First Experiment: An analog breadboard computer

For my first experiment, I will build a computer.  No, not a supercomputer, not a desktop, not even a netbook.  It is a computer that can only do one mathematical operation: averaging three quantities together.  With the schematic setup below and when the voltmeter is connected to the circuit at the point shown in the schematic and illustrations, it should register the algebraic average of the three batteries' voltages:

Why is this called a computer?  From the expirement website:

The sheer simplicity of this circuit deters most people from calling it a "computer," but it undeniably performs the mathematical function of averaging. Not only does it perform this function, but it performs it much faster than any modern digital computer can! Digital computers, such as personal computers (PCs) and pushbutton calculators, perform mathematical operations in a series of discrete steps. Analog computers perform calculations in continuous fashion, exploiting Ohm's and Kirchhoff's Laws for an arithmetic purpose, the "answer" computed as fast as voltage propagates through the circuit (ideally, at the speed of light!)...Digital computers enjoy the advantage of performing mathematical operations with much better precision than analog computers, albeit at much slower theoretical speeds. 

This analog computer will do nothing more than proving network theorems and equivalent circuits.  Regardless, it is a start, and all that will be needed for purchase is a breadboard, which will cost between $4 and $10, opening the doors for future experiments like NAND logic gates, Amplifier Circuits, and 1 bit memory modules.

Welcome!

Thanks for viewing my blog! My name is Jon; I am 20 year old prospective BS/ME student at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville. Despite my young age, I have a lot of interest in anything on the engineering level, from the business side to the R&D. I also have quite the experience due to a few internships I have held at three different companies in two departments. For more info, you can check out my LinkedIn profile

I'm planning discussing my thoughts on the business environment, such as improving communication between the engineering department and other departments, technology within a design environment, and effective management. In addition, I love the science side of engineering. Currently I am planning on purchasing a breadboard to run electrical engineering experiments (such as creating a 1-bit memory module to more complex logic gates) and going through the process of the experiment. Further down the road, design projects from UWP will be detailed. Posibilties include our senior design project and MS/NT minor research paper (if I choose to take that minor) Finally, I will pass along news in engineering regarding future technology, such as carbon nanotubes and MEMS.