Analog Computers

Manual / Guide

EAI MiniAC Reference Handbook

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The EAI MiniAC Reference Handbook is a 224-page operator reference for the Electronic Associates, Inc. MiniAC hybrid analog computer. The handbook covers the machine's computing components — including integrators, summers, track-store units, multipliers/dividers, function generators, potentiometers, comparators, and a digital logic section with AND-gates, J-K flip-flops, counter/timer, and monoflop — along with patchboard programming procedures and operating modes (IC, OP, HD, PP, SP, SL). It serves as the primary programming and operation reference for laboratory or classroom use of the MiniAC.

Manufacturer
EAI
System
MiniAC
Type
Manual / Guide
Language
English
Learning track
machine reference
Pages
224
  • MiniAC
  • EAI
  • analog computer operation
  • patchboard programming
  • computing components
  • hybrid analog-digital computing

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EAI MiniAC Reference Handbook

MiINIAC ANALOG/HYBRID COMPUTING SYSTEM REFERENCE HANDBOOK CONTENTS PART | — FAMILIARIZATION AND GENERAL OPERATION (FOR ALL USERS) CHAPTER 1 — INTRODUCTION 1.1 THEEAIMiniAC 2. 1. . 1.2 PURPOSE OF MANUAL . ww ww we ee 1.3 STRUCTURE OF MANUAL ... 1 1 1 we 1.4 HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL .. 1 6 we ee es CHAPTER 2 — MACHINE ORGANIZATION 2.1 INTRODUCTION 2.2 THE ANALOG COMPONENTS 2.4 . THE ANALOG/LOGIC INTERFACE COMPONENTS 2.5 THE CONTROL AND MONITORING SYSTEMS 2.6 THE PATCH PANEL 2.6.1 Introduction 2.6.2. Patch Panel Layout 2.7 DVM AND COEFFICIENT POT PANEL 2.8 VFG PANEL 2.9 THE ANALOG CONTROL PANEL 2.10 THE LOGIC CONTROL PANEL 2.11. SETUP SWITCH/OVERLOAD INDICATOR PANEL 2.11.1 Introduction 2.11.2 The Identification Strip... ........, 2.11.3 The Setup Switches 2.11.4 Amplifier Balance Controls 2.11.5 The Overload Indicators 2.12 EXTERNAL CONNECTIONS a 2.3 THE LOGIC COMPONENTS .. 2. 1 1 1 ww ee TT CONTENTS (CONT) Page CHAPTER 3 — GENERAL SYSTEM OPERATIONS ....: 2... 2 ee ee ee es 3-1 3.1 INTRODUCTION . 21 2 3-1 3.2 APPLYING POWER . 1 www we ee 3-1 3.3 PATCH PANEL INSTALLATION AND REMOVAL ........--- ++ +s 3-1 3.4 RUNNING ATYPICAL PROBLEM .. ww ww ee es 3-2 3.4.1. Introduction 2. 2 2. we 3-2 3.4.2 Preliminary Procedure... 1... we ee ee 3-2 3.4.3 Analog Initializing Procedures . . 2 1. 1. we ee 3-2 3.4.4 Logic Initializing Procedures. 2 ww ww ee 3-3 3.4.5 Testingthe Problem . . 2... 1 1. we ee 3-3 3.4.6 Dynamic Solution . . 2... 2. ee ee ee 3-3 3.5 RECORDING PROCEDURES ..... ee 3-4 3.5.1 Static Readout 2... ee 3-4 3.5.2 Dynamic Recording and Monitoring . 2... 2... 1 ek ee ee 3-4 3.6 AMPLIFIER BALANCING ........-..0.-. 000. ee eee ee ee 3-4 3.7 USING THE PROGRAM SHEET... 2... 1 1 35 PART Ii — USERS GUIDE (FOR THE INFREQUENT USER OR TRAINEE) CHAPTER 4— INTRODUCTION TO USERS GUIDE .............0.68..002. 0484 4-1 4.1 USERSGUIDE .. 2.2... 4-1 4.2 GLOSSARY OF TERMS AND COMPUTING ELEMENTS .............. 4-1 CHAPTER 5 — PATCHING AND SETTING UP MATHEMATICAL FUNCTIONS .........., 5-1 5.1 INTRODUCTION . 2... ee 5-1 5.2 INVERSION 2... 5-1 5.3 SUMMATION .. 2. 2 5-1 5.4 INTEGRATION ... 2... 5-5 5.5 MULTIPLICATION AND DIVISION .. 2... ee, 5-5 5.5.1 Introduction 2... 2 2. 5-5 5.5.2 Product of Variableand Constant ... 2... .........,..2022.., 5-6 5.5.3 Productof Two Variables 2 2... 5-6 5.5.4 Division 2. 2... 5-7 CONTENTS (CONT) Page CHAPTER 5 — PATCHING AND SETTING UP MATHEMATICAL FUNCTIONS (Cont). ...... 5.6 SQUARING AND SQUARE ROOT EXTRACTION .... 2... 64 2 eee eee 5-7 5.7 LOGARITHMS/EXPONENTIAL FUNCTIONS (FG Devices 16,26) .........-. 5-8 5.7.1 Natural Logarithm 2... 6 ee es 5-8 5.7.2 Exponential (e~'°%) 2 2. 5-9 5.8 CONSTRAINTS(LIMITS) 2... 2 5-10 5.9 SWITCHING FUNCTIONS ............ ee 5-11 5.9.1 Manual Switching .. . 2... ee ee ee . 5-11 5.9.2 Automatic Switching . . 1. 1. 2 we ee ee ee 5-11 5.10 CONSTANT VALUES ......- 2... ee ee ee 5-14 CHAPTER 6 — SETTING AND READING COEFFICIENT VALUES ............ wee. 61 6.1 INTRODUCTION ...... we ee tt ee 6-1 6.2 THE DIGITAL VOLTMETER AND POT CONTROLS ..... 2... 2. ee eee 6-1 6.3 PROCEDURE FOR SETTING APOT .... 1... ee ee es 6-1 6.4 PROCEDURE FOR READING POT VALUES ........ 2.2. eee ee eee 6-2 CHAPTER 7 — ARBITRARY FUNCTIONS FROM EMPERICALDATA ...........4.4.. 7-1 7.1 INFRODUCTION . 2. 1 ww 7-1 7.2 VFG THEORY ... 1. 7-1 7.3. THE VFG (Devices 36and37). 0... ee 7-1 7.4 SET-UPPROCEDURE ........ 2... 2.55.6. 50 4 2 eee rr 7-3 7.4.1 11PT(10SEGMENT) MODE ...... 2... 2 ee ee 7-3 7.4.2 20PT(19SEGMENT) MODE .... 2... ee ee 7-4 7.5 VFG PATCHING . 2.1. Le 7-5 CHAPTER 8 — CHECKING THE ANALOG PROGRAM... .. . Ln ee ee 8-1 8.1 INTRODUCTION ...........2084 Ce 8-1 8.2 STATIC CHECK THEORY ...... Lone ee ee Co 8-1 8.3 PROGRAM SHEET ...............+8. Coe 8-1 8.4 STATIC CHECK PROCEDURE .... 2... ee 8-1 CONTENTS (CONT) Page CHAPTER 9 — OBTAINING RESULTS USING AN X-YPLOTTER ........-.-+-2+ +25 9-1 9.1 INTRODUCTION 2... we - + 9-1 9.2 MiniAC TOEAI PLOTTER ..... 2... 2. ee 9-1 9.2.1 Connector Locations ... 2... ee 2. es OF 9.2.2 XM Versus Y Plotting . 