https://the-analog-thing.org/w/api.php?action=feedcontributions&user=Tfischer&feedformat=atomTheAnalogThing - User contributions [en]2024-03-28T15:05:25ZUser contributionsMediaWiki 1.35.2https://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=The_Analog_Thing_FAQ&diff=886The Analog Thing FAQ2022-03-09T09:00:02Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>This page contains a list of '''frequently asked questions (FAQ)''' about [[The Analog Thing]] (in short ''THAT''). It's a great entry place to learn about THAT.<br />
<br />
== What is analog computing? ==<br />
[[Analog Computer|Analog computing]] is an alternative to digital computing; ideally suited for dynamic systems modeling; ideally suited for neuromorphic AI applications; much more energy-efficient than digital computing; inherently safer than digital computing in the face of cyber threats; a great, hands-on way to learn about maths, engineering and systems; and simply an eye-opening experience.<br />
<br />
== What is THE ANALOG THING? ==<br />
[[The Analog Thing|THE ANALOG THING]] is a high-quality, low-cost, open-source, and not-for-profit cutting-edge analog computer. You can think of it as a kind of [[Raspberry Pi]] that computes with continuous voltages rather than with zeroes and ones.<br />
<br />
== What is "THAT"? ==<br />
THAT is an abbreviation of [[The Analog Thing|THE ANALOG THING]].<br />
<br />
== Who is the team behind THAT and what is their motivation? ==<br />
THAT is developed and distributed by the German tech start-up company [https://www.anabrid.com anabrid] under the brand name [https://analogparadigm.com Analog Paradigm]. Anabrid is planning to develop an analog computer on-a-chip to diversify today's digital computing monoculture with analog-digital hybrid computing. To support this initiative, anabrid uses its Analog Paradigm brand to promote the often much more efficient and safer analog computing paradigm. THAT is Analog Paradigm's response to the need for education and community activity around analog computing. In contrast to the [https://analogparadigm.com/products.html Analog Paradigm Model 1 analog computer], THAT is small, highly affordable, open-source, and not-for-profit. It is analog computing for the future, for all. Analog Paradigm welcomes community contributions to THAT hardware, accessories and documentation.<br />
<br />
== What can I do with THAT? ==<br />
THAT is typically used to model dynamic systems, i.e., systems that change in time according to some causal relationships. Examples include including market economies, the spread of diseases, population dynamics, chemical reactions, mechanical systems, the firing of neurons, a variety of mathematical attractors, and much more. Technically, THAT solves (sets of) [[differential equation]]s by way of [[Integrator|integration]], and it produces results in the form of graphs representing relationships between dependent and independent variables. If you are not familiar with differential equations, then THAT is an excellent tool to familiarize yourself with them. You can use THAT for a variety of purposes: You can use it to predict in the natural sciences, to control in engineering, to explain in educational settings, to imitate in gaming, or you can use it for the pure joy of it. THAT can help you understand what is (models of), and it can help you bring about what should be (models for). More fundamentally, THAT allows you to explore a non-digital computational paradigm hands-on!<br />
<br />
== What do I need to work with THAT? ==<br />
You need a set of plug cables, which is included with THAT. You also need a [[Power|USB power supply with a USB-C plug]]. Since most people have spare USB power supplies, we decided not to include one with THAT and save the extra cost. You will also need something to read the output of THAT (voltages that change over time), such as a hardware or software [[oscilloscope]]. [[Software Oscilloscopes|Software oscilloscopes]] are software programs that can run on digital desktop or laptop computers and typically read changing voltages through the [[Soundcard|sound card's audio input]] interface. Software oscilloscopes (including free and open source ones) are available for all major operating systems.<br />
<br />
== How does a ''Hello World'' program look like on THAT? ==<br />
[[File:Damped oscillator.png|thumb|left]]<br />
A good first program for "analog beginners" is the modeling of a damped oscillation in an isolated system.<br />
For a detailed explanation see: [[Damped oscillation]]<br />
<br clear="all"><br />
<br />
== Is THAT a general purpose computer? ==<br />
Yes and no. The term general-purpose computer is commonly used to describe digital stored-program computers that can execute arbitrary algorithms. While THAT does not belong in this category, it is a general-purpose analog computer in that it can solve any (set of) differential equation(s) within the means of its computing elements. By connecting multiple THATs in ''[[Minion|minion chains]]'', it is possible to implement arbitrarily large analog computer patches involving any number of computing elements.<br />
<br />
== How can I program THAT? ==<br />
Programming [[analog computer]]s is about modeling change in time. Typically, this process starts by translating change in some dynamic systems into one or more differential equations. These equations are then translated into patterns of wire connections between the analog computing elements on THAT's patch field. These patterns of wire connections are analog computer programs. When a program is run, THAT solves the programmed differential equations and outputs their solutions as time-varying voltages.<br />
<br />
== If THAT is powered by USB, i.e., by 5&nbsp;V-, then how is it possible that its machine unit is physically ±10&nbsp;V? ==<br />
THAT uses a TBA 2-0522 DC/DC converter, which turns a 4.5&nbsp;V- to 5.5&nbsp;V- input into a ±12&nbsp;V output.<br />
<br />
== How can I obtain output from THAT? ==<br />
THAT outputs the solutions of differential equations as time-varying voltages. In control applications, these can be used to drive actuators such as motors or valves. In lab or classroom settings, they are often visualized as graphs using [[oscilloscope]]s or [[plotter]]s. In [[hybrid computing]] (where analog and digital computers work in tandem), analog-to-digital converters and digital-to-analog converters turn time-varying voltages into digital data and vice versa. The simplest way to read the output of your THAT is to connect it to the [[Soundcard|sound card]] of a digital computer which can then be used to visualize the output using digital oscilloscope software and to record, analyze, or otherwise process it.<br />
<br />
== Why do the plugs not go all the way into the patch panel? ==<br />
[[File:Plug depth.jpg|thumb|left|Plugs in the patch panel of THAT.]]<br />
This is one of several unconventional but intentional design moves that make THAT possible and affordable. The 2 mm plug cables were originally designed to plug entirely into a corresponding type of gold-plated socket. One of these sockets plus mounting costs about USD 1.00, which would add up significantly for the 186 plug positions on THAT's patch panel. We saved this cost by using an extra-thick top PCB with appropriately-sized, gold-plated through-holes. Since the length of the plugs is greater than the thickness of the PCB, we placed stop-limits below each plug hole to ensure that the small, contact-assuring springs halfway along the length of each plug make reliable contact. The result looks a little unexpected, but it works well and cuts the cost of the overall device by more than half.<br clear="all"><br />
<br />
== With outputs varying between -10V to 10V, how can I use THAT to model quantities smaller or greater than that? ==<br />
Translating patterns of change in dynamic systems into mathematical representations and further into analog computer programs commonly involves the scaling of quantities. Quantities are represented on analog computers in a voltage or current interval with fixed boundaries called the [[Machine Unit]]. On THAT, this interval is -10 V to +10 V. For the sake of simplicity, the [[Machine Unit]] is generally thought of as ± 1, regardless of the actual voltage or current interval of a given analog computer. To model arbitrary quantities on THAT, they can be scaled to make efficient use of the [[Machine Unit]]. [[Output]] can then be converted back to the original scale.<br />
<br />
== How can I use THAT to create useful models of very fast or very slow phenomena? ==<br />
Translating patterns of change in dynamic systems into mathematical representations and further into analog computer programs commonly involves the scaling of speed. THAT allows compressing or stretching the independent variable time by several orders of magnitude. In this way, the instantaneous decay of a volatile compound can be simulated slowly enough for observation and interactive manipulation, while population dynamics occurring over decades or centuries can be simulated in the blink of an eye.<br />
<br />
== What computing elements are available on THAT? ==<br />
THAT is designed to allow a wide range of interesting applications with a minimal set of analog computing elements. It offers five [[integrator]]s, four [[summer]]s, four [[inverter]]s, two [[multiplier]]s, and eight [[Coefficients/Potentiometers|coefficient potentiometers]]. In addition, it offers two [[comparator]]s, two precision [[XIR|resistor networks]] as well as [[capacitor]]s, [[diode]]s, and Zener diodes. Where more computing elements are needed for a particular application, multiple THATs can be connected in [[minion|minion chains]].<br />
<br />
== How precise is THAT compared to a digital computer? ==<br />
THAT is precise to about three positions after the decimal point, relative to its [[Machine Unit]] (±1). Comparing the precision of analog and digital computers is a bit like comparing apples and oranges. Analog computers usually handle quantities based on ''measuring'' only (“What is your body height?”). Digital computers, however, also handle quantities based on ''counting'' (“How many siblings do you have?”), which requires strict numeral precision. Consider this: A bank clerk getting the third decimal place of an interest rate wrong commits a severe error, while a tailor being off by a few micrometers when taking a client’s measurements has no such problem. Furthermore, numerical digital computing involves rounding, hence rounding errors, which can add up quickly in iterative loops. Analog computers do not operate numerically and do not round. In this sense, the great precision of today’s digital computers helps minimize a problem that is specific primarily to digital computing. In short, representing quantities as continuous voltages, THAT does not suffer from many issues inherent to binary value representations. While analog computer solutions can be affected by noise and instabilities, the precision of THAT is perfectly appropriate for most analog computer applications.<br />
<br />
== What is a minion chain? ==<br />
THAT is designed to allow an extensive range of applications with a small set of computing elements. When applications require additional computing elements, it is possible to link multiple THATs in a "[[Minion|minion chain"]] using their "MASTER OUT" and "MINION IN" ports. Connecting the MINION IN port of a THAT to the MASTER OUT port of another THAT with a ribbon cable makes the first THAT the "master" and the second THAT its "minion" so they can work together and share the computing elements of both devices in the same program. There is no limit to the number of THATs that can be linked in a minion chain.<br />
<br />
== 2+2 ≠ 4? ==<br />
If you wonder why THAT computes something like <code>2+2 = -4</code>, then you need to familiarize yourself with how the [[Components of The Analog Thing]] work. [[Summer]]s on analog computers are typically ''negating''. This means they yield the negative of the sum. This is a convention and needs some getting-used-to. If you like, you can simply feed the summer's output into an [[Inverter]] to obtain the "correct" sign.<br />
<br />
== Are THAT's inputs compatible with (possibly overloaded) outputs from other analog computers with +-15V supply voltage? ==<br />
THAT's inputs are protected by supressor diodes which begin to conduct at about +-20V. It's no problem to connect an output from a +-15V circuit to THAT's inputs. But some inputs will be overloaded if the voltage exceeds about +-11.5V, because THAT's supply voltage is +-12V.<br />
<br />
== Is there a template to draw and share THAT patches? ==<br />
Yes. You can download it from the THAT online documentation at https://the-analog-thing.org/docs<br />
<br />
[[Category:Manual|FAQ]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=The_Analog_Thing_FAQ&diff=877The Analog Thing FAQ2022-01-09T07:57:48Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>This page contains a list of '''frequently asked questions (FAQ)''' about [[The Analog Thing]] (in short ''THAT''). It's a great entry place to learn about THAT.<br />
<br />
== What is analog computing? ==<br />
[[Analog Computer|Analog computing]] is an alternative to digital computing; ideally suited for dynamic systems modeling; ideally suited for neuromorphic AI applications; much more energy-efficient than digital computing; inherently safer than digital computing in the face of cyber threats; a great, hands-on way to learn about maths, engineering and systems; and simply an eye-opening experience.<br />
<br />
== What is THE ANALOG THING? ==<br />
[[The Analog Thing|THE ANALOG THING]] is a high-quality, low-cost, open-source, and not-for-profit cutting-edge analog computer. You can think of it as a kind of [[Raspberry Pi]] that computes with continuous voltages rather than with zeroes and ones.<br />
<br />
== What is "THAT"? ==<br />
THAT is an abbreviation of [[The Analog Thing|THE ANALOG THING]].<br />
<br />
== Who is the team behind THAT and what is their motivation? ==<br />
THAT is developed and distributed by the German tech start-up company [https://www.anabrid.com anabrid] under the brand name [https://analogparadigm.com Analog Paradigm]. Anabrid is planning to develop an analog computer on-a-chip to diversify today's digital computing monoculture with analog-digital hybrid computing. To support this initiative, anabrid uses its Analog Paradigm brand to promote the often much more efficient and safer analog computing paradigm. THAT is Analog Paradigm's response to the need for education and community activity around analog computing. In contrast to the [https://analogparadigm.com/products.html Analog Paradigm Model 1 analog computer], THAT is small, highly affordable, open-source, and not-for-profit. It is analog computing for the future, for all. Analog Paradigm welcomes community contributions to THAT hardware, accessories and documentation.<br />
<br />
== What can I do with THAT? ==<br />
THAT is typically used to model dynamic systems, i.e., systems that change in time according to some causal relationships. Examples include including market economies, the spread of diseases, population dynamics, chemical reactions, mechanical systems, the firing of neurons, a variety of mathematical attractors, and much more. Technically, THAT solves (sets of) [[differential equation]]s by way of [[Integrator|integration]], and it produces results in the form of graphs representing relationships between dependent and independent variables. If you are not familiar with differential equations, then THAT is an excellent tool to familiarize yourself with them. You can use THAT for a variety of purposes: You can use it to predict in the natural sciences, to control in engineering, to explain in educational settings, to imitate in gaming, or you can use it for the pure joy of it. THAT can help you understand what is (models of), and it can help you bring about what should be (models for). More fundamentally, THAT allows you to explore a non-digital computational paradigm hands-on!<br />
<br />
== What do I need to work with THAT? ==<br />
You need a set of plug cables, which is included with THAT. You also need a [[Power|USB power supply with a USB-C plug]]. Since most people have spare USB power supplies, we decided not to include one with THAT and save the extra cost. You will also need something to read the output of THAT (voltages that change over time), such as a hardware or software [[oscilloscope]]. [[Software Oscilloscopes|Software oscilloscopes]] are software programs that can run on digital desktop or laptop computers and typically read changing voltages through the [[Soundcard|sound card's audio input]] interface. Software oscilloscopes (including free and open source ones) are available for all major operating systems.<br />
<br />
== How does a ''Hello World'' program look like on THAT? ==<br />
[[File:Damped oscillator.png|thumb|left]]<br />
A good first program for "analog beginners" is the modeling of a damped oscillation in an isolated system.<br />
For a detailed explanation see: [[Damped oscillation]]<br />
<br clear="all"><br />
<br />
== Is THAT a general purpose computer? ==<br />
Yes and no. The term general-purpose computer usually describes devices that can be programmed to mimic the logical procedures performed by other, comparable devices. THAT is different because it solves (sets of) differential equation(s) instead of processing logical procedures. It is a general-purpose analog computer in as far as it can solve any (set of) partial differential equation(s). In doing so, a single THAT is limited by its number of computing elements. By connecting multiple THATs in ''[[Minion|minion chains]]'', it is possible to implement large analog computer programs involving any number of computing elements.<br />
<br />
== How can I program THAT? ==<br />
Programming [[analog computer]]s is about modeling change in time. Typically, this process starts by translating change in some dynamic systems into one or more differential equations. These equations are then translated into patterns of wire connections between the analog computing elements on THAT's patch field. These patterns of wire connections are analog computer programs. When a program is run, THAT solves the programmed differential equations and outputs their solutions as time-varying voltages.<br />
<br />
== How can I obtain output from THAT? ==<br />
THAT outputs the solutions of differential equations as time-varying voltages. In control applications, these can be used to drive actuators such as motors or valves. In lab or classroom settings, they are often visualized as graphs using [[oscilloscope]]s or [[plotter]]s. In [[hybrid computing]] (where analog and digital computers work in tandem), analog-to-digital converters and digital-to-analog converters turn time-varying voltages into digital data and vice versa. The simplest way to read the output of your THAT is to connect it to the [[Soundcard|sound card]] of a digital computer which can then be used to visualize the output using digital oscilloscope software and to record, analyze, or otherwise process it.<br />
<br />
== Why do the plugs not go all the way into the patch panel? ==<br />
[[File:Plug depth.jpg|thumb|left|Plugs in the patch panel of THAT.]]<br />
This is one of several unconventional but intentional design moves that make THAT possible and affordable. The 2 mm plug cables were originally designed to plug entirely into a corresponding type of gold-plated socket. One of these sockets plus mounting costs about USD 1.00, which would add up significantly for the 186 plug positions on THAT's patch panel. We saved this cost by using an extra-thick top PCB with appropriately-sized, gold-plated through-holes. Since the length of the plugs is greater than the thickness of the PCB, we placed stop-limits below each plug hole to ensure that the small, contact-assuring springs halfway along the length of each plug make reliable contact. The result looks a little unexpected, but it works well and cuts the cost of the overall device by more than half.<br clear="all"><br />
<br />
== With outputs varying between -10V to 10V, how can I use THAT to model quantities smaller or greater than that? ==<br />
Translating patterns of change in dynamic systems into mathematical representations and further into analog computer programs commonly involves the scaling of quantities. Quantities are represented on analog computers in a voltage or current interval with fixed boundaries called the [[Machine Unit]]. On THAT, this interval is -10 V to +10 V. For the sake of simplicity, the [[Machine Unit]] is generally thought of as ± 1, regardless of the actual voltage or current interval of a given analog computer. To model arbitrary quantities on THAT, they can be scaled to make efficient use of the [[Machine Unit]]. [[Output]] can then be converted back to the original scale.<br />
<br />
== How can I use THAT to create useful models of very fast or very slow phenomena? ==<br />
Translating patterns of change in dynamic systems into mathematical representations and further into analog computer programs commonly involves the scaling of speed. THAT allows compressing or stretching the independent variable time by several orders of magnitude. In this way, the instantaneous decay of a volatile compound can be simulated slowly enough for observation and interactive manipulation, while population dynamics occurring over decades or centuries can be simulated in the blink of an eye.<br />
<br />
== What computing elements are available on THAT? ==<br />
THAT is designed to allow a wide range of interesting applications with a minimal set of analog computing elements. It offers five [[integrator]]s, four [[summer]]s, four [[inverter]]s, two [[multiplier]]s, and eight [[Coefficients/Potentiometers|coefficient potentiometers]]. In addition, it offers two [[comparator]]s, two precision [[XIR|resistor networks]] as well as [[capacitor]]s, [[diode]]s, and Zener diodes. Where more computing elements are needed for a particular application, multiple THATs can be connected in [[minion|minion chains]].<br />
<br />
== How precise is THAT compared to a digital computer? ==<br />
THAT is precise to about three positions after the decimal point, relative to its [[Machine Unit]] (±1). Comparing the precision of analog and digital computers is a bit like comparing apples and oranges. Analog computers usually handle quantities based on ''measuring'' only (“What is your body height?”). Digital computers, however, also handle quantities based on ''counting'' (“How many siblings do you have?”), which requires strict numeral precision. Consider this: A bank clerk getting the third decimal place of an interest rate wrong commits a severe error, while a tailor being off by a few micrometers when taking a client’s measurements has no such problem. Furthermore, numerical digital computing involves rounding, hence rounding errors, which can add up quickly in iterative loops. Analog computers do not operate numerically and do not round. In this sense, the great precision of today’s digital computers helps minimize a problem that is specific primarily to digital computing. In short, representing quantities as continuous voltages, THAT does not suffer from many issues inherent to binary value representations. While analog computer solutions can be affected by noise and instabilities, the precision of THAT is perfectly appropriate for most analog computer applications.<br />
<br />
== What is a minion chain? ==<br />
THAT is designed to allow an extensive range of applications with a small set of computing elements. When applications require additional computing elements, it is possible to link multiple THATs in a "[[Minion|minion chain"]] using their "MASTER" and "MINION" ports. Connecting the MINION port of a THAT to the MASTER port of another THAT with a ribbon cable makes the first THAT the "master" and the second THAT its "minion" so they can work together and share the computing elements of both devices in the same program. There is no limit to the number of THATs that can be linked in a minion chain.<br />
<br />
== 2+2 ≠ 4? ==<br />
If you wonder why THAT computes something like <code>2+2 = -4</code>, then you need to familiarize yourself with how the [[Components of The Analog Thing]] work. [[Summer]]s on analog computers are typically ''negating''. This means they yield the negative of the sum. This is a convention and needs some getting-used-to. If you like, you can simply feed the summer's output into an [[Inverter]] to obtain the "correct" sign.<br />
<br />
== Are THAT's inputs compatible with (possibly overloaded) outputs from other analog computers with +-15V supply voltage? ==<br />
THAT's inputs are protected by supressor diodes which begin to conduct at about +-20V. It's no problem to connect an output from a +-15V circuit to THAT's inputs. But some inputs will be overloaded if the voltage exceeds about +-11.5V, because THAT's supply voltage is +-12V.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Manual|FAQ]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=The_Analog_Thing_FAQ&diff=876The Analog Thing FAQ2022-01-09T07:34:59Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>This page contains a list of '''frequently asked questions (FAQ)''' about [[The Analog Thing]] (in short ''THAT''). It's a great entry place to learn about THAT.<br />
<br />
== What is analog computing? ==<br />
[[Analog Computer|Analog computing]] is an alternative to digital computing; ideally suited for dynamic systems modeling; ideally suited for neuromorphic AI applications; much more energy-efficient than digital computing; inherently safer than digital computing in the face of cyber threats; a great, hands-on way to learn about maths, engineering and systems; and simply an eye-opening experience.<br />
<br />
== What is THE ANALOG THING? ==<br />
