> I started in 1934, [... ] At that time, the computing industry was limited to mechanical calculators using the decimal system.
That seems a bit biased toward discrete systems. Engineers and scientists of the time used mechanical and (later) electric analog computers, and they were more powerful than the new discrete systems, for most purposes. For example: Helmut Hoelzer’s Fully Electronic Analog Computer used in the German V2 (A4) rockets
https://www.cdvandt.org/Hoelzer%20V4.pdf (text in German, but has some pictures and diagrams)
this is the most astonishing thing I have read in a long time and I am CS not electrical engineering, so I have no idea what these drawings mean. I speak german, but I hope something works to translate this easily, as it is absolutely crazy. I did not know something like this was possible back then.
It is astonishing how advanced the world was back then...if it wasn't for this use though
I would say understanding of the paper depends more on having an electrical engineering degree than a CS degree. The diagrams look to be electrical circuits and signal diagrams (I am not sure what is the correct term but for example 'Abb. 10a' in the article) mostly.
If you find this interesting and find yourself in Berlin with a bit of free time, the Deutsche Techniksmuseum there has a great exhibit on Zuse, including replicas, actual units of later computers, design drawings, storage units... well worth your time (as is the rest of the museum).
I found out about Zuse because I was tasked with giving a presentation about an important German, when I was taking German classes at the Goethe Institut. Probably bored the hell out of everyone listening, but it was a bit of an eye opener as he's not so commonly discussed.
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That seems a bit biased toward discrete systems. Engineers and scientists of the time used mechanical and (later) electric analog computers, and they were more powerful than the new discrete systems, for most purposes. For example: Helmut Hoelzer’s Fully Electronic Analog Computer used in the German V2 (A4) rockets https://www.cdvandt.org/Hoelzer%20V4.pdf (text in German, but has some pictures and diagrams)
> Some have harsh words for this man of renown / But some think our attitude / Should be one of gratitude —TAL
It is astonishing how advanced the world was back then...if it wasn't for this use though
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I guess a decimal digit would be a dit
digital is simply discrete, as opposed to analog / continuous
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Too bad it's only a 2 digit year.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SgLOV5H4d30
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