2... 1... 2 ee ee ee ee ee OF 9.2.3 YVersusT Plotting . 2... 2... . . 92 9.3 MiniAC TO NON-EAI PLOTTER ... 1... ee «93 9.4 CALIBRATION . 2. 1. 2 ee 9-3 CHAPTER 10 — OBTAINING RESULTS USING AN OSCILLOSCOPE AND HIGH-SPEED REPETITIVE OPERATION... ... 2... 2. 2 ee ee ee es -. . . . 10-1 10.1 INTRODUCTION .. 1. 2... 10-1 10.2.) REP-OP 2... 1... 10-1 10.3. THETIMER .... 2... 2.2... 2 10-1 10.4 MiniACTOEAISCOPE ....... 2. ee es 10-2 10.5 MiniACTONON-EAISCOPE .........-202. 2.000 eee ee 10-2 CHAPTER 11 — LOGIC AND ITERATIVE OPERATION ...........-..0 0082 2 eae 11-1 11.1. INTRODUCTION . 2... . ee . 17-1 11.2. LOGIC CONTROL OF ANALOG MODES ............0. 0.0824 2G -11-1 11.2.1 Overload Detection . 2... we .11-1 11.2.2 Three-Mode Repetitive Operation ........... 0.002 eee .11-1 11.2.3 Master Mode Control by Logic Signals . ...........20242. .11-2 11.2.4 Local Mode Control by Logic Signals . . 2... 2... wee ew 211-3 11.2.5 Mode Control Priorities 2... 2... ee . 11-4 11.3 LOGICDEVICES ............0... 2.000020 0 0G woes 11-4 11.3.1 AND,OR,NOTGates .... 2... 2.2.2.0... 2.0004 soe eee 17-4 11.3.2 Flip-Flops 2... ee 11-7 11.3.3 Shift Register... 1... ee 11-9 11.3.4 Binary Counting . 2... 11-11 11.3.5 Logic Timing .. 2... ee 11-12 11.3.6 Switching Logic Levels . 2. 2... 2... el, 11-13 11.4 ANALOGMEMORY ...........0.0.. 0.0.00 000002000, 11-14 11.4.1 TheT-SUnit 2... 2... ee, 11-14 11.4.2 Parameter Sweep Program. 2... 11-15 CONTENTS (CONT) Page 11.4. ANALOG MEMORY (Cont) - 11.4.3 Parameter Implementation. 2. 2. 2 2 6 ek 11-17 11.4.4 Boundary Value Problem ....... ee 11-21 CHAPTER 12 — EXAMPLE OF AUTOMATIC ITERATIVE OPERATION (A TWO-POINT BOUNDARY VALUE PROBLEM)... . 2 2 1) eee ee 12-1 12.1 THEPROBLEMSTATEMENT ......... 0.2.00 0 2 eee Loe ee 12-1 12.1.1 Introduction 2... . . 212-1 12.1.2 Equations . 2... ee ee 12-1 12.1.3 Values. 2 1 . .12-2 12.2 PROCEDURE... . 2... 1 12-2 12.2.1 Preparing the Simulation 2... 6 6 1 we ee ee 12-2 12.2.2 Scaling 2 2. we 12-5 : 12.3. CHECKING THE PATCHED PROGRAM ....... 2... 2. eee eee ee 12-6 12.3.1 Static Test 2 2 2. ee 12-6 12.3.2 Logic Test 2. 2. 1 1 we 12-6 12.3.3 Dynamic Check . 2. 2 2. ee 42-7 12.4 RUNNING THE PROGRAM ...... 1. ee 12-7 PART IIl - REFERENCE HANDBOOK (FOR THE EXPERIENCED USER) CHAPTER 13 — INTRODUCTION TO REFERENCE HANDBOOK ..........2...... 13-1 CHAPTER 14 — ANALOG MODE AND TIME SCALE CONTROL ................ 14-1 14.1 INTRODUCTION . 2... 14-1 14.22 THEANALOG MODES ...... 2... ee 14-1 14.2.1 SetPot (SP) 2... 14-1 14.2.2 Initial Condition (IC) 2 ww 14-1 14.2.3 Hold(H) 2... 14-1 14.2.4 Operate(OP). 2 14-1 14.2.5 Override Hold (ORH) .. 2... 2... 14-2 . 14.3, THETIMESCALES .... 2... , 2... .14-2 14.4 PUSHBUTTON MODE AND TIMESCALE CONTROL ............... 14-2 CONTENTS (CONT) Page CHAPTER 14 — ANALOG MODE AND TIME SCALE CONTROL (Cont) 14.5 PATCH PANEL MASTERMODE CONTROL .............-+ ++ 0 + 14-3 14.5.1 General Operation . 2... 2. 14-3 14.5.2 The Input Control Terminations . 2...) ee es . 14-3 14.5.3 The Output Terminations . 2... 14-4 14.5.4 Selecting Patch Panel Mode Control . . 1... . . 144 14.5.5 Repetitive Operation ........202.2020 2. 2. ee hee ee . 14-4 14.5.6 Iterative Operation . 2... ee 14-6 14.5.7 Override Hold and Overload Store Operations .......2.2.....-. . 14-6 14.6 LOCAL PATCHPANELCONTROL ................. 0.00084 14-9 14.6.1 Introduction 2. 2... ee ee 14-9 14.6.2 Locat Control of Integrators 2... 2. le 14-9 14.6.3 Local Control of T-S Amplifiers . 2... ..0..2.02022.2. 2.02854. . 14-10 14.7, COMPUTER SLAVING AND ANALOG TRUNKS ................ 14-11 CHAPTER 15 — LOGIC CLOCK AND LOGIC MODE CONTROL ..............0~2... 15-1 15.4 INTRODUCTION . 2... 2. 15-1 15.2 THELOGICMODES ...............0.2.00.2. 0002.00, . . 15-1 15.2.1 Run... 2 15-1 15.2.2 Stop/Step (STP) 2... 2. ee tt ee 15-1 15.2.3 Clear(CLR) 2... ee 15-1 15.3. LOGICMODECONTROL ...........0...0.0 00000000084 . 15-1 15.4 THE CLOCK DOWNCOUNTER (PULSES) ..................0..,4 15-2 CHAPTER 16—THESIGNALSELECTOR ...............2..0..2..0-. 0048, 16-1 16.1 INTRODUCTION ..........0.0..0...00. re 15 | 16.2 READOUT OF ADDRESSABLE COMPONENTS ................ . 16-1 16.3 THEDVMDISPLAY...........0.0.0. 000.000.000.000 0020, 16-2 16.4 THESELECTORTERMINATIONS .............0....2., . ee. . 16-2 16.4.1 Selector Tand2 . 2... td, rs . .16-2 16.4.2 Selector — MTR IN CHAPTER 17 — THE OVERLOAD AND STATUS INDICATORS | 17.1 17.2 17.3 17.4 CONTENTS (CONT) INTRODUCTION THE OVERLOAD INDICATOR SYSTEM 17.2.1 Overload Criteria 17.2.2: The Overload Indicators 17.2.3 Logic Level and Control ANALOG STATUS INDICATORS 17.3.1 Introduction . . 2... Lo ee 17.3.2 Comparator Indicators 17.3.3 Time Scale fndicator . . . . 17.3.4 Analog Mode tndicators LOGIC STATUS INDICATORS CHAPTER 18 — COEFFICIENT POTENTIOMETER . . 18.1 18.2 18.3 CHAPTER 19 — FIVE-INPUT SUMMER/HIGH GAIN AMPLIFIER 19.1 19.2 19.3 19.4 LOCATION AND IDENTIFICATION THE POTENTIOMETER POTENTIOMETER SET-UP AND MONITORING LOCATION AND IDENTIFICATION THE AMPLIFIER USED AS A SUMMER USED AS A HIGH-GAIN AMPLIFIER CHAPTER 20 — SUMMER/TRACK-STORE AMPLIFIER 20.1 20.2 20.3 20.4 LOCATION AND IDENTIFICATION THE T-S AMPLIFIER 20.2.1 Introduction 20.2.2 Mode Control USED ASASUMMER ........ USED AS A TRACK-STORE UNIT Page .17-1 .17-1 .17-1 .17-1 .17-1 17-1 .17-1 .17-1 .17-2 .17-2 .17-2 .17-2 . 18-1 .18-1 . 18-1 . 18-1 .19-1 .19-1 .19-1 .19-1 19-1 . 20-1 .20-1 .20-1 .20-1 . 20-1 . 20-3 .20-3 CONTENTS (CONT) CHAPTER 21 —SUMMER/INTEGRATOR ..... 21.1 LOCATION AND IDENTIFICATION 21.2 THE SUMMER/INTEGRATOR 21.3 USEDASASUMMER .......,.... 21.4 USED AS AN INTEGRATOR 21.5 USED AS A TRACK-STORE AMPLIFIER 21.6 USING THE 10 SW CONTROL INPUTS CHAPTER 22—LIMITERS ......... 22.1 LOCATION AND IDENTIFICATION ..... 22.2 THE FEEDBACK LIMITER ..... 22.3. USING THE LIMITER ........, 22.3.1 Patching 22.3.2 Limiter Set-Up Procedure CHAPTER 23 — MULTIPLY/DIVIDE UNIT 23.1 LOCATION AND IDENTIFICATION 23.2. THE MULTIPLIER 23.2.1 Introduction 23.2.2 Multiplication, Squaring and Square Root 23.2.3 Division 23.2.4 Summation 23.3. USING THE MULTIPLIER CHAPTER 24 — LOG/EXPONENTIAL GENERATORS 24.1 LOCATION AND IDENTIFICATION 24.2 THE FUNCTION GENERATOR 24.2.1 Introduction 24.2.2 Logarithms . 24.2.3 Exponential Functions (Antitogarithms) 24.2.4 Summation 24.3. USING THE FUNCTION GENERATOR viii Page .21-3 .21-3 .21-4 .22-1 .22-1 .22-1 .22-1 .22-1 -22-1 23-1 .23-1 .23-1 .23-1 -23-1 .23-1 23-1 . 23-2 24-1 24-1 24-4 24-1 24-1 24-2 24-2 24-3 CHAPTER 25 — VARIABLE FUNCTION GENERATOR 25.1 25.2 25.3 25.4 25.5 25.6 25.7 CONTENTS (CONT) LOCATION AND IDENTIFICATION THE VFG 25.2.1 General Operation . . 25.2.2 Modes of Operation 25.2.3 The VFG Controls HOW TO SET UP THE VFG 25.3.1 Tabulating Values of X and Fey 25.3.2 Determining Breakpoint Location 25.3.3 VFG Setup Theory SETTING AN 11-POINT FUNCTION . . 25.4.1 General 25.4.2 Preliminary Setup Procedures 25.4.3 Setting X and Y . . 25.4.4 Insufficient Slope 25.4.5 Trimming Adjustments . SETTING A 20-POINT FUNCTION PLOTTING THE FUNCTION ....., PATCHING THE VFG INTO A PROBLEM CHAPTER 26—ANDGATES. . 26.1 26.2 26.3 CHAPTER 27 — GENERAL PURPOSE AND PUSHBUTTON FLIP-FLOPS 27.1 27.2 27.3 LOCATION AND IDENTIFICATION THE AND GATE USING THE AND GATE LOCATION AND IDENTIFICATION THE PUSHBUTTON FLIP-FLOP THE GENERAL PURPOSE FLIP-FLOP . 27.3.1 General Operation . 27.3.2 The Pushbutton Control 27.3.3 The Patch Panel Terminations Page 25-1 .25-1 .25-1 .25-1 . 25-2 . 25-3 .25-4 . 25-4 .25-4 . 25-6 .25-7 ,25-7 .25-7 . 25-8 .25-9 .25-9 .25-9 . 25-12 . 26-13 .26-1 . 26-1 . 26-1 . 26-1 .27-1 .27-1 .27-1 .27-1 .27-1 .27-1 .27-3 CHAPTER 27 — GENERAL PURPOSE AND PUSHBUTTON FLIP-FLOPS (Cont) 27.4 CONTENTS (CONT) BASIC CIRCUITS USING THE GPFF 27.4.1 GeneralUse 2... 2... 27.4.2 Used to Generate a One Clock Delay 27.4.3 Used as a Differentiator 27.4.4 Using the Latching Function 27.4.5 Used as a Flip-Flop Register CHAPTER 28 — ANALOG SWITCHES AND COMPARATORS 28.1 28.2 28.3 28.4 LOCATION AND IDENTIFICATION THE MANUAL SWITCH THE D/A SWITCH 28.3.1 General Operation . 28.3.2 Using the D/A Switch THE A/D COMPARATOR 28.4.1 General Operation . . 28.4.2 Basic Comparator Patching CHAPTER 29— TIMING DEVICES ..... 29.1 29.2 29.3 29.4 LOCATION AND IDENTIFICATION THE INTERVAL TIMER 29.2.1 Overall Operation 29.2.2. The Manual Controls 29.2.3 The TIMER Patch Panel Terminations 29.2.4 Using the Timer . THE COUNTER/TIMER 29.3.1 General Operation . . 29.3.2 The Manual Controls 29.3.3 The Patch Panel Terminations. - 29.3.4 General Use 29.3.5 Used as an Event Counter 29.3.6 Used as an Event Monitor 29.3.7 Used as a One-Shot 29.3.8 Used as a Logic Timer THE MONOSTABLE MULTIVIBRATOR Page .27-3 .27-3 .27-3 .27-3 .27-3 .27-6 . 28-1 . 28-1 . 28-1 .28-1 . 28-1 . 28-1 . 28-2 - 28-2 . 28-2 .29-1 .29-1 .29-1 .29-1 . 29-2 . 29-2 . 29-3 .29-7 .29-7 .29-7 . 29-7 . 29-9 . 29-9 .29-9 . 29-10 . 29-12 . 29-12 Figure Number 17 217 2.2 2.3 24 25 2.6 2.7 37 5.7 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.6 5.6 5.7 5.8 5.9 5.10 5.17 6.1 7.4 7.2 7.3 7.4 8.1 8.2 8.3 8.4 9.7 9.2 9.3 ILLUSTRATIONS Title Typical MiniAC Computing System Typical MiniAC The Patch Panel General Patching Areas DVM and Coefficient Pot Panel . Analog Control Panel Logic Contro/ Panel . Setup Switch/Overload Indicator Panel (Open} Program Sheet Inversion: Patching and Setup Summation: Patching and Setup Integration (With Initial Condition): Patching and Setup Multiplication of Variable and Constant: Patching and Setup Multiplication of Two Variables: Patching and Setup Division: Patching and Setup . Square Root: Patching and Setup Natural Logarithm Exponential Function Constraints: Patching and Setup Programmed Switches: Patching and Setup . DVM and Coefficient Pot Controls Sample Arbitrary Function . . The VFG Controls Program for Plotting VFG Output . VFG Patching The Programming Process and Passible Errors Sample Program Sheet . Sample Problem Selector: Patching Area and Controls Typical Patching for X Versus Y Plot Typical Patching for Y Versus T Plot Sample Plotter Calibration Page 1-1 . 22 . 24 . 2-6 .2-10 2-17 .2-14 .2-16 . 37 . 5-2 . 5-4 . 55 . 56 . 5-6 . 57 . 5-7 . 58 . 5-9 . .5-10 .§-13 7-1 _ 7-2 7-4 . 76 . e7 . 8-2 . b3 . 83 . 