[[The Analog Thing|THE ANALOG THING]] is a high-quality, low-cost, open-source, and not-for-profit cutting-edge analog computer. You can think of it as a kind of [[Raspberry Pi]] that computes with continuous voltages rather than with zeroes and ones.<br />
<br />
== What is "THAT"? ==<br />
THAT is an abbreviation of [[The Analog Thing|THE ANALOG THING]].<br />
<br />
== Who is the team behind THAT and what is their motivation? ==<br />
THAT is developed and distributed by the German tech start-up company [https://www.anabrid.com anabrid] under the brand name [https://analogparadigm.com Analog Paradigm]. Anabrid is planning to develop an analog computer on-a-chip to diversify today's digital computing monoculture with analog-digital hybrid computing. To support this initiative, anabrid uses its Analog Paradigm brand to promote the often much more efficient and safer analog computing paradigm. THAT is Analog Paradigm's response to the need for education and community activity around analog computing. In contrast to the [https://analogparadigm.com/products.html Analog Paradigm Model 1 analog computer], THAT is small, highly affordable, open-source, and not-for-profit. It is analog computing for the future, for all. Analog Paradigm welcomes community contributions to THAT hardware, accessories and documentation.<br />
<br />
== What can I do with THAT? ==<br />
THAT is typically used to model dynamic systems, i.e., systems that change in time according to some causal relationships. Examples include including market economies, the spread of diseases, population dynamics, chemical reactions, mechanical systems, the firing of neurons, a variety of mathematical attractors, and much more. Technically, THAT solves (sets of) [[differential equation]]s by way of [[Integrator|integration]], and it produces results in the form of graphs representing relationships between dependent and independent variables. If you are not familiar with differential equations, then THAT is an excellent tool to familiarize yourself with them. You can use THAT for a variety of purposes: You can use it to predict in the natural sciences, to control in engineering, to explain in educational settings, to imitate in gaming, or you can use it for the pure joy of it. THAT can help you understand what is (models of), and it can help you bring about what should be (models for). More fundamentally, THAT allows you to explore a non-digital computational paradigm hands-on!<br />
<br />
== What do I need to work with THAT? ==<br />
You need a set of plug cables, which is included with THAT. You also need a [[Power|USB power supply with a USB-C plug]]. Since most people have spare USB power supplies, we decided not to include one with THAT and save the extra cost. You will also need something to read the output of THAT (voltages that change over time), such as a hardware or software [[oscilloscope]]. [[Software Oscilloscopes|Software oscilloscopes]] are software programs that can run on digital desktop or laptop computers and typically read changing voltages through the [[Soundcard|sound card's audio input]] interface. Software oscilloscopes (including free and open source ones) are available for all major operating systems.<br />
<br />
== How does a ''Hello World'' program look like on THAT? ==<br />
[[File:Damped oscillator.png|thumb|left]]<br />
A good first program for "analog beginners" is the modeling of a damped oscillation in an isolated system.<br />
For a detailed explanation see: [[Damped oscillation]]<br />
<br clear="all"><br />
<br />
== Is THAT a general purpose computer? ==<br />
Yes and no. The term general-purpose computer usually describes devices that can be programmed to mimic the logical procedures performed by other, comparable devices. THAT is different because it solves (sets of) differential equation(s) instead of processing logical procedures. It is a general-purpose analog computer in as far as it can solve any (set of) partial differential equation(s). In doing so, a single THAT is limited by its number of computing elements. By connecting multiple THATs in ''[[Minion|minion chains]]'', it is possible to implement large analog computer programs involving any number of computing elements.<br />
<br />
== How can I program THAT? ==<br />
Programming [[analog computer]]s is about modeling change in time. Typically, this process starts by translating change in some dynamic systems into one or more differential equations. These equations are then translated into patterns of wire connections between the analog computing elements on THAT's patch field. These patterns of wire connections are analog computer programs. When a program is run, THAT solves the programmed differential equations and outputs their solutions as time-varying voltages.<br />
<br />
== How can I obtain output from THAT? ==<br />
THAT outputs the solutions of differential equations as time-varying voltages. In control applications, these can be used to drive actuators such as motors or valves. In lab or classroom settings, they are often visualized as graphs using [[oscilloscope]]s or [[plotter]]s. In [[hybrid computing]] (where analog and digital computers work in tandem), analog-to-digital converters and digital-to-analog converters turn time-varying voltages into digital data and vice versa. The simplest way to read the output of your THAT is to connect it to the [[Soundcard|sound card]] of a digital computer which can then be used to visualize the output using digital oscilloscope software and to record, analyze, or otherwise process it.<br />
<br />
== Why do the plugs not go all the way into the patch panel? ==<br />
[[File:Plug depth.jpg|thumb|left|Plugs in the patch panel of THAT.]]<br />
This is one of several unconventional but intentional design moves that make THAT possible and affordable. The 2 mm plug cables were originally designed to plug entirely into a corresponding type of gold-plated socket. One of these sockets plus mounting costs about USD 1.00, which would add up significantly for the 186 plug positions on THAT's patch panel. We saved this cost by using an extra-thick top PCB with appropriately-sized, gold-plated through-holes. Since the length of the plugs is greater than the thickness of the PCB, we placed stop-limits below each plug hole to ensure that the small, contact-assuring springs halfway along the length of each plug make reliable contact. The result looks a little unexpected, but it works well and cuts the cost of the overall device by more than half.<br clear="all"><br />
<br />
== With outputs varying between -10V to 10V, how can I use THAT to model quantities smaller or greater than that? ==<br />
Translating patterns of change in dynamic systems into mathematical representations and further into analog computer programs commonly involves the scaling of quantities. Quantities are represented on analog computers in a voltage or current interval with fixed boundaries called the [[Machine Unit]]. On THAT, this interval is -10 V to +10 V. For the sake of simplicity, the [[Machine Unit]] is generally thought of as ± 1, regardless of the actual voltage or current interval of a given analog computer. To model arbitrary quantities on THAT, they can be scaled to make efficient use of the [[Machine Unit]]. [[Output]] can then be converted back to the original scale.<br />
<br />
== How can I use THAT to create useful models of very fast or very slow phenomena? ==<br />
Translating patterns of change in dynamic systems into mathematical representations and further into analog computer programs commonly involves the scaling of speed. THAT allows compressing or stretching the independent variable time by several orders of magnitude. In this way, the instantaneous decay of a volatile compound can be simulated slowly enough for observation and interactive manipulation, while population dynamics occurring over decades or centuries can be simulated in the blink of an eye.<br />
<br />
== What computing elements are available on THAT? ==<br />
THAT is designed to allow a wide range of interesting applications with a minimal set of analog computing elements. It offers five [[integrator]]s, four [[summer]]s, four [[inverter]]s, two [[multiplier]]s, and eight [[Coefficients/Potentiometers|coefficient potentiometers]]. In addition, it offers two [[comparator]]s, two precision [[XIR|resistor networks]] as well as [[capacitor]]s, [[diode]]s, and Zener diodes. Where more computing elements are needed for a particular application, multiple THATs can be connected in [[minion|minion chains]].<br />
<br />
== How precise is THAT? ==<br />
THAT is precise to about three positions after the decimal point, relative to its [[Machine Unit]] (±1). Comparing the precision of analog and digital computers is a bit like comparing apples and oranges. Digital computers handle quantities based on ''counting'' (e.g., “How many siblings do you have?”) as well as quantities based on ''measuring'' (e.g., “What is your body height?”). Analog computers usually handle quantities based on measuring only. Consider this: A bank clerk getting the third decimal place of an interest rate wrong commits a severe error, while a tailor being off by a micrometer when taking a client’s measurements has no such problem. Furthermore, numerical digital computing involves rounding, hence rounding errors, which can add up quickly in iterative loops. Analog computers do not operate numerically and do not round. In this sense, the great precision of today’s digital computers helps minimize a problem that is specific to digital computing. In short, representing quantities as continuous voltages, THAT does not suffer from many issues inherent to binary value representations. While analog computer solutions can be affected by noise and instabilities, the precision of THAT is perfectly appropriate for most analog computer applications.<br />
<br />
== What is a minion chain? ==<br />
THAT is designed to allow an extensive range of applications with a small set of computing elements. When applications require additional computing elements, it is possible to link multiple THATs in a "[[Minion|minion chain"]] using their "MASTER" and "MINION" ports. Connecting the MINION port of a THAT to the MASTER port of another THAT with a ribbon cable makes the first THAT the "master" and the second THAT its "minion" so they can work together and share the computing elements of both devices in the same program. There is no limit to the number of THATs that can be linked in a minion chain.<br />
<br />
== 2+2 ≠ 4? ==<br />
If you wonder why THAT computes something like <code>2+2 = -4</code>, then you need to familiarize yourself with how the [[Components of The Analog Thing]] work. [[Summer]]s on analog computers are typically ''negating''. This means they yield the negative of the sum. This is a convention and needs some getting-used-to. If you like, you can simply feed the summer's output into an [[Inverter]] to obtain the "correct" sign.<br />
<br />
== Are THAT's inputs compatible with (possibly overloaded) outputs from other analog computers with +-15V supply voltage? ==<br />
THAT's inputs are protected by supressor diodes which begin to conduct at about +-20V. It's no problem to connect an output from a +-15V circuit to THAT's inputs. But some inputs will be overloaded if the voltage exceeds about +-11.5V, because THAT's supply voltage is +-12V.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Manual|FAQ]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=The_Analog_Thing_FAQ&diff=875The Analog Thing FAQ2022-01-08T08:45:37Z<p>Tfischer: changed "calculating elements" to "computing elements"</p>
<hr />
<div>This page contains a list of '''frequently asked questions (FAQ)''' about [[The Analog Thing]] (in short ''THAT''). It's a great entry place to learn about THAT.<br />
<br />
== What is analog computing? ==<br />
[[Analog Computer|Analog computing]] is an alternative to digital computing; ideally suited for dynamic systems modeling; ideally suited for neuromorphic AI applications; much more energy-efficient than digital computing; inherently safer than digital computing in the face of cyber threats; a great, hands-on way to learn about maths, engineering and systems; and simply an eye-opening experience.<br />
<br />
== What is THE ANALOG THING? ==<br />
[[The Analog Thing|THE ANALOG THING]] is a high-quality, low-cost, open-source, and not-for-profit cutting-edge analog computer. You can think of it as a kind of [[Raspberry Pi]] that computes with continuous voltages rather than with zeroes and ones.<br />
<br />
== What is "THAT"? ==<br />
THAT is an abbreviation of [[The Analog Thing|THE ANALOG THING]].<br />
<br />
== Who is the team behind THAT and what is their motivation? ==<br />
THAT is developed and distributed by the German tech start-up company [https://www.anabrid.com anabrid] under the brand name [https://analogparadigm.com Analog Paradigm]. Anabrid is planning to develop an analog computer on-a-chip to diversify today's digital computing monoculture with analog-digital hybrid computing. To support this initiative, anabrid uses its Analog Paradigm brand to promote the often much more efficient and safer analog computing paradigm. THAT is Analog Paradigm's response to the need for education and community activity around analog computing. In contrast to the [https://analogparadigm.com/products.html Analog Paradigm Model 1 analog computer], THAT is small, highly affordable, open-source, and not-for-profit. It is analog computing for the future, for all. Analog Paradigm welcomes community contributions to THAT hardware, accessories and documentation.<br />
<br />
== What can I do with THAT? ==<br />
THAT is typically used to model dynamic systems, i.e., systems that change in time according to some causal relationships. Examples include including market economies, the spread of diseases, population dynamics, chemical reactions, mechanical systems, the firing of neurons, a variety of mathematical attractors, and much more. Technically, THAT solves (sets of) [[differential equation]]s by way of [[Integrator|integration]], and it produces results in the form of graphs representing relationships between dependent and independent variables. If you are not familiar with differential equations, then THAT is an excellent tool to familiarize yourself with them. You can use THAT for a variety of purposes: You can use it to predict in the natural sciences, to control in engineering, to explain in educational settings, to imitate in gaming, or you can use it for the pure joy of it. THAT can help you understand what is (models of), and it can help you bring about what should be (models for). More fundamentally, THAT allows you to explore a non-digital computational paradigm hands-on!<br />
<br />
== What do I need to work with THAT? ==<br />
You need a set of plug cables, which is included with THAT. You also need a [[Power|USB power supply with a USB-C plug]]. Since most people have spare USB power supplies, we decided not to include one with THAT and save the extra cost. You will also need something to read the output of THAT (voltages that change over time), such as a hardware or software [[oscilloscope]]. [[Software Oscilloscopes|Software oscilloscopes]] are software programs that can run on digital desktop or laptop computers and typically read changing voltages through the [[Soundcard|sound card's audio input]] interface. Software oscilloscopes (including free and open source ones) are available for all major operating systems.<br />
<br />
== How does a ''Hello World'' program look like on THAT? ==<br />
[[File:Damped oscillator.png|thumb|left]]<br />
A good first program for "analog beginners" is the modeling of a damped oscillation in an isolated system.<br />
For a detailed explanation see: [[Damped oscillation]]<br />
<br clear="all"><br />
<br />
== Is THAT a general purpose computer? ==<br />
Yes and no. The term general-purpose computer usually describes devices that can be programmed to mimic the logical procedures performed by other, comparable devices. THAT is different because it solves (sets of) differential equation(s) instead of processing logical procedures. It is a general-purpose analog computer in as far as it can solve any (set of) partial differential equation(s). In doing so, a single THAT is limited by its number of computing elements. By connecting multiple THATs in ''[[Minion|minion chains]]'', it is possible to implement large analog computer programs involving any number of computing elements.<br />
<br />
== How can I program THAT? ==<br />
Programming [[analog computer]]s is about modeling change in time. Typically, this process starts by translating change in some dynamic systems into one or more differential equations. These equations are then translated into patterns of wire connections between the analog computing elements on THAT's patch field. These patterns of wire connections are analog computer programs. When a program is run, THAT solves the programmed differential equations and outputs their solutions as time-varying voltages.<br />
<br />
== How can I obtain output from THAT? ==<br />
THAT outputs the solutions of differential equations as time-varying voltages. In control applications, these can be used to drive actuators such as motors or valves. In lab or classroom settings, they are often visualized as graphs using [[oscilloscope]]s or [[plotter]]s. In [[hybrid computing]] (where analog and digital computers work in tandem), analog-to-digital converters and digital-to-analog converters turn time-varying voltages into digital data and vice versa. The simplest way to read the output of your THAT is to connect it to the [[Soundcard|sound card]] of a digital computer which can then be used to visualize the output using digital oscilloscope software and to record, analyze, or otherwise process it.<br />
<br />
== Why do the plugs not go all the way into the patch panel? ==<br />
[[File:Plug depth.jpg|thumb|left|Plugs in the patch panel of THAT.]]<br />
This is one of several unconventional but intentional design moves that make THAT possible and affordable. The 2&nbsp;mm plug cables were originally designed to plug entirely into a corresponding type of gold-plated socket. The unit cost plus mounting of one of these sockets is about USD&nbsp2.00, which would add up significantly for the 186 plug positions on THAT's patch panel. We saved this cost by using an extra-thick top PCB with appropriately-sized, gold-plated through-holes. Since the length of the plugs is greater than the thickness of the PCB, we placed stop-limits below each plug hole to ensure that the small, contact-assuring springs halfway along the length of each plug make reliable contact. The result looks a little unexpected, but it works well and cuts the cost of the overall device by more than half.<br clear="all"><br />
<br />
== With outputs varying between -10V to 10V, how can I use THAT to model quantities smaller or greater than that? ==<br />
Translating patterns of change in dynamic systems into mathematical representations and further into analog computer programs commonly involves the scaling of quantities. Quantities are represented on analog computers in a voltage or current interval with fixed boundaries called the [[Machine Unit]]. On THAT, this interval is -10 V to +10 V. For the sake of simplicity, the [[Machine Unit]] is generally thought of as ± 1, regardless of the actual voltage or current interval of a given analog computer. To model arbitrary quantities on THAT, they can be scaled to make efficient use of the [[Machine Unit]]. [[Output]] can then be converted back to the original scale.<br />
<br />
== How can I use THAT to create useful models of very fast or very slow phenomena? ==<br />
Translating patterns of change in dynamic systems into mathematical representations and further into analog computer programs commonly involves the scaling of speed. THAT allows compressing or stretching the independent variable time by several orders of magnitude. In this way, the instantaneous decay of a volatile compound can be simulated slowly enough for observation and interactive manipulation, while population dynamics occurring over decades or centuries can be simulated in the blink of an eye.<br />
<br />
== What computing elements are available on THAT? ==<br />
THAT is designed to allow a wide range of interesting applications with a minimal set of analog computing elements. It offers five [[integrator]]s, four [[summer]]s, four [[inverter]]s, two [[multiplier]]s, and eight [[Coefficients/Potentiometers|coefficient potentiometers]]. In addition, it offers two [[comparator]]s, two precision [[XIR|resistor networks]] as well as [[capacitor]]s, [[diode]]s, and Zener diodes. Where more computing elements are needed for a particular application, multiple THATs can be connected in [[minion|minion chains]].<br />
<br />
== How precise is THAT? ==<br />
THAT is precise to about three positions after the decimal point, relative to its [[Machine Unit]] (±1). Comparing the precision of analog and digital computers is a bit like comparing apples and oranges. Digital computers handle quantities based on ''counting'' (e.g., “How many siblings do you have?”) as well as quantities based on ''measuring'' (e.g., “What is your body height?”). Analog computers usually handle quantities based on measuring only. Consider this: A bank clerk getting the third decimal place of an interest rate wrong commits a severe error, while a tailor being off by a micrometer when taking a client’s measurements has no such problem. Furthermore, numerical digital computing involves rounding, hence rounding errors, which can add up quickly in iterative loops. Analog computers do not operate numerically and do not round. In this sense, the great precision of today’s digital computers helps minimize a problem that is specific to digital computing. In short, representing quantities as continuous voltages, THAT does not suffer from many issues inherent to binary value representations. While analog computer solutions can be affected by noise and instabilities, the precision of THAT is perfectly appropriate for most analog computer applications.<br />
<br />
== What is a minion chain? ==<br />
THAT is designed to allow an extensive range of applications with a small set of computing elements. When applications require additional computing elements, it is possible to link multiple THATs in a "[[Minion|minion chain"]] using their "MASTER" and "MINION" ports. Connecting the MINION port of a THAT to the MASTER port of another THAT with a ribbon cable makes the first THAT the "master" and the second THAT its "minion" so they can work together and share the computing elements of both devices in the same program. There is no limit to the number of THATs that can be linked in a minion chain.<br />
<br />
== 2+2 ≠ 4? ==<br />
If you wonder why THAT computes something like <code>2+2 = -4</code>, then you need to familiarize yourself with how the [[Components of The Analog Thing]] work. [[Summer]]s on analog computers are typically ''negating''. This means they yield the negative of the sum. This is a convention and needs some getting-used-to. If you like, you can simply feed the summer's output into an [[Inverter]] to obtain the "correct" sign.<br />
<br />
== Are THAT's inputs compatible with (possibly overloaded) outputs from other analog computers with +-15V supply voltage? ==<br />
THAT's inputs are protected by supressor diodes which begin to conduct at about +-20V. It's no problem to connect an output from a +-15V circuit to THAT's inputs. But some inputs will be overloaded if the voltage exceeds about +-11.5V, because THAT's supply voltage is +-12V.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Manual|FAQ]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=The_Analog_Thing_FAQ&diff=874The Analog Thing FAQ2022-01-07T02:14:57Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>This page contains a list of '''frequently asked questions (FAQ)''' about [[The Analog Thing]] (in short ''THAT''). It's a great entry place to learn about THAT.<br />
<br />
== What is analog computing? ==<br />
[[Analog Computer|Analog computing]] is an alternative to digital computing; ideally suited for dynamic systems modeling; ideally suited for neuromorphic AI applications; much more energy-efficient than digital computing; inherently safer than digital computing in the face of cyber threats; a great, hands-on way to learn about maths, engineering and systems; and simply an eye-opening experience.<br />
<br />
== What is THE ANALOG THING? ==<br />
[[The Analog Thing|THE ANALOG THING]] is a high-quality, low-cost, open-source, and not-for-profit cutting-edge analog computer. You can think of it as a kind of [[Raspberry Pi]] that calculates with continuous voltages rather than with zeroes and ones.<br />
<br />
== What is "THAT"? ==<br />
THAT is an abbreviation of [[The Analog Thing|THE ANALOG THING]].<br />
<br />
== Who is the team behind THAT and what is their motivation? ==<br />
THAT is developed and distributed by the German tech start-up company [https://www.anabrid.com anabrid] under the brand name [https://analogparadigm.com Analog Paradigm]. Anabrid is planning to develop an analog computer on-a-chip to diversify today's digital computing monoculture with analog-digital hybrid computing. To support this initiative, anabrid uses its Analog Paradigm brand to promote the often much more efficient and safer analog computing paradigm. THAT is Analog Paradigm's response to the need for education and community activity around analog computing. In contrast to the [https://analogparadigm.com/products.html Analog Paradigm Model 1 analog computer], THAT is small, highly affordable, open-source, and not-for-profit. It is analog computing for the future, for all. Analog Paradigm welcomes community contributions to THAT hardware, accessories and documentation.<br />
<br />
== What can I do with THAT? ==<br />
