Abstract :
My first experiences with decimal computer arithmetic in college (1963) influenced my subsequent career decisions and projects as described herein. Many popular early computers focused on commercial applications for which decimal arithmetic was appropriate. These digit-serial implementations did not minimize hardware cost, but provided the precision needed by the application. Decimal arithmetic as taught in elementary school is a fine starting point for describing computer operation, but for non-engineers the hardware realization of an adder is mysterious. Routing circuits, while not always practical, illustrate how two-bits can be added by using switches, relays, or MOSFET´s.
Keywords :
digital arithmetic; logic devices; MOSFET circuit; adders; commercial application; computer operation; decimal computer arithmetic; digit-serial implementation; electrical switches; mechanical relay; routing circuit; Adders; Application software; Costs; Digital arithmetic; Educational institutions; Engineering profession; Hardware; Routing; Switches; Switching circuits;