91 9-2 9-4 xi xil Figure Number 11.1 11.2 11.3 11.4 11.5 11.6 11.7 11.8 14.1 14.2 14.3 14,4 14.5 14.6 15.1 16.1 16.2 17.1 18.1 19.1 19.2 19.3 20.1 20.2 20.3 21.1 21.2 21.3 21.4 21.5 ILLUSTRATIONS (CONT) Title Shift Register Operation Logic Counter The Track-Store Unit Track-Store Behavior Parameter Sweep: Basic Program and Waveforms Parameter Sweep: Patching Parameter Implementation with an Integrator Parameter [mplementation with a Counter Analog Mode and Time Scale: Controls and Patching Areas Typical Repetitive Operation: Patching and Timing Typical Three-Mode Iterative Operation: Patching and Timing . Basic ORH and OLS Patching . Integrator Mode and Time Scale: Local Control Patching Track-Store: Local Control Patching Logic Clock and Logic Mode: Patching Areas and Controls Readout Controls and Patching Areas Signal Selector System: Simplified Diagram Overload and Status Indicator Locations Potentiometer: Circuit and Symbol Summer/High Gain: Simplified and Equivalent Circuits Summer Patching: &/HG Switch Released (Out) High-Gain Patching: X/HG Switch Set (In) Summer/Track-Store: Simplified and Equivalent Circuits Typical Track-Store Operation Basic Track-Store Patching Summer/integrator: Simplified and Equivalent Circuits Summer Patching: &/f Switch Released (Out) Integrator Patching: 2/f Switch Set (In) Patching the 2/f as a Track-Store Amplifier: 2/f Switch Set {in} Gain —10 Switching . Figure Number 22.1 22.2 22.3 23.1 23.2 24.1 24,2 24,3 24.4 24.5 25.1 25,2 25,3 25.4 25.5 25.6 25.7 25.8 26.1 26.2 26.3 26.4 27.1 27.2 27.3 27.4 27.5 28.1 28.2 28.3 28.4 ILLUSTRATIONS (CONT) Title Simplified Limiter Circuit: Used with Typical Amplifier Limiter: Patching and Equivalent Circuit . . . Limiter Setup Multiply/Divide Unit: Simplified Circuit Multiply/Divide Unit: Setup and Patching Log/Exponent Function Generator: Simplified and Equivalent Circuits The Logarithmic Curve (0.1 Inx). 2. 0. ww kk ee ee The Exponential (Antilog) Curve (e°1°*) Log/Exp Function Generator: Setup and Patching ........ GeneratingX” |... 0... VFG: Controls and Patching Area Typical Diode Segment VFG Modes and Equivalent Circuits Sample Ten Segment Function .. 2... 0... ee Effect of Changing Slope Pot Y6 on VFG Output Sample 19 Segment Function . Typical Setup for Plotting A Function VFG: Basic Patching Gates: Simplified Circuits Gate Patching Typical AND Gate Fan-Out Circuit Typical Method of Cascading Gates The Pushbutton Flip-Flop The General Purpose Flip-Flop GPFF. Basic Patching and Operating Information GPFF: Patching and Timing Using the GPFF to Form a Register Manual Switch: Patching and Operating Information D/A Switch: Patching and Operating Information The Comparator Comparator Patching xii xiv Figure Number 29.1 29.2 29.3 29.4 29.5 29.6 29.7 29.8 29.9 ILLUSTRATIONS (CONT) Title The Interval Timer Typical Use (Run and H Unpatched): Timer Starts when PP is Depressed Typical Use of RUN: Delayed Start Typical Use of H: Extended B (OP) Interval The Counter/Timer Event Counter: Patching and Timing . . One-Shot: Patching and Timing Frequency Divider: Patching and Timing The MONO Page . 29-1 29-4 29-6 . 29-6 . 29-8 . 29-10 . 29-741 . 29-13 . 29-13 Table Number 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 14.7 14,2 14.3 15.1 16.1 25.1 25.2 29.1 29,2 TABLES Title Equipment Complement: Analog Components Equipment Complement. Logic Components Equipment Complement: Analog/Logic Interface Components . Patch Panel Field Assignments for Analog Components Analog Control Panel: Controls and Indicators Logic Control Panel: Controls and Indicators Setup Switch Functions Shift Register Operation . The Time Scales . PP Master Mode Truth Table Master Mode Patch Panel Outputs Clock Downcounter: Output Frequencies and Periods Device Addressing (SELECTOR-1) . 11-Point Table of Values . Sample Order of Procedure (Ten-Segment Function) Timer Range Versus SECONDS Switch Setting Timer Patch Panel Terminations Page 24 . 23 . 2-3 27 2-11 2-14 2-17 11-9 14-2 14-3 14-4 15-3 16-1 25-7 25-8 29.2 29-2 XV/XVI a, Figure 1.1 Typical MiniAC Computing System CHAPTER 1 ee INTRODUCTION 1.1. THE EAI MiniAC™ (Figure 1.1) The EAI MiniAC is an educational analog/hybrid simulation system specifically designed for technical colleges, university engineering and science departments, and industrial training groups. Peripherals that can be used with the MiniAC include an X-Y Plotter, and a display scope. The MiniAC Console is the major system component and is a self-contained 10 volt reference analog computer. This computer contains analog and logic computational components, control logic, hybrid (analog/logic interface) components, and operating controls. A basic system can solve a non-linear second-order differential equation with an imposed limit and has provisions for an analog comparison and logical operation. A fully expanded system can solve an automatic optimization and plot two to three non-linear third order differential equations. Problems are introduced at a removable patch panel; the removable feature permits storage of programmed problems. 1.2 PURPOSE OF MANUAL This manual ts written with three specific goals in mind: 1. To familiarize a/f users with the computer organization and patching facilities, the basic functions of the various operating controls and indicators, and the general operation of the system as a whole. 2. To provide a guide for the occasional user or trainee that allows him to patch and run his particular problem without delving into circuit related details. 3. To provide the relatively experienced user those details that will permit him to utilize the MiniAC to its fullest extent. 1.3 STRUCTURE OF MANUAL To achieve the above goals, this manual is divided into three separate and distinct parts as follows: PART 1— FAMILIARIZATION AND GENERAL OPERATION PART 2— USERS GUIDE PART 3— REFERENCE HANDBOOK Each part of this manual is divided into three or more chapters. All chapters are numbered consecutively within a part, and from part-to-part. PART 1— FAMILIARIZATION AND GENERAL OPERATION Is oriented toward all users and consists of Chapters 1 through 3. Describes the overall system, locates and identifies all major components, and contains general operating information for the computer as a whole. The user should be completely familiar with PART 1 before attempting to use the MiniAC or before proceeding to either PART 2 or 3. PART 2— USERS GUIDE Consists of Chapters 4 through 12. This portion of the manual is directed at the infrequent user and/or the trainee. Part 2 is oriented toward problem solving and carries the user from patching and setting up the simplest mathematical function all the way up to patching and running a sample two point boundary value problem. 1-1 1-2 PART 38 - REFERENCE HANDBOOK The reference handbook portion of this manual (Chapters 13 through 29) is directed toward the frequent or relatively experienced user. Part 3 describes in detail the workings of the MiniAC subsystem by subsystem and component by component. Sufficient information is provided to permit the experienced programmer to fully utilize all programmable features to devise unique patching schemes on a subsystem and an individual component basis. 1.4 HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL First, read Part 1 to become thoroughly familiar with the organization of the machine, the patch panel, the basic function of the various controls and indicators, and the general operating procedures. Then, if reasonably on board with Analog Programming and analog computers in general, refer to the reference handbook portion of the manual. If this is your first introduction to an analog computer or you have seldom used one, it is advisable to proceed directly to the Users Guide. In either case (experienced or trainee), a cursory review of the Table of Contents will aid you in locating specific information required to patch and run your particular problem. CHAPTER 2 ee MACHINE ORGANIZATION 2.1. INTRODUCTION This chapter provides information to acquaint the user with the appearance, location, and basic functions of major components of the EA! MiniAC. Figure 1.1 illustrates a typical system with peripheral devices. The MiniAC is the heart of the system and contains all necessary analog programming facilities, computing elements, control features, and basic monitoring devices. All uncommitted programmable components are terminated at the patch panel and are interconnected with patch cords as required by the specific program. The peripheral devices permit the operator to interact with the master program and graphically record or document instantaneous problem solutions. The following paragraphs give a brief description of those portions of the console (Figure 2.1) that are of prime importance to the programmer/operator. 2.2 THE ANALOG COMPONENTS A fully expanded MiniAC provides an array of analog computational devices. Table 2.1 lists the analog equipment complement provided with a fully expanded MiniAC. This table also includes specific chapter references in which each component is described. With the exception of the manual switches, coefficient potentiometers, and the variable function generator, all analog components that perform mathematical functions are located directly behind the setup switch/overload indicator panel. Table 2.1. Equipment Complement: Analog Components Chapter Reference Component Quantity Users Guide Reference Handbook Linear (Including those associated with multipliers, function generators, etc.): Summer/Integrator {2//) 6 5 21 Five-Input Summer/High Gain (=) 3 19 Five-Input Summer/Track Store ({/TS) 3 20 Two-Input Summer/Inverter (MULT/DIV) 3 23 Three-Input Summer (FG) 2 24 Inverter (VFG) 2 5 25 Potentiometers 18 5,6 18 Non-Linear: Multiplier (MULT/DIV}: 3 5 23 Function Generators: Log/Exponential 2 5 24 Variable (10 Segment) 2 7 25 Interval Timer: 1 9,10 29 Manual Switches: 3 5 28 Trunks: 12 - 14 Digital Voltmeter (DVM) 1 6 16 2-1 DVM AND COEFFICIENT VFG PATCH PANEL POT PANEL COVER PANEL / SETUP/ LOGIC CONTROL ANALOG CONTROL OVERLOAD INDICATOR PANEL PANEL PANEL Figure 2.1. Typical MiniAC 2.3. THE LOGIC COMPONENTS The various logic elements available for use in the MiniAC