Solution of Algebraic Equations on an Analog Computer
Charles R. Cahn · Review of Scientific Instruments · 1956
A method has been found for solving an algebraic equation for a real or complex root on an analog computer (electronic differential analyzer). The computer connections are arranged so that the root locations may be shifted along the real axis of the complex plane by adjusting a ganged potentiometer. A maintained transient is indication that a root has been shifted to the imaginary axis, allowing the real and imaginary parts of the root to be read. The accuracy is reduced when a second nearby root is present; however, poor tracking in the ganged potentiometer has about the same effect as an improper setting of a coefficient of the equation.