THAT is typically used to model dynamic systems, i.e., systems that change in time according to some causal relationships. Examples include including market economies, the spread of diseases, population dynamics, chemical reactions, mechanical systems, the firing of neurons, a variety of mathematical attractors, and much more. Technically, THAT solves (sets of) [[differential equation]]s by way of [[Integrator|integration]], and it produces results in the form of graphs representing relationships between dependent and independent variables. If you are not familiar with differential equations, then THAT is an excellent tool to familiarize yourself with them. You can use THAT for a variety of purposes: You can use it to predict in the natural sciences, to control in engineering, to explain in educational settings, to imitate in gaming, or you can use it for the pure joy of it. THAT can help you understand what is (models of), and it can help you bring about what should be (models for). More fundamentally, THAT allows you to explore a non-digital computational paradigm hands-on!<br />
<br />
== What do I need to work with THAT? ==<br />
You need a set of plug cables, which is included with THAT. You also need a [[Power|USB power supply with a USB-C plug]]. Since most people have spare USB power supplies, we decided not to include one with THAT and save the extra cost. You will also need something to read the output of THAT (voltages that change over time), such as a hardware or software [[oscilloscope]]. [[Software Oscilloscopes|Software oscilloscopes]] are software programs that can run on digital desktop or laptop computers and typically read changing voltages through the [[Soundcard|sound card's audio input]] interface. Software oscilloscopes (including free and open source ones) are available for all major operating systems.<br />
<br />
== How does a ''Hello World'' program look like on THAT? ==<br />
[[File:Damped oscillator.png|thumb|left]]<br />
A good first program for "analog beginners" is the modeling of a damped oscillation in an isolated system.<br />
For a detailed explanation see: [[Damped oscillation]]<br />
<br clear="all"><br />
<br />
== Is THAT a general purpose computer? ==<br />
Yes and no. The term general-purpose computer usually describes devices that can be programmed to mimic the logical procedures performed by other, comparable devices. THAT is different because it solves (sets of) differential equation(s) instead of processing logical procedures. It is a general-purpose analog computer in as far as it can solve any (set of) partial differential equation(s). In doing so, a single THAT is limited by its number of calculating elements. By connecting multiple THATs in ''[[Minion|minion chains]]'', it is possible to implement large analog computer programs involving any number of calculating elements.<br />
<br />
== How can I program THAT? ==<br />
Programming [[analog computer]]s is about modeling change in time. Typically, this process starts by translating change in some dynamic systems into one or more differential equations. These equations are then translated into patterns of wire connections between the analog computing elements on THAT's patch field. These patterns of wire connections are analog computer programs. When a program is run, THAT solves the programmed differential equations and outputs their solutions as time-varying voltages.<br />
<br />
== How can I obtain output from THAT? ==<br />
THAT outputs the solutions of differential equations as time-varying voltages. In control applications, these can be used to drive actuators such as motors or valves. In lab or classroom settings, they are often visualized as graphs using [[oscilloscope]]s or [[plotter]]s. In [[hybrid computing]] (where analog and digital computers work in tandem), analog-to-digital converters and digital-to-analog converters turn time-varying voltages into digital data and vice versa. The simplest way to read the output of your THAT is to connect it to the [[Soundcard|sound card]] of a digital computer which can then be used to visualize the output using digital oscilloscope software and to record, analyze, or otherwise process it.<br />
<br />
== Why do the plugs not go all the way into the patch panel? ==<br />
[[File:Plug depth.jpg|thumb|left|Plugs in the patch panel of THAT.]]<br />
This is one of several unconventional but intentional design moves that make THAT possible and affordable. The 2&nbsp;mm plug cables were originally designed to plug entirely into a corresponding type of gold-plated socket. The unit cost plus mounting of one of these sockets is about USD&nbsp2.00, which would add up significantly for the 186 plug positions on THAT's patch panel. We saved this cost by using an extra-thick top PCB with appropriately-sized, gold-plated through-holes. Since the length of the plugs is greater than the thickness of the PCB, we placed stop-limits below each plug hole to ensure that the small, contact-assuring springs halfway along the length of each plug make reliable contact. The result looks a little unexpected, but it works well and cuts the cost of the overall device by more than half.<br clear="all"><br />
<br />
== With outputs varying between -10V to 10V, how can I use THAT to model quantities smaller or greater than that? ==<br />
Translating patterns of change in dynamic systems into mathematical representations and further into analog computer programs commonly involves the scaling of quantities. Quantities are represented on analog computers in a voltage or current interval with fixed boundaries called the [[Machine Unit]]. On THAT, this interval is -10 V to +10 V. For the sake of simplicity, the [[Machine Unit]] is generally thought of as ± 1, regardless of the actual voltage or current interval of a given analog computer. To model arbitrary quantities on THAT, they can be scaled to make efficient use of the [[Machine Unit]]. [[Output]] can then be converted back to the original scale.<br />
<br />
== How can I use THAT to create useful models of very fast or very slow phenomena? ==<br />
Translating patterns of change in dynamic systems into mathematical representations and further into analog computer programs commonly involves the scaling of speed. THAT allows compressing or stretching the independent variable time by several orders of magnitude. In this way, the instantaneous decay of a volatile compound can be simulated slowly enough for observation and interactive manipulation, while population dynamics occurring over decades or centuries can be simulated in the blink of an eye.<br />
<br />
== What calculating elements are available on THAT? ==<br />
THAT is designed to allow a wide range of interesting applications with a minimal set of analog calculating elements. It offers five [[integrator]]s, four [[summer]]s, four [[inverter]]s, two [[multiplier]]s, and eight [[Coefficients/Potentiometers|coefficient potentiometers]]. In addition, it offers two [[comparator]]s, two precision [[XIR|resistor networks]] as well as [[capacitor]]s, [[diode]]s, and Zener diodes. Where more calculating elements are needed for a particular application, multiple THATs can be connected in [[minion|minion chains]].<br />
<br />
== How precise is THAT? ==<br />
THAT is precise to about three positions after the decimal point, relative to its [[Machine Unit]] (±1). Comparing the precision of analog and digital computers is a bit like comparing apples and oranges. Digital computers handle quantities based on ''counting'' (e.g., “How many siblings do you have?”) as well as quantities based on ''measuring'' (e.g., “What is your body height?”). Analog computers usually handle quantities based on measuring only. Consider this: A bank clerk getting the third decimal place of an interest rate wrong commits a severe error, while a tailor being off by a micrometer when taking a client’s measurements has no such problem. Furthermore, numerical digital computing involves rounding, hence rounding errors, which can add up quickly in iterative loops. Analog computers do not operate numerically and do not round. In this sense, the great precision of today’s digital computers helps minimize a problem that is specific to digital computing. In short, representing quantities as continuous voltages, THAT does not suffer from many issues inherent to binary value representations. While analog computer solutions can be affected by noise and instabilities, the precision of THAT is perfectly appropriate for most analog computer applications.<br />
<br />
== What is a minion chain? ==<br />
THAT is designed to allow an extensive range of applications with a small set of calculating elements. When applications require additional calculating elements, it is possible to link multiple THATs in a "[[Minion|minion chain"]] using their "MASTER" and "MINION" ports. Connecting the MINION port of a THAT to the MASTER port of another THAT with a ribbon cable makes the first THAT the "master" and the second THAT its "minion" so they can work together and share the calculating elements of both devices in the same program. There is no limit to the number of THATs that can be linked in a minion chain.<br />
<br />
== 2+2 ≠ 4? ==<br />
If you wonder why THAT computes something like <code>2+2 = -4</code>, then you need to familiarize yourself with how the [[Components of The Analog Thing]] work. [[Summer]]s on analog computers are typically ''negating''. This means they yield the negative of the sum. This is a convention and needs some getting-used-to. If you like, you can simply feed the summer's output into an [[Inverter]] to obtain the "correct" sign.<br />
<br />
== Are THAT's inputs compatible with (possibly overloaded) outputs from other analog computers with +-15V supply voltage? ==<br />
THAT's inputs are protected by supressor diodes which begin to conduct at about +-20V. It's no problem to connect an output from a +-15V circuit to THAT's inputs. But some inputs will be overloaded if the voltage exceeds about +-11.5V, because THAT's supply voltage is +-12V.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Manual|FAQ]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=The_Analog_Thing_FAQ&diff=873The Analog Thing FAQ2022-01-07T02:12:44Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>This page contains a list of '''frequently asked questions (FAQ)''' about [[The Analog Thing]] (in short ''THAT''). It's a great entry place to learn about THAT.<br />
<br />
== What is analog computing? ==<br />
[[Analog Computer|Analog computing]] is an alternative to digital computing; ideally suited for dynamic systems modeling; ideally suited for neuromorphic AI applications; much more energy-efficient than digital computing; inherently safer than digital computing in the face of cyber threats; a great, hands-on way to learn about maths, engineering and systems; and simply an eye-opening experience.<br />
<br />
== What is THE ANALOG THING? ==<br />
[[The Analog Thing|THE ANALOG THING]] is a high-quality, low-cost, open-source, and not-for-profit cutting-edge analog computer. You can think of it as a kind of [[Raspberry Pi]] that calculates with continuous voltages rather than with zeroes and ones.<br />
<br />
== What is "THAT"? ==<br />
THAT is an abbreviation of [[The Analog Thing|THE ANALOG THING]].<br />
<br />
== Who is the team behind THAT and what is their motivation? ==<br />
THAT is developed and distributed by the German tech start-up company [https://www.anabrid.com anabrid] under the brand name [https://analogparadigm.com Analog Paradigm]. Anabrid is planning to develop an analog computer on-a-chip to diversify today's digital computing monoculture with analog-digital hybrid computing. To support this initiative, anabrid uses its Analog Paradigm brand to promote the often much more efficient and safer analog computing paradigm. THAT is Analog Paradigm's response to the need for education and community activity around analog computing. In contrast to the [https://analogparadigm.com/products.html Analog Paradigm Model 1 analog computer], THAT is small, highly affordable, open-source, and not-for-profit. It is analog computing for the future, for all. Analog Paradigm welcomes community contributions to THAT hardware, accessories and documentation.<br />
<br />
== What can I do with THAT? ==<br />
THAT is typically used to model dynamic systems, i.e., systems that change in time according to some causal relationships. Examples include including market economies, the spread of diseases, population dynamics, chemical reactions, mechanical systems, the firing of neurons, a variety of mathematical attractors, and much more. Technically, THAT solves (sets of) [[differential equation]]s by way of [[Integrator|integration]], and it produces results in the form of graphs representing relationships between dependent and independent variables. If you are not familiar with differential equations, then THAT is an excellent tool to familiarize yourself with them. You can use THAT for a variety of purposes: You can use it to predict in the natural sciences, to control in engineering, to explain in educational settings, to imitate in gaming, or you can use it for the pure joy of it. THAT can help you understand what is (models of), and it can help you bring about what should be (models for). More fundamentally, THAT allows you to explore a non-digital computational paradigm hands-on!<br />
<br />
== What do I need to work with THAT? ==<br />
You need a set of plug cables, which is included with THAT. You also need a [[Power|USB power supply with a USB-C plug]]. Since most people have spare USB power supplies, we decided not to include one with THAT and save the extra cost. You will also need something to read the output of THAT (voltages that change over time), such as a hardware or software [[oscilloscope]]. [[Software Oscilloscopes|Software oscilloscopes]] are software programs that can run on digital desktop or laptop computers and typically read changing voltages through the [[Soundcard|sound card's audio input]] interface. Software oscilloscopes (including free and open source ones) are available for all major operating systems.<br />
<br />
== How does a ''Hello World'' program look like on THAT? ==<br />
[[File:Damped oscillator.png|thumb|left]]<br />
A good first program for "analog beginners" is the modeling of a damped oscillation in an isolated system.<br />
For a detailed explanation see: [[Damped oscillation]]<br />
<br clear="all"><br />
<br />
== Is THAT a general purpose computer? ==<br />
Yes and no. The term general-purpose computer usually describes devices that can be programmed to mimic the logical procedures performed by other, comparable devices. THAT is different because it solves (sets of) differential equation(s) instead of processing logical procedures. It is a general-purpose analog computer in as far as it can solve any (set of) partial differential equation(s). In doing so, a single THAT is limited by its number of calculating elements. By connecting multiple THATs in ''[[Minion|minion chains]]'', it is possible to implement large analog computer programs involving any number of calculating elements.<br />
<br />
== How can I program THAT? ==<br />
Programming [[analog computer]]s is about modeling change in time. Typically, this process starts by translating change in some dynamic systems into one or more differential equations. These equations are then translated into patterns of wire connections between the analog computing elements on THAT's patch field. These patterns of wire connections are analog computer programs. When a program is run, THAT solves the programmed differential equations and outputs their solutions as time-varying voltages.<br />
<br />
== How can I obtain output from THAT? ==<br />
THAT outputs the solutions of differential equations as time-varying voltages. In control applications, these can be used to drive actuators such as motors or valves. In lab or classroom settings, they are often visualized as graphs using [[oscilloscope]]s or [[plotter]]s. In [[hybrid computing]] (where analog and digital computers work in tandem), analog-to-digital converters and digital-to-analog converters turn time-varying voltages into digital data and vice versa. The simplest way to read the output of your THAT is to connect it to the [[Soundcard|sound card]] of a digital computer which can then be used to visualize the output using digital oscilloscope software and to record, analyze, or otherwise process it.<br />
<br />
== Why do the plugs not go all the way into the patch panel? ==<br />
[[File:Plug depth.jpg|thumb|left|Plugs in the patch panel of THAT.]]<br />
This is one of several unconventional but intentional design moves that make THAT possible and affordable. The 2&nbsp;mm plug cables were originally designed to plug entirely into a corresponding type of gold-plated socket. The unit cost plus mounting of one of these sockets is about USD&nbsp2.00, which would add up significantly for the 186 plug positions on THAT's patch panel. We saved this cost by using an extra-thick top PCB with appropriately-sized, gold-plated through-holes. Since the length of the plugs is greater than the thickness of the PCB, we placed stop-limits below each plug hole to ensure that the small, contact-assuring springs halfway along the length of each plug make reliable contact. The result looks a little unexpected, but it works well and cuts the cost of the overall device by more than half.<br clear="all"><br />
<br />
== With outputs varying between -10V to 10V, how can I use THAT to model quantities smaller or greater than that? ==<br />
Translating patterns of change in dynamic systems into mathematical representations and further into analog computer programs commonly involves the scaling of quantities. Quantities are represented on analog computers in a voltage or current interval with fixed boundaries called the [[Machine Unit]]. On THAT, this interval is -10 V to +10 V. For the sake of simplicity, the [[Machine Unit]] is generally thought of as ± 1, regardless of the actual voltage or current interval of a given analog computer. To model arbitrary quantities on THAT, they can be scaled to make efficient use of the [[Machine Unit]]. [[Output]] can then be converted back to the original scale.<br />
<br />
== How can I use THAT to create useful models of very fast or very slow phenomena? ==<br />
Translating patterns of change in dynamic systems into mathematical representations and further into analog computer programs commonly involves the scaling of speed. THAT allows compressing or stretching the independent variable time by several orders of magnitude. In this way, the instantaneous decay of a volatile compound can be simulated slowly enough for observation and interactive manipulation, while population dynamics occurring over decades or centuries can be simulated in the blink of an eye.<br />
<br />
== What calculating elements are available on THAT? ==<br />
THAT is designed to allow a wide range of interesting applications with a minimal set of analog calculating elements. It offers five [[integrator]]s, four [[summer]]s, four [[inverter]]s, two [[multiplier]]s, and eight [[Coefficients/Potentiometers|coefficient potentiometers]]. In addition, it offers two [[comparator]]s, two precision [[XIR|resistor networks]] as well as [[capacitor]]s, [[diode]]s, and Zener diodes. Where more calculating elements are needed for a particular application, multiple THATs can be connected in [[minion|minion chains]].<br />
<br />
== How precise is THAT? ==<br />
THAT is precise to about three positions after the decimal point, relative to its [[Machine Unit]] (±1). Comparing the precision of analog and digital computers is a bit like comparing apples and oranges. Digital computers handle quantities based on ''counting'' (e.g., “How many siblings do you have?”) as well as quantities based on ''measuring'' (e.g., “What is your body height?”). Analog computers usually handle quantities based on measuring only. Consider this: A bank clerk getting the third decimal place of an interest rate wrong commits a severe error, while a tailor being off by a micrometer when taking a client’s measurements has no such problem. Furthermore, numerical digital computing involves rounding, hence rounding errors, which can add up quickly in iterative loops. Analog computers do not operate numerically and do not round. In this sense, the great precision of today’s digital computers helps minimize a problem that is specific to digital computing. In short, representing quantities as continuous voltages THAT does not suffer from many issues inherent to binary value representations. While analog computer solutions can be affected by noise and instabilities, the precision of THAT is perfectly appropriate for most analog computer applications.<br />
<br />
== What is a minion chain? ==<br />
THAT is designed to allow an extensive range of applications with a small set of calculating elements. When applications require additional calculating elements, it is possible to link multiple THATs in a "[[Minion|minion chain"]] using their "MASTER" and "MINION" ports. Connecting the MINION port of a THAT to the MASTER port of another THAT with a ribbon cable makes the first THAT the "master" and the second THAT its "minion" so they can work together and share the calculating elements of both devices in the same program. There is no limit to the number of THATs that can be linked in a minion chain.<br />
<br />
== 2+2 ≠ 4? ==<br />
If you wonder why THAT computes something like <code>2+2 = -4</code>, then you need to familiarize yourself with how the [[Components of The Analog Thing]] work. [[Summer]]s on analog computers are typically ''negating''. This means they yield the negative of the sum. This is a convention and needs some getting-used-to. If you like, you can simply feed the summer's output into an [[Inverter]] to obtain the "correct" sign.<br />
<br />
== Are THAT's inputs compatible with (possibly overloaded) outputs from other analog computers with +-15V supply voltage? ==<br />
THAT's inputs are protected by supressor diodes which begin to conduct at about +-20V. It's no problem to connect an output from a +-15V circuit to THAT's inputs. But some inputs will be overloaded if the voltage exceeds about +-11.5V, because THAT's supply voltage is +-12V.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Manual|FAQ]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=The_Analog_Thing_FAQ&diff=872The Analog Thing FAQ2022-01-07T01:43:07Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>This page contains a list of '''frequently asked questions (FAQ)''' about [[The Analog Thing]] (in short ''THAT''). It's a great entry place to learn about THAT.<br />
<br />
== What is analog computing? ==<br />
[[Analog Computer|Analog computing]] is an alternative to digital computing; ideally suited for dynamic systems modeling; ideally suited for neuromorphic AI applications; much more energy-efficient than digital computing; inherently safer than digital computing in the face of cyber threats; a great, hands-on way to learn about maths, engineering and systems; and simply an eye-opening experience.<br />
<br />
== What is THE ANALOG THING? ==<br />
[[The Analog Thing|THE ANALOG THING]] is a high-quality, low-cost, open-source, and not-for-profit cutting-edge analog computer. You can think of it as a kind of [[Raspberry Pi]] that calculates with continuous voltages rather than with zeroes and ones.<br />
<br />
== What is "THAT"? ==<br />
THAT is an abbreviation of [[The Analog Thing|THE ANALOG THING]].<br />
<br />
== Who is the team behind THAT and what is their motivation? ==<br />
THAT is developed and distributed by the German tech start-up company [https://www.anabrid.com anabrid] under the brand name [https://analogparadigm.com Analog Paradigm]. Anabrid is planning to develop an analog computer on-a-chip to diversify today's digital computing monoculture with analog-digital hybrid computing. To support this initiative, anabrid uses its Analog Paradigm brand to promote the often much more efficient and safer analog computing paradigm. THAT is Analog Paradigm's response to the need for education and community activity around analog computing. In contrast to the [https://analogparadigm.com/products.html Analog Paradigm Model 1 analog computer], THAT is small, highly affordable, open-source, and not-for-profit. It is analog computing for the future, for all. Analog Paradigm welcomes community contributions to THAT hardware, accessories and documentation.<br />
<br />
== What can I do with THAT? ==<br />
THAT is typically used to model dynamic systems, i.e., systems that change in time according to some causal relationships. Examples include including market economies, the spread of diseases, population dynamics, chemical reactions, mechanical systems, the firing of neurons, a variety of mathematical attractors, and much more. Technically, THAT solves (sets of) [[differential equation]]s by way of [[Integrator|integration]], and it produces results in the form of graphs representing relationships between dependent and independent variables. If you are not familiar with differential equations, then THAT is an excellent tool to familiarize yourself with them. You can use THAT for a variety of purposes: You can use it to predict in the natural sciences, to control in engineering, to explain in educational settings, to imitate in gaming, or you can use it for the pure joy of it. THAT can help you understand what is (models of), and it can help you bring about what should be (models for). More fundamentally, THAT allows you to explore a non-digital computational paradigm hands-on!<br />
<br />
== What do I need to work with THAT? ==<br />
You need a set of plug cables, which is included with THAT. You also need a [[Power|USB power supply with a USB-C plug]]. Since most people have spare USB power supplies, we decided not to include one with THAT and save the extra cost. You will also need something to read the output of THAT (voltages that change over time), such as a hardware or software [[oscilloscope]]. [[Software Oscilloscopes|Software oscilloscopes]] are software programs that can run on digital desktop or laptop computers and typically read changing voltages through the [[Soundcard|sound card's audio input]] interface. Software oscilloscopes (including free and open source ones) are available for all major operating systems.<br />