provide operational flexibility to physical system simulation. These logic elements permit simulation of descrete and continuous systems and provide a wide range of flexibility in problem control. In other words, a logical event can be used to control an analog function and vice versa. All logic elements (such as pushbutton flip-flops, general purpose flip-flops, and the counter/timer} are physically located directly behind the logic control panel (Figure 2.1). Table 2.2 lists the equipment complement provided with the logic expansion and specifies the chapter(s) in which each component is described. Table 2.2. Equipment Complement: Logic Components Component Quantity Chapter Reference Users Guide Reference Handbook Gates: Two Input 6 11 26 Four Input 4 Counter/Timer: 1 11 29 Flip-Flops: General Purpose 4 1 27 Pushbutton 2 Monostable Multivibrator (One Shot): 1 11 29 2.4 THE ANALOG/LOGIC INTERFACE COMPONENTS Analog/logic interface components provide interface and control between the analog and logic portions of a program. These devices include analog controlled digital (A/D) comparators and digital controlled analog (D/A) switches. The equipment complement of analog/logic interface components is listed in Table 2.3. This table also includes specific chapter references in which these devices are described. Like the analog and logic components, these hybrid devices are terminated at the patch panel. Table 2.3. Equipment Complement: Analog/Logic Interface Components Chapter Reference Component Quantity Users Guide Reference Handbook A/D Comparators: 3 5 28 D/A Switches: Uncommitted (SW) 3 5 28 Summer/Integrator Committed (10SW) 12 5 21 2-3 ‘ ANALOG FIELD 1 CONTROL FIELD ANALOG FIELD 3 11 12 13 14 15 16 CONTROL 31 32 33 34 35 36/37 r/f r/f >») z/TS MULT/DIV FG a z/f z/f >» z/TS MULT/DIV VEG Sw_JUmTR | MAN sw SELECTOR [L_bDisPtay _] SW_JUMTR| MANSW a@ w@ s@ 3@/9@)) @lve@ 1@20:5:020:0:@ a@ u@ s@ 3 @is @]: @lve@ or MTR START N@ N@ n@ n@ 100) °@j/@ n@ 5@:«°@7e| Ore in@ n@ n@ 10 @]o @/nn@® COMP Lumen | : COMP elic@i Sic@) CO] O| SiicOlrO@/- Ore T@—Orn@® + @ceO Oo] ScS) Sic S| OC] S| Sc Oir@)- @ire@ 1@ 1@ 1@| O16 e|1.e| @ Fe c@xrOVele|.ene 1@ 1@| @:e@ ee] @ MULT FG Liz] oe MULT VFG 36 1@ 1@ 1@ 1@ n@ FOc@x+@reie| ome 1@ 1@ 1@ n@ n@ TS 14 gh : 1@ 1@ 1@ 1@ @-@,;@ @ Oe 1@ 1@ 1@ 0@ 1@ Lcompe_13_ J [swis Pe: VFG 37 0 @ 0Ql0@ 0 @l0@ o@j0@ 0@ 08 @ OP OS] Olo@ °O)°@ ° Ol @ 9° Ol OS °O|' @ 1 Oro TRUNK TRUNKS | LL] FIELD 1@ 2@ :@:@:5:@°5@ 76 :@ 236 »@18xr@ Fec@xr@jnere@ 1@:@e1@ Aas SW_JUMTR]_MANSW Lizz] BLGATE 1 GATE 2 care 3 Jal cate 4 Joie Gates Tap L cate Jy 3@l- @lvre@ COxr@LOL er @ C ) @ | @ | @| @| @| @ 3 p TS 24 fal aw Ff “Boe c@7e@ @ @| Oe r) e e| ee e| Lcomp 23 |] |[sw2s Seal GATE 7 GATE 8 GATE 9 GATE 10 mn ) .@ @>0|e|-e) ene @ e ee ee Los a ee ee ek ee @ ee ee LL] FFI FF 2 FF 3 FF 4 PB ee er s@) e|se) @|:e) ee TS 34 oe e@°@7e © c@| @\-@| ee] ele [comp 33 | sw PULSES FF ENABLE MONO L@ eel» 1@ 270 :@‘@e| © ANALOG FIELD 2 | CONTROL FIELD f LOGIC FIELD 2.5 THE CONTROL AND MONITORING SYSTEMS The MiniAC is equipped with versatile control and monitoring systems that permit: selection of addressable analog components for value readout and display; control of analog time scale; control of analog and logic modes; and slave Operations. Complete monitoring facilities are provided that permit status readout of logic elements as well as indicating amplifier overload conditions. All aspects of these systems are described in Chapters 14 through 17 of the Reference Handbook. 2.6 THE PATCH PANEL 2.6.1 INTRODUCTION The following paragraphs describe the patch panel layout. This includes: general patch panel location of individual components and controls; the component location numbering system (address); and general color coding information. Detailed information concerning patch panel layout for individual components and controls (including patching techniques and methods) are given in subsequent chapters describing the specific component or control system. The removable panel (Figure 2.2) provides readily accessable termination and interconnection points for assembling (patching) devices that perform mathematical and logical functions in any array required to obtain a given problem solution. The patch panel also provides patching facilities for problem contro! purposes and problem solution outputs. Patching is the act of interconnecting the mathematical and logical elements so that the assembled (patched) devices correspond to the “‘paper’’ program. Patching may be performed with the panel on the computer, or “‘off-line’’. If more than one patch panel is available, a problem may be prepatched {remotely from the machine) while another problem is being run. In other words, one user can produce a problem solution while another is preparing a problem. The availability of multiple patch panels permits retaining (storing) a patched problem or simulation that may be used frequently for demonstration or other purposes, 2.6.2. PATCH PANEL LAYOUT 2.6.2.1 General For ease in programming and locating components for patching, the MiniAC patch