When computers are discussed, most people invariably think of digital computers. Analog computing is now primarily of historical interest, its application having largely been replaced by digital modeling and simulation. Care’s book looks at the history, technologies, concepts, and applications of analog computing.

Part 1, which includes chapters 1 to 4, covers an introduction to analog computing, a chronology of analog development, and an explanation of the use of analog computing in modeling. Care defines analog computing and presents examples of historical analog computing devices, such as planimeters, integrators, and analyzers. Interestingly, these devices would scarcely be recognized as computing equipment today. The debate between proponents of digital computing and proponents of analog computing is also discussed. Chapter 4 covers the evolution of analog computing, from the beginning of the 19th century. The gradual transition from analog modeling to digital simulation is discussed. These first four chapters provide a very good historical perspective on the subject.

Chapters 5 to 9--Part 2--provide examples of analog computing. Chapter 5 looks at the use of analog computers in higher education, chapter 6 looks at modeling in the oil industry, chapter 7 covers the use of analog computing in aeronautical research, and chapter 8 looks at the use of analog computing in meteorology. Chapter 9 nicely summarizes Care’s main themes.

The book includes a detailed table of contents, a list of relevant acronyms, a comprehensive list of references, and a short index. It is an invaluable addition to the library of anyone interested in the history of analog computing and modeling.