<br />
== How does a ''Hello World'' program look like on THAT? ==<br />
[[File:Damped oscillator.png|thumb|left]]<br />
A good first program for "analog beginners" is the modeling of a damped oscillation in an isolated system.<br />
For a detailed explanation see: [[Damped oscillation]]<br />
<br clear="all"><br />
<br />
== Is THAT a general purpose computer? ==<br />
Yes and no. The term general-purpose computer usually describes devices that can be programmed to mimic the logical procedures performed by other, comparable devices. THAT is different because it solves (sets of) differential equation(s) instead of processing logical procedures. It is a general-purpose analog computer in as far as it can solve any (set of) partial differential equation(s). In doing so, a single THAT is limited by its number of calculating elements. By connecting multiple THATs in ''[[Minion|minion chains]]'', it is possible to implement large analog computer programs involving any number of calculating elements.<br />
<br />
== How can I program THAT? ==<br />
Programming [[analog computer]]s is about modeling change in time. Typically, this process starts by translating change in some dynamic systems into one or more differential equations. These equations are then translated into patterns of wire connections between the analog computing elements on THAT's patch field. These patterns of wire connections are analog computer programs. When a program is run, THAT solves the programmed differential equations and outputs their solutions as time-varying voltages.<br />
<br />
== How can I obtain output from THAT? ==<br />
THAT outputs the solutions of differential equations as time-varying voltages. In control applications, these can be used to drive actuators such as motors or valves. In lab or classroom settings, they are often visualized as graphs using [[oscilloscope]]s or [[plotter]]s. In [[hybrid computing]] (where analog and digital computers work in tandem), analog-to-digital converters and digital-to-analog converters turn time-varying voltages into digital data and vice versa. The simplest way to read the output of your THAT is to connect it to the [[Soundcard|sound card]] of a digital computer which can then be used to visualize the output using digital oscilloscope software and to record, analyze, or otherwise process it.<br />
<br />
== Why do the plugs not go all the way into the patch panel? ==<br />
[[File:Plug depth.jpg|thumb|left|Plugs in the patch panel of THAT.]]<br />
This is one of several unconventional but intentional design moves that make THAT possible and affordable. The 2&nbsp;mm plug cables were originally designed to plug entirely into a corresponding type of gold-plated socket. The unit cost plus mounting of one of these sockets is about USD&nbsp2.00, which would add up significantly for the 186 plug positions on THAT's patch panel. We saved this cost by using an extra-thick top PCB with appropriately-sized, gold-plated through-holes. Since the length of the plugs is greater than the thickness of the PCB, we placed stop-limits below each plug hole to ensure that the small, contact-assuring springs halfway along the length of each plug make reliable contact. The result looks a little unexpected, but it works well and cuts the cost of the overall device by more than half.<br clear="all"><br />
<br />
== With outputs varying between -10V to 10V, how can I use THAT to model quantities smaller or greater than that? ==<br />
Translating patterns of change in dynamic systems into mathematical representations and further into analog computer programs commonly involves the scaling of quantities. Quantities are represented on analog computers in a voltage or current interval with fixed boundaries called the [[Machine Unit]]. On THAT, this interval is -10 V to +10 V. For the sake of simplicity, the [[Machine Unit]] is generally thought of as ± 1, regardless of the actual voltage or current interval of a given analog computer. To model arbitrary quantities on THAT, they can be scaled to make efficient use of the [[Machine Unit]]. [[Output]] can then be converted back to the original scale.<br />
<br />
== How can I use THAT to create useful models of very fast or very slow phenomena? ==<br />
Translating patterns of change in dynamic systems into mathematical representations and further into analog computer programs commonly involves the scaling of speed. THAT allows compressing or stretching the independent variable time by several orders of magnitude. In this way, the instantaneous decay of a volatile compound can be simulated slowly enough for observation and interactive manipulation, while population dynamics occurring over decades or centuries can be simulated in the blink of an eye.<br />
<br />
== What calculating elements are available on THAT? ==<br />
THAT is designed to allow a wide range of interesting applications with a minimal set of analog calculating elements. It offers five [[integrator]]s, four [[summer]]s, four [[inverter]]s, two [[multiplier]]s, and eight [[Coefficients/Potentiometers|coefficient potentiometers]]. In addition, it offers two [[comparator]]s, two precision [[XIR|resistor networks]] as well as [[capacitor]]s, [[diode]]s, and Zener diodes. Where more calculating elements are needed for a particular application, multiple THATs can be connected in [[minion|minion chains]].<br />
<br />
== How precise is THAT? ==<br />
THAT is precise to about three positions after the decimal point, relative to its [[Machine Unit]]. It is important to note that comparing the precision of analog and digital computers is a bit like comparing apples and oranges. Digital computers handle quantities based on ''counting'' (e.g., "how many siblings do you have?") as well as quantities based on ''measuring'' (e.g., what is your body height?"). Most of the time, analog computers handle quantities based on measuring only. Consider this: A bank clerk getting the third decimal place of an interest rate wrong commits a severe error, while a tailor being off by a micrometer when taking a client's measurements has no such problem. Furthermore, numerical digital computing involves rounding, and hence rounding errors which can quickly add up in iterative loops. Analog computers do not operate numerically and do not round. In this sense, the great precision of today's digital computers helps minimize a problem that is specific to digital computing. In short, representing quantities as continuous voltages (or currents), analog computers do not suffer from many problems inherent to binary value representations. While analog computer solutions, too, can exhibit instabilities, etc., the precision of THAT is perfectly appropriate for the vast majority of applications.<br />
<br />
== What is a minion chain? ==<br />
THAT is designed to allow an extensive range of applications with a small set of calculating elements. When applications require additional calculating elements, it is possible to link multiple THATs in a "[[Minion|minion chain"]] using their "MASTER" and "MINION" ports. Connecting the MINION port of a THAT to the MASTER port of another THAT with a ribbon cable makes the first THAT the "master" and the second THAT its "minion" so they can work together and share the calculating elements of both devices in the same program. There is no limit to the number of THATs that can be linked in a minion chain.<br />
<br />
== 2+2 ≠ 4? ==<br />
If you wonder why THAT computes something like <code>2+2 = -4</code>, then you need to familiarize yourself with how the [[Components of The Analog Thing]] work. [[Summer]]s on analog computers are typically ''negating''. This means they yield the negative of the sum. This is a convention and needs some getting-used-to. If you like, you can simply feed the summer's output into an [[Inverter]] to obtain the "correct" sign.<br />
<br />
== Are THAT's inputs compatible with (possibly overloaded) outputs from other analog computers with +-15V supply voltage? ==<br />
THAT's inputs are protected by supressor diodes which begin to conduct at about +-20V. It's no problem to connect an output from a +-15V circuit to THAT's inputs. But some inputs will be overloaded if the voltage exceeds about +-11.5V, because THAT's supply voltage is +-12V.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Manual|FAQ]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=The_Analog_Thing_FAQ&diff=871The Analog Thing FAQ2022-01-07T01:40:35Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>This page contains a list of '''frequently asked questions (FAQ)''' about [[The Analog Thing]] (in short ''THAT''). It's a great entry place to learn about THAT.<br />
<br />
== What is analog computing? ==<br />
[[Analog Computer|Analog computing]] is an alternative to digital computing; ideally suited for dynamic systems modeling; ideally suited for neuromorphic AI applications; much more energy-efficient than digital computing; inherently safer than digital computing in the face of cyber threats; a great, hands-on way to learn about maths, engineering and systems; and simply an eye-opening experience.<br />
<br />
== What is THE ANALOG THING? ==<br />
[[The Analog Thing|THE ANALOG THING]] is a high-quality, low-cost, open-source, and not-for-profit cutting-edge analog computer. You can think of it as a kind of [[Raspberry Pi]] that calculates with continuous voltages rather than with zeroes and ones.<br />
<br />
== What is "THAT"? ==<br />
THAT is an abbreviation of [[The Analog Thing|THE ANALOG THING]].<br />
<br />
== Who is the team behind THAT and what is their motivation? ==<br />
THAT is developed and distributed by the German tech start-up company [https://www.anabrid.com anabrid] under the brand name [https://analogparadigm.com Analog Paradigm]. Anabrid is planning to develop an analog computer on-a-chip to diversify today's digital computing monoculture with analog-digital hybrid computing. To support this initiative, anabrid uses its Analog Paradigm brand to promote the often much more efficient and safer analog computing paradigm. THAT is Analog Paradigm's response to the need for education and community activity around analog computing. In contrast to the [https://analogparadigm.com/products.html Analog Paradigm Model 1 analog computer], THAT is small, highly affordable, open-source, and not-for-profit. It is analog computing for the future, for all. Analog Paradigm welcomes community contributions to THAT hardware, accessories and documentation.<br />
<br />
== What can I do with THAT? ==<br />
THAT is typically used to model dynamic systems, i.e., systems that change in time according to some causal relationships. Examples include including market economies, the spread of diseases, population dynamics, chemical reactions, mechanical systems, the firing of neurons, a variety of mathematical attractors, and much more. Technically, THAT solves (sets of) [[differential equation]]s by way of [[Integrator|integration]], and it produces results in the form of graphs representing relationships between dependent and independent variables. If you are not familiar with differential equations, then THAT is an excellent tool to familiarize yourself with them. You can use THAT for a variety of purposes: You can use it to predict in the natural sciences, to control in engineering, to explain in educational settings, to imitate in gaming, or you can use it for the pure joy of it. THAT can help you understand what is (models of), and it can help you bring about what should be (models for). More fundamentally, THAT allows you to explore a non-digital computational paradigm hands-on!<br />
<br />
== What do I need to work with THAT? ==<br />
You need a set of plug cables, which is included with THAT. You also need a [[Power|USB power supply with a USB-C plug]]. Since most people have spare USB power supplies, we decided not to include one with THAT and save the extra cost. You will also need something to read the output of THAT (voltages that change over time), such as a hardware or software [[oscilloscope]]. [[Software Oscilloscopes|Software oscilloscopes]] are software programs that can run on digital desktop or laptop computers and typically read changing voltages through the [[Soundcard|sound card's audio input]] interface. Software oscilloscopes (including free and open source ones) are available for all major operating systems.<br />
<br />
== How does a ''Hello World'' program look like on THAT? ==<br />
[[File:Damped oscillator.png|thumb|left]]<br />
A good first program for "analog beginners" is the modeling of a damped oscillation in an isolated system.<br />
For a detailed explanation see: [[Damped oscillation]]<br />
<br clear="all"><br />
<br />
== Is THAT a general purpose computer? ==<br />
Yes and no. The term general-purpose computer usually describes devices that can be programmed to mimic the logical procedures performed by other, comparable devices. THAT is different because it solves (sets of) differential equation(s) instead of processing logical procedures. It is a general-purpose analog computer in as far as it can solve any (set of) partial differential equation(s). In doing so, a single THAT is limited by its number of calculating elements. By connecting multiple THATs in ''[[Minion|minion chains]]'', it is possible to implement large analog computer programs involving any number of calculating elements.<br />
<br />
== How can I program THAT? ==<br />
Programming [[analog computer]]s is about modeling change in time. Typically, this process starts by translating change in some dynamic systems into one or more differential equations. These equations are then translated into patterns of wire connections between the analog computing elements on THAT's patch field. These patterns of wire connections are analog computer programs. When a program is run, THAT solves the programmed differential equations and outputs their solutions as time-varying voltages.<br />
<br />
== How can I obtain output from THAT? ==<br />
THAT outputs the solutions of differential equations as time-varying voltages. In control applications, these can be used to drive actuators such as motors or valves. In lab or classroom settings, they are often visualized as graphs using [[oscilloscope]]s or [[plotter]]s. In [[hybrid computing]] (where analog and digital computers work in tandem), analog-to-digital converters and digital-to-analog converters turn time-varying voltages into digital data and vice versa. The simplest way to read the output of your THAT is to connect it to the [[Soundcard|sound card]] of a digital computer which can then be used to visualize the output using digital oscilloscope software and to record, analyze, or otherwise process it.<br />
<br />
== Why do the plugs not go all the way into the patch panel? ==<br />
[[File:Plug depth.jpg|thumb|left|Plugs in the patch panel of THAT.]]<br />
This is one of several unconventional but intentional design moves that make THAT possible and affordable. The 2&nbsp;mm plug cables were originally designed to plug entirely into a corresponding type of gold-plated socket. The unit cost plus mounting of one of these sockets is about USD&nbsp;2.00. For the 186 plug positions on THAT's patch panel, this would add up significantly. We saved this cost by using an extra-thick top PCB with appropriately-sized, gold-plated through-holes. Since the length of the plugs is greater than the thickness of the PCB, we placed stop-limits below each plug hole to ensure that the small, contact-assuring springs half-way along the length of each plug make reliable contact. The result looks a little unexpected, but it works well and cuts the cost of the overall device by more than half.<br clear="all"><br />
<br />
== With outputs varying between -10V to 10V, how can I use THAT to model quantities smaller or greater than that? ==<br />
Translating patterns of change in dynamic systems into mathematical representations and further into analog computer programs commonly involves the scaling of quantities. Quantities are represented on analog computers in a voltage or current interval with fixed boundaries called the [[Machine Unit]]. On THAT, this interval is -10 V to +10 V. For the sake of simplicity, the [[Machine Unit]] is generally thought of as ± 1, regardless of the actual voltage or current interval of a given analog computer. To model arbitrary quantities on THAT, they can be scaled to make efficient use of the [[Machine Unit]]. [[Output]] can then be converted back to the original scale.<br />
<br />
== How can I use THAT to create useful models of very fast or very slow phenomena? ==<br />
Translating patterns of change in dynamic systems into mathematical representations and further into analog computer programs commonly involves the scaling of speed. THAT allows compressing or stretching the independent variable time by several orders of magnitude. In this way, the instantaneous decay of a volatile compound can be simulated slowly enough for observation and interactive manipulation, while population dynamics occurring over decades or centuries can be simulated in the blink of an eye.<br />
<br />
== What calculating elements are available on THAT? ==<br />
THAT is designed to allow a wide range of interesting applications with a minimal set of analog calculating elements. It offers five [[integrator]]s, four [[summer]]s, four [[inverter]]s, two [[multiplier]]s, and eight [[Coefficients/Potentiometers|coefficient potentiometers]]. In addition, it offers two [[comparator]]s, two precision [[XIR|resistor networks]] as well as [[capacitor]]s, [[diode]]s, and Zener diodes. Where more calculating elements are needed for a particular application, multiple THATs can be connected in [[minion|minion chains]].<br />
<br />
== How precise is THAT? ==<br />
THAT is precise to about three positions after the decimal point, relative to its [[Machine Unit]]. It is important to note that comparing the precision of analog and digital computers is a bit like comparing apples and oranges. Digital computers handle quantities based on ''counting'' (e.g., "how many siblings do you have?") as well as quantities based on ''measuring'' (e.g., what is your body height?"). Most of the time, analog computers handle quantities based on measuring only. Consider this: A bank clerk getting the third decimal place of an interest rate wrong commits a severe error, while a tailor being off by a micrometer when taking a client's measurements has no such problem. Furthermore, numerical digital computing involves rounding, and hence rounding errors which can quickly add up in iterative loops. Analog computers do not operate numerically and do not round. In this sense, the great precision of today's digital computers helps minimize a problem that is specific to digital computing. In short, representing quantities as continuous voltages (or currents), analog computers do not suffer from many problems inherent to binary value representations. While analog computer solutions, too, can exhibit instabilities, etc., the precision of THAT is perfectly appropriate for the vast majority of applications.<br />
<br />
== What is a minion chain? ==<br />
THAT is designed to allow an extensive range of applications with a small set of calculating elements. When applications require additional calculating elements, it is possible to link multiple THATs in a "[[Minion|minion chain"]] using their "MASTER" and "MINION" ports. Connecting the MINION port of a THAT to the MASTER port of another THAT with a ribbon cable makes the first THAT the "master" and the second THAT its "minion" so they can work together and share the calculating elements of both devices in the same program. There is no limit to the number of THATs that can be linked in a minion chain.<br />
<br />
== 2+2 ≠ 4? ==<br />
If you wonder why THAT computes something like <code>2+2 = -4</code>, then you need to familiarize yourself with how the [[Components of The Analog Thing]] work. [[Summer]]s on analog computers are typically ''negating''. This means they yield the negative of the sum. This is a convention and needs some getting-used-to. If you like, you can simply feed the summer's output into an [[Inverter]] to obtain the "correct" sign.<br />
<br />
== Are THAT's inputs compatible with (possibly overloaded) outputs from other analog computers with +-15V supply voltage? ==<br />
THAT's inputs are protected by supressor diodes which begin to conduct at about +-20V. It's no problem to connect an output from a +-15V circuit to THAT's inputs. But some inputs will be overloaded if the voltage exceeds about +-11.5V, because THAT's supply voltage is +-12V.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Manual|FAQ]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=File:THAT04110.tiff&diff=661File:THAT04110.tiff2021-10-28T10:07:58Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div></div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=File:THAT04072_2.tiff&diff=660File:THAT04072 2.tiff2021-10-28T10:06:15Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div></div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=File:Hand_holding_THAT.tiff&diff=658File:Hand holding THAT.tiff2021-10-28T09:55:25Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div></div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=The_Analog_Thing_FAQ&diff=561The Analog Thing FAQ2021-09-20T06:53:11Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>This page contains a list of '''frequently asked questions (FAQ)''' about [[The Analog Thing]] (in short ''THAT''). It's a great entry place to learn about THAT.<br />
<br />
== What is analog computing? ==<br />
[[Analog Computer|Analog computing]] is an alternative to digital computing; ideally suited for dynamic systems modeling; ideally suited for neuromorphic AI applications; much more energy-efficient than digital computing; inherently safer than digital computing in the face of cyber threats; a great, hands-on way to learn about maths, engineering and systems; and simply an eye-opening experience.<br />
<br />
== What is THE ANALOG THING? ==<br />
[[The Analog Thing|THE ANALOG THING]] is a high-quality, low-cost, open-source, and not-for-profit cutting-edge analog computer. You can think of it as a kind of [[Raspberry Pi]] that calculates with continuous voltages rather than with zeroes and ones.<br />
<br />
== What is "THAT"? ==<br />
THAT is an abbreviation of [[The Analog Thing|THE ANALOG THING]].<br />
<br />
== Who is the team behind THAT and what is their motivation? ==<br />
THAT is developed and distributed by the German tech start-up company [https://www.anabrid.com anabrid] under the brand name [https://analogparadigm.com Analog Paradigm]. Anabrid is planning to develop an analog computer on-a-chip to diversify today's digital computing monoculture with analog-digital hybrid computing. To support this initiative, anabrid uses its Analog Paradigm brand to promote the often much more efficient and safer analog computing paradigm. THAT is Analog Paradigm's response to the need for education and community activity around analog computing. In contrast to the [https://analogparadigm.com/products.html Analog Paradigm Model 1 analog computer], THAT is small, highly affordable, open-source, and not-for-profit. It is analog computing for the future, for all. Analog Paradigm welcomes community contributions to THAT hardware, accessories and documentation.<br />
<br />
== What can I do with THAT? ==<br />
THAT is typically used to model dynamic systems, i.e., systems that change in time according to some causal relationships. Examples include including market economies, the spread of diseases, population dynamics, chemical reactions, mechanical systems, the firing of neurons, a variety of mathematical attractors, and much more. Technically, THAT solves (sets of) [[differential equation]]s by way of [[Integrator|integration]], and it produces results in the form of graphs representing relationships between dependent and independent variables. If you are not familiar with differential equations, then THAT is an excellent tool to familiarize yourself with them. You can use THAT for a variety of purposes: You can use it to predict in the natural sciences, to control in engineering, to explain in educational settings, to imitate in gaming, or you can use it for the pure joy of it. THAT can help you understand what is (models of), and it can help you bring about what should be (models for). More fundamentally, THAT allows you to explore a non-digital computational paradigm hands-on!<br />
<br />
== What do I need to work with THAT? ==<br />
You need a set of plug cables, which is included with THAT. You also need a [[Power|USB power supply with a USB-C plug]]. Since most people have spare USB power supplies, we decided not to include one with THAT and save the extra cost. You will also need something to read the output of THAT (voltages that change over time), such as a hardware or software [[oscilloscope]]. [[Software Oscilloscopes|Software oscilloscopes]] are software programs that can run on digital desktop or laptop computers and typically read changing voltages through the [[Soundcard|sound card's audio input]] interface. Software oscilloscopes (including free and open source ones) are available for all major operating systems.<br />
<br />
== How does a ''Hello World'' program look like on THAT? ==<br />
{{todo|write me!}}<br />
<br />
== Is THAT a general purpose computer? ==<br />
Yes and no. The term general-purpose computer usually describes devices that can be programmed to mimic the logical procedures performed by other, comparable devices. THAT is different because it solves (sets of) differential equation(s) instead of processing logical procedures. It is a general-purpose analog computer in as far as it can solve any (set of) partial differential equation(s). In doing so, a single THAT is limited by its number of calculating elements. By connecting multiple THATs in ''[[Minion|minion chains]]'', it is possible to implement large analog computer programs involving any number of calculating elements.<br />