panel is divided into symmetrical fields, Basically, there are three nearly identical analog fields, an analog trunk field, a logic field, and a contro! field. Each field is distinct and readily identified. Figure 2.3 is a simplified diagram of the patch panel and shows the general patching outlines and areas associated with each field. As an aid in identifying the various patching areas, compare this illustration to the patch panel details shown in Figure 2.2, 2-5 2-6 ————— - aN —- —- oe — oN r bee a - 94 r , a a 6 r. 4, 42 ag 4a ae 563° Lf ys Y yo Mul SUNT RSE i yey y Ys MOLTL vEG ~ |e ~ * Se a Man . * + u con re ae MAN * sw ab cy Sa . ow 5 5 u uf By M 36 ~ ~ . i) ee ee r |} p—j +» | 4 - : 2 8 + E + Waathe ye x rmlig |x ep} & fe |__| }_J a = po} mw } 36 | > bY \ b—+ = t ‘yt Pp + I! 6 B 4 36 - i} 3 Az 1 2 af ZV > yong LOCAL UONT Sth x ef x Es 2 Is wet “og Ahi o FLOL 3 32 33 5a MULT vaAk 5 FUN SEM 35 FUN GEN 16 36/37 ws GENERAL PURPOSE “RUNKS [1 -.2} GRCUND oe : | }- + Oy + ou + Su + Su an ae LOCAL CONTROL | | a - ANLG FLD 2 | | | | ep }too|e ~feye ep | _ M o 2 < ef }oy fet | : Po Lo sares IL 5 E fe) 21 22 23 24 ep |R pla | | |_J | _] v S fes] ¢ | | | - 25 26] _ T t T ! 1 } St Lit z ETS scunTE SENER spear BEE ° LOCAL CONTROL COUNTER GENERAL | URPCS: fF 2l 22 23 24 LOG x ANLG FLD3 TIMER FLIP “LOPS t-4 -2 MULT = UN GEN 25 26 | L. DOWN COUNTED CL20K * PULSES 109 - C2 MONE “est iss = Lets MUL T/OIV FG ‘ : 21 22 22 24 25 26 ' | ANALOG FIELD 2--- --- --— —+ CONTROL FIELD -———-#fe—- = LOGIC FIE.2 a -. Ww SYMBOLS AND ABBREVIATIONS 7 =INTEGRATOR += PLUS TEN OL? REFERENCE (+ 1.000 MACHINE UNIT] 1= LOGIC LEVEL ONE(+5V1 MONG + MONQS TABLE MULTIVIBRATOR = = SUMMER TS = TRACK-STORE Ov= OPERATE JUNCTION (E//) SJ = SUMMING JUNCTION (Z OR E/ TS) POT = FOTENTICME TER COMP = COMPARATOR — = MINUS TEN VOLT REFERENCE (- 1.000 MACHINE UNIT} + LOGIC LEVEL CEROILOGIC GRDI PBFE = FUSKSOTTON FLIP-FLOP MAN SW=MANUAL SWITCH MULT/DEV = MULTIPLY / BIVIDE Sw: DIGITAL CONTROLLEO ANALOG SWITCH FUN > FUNCTION GENERATOR GEN Figure 2.3. General Patching Areas 2.6.2.2. The Analog Fields Basically, each analog field is divided into six rectangular patching areas, or modules. Each module provides terminations for at least two analog components. For patching convenience, each module includes terminations for a potentiometer, and computer reference (+1.0 machine units) is distributed throughout each field, A two digit number embossed on the patch panel identifies the patching module and the field. The first digit (1-3) is the field designation. The second digit is the assigned modute number (1-6). For example, the fifth patching module in field one is assigned the number 15 (field 1, module 5), Therefore, anatog components terminated in this field/module are identified by the number 15. In addition to the field/module numbering system, modules are further identified by a symbol or mnemonic designation that indicates the major computing component terminated in that module, For example, modules 1 and 2 in each field are marked with the Y// symbol (Figures 2.2 and 2.3). This indicates that the major computing component terminated in these modules is the summer/integrator. Table 2.4 lists each component and facility terminated in the patch panel analog field, identifies each by symbol or mnemonic designation and module number, and lists the quantity per field. Table 2.4. Patch Panel Field Assignments for Analog Components Symbol Quantity Per Field or Mnemonic Module Analog Component or Facility Panel Marking Number 1 2 3 Totals Summer/Integrator =/f 1,2 2 2 2 6 Summer/High Gain >> 3 1 1 1 3 Comparator COMP 3 1 1 1 3 Summer/Track Store L/TS 4 1 1 1 3 Multiplier MULT/DIV 5 1 1 1 3 Digital Controlled Analog Switch SW 5 1 1 1 3 Limiter LMTR 5 1 1 1 3 Log X Function Generator FG 6 1 1 0 2 Manual Switch MAN SW 6 1 1 1 3 Variable Function Generator VFG 6/7 0 0 2 2 Potentiometer None 1-6 6 6 6 18 (Colored coded yellow) Positive Reference + 1-4,6 5 5 5 16 Negative Reference _ 1-4,6 5 5 5 15 Analog Ground None N/A 0 0 8 8 (Color coded black) To simplify the process of patching a problem, the analog fields use a readily identifiable color code. The principle colors used are green, red, orange, yellow, white and black. Green = Analog component inputs, Red = Analog component outputs and positive reference. Orange = Minus reference Yellow = Potentiometers White = Passive element manual switches and limiters 2-8 2.6.2.3. The Trunk Field The trunk field is located between analog fields one and two and is identified by the designation TRUNKS. These terminations provide 12 general purpose trunk lines for exchanging analog data with another computer or for use with external analog devices. 