The DES-1A New Digital Computer for Solving Differential Equations

Abstract

The DES-1 is a new digital computer system, espe cially designed for the solution of ordinary differ ential equations. The major components are (1) the SDS 9300, a high-speed digital computer, ( 2) a mathe matical operator language, and (3) a console. The mathematical operator language is analogous to the computing elements of the analog computer. Thus both the DES-1 and analog computer can be programmed the same way (although the DES-1 has several more operations). Consequently an analog computer operator can learn to program the DES-1 easily and can use much of the programming expe rience acquired on the analog computer. Further more, the use of floating-point arithmetic eliminates all need for amplitude scaling. The console provides rapid communication between the operator and the DES-1 and allows problem mode control and changes even as the com putations are being made. Some of the modes are RESET, OPERATE, and HOLD, while typical changes include parameters, initial conditions, and even equa tion structure. The DES-1, therefore, combines the advantages of the digital computer 1. Accuracy 2. Reliability 3. Ease of program and data storage 4. Ability to perform algebraic operations with those of the analog computer 1. Convenience of programming through use of the mathematical operator language 2. Rapid communication between operator and computer to produce a computer which has advantages over both conventional analog and digital computers in solving differential equations.