Blaise Pascal´s adding machine: new findings and conclusions

Ever since its invention and initial description in 1652, Blaise Pascal´s adding machine has been the subject of numerous studies and publications (D. Diderot and J.L. d´Alembert, 1751). However, when compiling and systematically analyzing the literature, a rather diffuse image emerges. For one thing, the method of subtraction is not accurately described. The article attempts to find out how one could have used Pascal´s Adding Machine (PAM), had it ever functioned properly. In addition, this is an attempt to provide a comprehensive functional description of the machine