<br />
== How can I program THAT? ==<br />
Programming [[analog computer]]s is about modeling change in time. Typically, this process starts by translating change in some dynamic systems into one or more differential equations. These equations are then translated into patterns of wire connections between the analog computing elements on THAT's patch field. These patterns of wire connections are analog computer programs. When a program is run, THAT solves the programmed differential equations and outputs their solutions as time-varying voltages.<br />
<br />
== How can I obtain output from THAT? ==<br />
THAT outputs the solutions of differential equations as time-varying voltages. In control applications, these can be used to drive actuators such as motors or valves. In lab or classroom settings, they are often visualized as graphs using [[oscilloscope]]s or [[plotter]]s. In [[hybrid computing]] (where analog and digital computers work in tandem), analog-to-digital converters and digital-to-analog converters turn time-varying voltages into digital data and vice versa. The simplest way to read the output of your THAT is to connect it to the [[Soundcard|sound card]] of a digital computer which can then be used to visualize the output using digital oscilloscope software and to record, analyze, or otherwise process it.<br />
<br />
== Why do the plugs not go all the way into the patch panel? ==<br />
[[File:Plug depth.jpg|thumb|left|Plugs in the patch panel of THAT.]]<br />
This is one of several unconventional but intentional design moves that make THAT possible and affordable. The 2&nbsp;mm plug cables are intended by its supplier for use with a particular kind of gold-plated socket. One of these sockets costs close to one USD. Mounting it on a printed circuit board (PCB) costs close to another USD. There are 186 plug holes on THAT's patch panel. We saved all of that cost by using an extra-thick top PCB and having appropriately-sized through-holes gold-plated. Since the top PCB is less thick than the plugs are long, and since the plugs have small, contact-assuring springs half-way along their length, there are stop-limits below each plug hole to ensure good contacts. The result looks a little unexpected, works just as well and cuts the cost of the overall device by more than half.<br clear="all"><br />
<br />
== With outputs varying between -10V to 10V, how can I use THAT to model quantities smaller or greater than that? ==<br />
Translating patterns of change in dynamic systems into mathematical representations and further into analog computer programs commonly involves the scaling of quantities. Quantities are represented on analog computers in a voltage or current interval with fixed boundaries called the [[Machine Unit]]. On THAT, this interval is -10 V to +10 V. For the sake of simplicity, the [[Machine Unit]] is generally thought of as ± 1, regardless of the actual voltage or current interval of a given analog computer. To model arbitrary quantities on THAT, they can be scaled to make efficient use of the [[Machine Unit]]. [[Output]] can then be converted back to the original scale.<br />
<br />
== How can I use THAT to create useful models of very fast or very slow phenomena? ==<br />
Translating patterns of change in dynamic systems into mathematical representations and further into analog computer programs commonly involves the scaling of speed. THAT allows compressing or stretching the independent variable time by several orders of magnitude. In this way, the instantaneous decay of a volatile compound can be simulated slowly enough for observation and interactive manipulation, while population dynamics occurring over decades or centuries can be simulated in the blink of an eye.<br />
<br />
== What calculating elements are available on THAT? ==<br />
THAT is designed to allow a wide range of interesting applications with a minimal set of analog calculating elements. It offers five [[integrator]]s, four [[summer]]s, four [[inverter]]s, two [[multiplier]]s, and eight [[Coefficients/Potentiometers|coefficient potentiometers]]. In addition, it offers four [[comparator]]s, four precision [[XIR|resistor networks]] as well as [[capacitor]]s, [[diode]]s, and Zener diodes. Where more calculating elements are needed for a particular application, multiple THATs can be connected in [[minion|minion chains]].<br />
<br />
== How precise is THAT? ==<br />
THAT is precise to about three positions after the decimal point, relative to its [[Machine Unit]]. It is important to note that comparing the precision of analog and digital computers is a bit like comparing apples and oranges. Digital computers handle quantities based on ''counting'' (e.g., "how many siblings do you have?") as well as quantities based on ''measuring'' (e.g., what is your body height?"). Most of the time, analog computers handle quantities based on measuring only. Consider this: A bank clerk getting the third decimal place of an interest rate wrong commits a severe error, while a tailor being off by a micrometer when taking a client's measurements has no such problem. Furthermore, numerical digital computing involves rounding, and hence rounding errors which can quickly add up in iterative loops. Analog computers do not operate numerically and do not round. In this sense, the great precision of today's digital computers helps minimize a problem that is specific to digital computing. In short, representing quantities as continuous voltages (or currents), analog computers do not suffer from many problems inherent to binary value representations. While analog computer solutions, too, can exhibit instabilities, etc., the precision of THAT is perfectly appropriate for the vast majority of applications.<br />
<br />
== What is a minion chain? ==<br />
THAT is designed to allow an extensive range of applications with a small set of calculating elements. When applications require additional calculating elements, it is possible to link multiple THATs in a "[[Minion|minion chain"]] using their "MASTER" and "MINION" ports. Connecting the MINION port of a THAT to the MASTER port of another THAT with a ribbon cable makes the first THAT the "master" and the second THAT its "minion" so they can work together and share the calculating elements of both devices in the same program. There is no limit to the number of THATs that can be linked in a minion chain.<br />
<br />
== 2+2 ≠ 4? ==<br />
If you wonder why THAT computes something like <code>2+2 = -4</code>, then you need to familiarize yourself with how the [[Components of The Analog Thing]] work. [[Summer]]s on analog computers are typically ''negating''. This means they yield the negative of the sum. This is a convention and needs some getting-used-to. If you like, you can simply feed the summer's output into an [[Inverter]] to obtain the "correct" sign.<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Category:Manual|FAQ]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Main_Page&diff=556Main Page2021-09-14T14:28:56Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Promo_1.jpg|thumb|A prototype of [[The Analog Thing]] with a program on its patch panel.]]<br />
[[File:Analog Thing with child.jpg|thumb|The Analog Thing is a nifty educational toy!]]<br />
<br />
This [[wiki:Wiki|Wiki]] contains documentation about '''[[The Analog Thing]]''' (or ''THAT'' for short), an affordable [[Open Source]] [[Analog Computer]] with a focus on education, hobbyists, programmers, scientists and everybody interested in non-traditional computing architectures. THAT can be assembled/recreated by anybody with a suitable background in electronics and some experience in soldering SMD components or purchased from [[anabrid]]. To learn more about THAT, please take a look at [[The Analog Thing FAQ]].<br />
<br />
We already have around [[Special:Statistics|{{NUMBEROFPAGES}} pages]] edited in total {{NUMBEROFEDITS}} times by {{NUMBEROFUSERS}} active users. We also have already {{NUMBEROFFILES}} uploaded files which consume [[Special:MediaStatistics|around 30MB]].<br />
<br />
== What's in there? ==<br />
The main entry points for this site document [[Hardware]], [[Software]] and [[Applications]].<br />
<br />
Here is the category tree resembling a ''manual'':<br />
<categorytree mode="pages">Manual</categorytree><br />
<br />
== Contribute! ==<br />
This wiki contains documentation of '''[[The Analog Thing]]''' and content created by the (growing) community of users. Contributions are welcome and much appreciated! There is no prescribed structure and you can just start adding your content. A decent amount of moderation is applied by [[Special:ListUsers|the active users]], but we invite you to [[Special:CreateAccount|create an account]] and start sharing your ideas and projects. As old versions of every page are automatically saved there is not much that could go wrong. This makes it easy to undo mistakes.<br />
<br />
If you look for places to start, look for ''red links'' (here is a [[Special:WantedPages|list of most wanted pages]]), for pages [[:Category:Page with at least one "To Do" marker|with "TODO" markers]] or [[:Category:Pages with at least one unknown fact to fill in|with missing facts]]. There is also a page [[TheAnalogThing:About|explaining this very wiki itself]] which might be of interest.</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Main_Page&diff=555Main Page2021-09-14T14:28:40Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Promo_1.jpg|thumb|A prototype of [[The Analog Thing]] with a program on its patch panel.]]<br />
[[File:Analog Thing with child.jpg|thumb|The Analog Thing is a nifty educational toy!]]<br />
<br />
This [[wiki:Wiki|Wiki]] contains documentation about '''[[The Analog Thing]]''' (or ''THAT'' for short), an affordable [[Open Source]] [[Analog Computer]] with a focus on education, hobbyists, programmers, scientists and everybody interested in non-traditional computing architectures. THAT can be assembled/recreated by anybody with a suitable background in electronics and some experience in soldering SMD components or purchasedfrom [[anabrid]]. To learn more about THAT, please take a look at [[The Analog Thing FAQ]].<br />
<br />
We already have around [[Special:Statistics|{{NUMBEROFPAGES}} pages]] edited in total {{NUMBEROFEDITS}} times by {{NUMBEROFUSERS}} active users. We also have already {{NUMBEROFFILES}} uploaded files which consume [[Special:MediaStatistics|around 30MB]].<br />
<br />
== What's in there? ==<br />
The main entry points for this site document [[Hardware]], [[Software]] and [[Applications]].<br />
<br />
Here is the category tree resembling a ''manual'':<br />
<categorytree mode="pages">Manual</categorytree><br />
<br />
== Contribute! ==<br />
This wiki contains documentation of '''[[The Analog Thing]]''' and content created by the (growing) community of users. Contributions are welcome and much appreciated! There is no prescribed structure and you can just start adding your content. A decent amount of moderation is applied by [[Special:ListUsers|the active users]], but we invite you to [[Special:CreateAccount|create an account]] and start sharing your ideas and projects. As old versions of every page are automatically saved there is not much that could go wrong. This makes it easy to undo mistakes.<br />
<br />
If you look for places to start, look for ''red links'' (here is a [[Special:WantedPages|list of most wanted pages]]), for pages [[:Category:Page with at least one "To Do" marker|with "TODO" markers]] or [[:Category:Pages with at least one unknown fact to fill in|with missing facts]]. There is also a page [[TheAnalogThing:About|explaining this very wiki itself]] which might be of interest.</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=The_Analog_Thing&diff=554The Analog Thing2021-09-13T09:30:20Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Cta bg.jpg|thumb|A closeup of a THAT in [[Minion]] mode with [[Oscilloscope]] probes attached.]]<br />
'''The Analog Thing''' (abbreviated as ''THAT'') is a high-quality, low-cost, open-source, and not-for-profit cutting-edge analog computer analog computer developed by [[anabrid]] under the brand Analog Paradigm for educational and recreational purposes. THAT will be available for sale at a net cost price of around €300. The component list, circuit diagrams and circuit board layouts of THAT are all Open Source. Information on how to build THAT from scratch and how to operate it can be found on this wiki.<br />
<br />
== Version 1.0: Specifications and Photos ==<br />
The prototype consists of two main parts: A top PCB with gold-plated through-hole sockets suitable for<br />
2&nbsp;mm patch cables, and a base PCB, which contains the main electronic circuitry, the <br />
manual controls and ports for external connectivity. A [[Panel Meter]] mounted in the top PCB can be used to display coefficient values and, when the device is set to the repetitive operation mode, its operation time.<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:Promo 1.jpg|A first glance<br />
File:Front Board v1.0.jpg|Front board v1.0<br />
File:Base Board v1.0 patched.jpg|Base board v1.0<br />
File:Test Circuit closeup v1.0.jpg|Close-up of a test circuit<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
== Schematics ==<br />
The schematics for the base board are [[Open Source]] and can be found here: <br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:anathing_v1.0_base_1.pdf|BASE part 1<br />
File:anathing_v1.0_base_2.pdf|BASE part 2<br />
File:anathing_v1.0_base_3.pdf|BASE part 3<br />
File:anathing_v1.0_base_4.pdf|BASE part 4<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
The schematic of the FRONT PCB can be found here:<br />
<br />
<gallery><br />
File:anathing_v1.0_front.pdf|FRONT<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
== Instructions and further reading ==<br />
<br />
* [[Assembly instructions]]<br />
* [[Testing]] instructions<br />
* [[Components of The Analog Thing]]<br />
* [[The Analog Thing FAQ]]<br />
<br />
[[Category:Manual]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Panel_Meter&diff=553Panel Meter2021-09-12T12:31:26Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Voltmeter.png|thumb|Illustration of the display, showing the value <code>0.314</code>]]<br />
<br />
The '''panel meter''' is the LCD display unit located in the lower right on the upper PCB.<br />
<br />
== Usage ==<br />
Depending on the position of the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob, the '''panel meter''' is used to monitor either values or OP-TIMEs (operation times):<br />
<br />
=== Monitoring Values ===<br />
With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>COEFF</code>, <code>MINION</code>, <code>IC</code>, <code>OP</code> or <code>HALT</code> positions, the panel meter displays values numerically in the unit range -1 to 1.<br />
<br />
* With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>COEFF</code> position, the panel meter displays the output value of the <code>COEFF</code> potentiometer selected using the <code>COEFFICIENT SELECTOR</code>. This allows setting the values of coefficient potentiometers to their desired values.<br />
* With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>MINION</code>, <code>IC</code>, <code>OP</code> or <code>HALT</code> positions, the panel meter displays the value patched into the <code>U</code> socket in the <code>OUTPUT JACKS</code> section. This allows monitoring the values of arbitrary positions on the patch panel.<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Monitoring OP-TIMEs ===<br />
With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>REP</code> or <code>REPF</code> positions, the panel meter displays the current <code>OP TIME</code>, which can be changed by turning the <code>OP-TIME POTENTIOMETER</code>.<br />
<br />
* With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>REP</code> position (i.e., in repeat mode), the <code>OP TIME</code> is shown in the 0 to 10 second range.<br />
* With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>REPF</code> position (i.e., in repeat fast mode), the <code>OP TIME</code> is shown in the 0 to 100 millisecond range.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Components of The Analog Thing]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=File:Whatif.jpg&diff=552File:Whatif.jpg2021-09-12T06:00:24Z<p>Tfischer: THAT teaser 1</p>
<hr />
<div>== Summary ==<br />
THAT teaser 1</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Power&diff=551Power2021-09-10T03:28:43Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:USB Type-A plug coloured.svg|thumb|USB-A connector]]<br />
<br />
The '''Power specitification''' for [[The Analog Thing]] is rather simple: Any standard USB power supply should do. The power demand is really minimal, the integrated DC-DC power supply (TBA 2-0522) can convert 2W of power from 5 VDC to 12 VDC. See [[Machine Units]] for details. For the schematics about power supply in the computer, see [[:File:Anathing v1.0 base 1.pdf]].<br />
<br />
Note that the USB connector is currently of ''Type A'', which is quite unusual for ''client-like'' (non USB host) devices. This will probably change in the future.<br />
<br />
Also note that USB is adopted ''only'' for power and no data transfer at all. The Analog Thing is analog and a USB communication would require the presence of a digital computer (such as a [[microcontroller]]) within the Analog Thing.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Components of The Analog Thing]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Panel_Meter&diff=522Panel Meter2021-08-30T04:26:20Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Voltmeter.png|thumb|Illustration of the display, showing the value <code>0.314</code>]]<br />
<br />
The '''panel meter''' is the LCD display unit located in the lower right on the upper PCB.<br />
<br />
== Usage ==<br />
Depending on the position of the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob, the '''panel meter''' is used to monitor either values or OP-TIMEs (operation times):<br />
<br />
=== Monitoring Values ===<br />
With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>COEFF</code>, <code>MINION</code>, <code>IC</code>, <code>OP</code> or <code>HALT</code> positions, the panel meter displays values numerically in the unit range -1 to 1.<br />
<br />
* With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>COEFF</code> position, the panel meter displays the output value of the <code>COEFFICIENT POTENTIOMETER</code> selected using the <code>COEFFICIENT SELECTOR</code>. This allows setting the values of coefficient potentiometers to their desired values.<br />
* With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>MINION</code>, <code>IC</code>, <code>OP</code> or <code>HALT</code> positions, the panel meter displays the value patched into the <code>U</code> socket in the <code>OUTPUT JACKS</code> section. This allows monitoring the values of arbitrary positions on the patch panel.<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Monitoring OP-TIMEs ===<br />
With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>REP</code> or <code>REPF</code> positions, the panel meter displays the current <code>OP TIME</code>, which can be changed by turning the <code>OP-TIME POTENTIOMETER</code>.<br />
<br />
* With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>REP</code> position (i.e., in repeat mode), the <code>OP TIME</code> is shown in the 0 to 10 second range.<br />
* With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>REPF</code> position (i.e., in repeat fast mode), the <code>OP TIME</code> is shown in the 0 to 100 millisecond range.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Components of The Analog Thing]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Machine_Unit&diff=521Machine Unit2021-08-30T04:22:57Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>THAT can compute values in the range from -1 to 1. In most applications, this requires users to ''scale'' programs such that their values to fit into this range. THAT represents this unit range -1 to 1 with voltages ranging from -10V to 10V. This voltage range is called the '''machine unit'''.<br />
<br />
To understand the need for these scale conversions, consider that users want to model values at any scale while THAT is limited to its modest physical boundaries. Modeling the dynamics of the global human population (currently around 7.9 Billion) should obviously not require 7.9 Billion volts. The population value needs to be scaled to fit into the unit range -1 to 1 and into the machine unit -10v to 10V. The global population might, for example, be represented as 0.79, i.e., 7.9V. <br />
<br />
Good scaling results in programs that use large portions of the machine unit without exceeding it. Using only small portions of the machine unit reduces computational precision - much in the way in which weighing small amounts of cooking ingredients on a scale intended for people would not be very precise. Exceeding the machine unit leads to meaningless results - much in the way in which weighing a person on a kitchen scale would.<br />
<br />
The use of the -10V to +10V range as the machine unit is an engineering choice. This range happens to be a very good choice because it allows for easy conversions in the decimal number system, it can be handled very precisely using affordable electronic components, and it is safe for humans.<br />
<br />
When any value in a program exceeds the machine unit, the red <code>OL</code> (overload) LED lights up. This is not dangerous for the device. However, in this condition, THAT will likely "clip" voltages exceeding the machine unit such that the affected values will no longer be computationally correct.<br />
<br />
Output signals available via the RCA (or "chinch") jacks on the device's backside are not in the machine unit. Instead, they are attenuated to smaller audio signal levels to conveniently be read into software [[oscilloscope]]s via sound card interfaces.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Hardware]]<br />
[[Category:Fundamentals]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Coefficients/Potentiometers&diff=520Coefficients/Potentiometers2021-08-30T04:20:26Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''Coefficients''' are quantitative parameters that enter analog computations. [[The Analog Thing]] features eight coefficient potentiometers, allowing the use of up to eight coefficients in an analog program on a single THAT. Using the potentiometers, each coefficient can be set to any value between <code>0</code> and <code>+1</code>. An input to a coefficient potentiometer is multiplied by the value the coefficient potentiometer is set to such that their output is given by <code>output = coefficient * input</code>.<br />
<br />
Several sections of the THAT user interface relate to the use of coefficient potentiometers, as shown in Figure 1:<br />
<br />
* The <code>COEFFICIENTS</code> section. This is the area labelled <code>COEFF</code> on your THAT. It contains the input and output sockets for the coefficient potentiometers.<br />
* The <code>COEFFICIENT POTENTIOMETERS</code> section. It contains the eight rotary knobs by which coefficients can be set.<br />
* The <code>MODE SELECTOR</code>.<br />
* The <code>COEFFICIENT SELECTOR</code>. It is used to select the coefficient value to display on the <code>PANEL METER</code> when the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> is in the <code>COEFF</code> position.<br />
* The <code>PANEL METER</code>.<br />
<br />
To familiarize yourself with the use of coefficient potentiometers, follow these steps:<br />
<br />
# Set the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> to position <code>COEFF</code> and set the <code>COEFFICIENT SELECTOR</code> to position <code>1</code>. This connects the output of potentiometer <code>COEFF 1</code> to the <code>PANEL METER</code>.<br />
# Use a patch cable to connect one of the <code>+1</code> sockets in the <code> STABILIZED &#177;1</code> section to the input (circle) associated with potentiometer <code>COEFF 1</code> in the <code>COEFFICIENTS</code> section (i.e., the uppermost circled socket in the section labelled <code>COEFF</code> on your THAT).<br />
# Change the position of the <code>COEFF 1</code> knob in the <code>COEFFICIENT POTENTIOMETERS</code> section and observe the value displayed on the <code>PANEL METER</code>. The displayed value is available at the output (triangle) associated with potentiometer <code>COEFF 1</code> in the <code>COEFFICIENT</code> section.<br />
# Remove the patch cable plug from the <code>+1</code> socket in the <code> STABILIZED &#177;1</code> section and plug it into one of the <code>-1</code> sockets in in the <code> STABILIZED &#177;1</code>.<br />
# Again, change the position of the <code>COEFF 1</code> knob in the potentiometer section and observe the value displayed on the <code>PANEL METER</code>.<br />
# Set the <code>COEFFICIENT SELECTOR</code> to any one of the other potentiometers (say, 4).<br />
# Use a patch cable to connect either of the <code>-1</code> sockets in the <code> STABILIZED &#177;1</code> with the input (circle) associated with the with the coefficient potentiometer you have chosen using the <code>COEFFICIENT SELECTOR</code> (say, 4).<br />
# Change the position of the coefficient potentiometer knob associated with the coefficient you have chosen using the <code>COEFFICIENT SELECTOR</code> (say, 4) and again observe the value displayed on the <code>PANEL METER</code>.<br />
<br />
[[File:THAT_legend_potentiometers_s.png|thumb|left|800px|Figure 1: Parts of the THAT user interface that relate to the familiarization steps described above]]<br />
<br />
[[Category:Components of The Analog Thing]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Panel_Meter&diff=519Panel Meter2021-08-30T04:17:37Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Voltmeter.png|thumb|Illustration of the display, showing the value <code>0.314</code>]]<br />
<br />
The '''panel meter''' is the LCD display unit located in the lower right on the upper PCB.<br />
<br />
== Usage ==<br />
Depending on the position of the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob, the '''panel meter''' is used to monitor either values or OP-TIMEs (operation times):<br />
<br />
=== Monitoring Values ===<br />
With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>COEFF</code>, <code>MINION</code>, <code>IC</code>, <code>OP</code> or <code>HALT</code> positions, the panel meter displays values numerically in the unit range -1 to 1.<br />
<br />
* With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>COEFF</code> position, the panel meter displays the output value of the <code>COEFFICIENT POTENTIOMETER</code> selected using the <code>COEFFICIENT SELECTOR</code>. This allows setting the values of coefficient potentiometers to their desired values.<br />
* With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>MINION</code>, <code>IC</code>, <code>OP</code> or <code>HALT</code> positions, the panel meter displays the value patched into the <code>U</code> socket in the <code>OUTPUT JACKS</code> section. This allows monitoring the values of arbitrary positions on the patch panel.<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Monitoring OP-TIMEs ===<br />
With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>REP</code> or <code>REPF</code> positions, the panel meter displays the current <code>OP TIME</code>, which can be changed by turning the <code>OP-TIME potentiometer</code>.<br />
<br />
* With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>REP</code> position (i.e., in repeat mode), the <code>OP TIME</code> is shown in the 0 to 10 second range.<br />
* With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>REPF</code> position (i.e., in repeat fast mode), the <code>OP TIME</code> is shown in the 0 to 100 millisecond range.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Components of The Analog Thing]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Panel_Meter&diff=518Panel Meter2021-08-30T04:16:02Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Voltmeter.png|thumb|Illustration of the display, showing the value <code>0.314</code>]]<br />
<br />
The '''panel meter''' is the LCD display unit located in the lower right on the upper PCB.<br />
<br />
== Usage ==<br />
Depending on the position of the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob, the '''panel meter''' is used to monitor either values or OP-TIMEs (operation times):<br />
<br />
=== Monitoring Values ===<br />
With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>COEFF</code>, <code>MINION</code>, <code>IC</code>, <code>OP</code> or <code>HALT</code> positions, the panel meter displays values numerically in the unit range -1 to 1.<br />
<br />
* With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>COEFF</code> position, the panel meter displays the output value of the <code>COEFFICIENT POTENTIOMETER</code> selected using the <code>COEFFICIENT SELECTOR</code>. This allows setting the values of coefficient potentiometers to their desired values.<br />
* With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>MINION</code>, <code>IC</code>, <code>OP</code> or <code>HALT</code> positions, the panel meter displays the value patched into the <code>u</code> socket in the <code>OUTPUT JACKS</code> section. This allows monitoring the values of arbitrary positions on the patch panel.<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Monitoring OP-TIMEs ===<br />
With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>REP</code> or <code>REPF</code> positions, the panel meter displays the current <code>OP TIME</code>, which can be changed by turning the <code>OP-TIME potentiometer</code>.<br />
<br />
* With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>REP</code> position (i.e., in repeat mode), the <code>OP TIME</code> is shown in the 0 to 10 second range.<br />
* With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>REPF</code> position (i.e., in repeat fast mode), the <code>OP TIME</code> is shown in the 0 to 100 millisecond range.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Components of The Analog Thing]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Panel_Meter&diff=517Panel Meter2021-08-30T04:15:02Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Voltmeter.png|thumb|Illustration of the display, showing the value <code>0.314</code>]]<br />
<br />
The '''panel meter''' is the LCD display unit located in the lower right on the upper PCB.<br />
<br />
== Usage ==<br />
Depending on the position of the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob, the '''panel meter''' is used in different modes to moditor either values or OP-TIMEs (operation times):<br />
<br />
=== Monitoring Values ===<br />
With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>COEFF</code>, <code>MINION</code>, <code>IC</code>, <code>OP</code> or <code>HALT</code> positions, the panel meter displays values numerically in the unit range -1 to 1.<br />
<br />
* With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>COEFF</code> position, the panel meter displays the output value of the <code>COEFFICIENT POTENTIOMETER</code> selected using the <code>COEFFICIENT SELECTOR</code>. This allows setting the values of coefficient potentiometers to their desired values.<br />
* With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>MINION</code>, <code>IC</code>, <code>OP</code> or <code>HALT</code> positions, the panel meter displays the value patched into the <code>u</code> socket in the <code>OUTPUT JACKS</code> section. This allows monitoring the values of arbitrary positions on the patch panel.<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Monitoring OP-TIMEs ===<br />
With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>REP</code> or <code>REPF</code> positions, the panel meter displays the current <code>OP TIME</code>, which can be changed by turning the <code>OP-TIME potentiometer</code>.<br />
<br />
* With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>REP</code> position (i.e., in repeat mode), the <code>OP TIME</code> is shown in the 0 to 10 second range.<br />
* With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>REPF</code> position (i.e., in repeat fast mode), the <code>OP TIME</code> is shown in the 0 to 100 millisecond range.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Components of The Analog Thing]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Panel_Meter&diff=516Panel Meter2021-08-30T03:55:46Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Voltmeter.png|thumb|Illustration of the display, showing the value <code>0.314</code>]]<br />
<br />
The '''panel meter''' is the LCD display unit located in the lower right on the upper PCB.<br />
<br />
== Usage ==<br />
The '''panel meter''' is used in two different modes, depending on the position of the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob:<br />
<br />
* With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>COEFF</code>, <code>MINION</code>, <code>IC</code>, <code>OP</code> or <code>HALT</code> positions, the panel meter displays the numerical value patched into the <code>u</code> socket in the <code>OUTPUT JACKS</code> section in the unit range -1 to 1. This allows monitoring any value in a program by connecting any socket on the patch panel with the <code>U</code> socket. In particular, it allows setting the values of coefficient potentiometers by connecting any potentiometer's output to the <code>U</code> socket and turning the respective potentiometer knob until the panel meter displays the desired value.<br />
* With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>REP</code> or <code>REPF</code> positions, the current <code>OP TIME</code> value is shown. The OP-TIME can be changed using the <code>OP-TIME</code> potentiometer. In <code>REP</code> (repeat) mode, <code>OP TIME</code> values are shown in the 0 to 10 second range. In <code>REPF</code> (repeat fast) mode, <code>OP TIME</code> values are shown in the 0 to 100 millisecond range.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Components of The Analog Thing]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Panel_Meter&diff=515Panel Meter2021-08-30T03:54:16Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Voltmeter.png|thumb|Illustration of the display, showing the value <code>0.314</code>]]<br />
<br />
The '''panel meter''' is the LCD display unit located in the lower right on the upper PCB.<br />
<br />
== Usage ==<br />
The '''panel meter''' is used in two different modes, depending on the position of the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob:<br />
<br />
* With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>COEFF</code>, <code>MINION</code>, <code>IC</code>, <code>OP</code> or <code>HALT</code> positions, the panel meter displays the numerical value patched into the <code>u</code> socket in the <code>OUTPUT JACKS</code> section in the unit range -1 to 1. This allows monitoring any value in a program by connecting any socket on the patch panel with the <code>U</code> socket. In particular, it allows setting the values of coefficient potentiometers by connecting any potentiometer's output to the <code>U</code> socket and turning the respective potentiometer knob until the panel meter displays the desired value.<br />
* With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>REP</code> or <code>REPF</code> positions, the current <code>OP TIME</code> value is shown. It can be changed using the OP-TIME potentiometer. In <code>REP</code> (repeat) mode, <code>OP TIME</code> values are shown in the 0 to 10 second range. In <code>REPF</code> (repeat fast) mode, <code>OP TIME</code> values are shown in the 0 to 100 millisecond range.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Components of The Analog Thing]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Panel_Meter&diff=514Panel Meter2021-08-30T03:53:17Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Voltmeter.png|thumb|Illustration of the display, showing the value <code>0.314</code>]]<br />
<br />
The '''panel meter''' is the LCD display unit located in the lower right on the upper PCB.<br />
<br />
== Usage ==<br />
The '''panel meter''' is used in two different modes, depending on the position of the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob:<br />
<br />
* With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>COEFF</code>, <code>MINION</code>, <code>IC</code>, <code>OP</code> or <code>HALT</code> positions, the panel meter displays the numerical value patched into the <code>u</code> socket in the <code>OUTPUT JACKS</code> section in the unit range -1 to 1. This allows monitoring any value in a program by connecting any socket on the patch panel with the <code>u</code> socket. In particular, it allows setting the values of coefficient potentiometers by connecting any potentiometer's output to the <code>u</code> socket and turning the respective potentiometer knob until the panel meter displays the desired value.<br />
* With the <code>MODE SELECTOR</code> knob in the <code>REP</code> or <code>REPF</code> positions, the current <code>OP TIME</code> value is shown. It can be changed using the OP-TIME potentiometer. In <code>REP</code> (repeat) mode, <code>OP TIME</code> values are shown in the 0 to 10 second range. In <code>REPF</code> (repeat fast) mode, <code>OP TIME</code> values are shown in the 0 to 100 millisecond range.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Components of The Analog Thing]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=File:THAT_concept_rendering.png&diff=513File:THAT concept rendering.png2021-08-29T12:47:06Z<p>Tfischer: Tfischer uploaded a new version of File:THAT concept rendering.png</p>
<hr />
<div>== Summary ==<br />
Some new rendering from [[User:tfischer]].</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=File:THAT_legend_potentiometers_s.png&diff=512File:THAT legend potentiometers s.png2021-08-29T12:19:38Z<p>Tfischer: Tfischer uploaded a new version of File:THAT legend potentiometers s.png</p>
<hr />
<div>== Summary ==<br />
Legend to explain the use of coefficient potentiometers</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Machine_Unit&diff=511Machine Unit2021-08-28T13:16:40Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>THAT can compute values in the range from -1 to 1. In most applications, this requires users to ''scale'' programs to fit into this range. THAT represents this unit scale with voltages ranging from -10V to 10V. This voltage range is called the '''machine unit'''.<br />
<br />
To understand the need for these scale conversions, consider that users want to model values at any scale while THAT is limited to its modest physical boundaries. Modeling the dynamics of the global human population (currently around 7.9 Billion) should obviously not require 7.9 Billion volts. The population value needs to be scaled to fit into the unit range -1 to 1 and into the machine unit -10v to 10V. The global population might, for example, be represented as 0.79, i.e., 7.9V. <br />
<br />
Good scaling results in programs that use large portions of the machine unit without exceeding it. Using only small portions of the machine unit reduces computational precision - much in the way in which weighing small amounts of cooking ingredients on a scale intended for people would not be very precise. Exceeding the machine unit leads to meaningless results - much in the way in which weighing a person on a kitchen scale would.<br />
<br />
The use of the -10V to +10V range as the machine unit is an engineering choice. This range happens to be a very good choice because it allows for easy conversions in the decimal number system, it can be handled very precisely using affordable electronic components, and it is safe for humans.<br />
<br />
When any value in a program exceeds the machine unit, the red <code>OL</code> (overload) LED lights up. This is not dangerous for the device. However, in this condition, THAT will likely "clip" voltages exceeding the machine unit such that the affected values will no longer be computationally correct.<br />
<br />
Output signals available via the RCA (or "chinch") jacks on the device's backside are not in the machine unit. Instead, they are attenuated to smaller audio signal levels to conveniently be read into software [[oscilloscope]]s via sound card interfaces.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Hardware]]<br />
[[Category:Fundamentals]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Machine_Unit&diff=510Machine Unit2021-08-28T13:13:21Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>THAT can compute values in the range from -1 to 1. In most applications, this requires users to ''scale'' programs to fit into this range. THAT represents this unit scale with voltages ranging from -10V to 10V. This voltage range is called the '''machine unit'''.<br />
<br />
To understand the need for these scale conversions, consider that users want to model values at any scale while THAT is limited to its modest physical boundaries. Modeling the dynamics of the global human population (currently around 7.9 Billion) should obviously not require 7.9 Billion volts. The population value needs to be scaled to fit into the unit range -1 to 1 and into the machine unit -10v to 10V. The global population might, for example, be represented as 0.79, i.e., 7.9V. <br />
<br />
Good scaling results in programs that use large portions of the machine unit without exceeding it. Using only small portions of the machine unit reduces computational precision - much in the way in which weighing small amounts of cooking ingredients on a scale intended for people would not be very precise. Exceeding the machine unit leads to meaningless results - much in the way in which weighing a person on a kitchen scale would.<br />
<br />
The use of the -10V to +10V range as the machine unit is an engineering choice. This range happens to be a very good choice because it allows for easy conversions in the decimal number system, it can be handled very precisely using affordable electronic components, and it is safe for humans.<br />
<br />
When any value in a program exceeds the machine unit, the red <code>OL</code> (overload) LED lights up. This is not dangerous for the device. However, in this condition, THAT will likely "clip" any excess voltages, and the values in question will not be computationally correct.<br />
<br />
Output signals available via the RCA (or "chinch") jacks on the device's backside are not in the machine unit. Instead, they are attenuated to smaller audio signal levels to conveniently be read into software [[oscilloscope]]s via sound card interfaces.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Hardware]]<br />
[[Category:Fundamentals]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Machine_Unit&diff=509Machine Unit2021-08-28T13:09:51Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>THAT can compute values in the range from -1 to 1. In most applications, this requires users to ''scale'' programs to fit into this range. THAT represents this unit scale with voltages ranging from -10V to 10V. This voltage range is called the '''machine unit'''.<br />
<br />
To understand the need for these scale conversions, consider that users want to model values at any scale while THAT is limited to its modest physical boundaries. Modeling the dynamics of the global human population (currently around 7.9 Billion) should obviously not require 7.9 Billion volts. The population value needs to be scaled to fit into the unit range -1 to 1 and into the machine unit -10v to 10V. The global population might, for example, be represented as 0.79, i.e., 7.9V. <br />
<br />
Good scaling results in programs that use large portions of the machine unit without exceeding it. Using only small ranges of the machine unit reduces computational precision - much in the same way as weighing small amounts of cooking ingredients on a scale intended for people would not be very precise. Exceeding the machine unit leads to meaningless results - much in the same way as weighing a person on a kitchen scale would.<br />
<br />
Using the -10V to +10V range as the machine unit is an engineering choice and a convention. It happens to be a very good choice because it allows for easy conversions in the decimal number system, it can be handled very precisely using affordable electronic components, and it is perfectly safe for humans.<br />
<br />
When any value in a program exceeds the machine unit, the red <code>OL</code> (overload) LED lights up. This is not dangerous for the device. However, in this condition, THAT will likely "clip" any excess voltages, and the values in question will not be computationally correct.<br />
<br />
Output signals available via the RCA (or "chinch") jacks on the device's backside are not in the machine unit. Instead, they are attenuated to smaller audio signal levels to conveniently be read into software [[oscilloscope]]s via sound card interfaces.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Hardware]]<br />
[[Category:Fundamentals]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Machine_Unit&diff=508Machine Unit2021-08-28T13:08:09Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>THAT can compute values in the range from -1 to 1. In most applications, this requires users to ''scale'' programs to fit into this range. THAT represents this unit scale with voltages ranging from -10V to 10V. This voltage range is called the '''machine unit'''.<br />
<br />
To understand the need for these scale conversions, consider that users want to model values at any scale while THAT is limited to its modest physical boundaries. Modeling the dynamics of the global human population (currently around 7.9 Billion) should obviously not require 7.9 Billion volts. The population value needs to be scaled to fit into the unit range -1 to 1 and into the machine unit -10v to 10V. The global population might, for example, be represented as 0.79, i.e., 7.9V. <br />
<br />
Good scaling results in programs that use broad parts of the machine unit without exceeding it. Using only small ranges of the machine unit reduces computational precision - much in the same way as weighing small amounts of cooking ingredients on a scale intended for people would not be very precise. Exceeding the machine unit leads to meaningless results - much in the same way as weighing a person on a kitchen scale would.<br />
<br />
Using the -10V to +10V range as the machine unit is an engineering choice and a convention. It happens to be a very good choice because it allows for easy conversions in the decimal number system, it can be handled very precisely using affordable electronic components, and it is perfectly safe for humans.<br />
<br />
When any value in a program exceeds the machine unit, the red <code>OL</code> (overload) LED lights up. This is not dangerous for the device. However, in this condition, THAT will likely "clip" any excess voltages, and the values in question will not be computationally correct.<br />
<br />
Output signals available via the RCA (or "chinch") jacks on the device's backside are not in the machine unit. Instead, they are attenuated to smaller audio signal levels to conveniently be read into software [[oscilloscope]]s via sound card interfaces.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Hardware]]<br />
[[Category:Fundamentals]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Machine_Unit&diff=507Machine Unit2021-08-28T13:03:09Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>THAT can compute values in the range from -1 to 1. In most applications, this requires users to ''scale'' programs to fit into this range. THAT, in turn, represents this unit scale with voltages ranging from -10V to 10V. This voltage interval is called the '''machine unit'''.<br />
<br />
To understand the need for these scale conversions, consider that users want to model values at any scale while THAT is limited to its modest physical boundaries. Modeling the dynamics of the global human population (currently around 7.9 Billion) should obviously not require 7.9 Billion volts. The population value needs to be scaled. As a convention, analog computer models are scaled to the model unit <code>[-1,+1]</code>. The global population might, for example, be represented as 0.79. In its machine unit, THAT would then represent this value as 7.9V. <br />
<br />
Good scaling results in programs that use broad parts of the machine unit without exceeding it. Using only small ranges of the machine unit reduces computational precision - much in the same way as weighing small amounts of cooking ingredients on a scale intended for people would not be very precise. Exceeding the machine unit leads to meaningless results - much in the same way as weighing a person on a kitchen scale would.<br />
<br />
Using the -10V to +10V range as the machine unit is an engineering choice and a convention. It happens to be a very good choice because it allows for easy conversions in the decimal number system, it can be handled very precisely using affordable electronic components, and it is perfectly safe for humans.<br />
<br />
When any value in a program exceeds the machine unit, the red <code>OL</code> (overload) LED lights up. This is not dangerous for the device. However, in this condition, THAT will likely "clip" any excess voltages, and the values in question will not be computationally correct.<br />
<br />
Output signals available via the RCA (or "chinch") jacks on the device's backside are not in the machine unit. Instead, they are attenuated to smaller audio signal levels to conveniently be read into software [[oscilloscope]]s via sound card interfaces.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Hardware]]<br />
[[Category:Fundamentals]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Machine_Unit&diff=506Machine Unit2021-08-28T13:02:33Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>THAT can compute values in the range from -1 to 1. In most applications, this requires users to **scale** programs to fit into this range. THAT, in turn, represents this unit scale with voltages ranging from -10V to 10V. This voltage interval is called the '''machine unit'''.<br />
<br />
To understand the need for these scale conversions, consider that users want to model values at any scale while THAT is limited to its modest physical boundaries. Modeling the dynamics of the global human population (currently around 7.9 Billion) should obviously not require 7.9 Billion volts. The population value needs to be scaled. As a convention, analog computer models are scaled to the model unit <code>[-1,+1]</code>. The global population might, for example, be represented as 0.79. In its machine unit, THAT would then represent this value as 7.9V. <br />
<br />
Good scaling results in programs that use broad parts of the machine unit without exceeding it. Using only small ranges of the machine unit reduces computational precision - much in the same way as weighing small amounts of cooking ingredients on a scale intended for people would not be very precise. Exceeding the machine unit leads to meaningless results - much in the same way as weighing a person on a kitchen scale would.<br />
<br />
Using the -10V to +10V range as the machine unit is an engineering choice and a convention. It happens to be a very good choice because it allows for easy conversions in the decimal number system, it can be handled very precisely using affordable electronic components, and it is perfectly safe for humans.<br />
<br />
When any value in a program exceeds the machine unit, the red <code>OL</code> (overload) LED lights up. This is not dangerous for the device. However, in this condition, THAT will likely "clip" any excess voltages, and the values in question will not be computationally correct.<br />
