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Analog Computing Fundamentals

Explore the timeless principles of analog computation. Learn operational amplifiers, circuit-based computing, and how analog computers solve complex mathematical problems in real time.
  • