CHAPTER 1 - Introduction

Abstract

Analysis is essential for exact design and is the basis for optimization and tolerancing; however, computer aided design is required to assist the entire design process. A large amount of time is spent on obtaining information on which to base the analysis and then, having completed the analysis, on laying out the circuit and adding the necessary mechanical design to put the circuit into its equipment environment. The chapter explains how the design process can be carried out without the use of the calculation and drawing languages. The designer has access to the computer through a teletype and a CRT display with a light pen (known as an interactive graphics terminal). The teletype and CRT display enable the designer to communicate with the computer quickly and easily provided that the necessary software is stored in the computer store. The chapter explains how the design process is likely to be carried out in the not too distant future and includes in the centre column the means by which the designer will more easily communicate with the software in the computer store, the calculation language, the data bank, and the drawing language.