<br />
Output signals available via the RCA (or "chinch") jacks on the device's backside are not in the machine unit. Instead, they are attenuated to smaller audio signal levels to conveniently be read into software [[oscilloscope]]s via sound card interfaces.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Hardware]]<br />
[[Category:Fundamentals]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Machine_Unit&diff=505Machine Unit2021-08-28T13:02:18Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>THAT can compute values in the range from -1 to 1. In most applications, this requires users to *scale* programs to fit into this range. THAT, in turn, represents this unit scale with voltages ranging from -10V to 10V. This voltage interval is called the '''machine unit'''.<br />
<br />
To understand the need for these scale conversions, consider that users want to model values at any scale while THAT is limited to its modest physical boundaries. Modeling the dynamics of the global human population (currently around 7.9 Billion) should obviously not require 7.9 Billion volts. The population value needs to be scaled. As a convention, analog computer models are scaled to the model unit <code>[-1,+1]</code>. The global population might, for example, be represented as 0.79. In its machine unit, THAT would then represent this value as 7.9V. <br />
<br />
Good scaling results in programs that use broad parts of the machine unit without exceeding it. Using only small ranges of the machine unit reduces computational precision - much in the same way as weighing small amounts of cooking ingredients on a scale intended for people would not be very precise. Exceeding the machine unit leads to meaningless results - much in the same way as weighing a person on a kitchen scale would.<br />
<br />
Using the -10V to +10V range as the machine unit is an engineering choice and a convention. It happens to be a very good choice because it allows for easy conversions in the decimal number system, it can be handled very precisely using affordable electronic components, and it is perfectly safe for humans.<br />
<br />
When any value in a program exceeds the machine unit, the red <code>OL</code> (overload) LED lights up. This is not dangerous for the device. However, in this condition, THAT will likely "clip" any excess voltages, and the values in question will not be computationally correct.<br />
<br />
Output signals available via the RCA (or "chinch") jacks on the device's backside are not in the machine unit. Instead, they are attenuated to smaller audio signal levels to conveniently be read into software [[oscilloscope]]s via sound card interfaces.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Hardware]]<br />
[[Category:Fundamentals]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Machine_Unit&diff=504Machine Unit2021-08-28T12:44:19Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>THAT can compute values in the range from -1 to 1. n most applications, this requires users to *scale* programs to fit into this range. THAT, in turn, represents this unit scale with voltages ranging from -10V to 10V. This voltage interval is called the '''machine unit'''.<br />
<br />
To understand the need for these scale conversions, consider that users want to model values at any scale while THAT is limited to its modest physical boundaries. Modeling the dynamics of the global human population (currently around 7.9 Billion) should obviously not require 7.9 Billion volts. The population value needs to be scaled. As a convention, analog computer models are scaled to the model unit <code>[-1,+1]</code>. The global population might, for example, be represented as 0.79. In its machine unit, THAT would then represent this value as 7.9V. <br />
<br />
Good scaling results in programs that use broad parts of the machine unit without exceeding it. Using only small ranges of the machine unit reduces computational precision - much in the same way as weighing small amounts of cooking ingredients on a scale intended for people would not be very precise. Exceeding the machine unit leads to meaningless results - much in the same way as weighing a person on a kitchen scale would.<br />
<br />
Using the -10V to +10V range as the machine unit is an engineering choice and a convention. It happens to be a very good choice because it allows for easy conversions in the decimal number system, it can be handled very precisely using affordable electronic components, and it is perfectly safe for humans.<br />
<br />
When any value in a program exceeds the machine unit, the red <code>OL</code> (overload) LED lights up. This is not dangerous for the device. However, in this condition, THAT will likely "clip" any excess voltages, and the values in question will not be computationally correct.<br />
<br />
Output signals available via the RCA (or "chinch") jacks on the device's backside are not in the machine unit. Instead, they are attenuated to smaller audio signal levels to conveniently be read into software [[oscilloscope]]s via sound card interfaces.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Hardware]]<br />
[[Category:Fundamentals]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Machine_Unit&diff=503Machine Unit2021-08-28T12:10:08Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>THE ANALOG THING's '''machine unit''' is the voltage interval in which the device represents values. This interval is -10V to +10V. THAT users are expected to scale their programs to fit into the interval <code>[-1,+1]</code>, which THAT represents in its -10V to +10V machine unit.<br />
<br />
To understand the need for these scale conversions, consider that users want to model values at any scale while THAT is limited to its modest physical boundaries. Modeling the dynamics of the global human population (currently around 7.9 Billion) should obviously not require 7.9 Billion volts. The population value needs to be scaled. As a convention, analog computer models are scaled to the model unit <code>[-1,+1]</code>. The global population might, for example, be represented as 0.79. In its machine unit, THAT would then represent this value as 7.9V. <br />
<br />
Good scaling results in programs that use broad parts of the machine unit without exceeding it. Using only small ranges of the machine unit reduces computational precision - much in the same way as weighing small amounts of cooking ingredients on a scale intended for people would not be very precise. Exceeding the machine unit leads to meaningless results - much in the same way as weighing a person on a kitchen scale would.<br />
<br />
Using the -10V to +10V range as the machine unit is an engineering choice and a convention. It happens to be a very good choice because it allows for easy conversions in the decimal number system, it can be handled very precisely using affordable electronic components, and it is perfectly safe for humans.<br />
<br />
When any value in a program exceeds the machine unit, the red <code>OL</code> (overload) LED lights up. This is not dangerous for the device. However, in this condition, THAT will likely "clip" any excess voltages, and the values in question will not be computationally correct.<br />
<br />
Output signals available via the RCA (or "chinch") jacks on the device's backside are not in the machine unit. Instead, they are attenuated to smaller audio signal levels to conveniently be read into software [[oscilloscope]]s via sound card interfaces.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Hardware]]<br />
[[Category:Fundamentals]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Machine_Unit&diff=502Machine Unit2021-08-27T05:55:18Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>THE ANALOG THING's '''machine unit''' is the voltage interval in which the device represents values. This interval is -10V to +10V. THAT users are expected to scale their programs to fit into the interval <code>[-1,+1]</code>, which THAT represents in its -10V to +10V machine unit.<br />
<br />
To understand the need for these scale conversions, consider that users want to model values at any scale while THAT is limited to its modest physical boundaries. Modeling the dynamics of the global human population (currently around 7.9 Billion) should obviously not require 7.9 Billion volts. The population value needs to be scaled. As a convention, analog computer models are scaled to the model unit <code>[-1,+1]</code>. The global population might, for example, be represented as 0.79. In its machine unit, THAT would then represent this value as 7.9V. <br />
<br />
Good model scaling results in programs that use as much of the machine unit as possible without exceeding it. You understand the reasons for this if you understand that weighing cooking ingredients on scales intended for trucks or weighing a truck on a kitchen scale would not give very useful results.<br />
<br />
Using the -10V to +10V range as the machine unit is an engineering choice and a convention. It happens to be a very good choice because it allows for easy conversions in the decimal number system, it can be handled very precisely using affordable electronic components, and it is perfectly safe for humans.<br />
<br />
When any value in a program exceeds the machine unit, the red <code>OL</code> (overload) LED lights up. This is not dangerous for the device. However, in this condition, THAT will likely "clip" any excess voltages, and the values in question will not be computationally correct.<br />
<br />
Output signals available via the RCA (or "chinch") jacks on the device's backside are not in the machine unit. Instead, they are attenuated to smaller audio signal levels to conveniently be read into software [[oscilloscope]]s via sound card interfaces.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Hardware]]<br />
[[Category:Fundamentals]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Machine_Unit&diff=501Machine Unit2021-08-27T05:54:11Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>THE ANALOG THING's '''machine unit''' is the voltage interval in which the device represents values. This interval is -10V to +10V. THAT users are expected to scale their programs to fit into the interval <code>[-1,+1]</code>, which THAT represents in its -10V to +10V machine unit.<br />
<br />
To understand the need for these scale conversions, consider that users want to model values at any scale while THAT is limited to its modest physical boundaries. Modeling the dynamics of the global human population (currently around 7.9 Billion) should obviously not require 7.9 Billion Volts. The population value needs to be scaled. As a convention, analog computer models are scaled to the model unit <code>[-1,+1]</code>. The global population might, for example, be represented as 0.79. In its machine unit, THAT would then represent this value as 7.9V. <br />
<br />
Good model scaling results in programs that use as much of the machine unit as possible without exceeding it. You understand the reasons for this if you understand that weighing cooking ingredients on scales intended for trucks or weighing a truck on a kitchen scale would not give very useful results.<br />
<br />
Using the -10V to +10V range as the machine unit is an engineering choice and a convention. It happens to be a very good choice because it allows for easy conversions in the decimal number system, it can be handled very precisely using affordable electronic components, and it is perfectly safe for humans.<br />
<br />
When any value in a program exceeds the machine unit, the red <code>OL</code> (overload) LED lights up. This is not dangerous for the device. However, in this condition, THAT will likely "clip" any excess voltages, and the values in question will not be computationally correct.<br />
<br />
Output signals available via the RCA (or "chinch") jacks on the device's backside are not in the machine unit. Instead, they are attenuated to smaller audio signal levels to conveniently be read into software [[oscilloscope]]s via sound card interfaces.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Hardware]]<br />
[[Category:Fundamentals]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Machine_Unit&diff=500Machine Unit2021-08-27T05:51:09Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>THE ANALOG THING's '''machine unit''' is the voltage interval in which the device represents values. This interval is -10V to +10V. THAT users are expected to scale their programs to fit into the real number interval <code>[-1,+1]</code>, which THAT represents in its -10V to +10V machine unit.<br />
<br />
To understand the need for these scale conversions, consider that users want to model values at any scale while THAT is limited to its modest physical boundaries. Modeling the dynamics of the global human population (currently around 7.9 Billion) should obviously not require 7.9 Billion Volts. The population value needs to be scaled. As a convention, analog computer models are scaled to the model unit <code>[-1,+1]</code>. The global population might, for example, be represented as 0.79. In its machine unit, THAT would then represent this value as 7.9V. <br />
<br />
Good model scaling results in programs that use as much of the machine unit as possible without exceeding it. You understand the reasons for this if you understand that weighing cooking ingredients on scales intended for trucks or weighing a truck on a kitchen scale would not give very useful results.<br />
<br />
Using the -10V to +10V range as the machine unit is an engineering choice and a convention. It happens to be a very good choice because it allows for easy conversions in the decimal number system, it can be handled very precisely using affordable electronic components, and it is perfectly safe for humans.<br />
<br />
When any value in a program exceeds the machine unit, the red <code>OL</code> (overload) LED lights up. This is not dangerous for the device. However, in this condition, THAT will likely "clip" any excess voltages, and the values in question will not be computationally correct.<br />
<br />
Output signals available via the RCA (or "chinch") jacks on the device's backside are not in the machine unit. Instead, they are attenuated to smaller audio signal levels to conveniently be read into software [[oscilloscope]]s via sound card interfaces.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Hardware]]<br />
[[Category:Fundamentals]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Machine_Unit&diff=499Machine Unit2021-08-27T05:48:54Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>THE ANALOG THING's '''machine unit''' is the voltage interval in which the device represents values. This interval is -10V to +10V. THAT users are expected to scale their programs to fit into the real number interval <code>[-1,+1]</code>, which THAT represents in its -10V to +10V machine unit.<br />
<br />
To understand the need for these scale conversions, consider that users want to model values at any scale while THAT is limited to its modest physical boundaries. Modeling the dynamics of the global human population (currently around 7.9 Billion) should obviously not require 7.9 Billion Volts. The population value needs to be scaled. As a convention, analog computer models are scaled to the model unit <code>[-1,+1]</code>. The global population might, for example, be represented as 0.79. In its machine unit, THAT would then represent this value as 7.9V. <br />
<br />
Good model scaling results in programs that use as much of the machine unit as possible without exceeding it. You understand the reasons for this if you understand that weighing cooking ingredients on scales intended for trucks, or weighing a truck on a kitchen scale would not give very useful results.<br />
<br />
Using the -10V to +10V range as the machine unit is an engineering choice and a convention. It happens to be a very good choice because it allows for easy conversions in the decimal number system, it can be handled very precisely using affordable electronic components, and it is perfectly safe for humans.<br />
<br />
When any value in a program exceeds the machine unit, the red <code>OL</code> (overload) LED lights up. This is not dangerous for the device. However, in this condition, THAT will likely "clip" any excess voltages and the values in question will not be computationally correct.<br />
<br />
Output signals available via the RCA (or "chinch") jacks on the device's back side are not in the machine unit. Instead, they are attenuated to smaller audio signal levels so they can conveniently be read into software [[oscilloscope]]s via sound card interfaces.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Hardware]]<br />
[[Category:Fundamentals]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Machine_Unit&diff=498Machine Unit2021-08-27T05:46:55Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>THE ANALOG THING's '''machine unit''' is the voltage interval in which the device represents values. This interval is -10V to +10V. THAT users are expected to scale their programs to fit into the real number interval <code>[-1,+1]</code>, which THAT represents in its -10V to +10V machine unit.<br />
<br />
To understand the need for these scale conversions, consider that users want to model values at any scale while THAT is limited to its modest physical boundaries. Modeling the dynamics of the global human population (currently around 7.9 Billion) should obviously not require 7.9 Billion Volts. The population value needs to be scaled. As a convention, analog computer models are scaled to the model unit <code>[-1,+1]</code>. The global population might, for example, be represented as 0.79. In its machine unit, THAT would then represent this value as 7.9V. <br />
<br />
Good model scaling results in programs which use as much of the machine unit as possible without exceeding it. You understand the reasons for this if you understand that weighing cooking ingredients on scales intended for trucks, or weighing a truck on a kitchen scale would not give very useful results.<br />
<br />
Using the -10V to +10V range as the machine unit is an engineering choice and a convention. It happens to be a very good choice because it allows for easy conversions in the decimal number system, it can be handled very precisely using affordable electronic components, and it is perfectly safe for humans.<br />
<br />
When any value in a program exceeds the machine unit, the red <code>OL</code> (overload) LED lights up. This is not dangerous for the device. However, in this condition, THAT will likely "clip" any excess voltages and the values in question will not be computationally correct.<br />
<br />
Output signals available via the RCA (or "chinch") jacks on the device's back side are not in the machine unit. Instead, they are attenuated to smaller audio signal levels so they can conveniently be read into software [[oscilloscope]]s via sound card interfaces.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Hardware]]<br />
[[Category:Fundamentals]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Machine_Unit&diff=497Machine Unit2021-08-27T05:46:10Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>THE ANALOG THING's '''machine unit''' is the voltage interval in which the device represents values. This interval is -10V to +10V. THAT users are expected to scale their programs to fit into the real number interval <code>[-1,+1]</code>, which THAT represents in its -10V to +10V machine unit.<br />
<br />
To understand the need for these scale conversions, consider that users want to model values at any scale while THAT is limited to its modest physical boundaries. Modeling the dynamics of the global human population (currently around 7.9 Billion) should obviously not require 7.9 Billion Volts. The population value needs to be scaled. As a convention, analog computer models are scaled to the model unit <code>[-1,+1]</code>. The global population might, for example, be represented as 0.79. In its machine unit, THAT would then represent this value as 7.9V. <br />
<br />
Good model scaling results in programs which use as much of the machine unit as possible without exceeding it. You understand the reasons for this if you understand that weighing cooking ingredients on scales intended for trucks or weighing a truck on a kitchen scales would not give very useful results.<br />
<br />
Using the -10V to +10V range as the machine unit is an engineering choice and a convention. It happens to be a very good choice because it allows for easy conversions in the decimal number system, it can be handled very precisely using affordable electronic components, and it is perfectly safe for humans.<br />
<br />
When any value in a program exceeds the machine unit, the red <code>OL</code> (overload) LED lights up. This is not dangerous for the device. However, in this condition, THAT will likely "clip" any excess voltages and the values in question will not be computationally correct.<br />
<br />
Output signals available via the RCA (or "chinch") jacks on the device's back side are not in the machine unit. Instead, they are attenuated to smaller audio signal levels so they can conveniently be read into software [[oscilloscope]]s via sound card interfaces.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Hardware]]<br />
[[Category:Fundamentals]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Machine_Unit&diff=496Machine Unit2021-08-27T05:44:16Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>THE ANALOG THING's '''machine unit''' is the voltage interval in which the device represents values. This interval is -10V to +10V. THAT users are expected to scale their programs to fit into the real number interval <code>[-1,+1]</code>, which THAT represents in its -10V to +10V machine unit.<br />
<br />
To understand the need for these scale conversions, consider that users want to model values at any scale while THAT is limited to its modest physical boundaries. Modeling the dynamics of the global human population (currently around 7.9 Billion) should obviously not require 7.9 Billion Volts. The population value needs to be scaled. As a convention, analog computer models are scaled to the model unit <code>[-1,+1]</code>. The global population might, for example, be represented as 0.79. In its machine unit, THAT would then represent this value as 7.9V. <br />
<br />
Good model scaling uses as much of the machine unit as possible without exceeding it. You understand the reasons for this if you understand that weighing cooking ingredients on scales intended for trucks or weighing a truck on a kitchen scales would not give very useful results.<br />
<br />
Using the -10V to +10V range as the machine unit is an engineering choice and a convention. It happens to be a very good choice because it allows for easy conversions in the decimal number system, it can be handled very precisely using affordable electronic components, and it is perfectly safe for humans.<br />
<br />
When any value in a program exceeds the machine unit, the red <code>OL</code> (overload) LED lights up. This is not dangerous for the device. However, in this condition, THAT will likely "clip" any excess voltages and the values in question will not be computationally correct.<br />
<br />
Output signals available via the RCA (or "chinch") jacks on the device's back side are not in the machine unit. Instead, they are attenuated to smaller audio signal levels so they can conveniently be read into software [[oscilloscope]]s via sound card interfaces.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Hardware]]<br />
[[Category:Fundamentals]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Machine_Unit&diff=495Machine Unit2021-08-27T05:43:54Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>THE ANALOG THING's '''machine unit''' is the voltage interval in which the device represents values. This interval is -10V to +10V. THAT users are expected to scale their programs to fit into the real number interval <code>[-1,+1]</code>, which THAT represents in its -10V to +10V machine unit.<br />
<br />
To understand the need for these scale conversions, consider that users want to model values at any scale while THAT is limited to its modest physical boundaries. Modeling the dynamics of the global human population (currently around 7.9 Billion) should obviously not require 7.9 Billion Volts. The population value needs to be scaled. As a convention, analog computer models are scaled to the model unit <code>[-1,+1]</code>. The global population might, for example, be represented as 0.79. In its machine unit, THAT would then represent this value as 7.9V. <br />
<br />
Good model scaling uses as much of the machine unit as possible without exceeding it. You understand the reasons for this if you understand that weighing cooking ingredients on scales intended for trucks or weighing a truck on a kitchen scales would not give very useful results.<br />
<br />
Using the -10V to +10V range as the machine unit is an engineering choice and a convention. It happens to be a very good choice because it allows for easy conversions in the decimal number system, it can be handled very precisely using affordable electronic components, and it is perfectly safe for humans.<br />
<br />
When any value in a program exceeds the machine unit, the red <code>OL</overload> (overload) LED lights up. This is not dangerous for the device. However, in this condition, THAT will likely "clip" any excess voltages and the values in question will not be computationally correct.<br />
<br />
Output signals available via the RCA (or "chinch") jacks on the device's back side are not in the machine unit. Instead, they are attenuated to smaller audio signal levels so they can conveniently be read into software [[oscilloscope]]s via sound card interfaces.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Hardware]]<br />