2.6.2.4 The Logic Field All logic computing elements are terminated in the patching area directly below Analog Field 3 (Figures 2.2 and 2.3}. Logic component terminations are contained in a separate field to minimize cross-talk (noise pick-up) and to reduce the possibility of inadvertently patching an analog signal to a logic component, or vice versa. The logic field has provisions for program patching of: AND gates, a counter/timer; general purpose and pushbutton flip-flops, a monostable multivibrator, and down counted clock pulses. With the exception of AND gates, all logic outputs on the patch panel are synchronized with the system clock. Each logic component is identified by panel markings as indicated in the following list: Logic Component Panel Designation Quantity Gates: ’ Two-Input GATE 1 to GATE 6 6 Four-Input GATE 7 to GATE 10 4 Counter/Timer CTR/TMR 1 General Purpose Flip-Flops FF to FF4 4 Pushbutton Flip-Flops PB1 and PB2 2 Down Counted Clock PULSES (10°, 10%, 10°, 107) 4 Monostable Multivibrator (One Shot) MONO 1 To simplify the process of patching a problem, the logic field has a color code similar to that of the analog fields. The colors used are green, orange, and red. These indicate the following: Green = Logic inputs (1 = +5V; 0 = GRD) Orange = Asynchronous {unclocked) logic outputs. Red = Synchronous (clocked) logic outputs. Red on White = Logic level output. 2.6.2.5 The Control Field The control field (Figures 2.2 and 2.3) is the white patching area separating analog fields 1 and 2 from analog field 3 and the logic field. Primarily, the control field provides patching facilities to permit logic signals to be used for individual component and computer mode control. The control field is functionally divided into three major areas as follows: 1. Readout Selection and Control 2. Master mode Control 3. Local Control The readout area is located in the uppermost portion of the control field and permits patching the readout selector to external devices, as well as logic start/stop control of a remote display device (recorder or oscilloscope). The inverted L shaped area below the readout termination group is devoted to logic control of computer modes. That is, if the patch panel (PP) is selected as master, the 1C, H and OP modes can be selected by patching of logic signals. An interval timer is terminated in this area to permit automatic repetitive operations. The patch panel provides terminations that permit individual logic control of analog components terminated in analog fields 1 through 3. Controlling individual analog components with logic levels patched at the control field is referred to as local control. Local control functions that can be performed by patching include: integrator time scale and mode; track-store/summer mode: D/A switch operation; and latch control of comparators. These logic control terminations are divided into three identical groups {one for each analog field) and are identified using the field/module numbering system described in Paragraph 2.6.2.2. To avoid confusion and for simplicity of patching, all local controls are marked with the corresponding field/module number and are further identified by the applicable symbol or mnemonic designation. As in the logic and analog fields, the control field is also color coded. However, in this case the panel symbol or lettering is color coded, not the background. The color codes used are green, red, and black. These indicate the fotlowing: Green = Logic input in all areas. DISPLAY 1-7 and MTR-IN may also be used as analog inputs. Red = Synchronous logic output or fixed logic level (0 = logic zero output). Black = Analog ground. 2.7 DVM AND COEFFICIENT POT PANEL The DVM and coefficient pot panel (Figure 2.4} contains the digital voltmeter (DVM) and the controls required to set constant coefficients into an analog program. The DVM displays the numeric value (in machine units) of any component selected for readout. Refer to Chapter 6 in the User’s Guide or Chapter 16 in the Reference Handbook portion of this manual. Problem coefficients are normally provided by the preset potentiometers mounted on this panel. These pots are arranged in three vertical columns with six in a column. Each pot is terminated at the patch panel and is identified by the numerical panel marking that corresponds to the patch panel address described in Paragraph 2.6. The individual pot knobs are used to preset the desired coefficient value. The pushbutton switches immediately to the right of each pot are used to display the pot output on the DVM. Pot setting procedures are given in Chapters 6 and 18 of the User’s Guide and Reference Handbook respectively. 2-9 Figure 2.4. DVM and Coefficient Pot Panel 2.8 THE VFG PANEL The variable diode function generator (VFG) is located directly behind the removable VFG panel (Figure 2.1). This panel is only removed during set-up of the VFG and should remain in place at all other times to avoid inadvertently disturbing the VFG setup. The VFG is described in Chapter 7 of the User’s Guide and Chapter 25 of the Reference Handbook. 2.9 THE ANALOG CONTROL PANEL The analog control panel (Figure 2.5) is located at the right side of the MiniAC directly below the VFG panel, This control panel contains the power on switch; the computer analog mode controls; the time scale (rate) control; the interval timer controls; the readout signal selector; manual switches and manual controls for the comparators. The ba