and Weight

  • Height: 670 mm
  • Width: 550 mm
  • Depth: 500 mm
  • Weight: 105 kg

Programming Panel Dimensions

  • Height: 218 mm
  • Width: 380 mm

Accessories / Add-on Units

The following accessories are available for direct connection:

  • Digital Add-on DEX 102
  • Non-linear Networks Module NNT 807
  • Electronic Coordinate Converter ERS 801
  • Noise Generator RGF 104
  • Dual-beam Oscilloscope OMS 811
  • Magnetic Tape Analog Memory LZG 102

The modules NNT 807, ERS 801, and OMS 811 can be installed in separate housings the same size as the RA 742, or combined into a single cabinet housing up to 3 modules. The Magnetband-Analogspeicher LZG 102, the digital add-on DEX 102, and the dual-beam oscilloscope OMS 811 are specially constructed per order.

Each of these accessories is described in separate information sheets.

Standard Equipment (included):

  • 1 set programming accessories: 8 toggle switches (4-pin), 40 short-circuit plugs (2-pin)
  • 1 set computing cords: 20 × 0.125 m, 20 × 0.25 m, 20 × 0.50 m, 8 × 1.00 m, 12 × 1.50 m (sorted by color: black, red, blue, green)
  • 2 programming elements 200 kΩ
  • 2 programming elements 20 kΩ
  • 4 programming elements (unspecified)
  • 4 programming elements (diodes)
  • 1 cable reel
  • 1 Flexo-Schuko power cable

[Translation covers all 5 pages of the original document.]