[[Category:Fundamentals]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=The_Analog_Thing_FAQ&diff=494The Analog Thing FAQ2021-08-27T03:48:50Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>This page contains a list of '''frequently asked questions (FAQ)''' about [[The Analog Thing]] (in short ''THAT''). It's a great entry place to learn about THAT.<br />
<br />
== What is analog computing? ==<br />
[[Analog Computer|Analog computing]] is an alternative to digital computing; ideally suited for dynamic systems modeling; ideally suited for neuromorphic AI applications; much more energy-efficient than digital computing; inherently safer than digital computing in the face of cyber threats; a great, hands-on way to learn about maths, engineering and systems; and simply an eye-opening experience.<br />
<br />
== What is THE ANALOG THING? ==<br />
[[The Analog Thing|THE ANALOG THING]] is a high-quality, low-cost, open-source, and not-for-profit cutting-edge analog computer. You can think of it as a kind of [[Raspberry Pi]] that calculates with continuous voltages rather than with zeroes and ones.<br />
<br />
== What is "THAT"? ==<br />
THAT is an abbreviation of [[The Analog Thing|THE ANALOG THING]].<br />
<br />
== Who is the team behind THAT and what is their motivation? ==<br />
THAT is developed and distributed by the German tech start-up company [https://www.anabrid.com anabrid] under the brand name [https://analogparadigm.com Analog Paradigm]. Anabrid is planning to develop an analog computer on-a-chip to diversify today's digital computing monoculture with analog-digital hybrid computing. To support this initiative, anabrid uses its Analog Paradigm brand to promote the often much more efficient and safer analog computing paradigm. THAT is Analog Paradigm's response to the need for education and community activity around analog computing. In contrast to the [https://analogparadigm.com/products.html Analog Paradigm Model 1 analog computer], THAT is small, highly affordable, open-source, and not-for-profit. It is analog computing for the future, for all. Analog Paradigm welcomes community contributions to THAT hardware, accessories and documentation.<br />
<br />
== What can I do with THAT? ==<br />
THAT is typically used to model dynamic systems, i.e., systems that change in time according to some causal relationships. Examples include including market economies, the spread of diseases, population dynamics, chemical reactions, mechanical systems, the firing of neurons, a variety of mathematical attractors, and much more. Technically, THAT solves (sets of) [[differential equation]]s by way of [[Integrator|integration]], and it produces results in the form of graphs representing relationships between dependent and independent variables. If you are not familiar with differential equations, then THAT is an excellent tool to familiarize yourself with them. You can use THAT for a variety of purposes: You can use it to predict in the natural sciences, to control in engineering, to explain in educational settings, to imitate in gaming, or you can use it for the pure joy of it. THAT can help you understand what is (models of), and it can help you bring about what should be (models for). More fundamentally, THAT allows you to explore a non-digital computational paradigm hands-on!<br />
<br />
== What do I need to work with THAT? ==<br />
You need a set of plug cables, which is included with THAT. You also need a [[Power|USB power supply with a USB-C plug]]. Since most people have spare USB power supplies, we decided not to include one with THAT and save the extra cost. You will also need something to read the output of THAT (voltages that change over time), such as a hardware or software [[oscilloscope]]. [[Software Oscilloscopes|Software oscilloscopes]] are software programs that can run on desktop or laptop digital computers and typically read changing voltages through the [[Soundcard|sound card's audio input]] interface. Software oscilloscopes (including free and open source ones) are available to download for all major operating systems.<br />
<br />
== How does a ''Hello World'' program look like on THAT? ==<br />
{{todo|write me!}}<br />
<br />
== Is THAT a general purpose computer? ==<br />
Yes and no. The term general-purpose computer usually describes devices that can be programmed to mimic the logical procedures performed by other, comparable devices. THAT is different because it solves (sets of) differential equation(s) instead of processing logical procedures. It is a general-purpose analog computer in as far as it can solve any (set of) partial differential equation(s). In doing so, a single THAT is limited by its number of calculating elements. By connecting multiple THATs in ''[[Minion|minion chains]]'', it is possible to implement large analog computer programs involving any number of calculating elements.<br />
<br />
== How can I program THAT? ==<br />
Programming [[analog computer]]s is about modeling change in time. Typically, this process starts by translating change in some dynamic systems into one or more differential equations. These equations are then translated into patterns of wire connections between the analog computing elements on THAT's patch field. These patterns of wire connections are analog computer programs. When a program is run, THAT solves the programmed differential equations and outputs their solutions as time-varying voltages.<br />
<br />
== How can I obtain output from THAT? ==<br />
THAT outputs the solutions of differential equations as time-varying voltages. In control applications, these can be used to drive actuators such as motors or valves. In lab or classroom settings, they are often visualized as graphs using [[oscilloscope]]s or [[plotter]]s. In [[hybrid computing]] (where analog and digital computers work in tandem), analog-to-digital converters and digital-to-analog converters turn time-varying voltages into digital data and vice versa. The simplest way to read the output of your THAT is to connect it to the [[Soundcard|sound card]] of a digital computer which can then be used to visualize the output using digital oscilloscope software and to record, analyze, or otherwise process it.<br />
<br />
== Why do the plugs not go all the way into the patch panel? ==<br />
[[File:Plug depth.jpg|thumb|left|Plugs in the patch panel of THAT.]]<br />
This is one of several unconventional but intentional design moves that make THAT possible and affordable. The 2&nbsp;mm plug cables are intended by its supplier for use with a particular kind of gold-plated socket. One of these sockets costs close to one USD. Mounting it on a printed circuit board (PCB) costs close to another USD. There are 186 plug holes on THAT's patch panel. We saved all of that cost by using an extra-thick top PCB and having appropriately-sized through-holes gold-plated. Since the top PCB is less thick than the plugs are long, and since the plugs have small, contact-assuring springs half-way along their length, there are stop-limits below each plug hole to ensure good contacts. The result looks a little unexpected, works just as well and cuts the cost of the overall device by more than half.<br clear="all"><br />
<br />
== With outputs varying between -10V to 10V, how can I use THAT to model quantities smaller or greater than that? ==<br />
Translating patterns of change in dynamic systems into mathematical representations and further into analog computer programs commonly involves the scaling of quantities. Quantities are represented on analog computers in a voltage or current interval with fixed boundaries called the [[Machine Unit]]. On THAT, this interval is -10 V to +10 V. For the sake of simplicity, the [[Machine Unit]] is generally thought of as ± 1, regardless of the actual voltage or current interval of a given analog computer. To model arbitrary quantities on THAT, they can be scaled to make efficient use of the [[Machine Unit]]. [[Output]] can then be converted back to the original scale.<br />
<br />
== How can I use THAT to create useful models of very fast or very slow phenomena? ==<br />
Translating patterns of change in dynamic systems into mathematical representations and further into analog computer programs commonly involves the scaling of speed. THAT allows compressing or stretching the independent variable time by several orders of magnitude. In this way, the instantaneous decay of a volatile compound can be simulated slowly enough for observation and interactive manipulation, while population dynamics occurring over decades or centuries can be simulated in the blink of an eye.<br />
<br />
== What calculating elements are available on THAT? ==<br />
THAT is designed to allow a wide range of interesting applications with a minimal set of analog calculating elements. It offers five [[integrator]]s, four [[summer]]s, four [[inverter]]s, two [[multiplier]]s, and eight [[Coefficients/Potentiometers|coefficient potentiometers]]. In addition, it offers four [[comparator]]s, four precision [[XIR|resistor networks]] as well as [[capacitor]]s, [[diode]]s, and Zener diodes. Where more calculating elements are needed for a particular application, multiple THATs can be connected in [[minion|minion chains]].<br />
<br />
== How precise is THAT? ==<br />
THAT is precise to about three positions after the decimal point, relative to its [[Machine Unit]]. It is important to note that comparing the precision of analog and digital computers is a bit like comparing apples and oranges. Digital computers handle quantities based on ''counting'' (e.g., "how many siblings do you have?") as well as quantities based on ''measuring'' (e.g., what is your body height?"). Most of the time, analog computers handle quantities based on measuring only. Consider this: A bank clerk getting the third decimal place of an interest rate wrong commits a severe error, while a tailor being off by a micrometer when taking a client's measurements has no such problem. Furthermore, numerical digital computing involves rounding, and hence rounding errors which can quickly add up in iterative loops. Analog computers do not operate numerically and do not round. In this sense, the great precision of today's digital computers helps minimize a problem that is specific to digital computing. In short, representing quantities as continuous voltages (or currents), analog computers do not suffer from many problems inherent to binary value representations. While analog computer solutions, too, can exhibit instabilities, etc., the precision of THAT is perfectly appropriate for the vast majority of applications.<br />
<br />
== What is a minion chain? ==<br />
THAT is designed to allow an extensive range of applications with a small set of calculating elements. When applications require additional calculating elements, it is possible to link multiple THATs in a "[[Minion|minion chain"]] using their "MASTER" and "MINION" ports. Connecting the MINION port of a THAT to the MASTER port of another THAT with a ribbon cable makes the first THAT the "master" and the second THAT its "minion" so they can work together and share the calculating elements of both devices in the same program. There is no limit to the number of THATs that can be linked in a minion chain.<br />
<br />
== 2+2 ≠ 4? ==<br />
If you wonder why THAT computes something like <code>2+2 = -4</code>, then you need to familiarize yourself with how the [[Components of The Analog Thing]] work. [[Summer]]s on analog computers are typically ''negating''. This means they yield the negative of the sum. This is a convention and needs some getting-used-to. If you like, you can simply feed the summer's output into an [[Inverter]] to obtain the "correct" sign.<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Category:Manual|FAQ]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=The_Analog_Thing_FAQ&diff=493The Analog Thing FAQ2021-08-27T03:47:44Z<p>Tfischer: </p>
<hr />
<div>This page contains a list of '''frequently asked questions (FAQ)''' about [[The Analog Thing]] (in short ''THAT''). It's a great entry place to learn about THAT.<br />
<br />
== What is analog computing? ==<br />
[[Analog Computer|Analog computing]] is an alternative to digital computing; ideally suited for dynamic systems modeling; ideally suited for neuromorphic AI applications; much more energy-efficient than digital computing; inherently safer than digital computing in the face of cyber threats; a great, hands-on way to learn about maths, engineering and systems; and simply an eye-opening experience.<br />
<br />
== What is THE ANALOG THING? ==<br />
[[The Analog Thing|THE ANALOG THING]] is a high-quality, low-cost, open-source, and not-for-profit cutting-edge analog computer. You can think of it as a kind of [[Raspberry Pi]] that calculates with continuous voltages rather than with zeroes and ones.<br />
<br />
== What is "THAT"? ==<br />
THAT is an abbreviation of [[The Analog Thing|THE ANALOG THING]].<br />
<br />
== Who is the team behind THAT and what is their motivation? ==<br />
THAT is developed and distributed by the German tech start-up company [https://www.anabrid.com anabrid] under the brand name [https://analogparadigm.com Analog Paradigm]. Anabrid is planning to develop an analog computer on-a-chip to diversify today's digital computing monoculture with analog-digital hybrid computing. To support this initiative, anabrid uses its Analog Paradigm brand to promote the often much more efficient and safer analog computing paradigm. THAT is Analog Paradigm's response to the need for education and community activity around analog computing. In contrast to the [https://analogparadigm.com/products.html Analog Paradigm Model 1 analog computer], THAT is small, highly affordable, open-source, and not-for-profit. It is analog computing for the future, for all. Analog Paradigm welcomes community contributions to THAT hardware, accessories and documentation.<br />
<br />
== What can I do with THAT? ==<br />
THAT is typically used to model dynamic systems, i.e., systems that change in time according to some causal relationships. Examples include including market economies, the spread of diseases, population dynamics, chemical reactions, mechanical systems, the firing of neurons, a variety of mathematical attractors, and much more. Technically, THAT solves (sets of) [[differential equation]]s by way of [[Integrator|integration]], and it produces results in the form of graphs representing relationships between dependent and independent variables. If you are not familiar with differential equations, then THAT is an excellent tool to familiarize yourself with them. You can use THAT for a variety of purposes: You can use it to predict in the natural sciences, to control in engineering, to explain in educational settings, to imitate in gaming, or you can use it for the pure joy of it. THAT can help you understand what is (models of), and it can help you bring about what should be (models for). More fundamentally, THAT allows you to explore a non-digital computational paradigm hands-on!<br />
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== What do I need to work with THAT? ==<br />
You need a set of plug cables, which is included with THAT. You also need a [[Power|USB power supply with a USB-C plug]]. Since most people have spare USB power supplies, we decided not to include one with THAT and save the extra cost. You will also need something to read the output of THAT (voltages that change over time), such as a hardware or software [[oscilloscope]]. [[Software Oscilloscopes|Software oscilloscopes]] are software programs that can run on desktop or laptop digital computers and typically read changing voltages through the [[Soundcard|sound card's audio input]] interface. Software oscilloscopes (including free and open source ones) are available to download for all major operating systems.<br />
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== How does a ''Hello World'' program look like on THAT? ==<br />
{{todo|write me!}}<br />
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== Is THAT a general purpose computer? ==<br />
Yes and no. The term general-purpose computer usually describes devices that can be programmed to mimic the logical procedures performed by other, comparable devices. THAT is different because it solves (sets of) differential equation(s) instead of processing logical procedures. It is a general-purpose analog computer in as far as it can solve any (set of) partial differential equation(s). In doing so, a single THAT is limited by its number of calculating elements. By connecting multiple THATs in ''[[Minion|minion chains]]'', it is possible to implement large analog computer programs involving any number of calculating elements.<br />
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== How can I program THAT? ==<br />
Programming [[analog computer]]s is about modeling change in time. Typically, this process starts by translating change in some dynamic systems into one or more differential equations. These equations are then translated into patterns of wire connections between the analog computing elements on THAT's patch field. These patterns of wire connections are analog computer programs. When a program is run, THAT solves the programmed differential equations and outputs their solutions as time-varying voltages.<br />
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== How can I obtain output from THAT? ==<br />
THAT outputs the solutions of differential equations as time-varying voltages. In control applications, these can be used to drive actuators such as motors or valves. In lab or classroom settings, they are often visualized as graphs using [[oscilloscope]]s or [[plotter]]s. In [[hybrid computing]] (where analog and digital computers work in tandem), analog-to-digital converters and digital-to-analog converters turn time-varying voltages into digital data and vice versa. The simplest way to read the output of your THAT is to connect it to the [[Soundcard|sound card]] of a digital computer which can then be used to visualize the output using digital oscilloscope software and to record, analyze, or otherwise process it.<br />
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== Why do the plugs not go all the way into the patch panel? ==<br />
[[File:Plug depth.jpg|thumb|left|Plugs in the patch panel of THAT.]]<br />
This is one of several unconventional but intentional design moves that make THAT possible and affordable. The 2&nbsp;mm plug cables are intended by its supplier for use with a particular kind of gold-plated socket. One of these sockets costs close to one USD. Mounting it on a printed circuit board (PCB) costs close to another USD. There are 186 plug holes on THAT's patch panel. We saved all of that cost by using an extra-thick top PCB and having appropriately-sized through-holes gold-plated. Since the top PCB is less thick than the plugs are long, and since the plugs have small, contact-assuring springs half-way along their length, there are stop-limits below each plug hole to ensure good contacts. The result looks a little unexpected, works just as well and cuts the cost of the overall device by more than half.<br clear="all"><br />
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== With outputs varying between -10V to 10V, how can I use THAT to model quantities smaller or greater than that? ==<br />
Translating patterns of change in dynamic systems into mathematical representations and further into analog computer programs commonly involves the scaling of quantities. Quantities are represented on analog computers in a voltage or current interval with fixed boundaries called the machine unit. On THAT, this interval is -10 V to +10 V. For the sake of simplicity, the [[Machine Unit]] is generally thought of as ± 1, regardless of the actual voltage or current interval of a given analog computer. To model arbitrary quantities on THAT, they can be scaled to make efficient use of the machine unit. [[Output]] can then be converted back to the original scale.<br />
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== How can I use THAT to create useful models of very fast or very slow phenomena? ==<br />
Translating patterns of change in dynamic systems into mathematical representations and further into analog computer programs commonly involves the scaling of speed. THAT allows compressing or stretching the independent variable time by several orders of magnitude. In this way, the instantaneous decay of a volatile compound can be simulated slowly enough for observation and interactive manipulation, while population dynamics occurring over decades or centuries can be simulated in the blink of an eye.<br />
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== What calculating elements are available on THAT? ==<br />
THAT is designed to allow a wide range of interesting applications with a minimal set of analog calculating elements. It offers five [[integrator]]s, four [[summer]]s, four [[inverter]]s, two [[multiplier]]s, and eight [[Coefficients/Potentiometers|coefficient potentiometers]]. In addition, it offers four [[comparator]]s, four precision [[XIR|resistor networks]] as well as [[capacitor]]s, [[diode]]s, and Zener diodes. Where more calculating elements are needed for a particular application, multiple THATs can be connected in [[minion|minion chains]].<br />
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== How precise is THAT? ==<br />
THAT is precise to about three positions after the decimal point, relative to its [[Machine Units|machine unit]]. It is important to note that comparing the precision of analog and digital computers is a bit like comparing apples and oranges. Digital computers handle quantities based on ''counting'' (e.g., "how many siblings do you have?") as well as quantities based on ''measuring'' (e.g., what is your body height?"). Most of the time, analog computers handle quantities based on measuring only. Consider this: A bank clerk getting the third decimal place of an interest rate wrong commits a severe error, while a tailor being off by a micrometer when taking a client's measurements has no such problem. Furthermore, numerical digital computing involves rounding, and hence rounding errors which can quickly add up in iterative loops. Analog computers do not operate numerically and do not round. In this sense, the great precision of today's digital computers helps minimize a problem that is specific to digital computing. In short, representing quantities as continuous voltages (or currents), analog computers do not suffer from many problems inherent to binary value representations. While analog computer solutions, too, can exhibit instabilities, etc., the precision of THAT is perfectly appropriate for the vast majority of applications.<br />
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== What is a minion chain? ==<br />
THAT is designed to allow an extensive range of applications with a small set of calculating elements. When applications require additional calculating elements, it is possible to link multiple THATs in a "[[Minion|minion chain"]] using their "MASTER" and "MINION" ports. Connecting the MINION port of a THAT to the MASTER port of another THAT with a ribbon cable makes the first THAT the "master" and the second THAT its "minion" so they can work together and share the calculating elements of both devices in the same program. There is no limit to the number of THATs that can be linked in a minion chain.<br />
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== 2+2 ≠ 4? ==<br />
If you wonder why THAT computes something like <code>2+2 = -4</code>, then you need to familiarize yourself with how the [[Components of The Analog Thing]] work. [[Summer]]s on analog computers are typically ''negating''. This means they yield the negative of the sum. This is a convention and needs some getting-used-to. If you like, you can simply feed the summer's output into an [[Inverter]] to obtain the "correct" sign.<br />
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[[Category:Manual|FAQ]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Machine_Units&diff=492Machine Units2021-08-27T03:46:23Z<p>Tfischer: Tfischer moved page Machine Units to Machine Unit over redirect</p>
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<div>#REDIRECT [[Machine Unit]]</div>Tfischerhttps://the-analog-thing.org/w/index.php?title=Machine_Unit&diff=491Machine Unit2021-08-27T03:46:23Z<p>Tfischer: Tfischer moved page Machine Units to Machine Unit over redirect</p>
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<div>[[File:Overload.svg|thumb|350px|A cartoon showing the evolution of some quantity (blue) within the machine units (green shaded area), going into overload (red shaded area). As soon as a value reaches overload, it is ''clipped'', the LED goes on and the furthermore computation is most likely ''wrong''! There is a small ''tolerance'' gap ov 2V above the machine units.]]<br />
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'''Machine units''' are the conventions how to represent numbers on [[analog computer]]s such as [[The Analog Thing]] (THAT). In digital context, these are typically called ''logic levels''.<br />
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THAT works with ''logical one'' represented by +10V and ''logical minus one'' represented by -10V. It is helpful to thing in all quantities being bracketed within the real number interval <code>[-1,+1]</code>. In electrical engineering, this is called ''bounded in bounded out'' systems, as any computation has to produce results within this domain in order to be meaningful on an analog computer. These machine units are ''bipolar'', this is in contrast to ''unipolar'' units such as 0V for logical zero and +5V for logical one in the digital TTL logic system.<br />
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== Levels for output ==<br />
When it comes to [[output]] which can be displayed on [[oscilloscope]]s, level shifting may apply. For instance, the [[Soundcard]] output operates with roughly ±1V.<br />
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[[Category:Hardware]]<br />
[[Category:Fundamentals]]</div>Tfischer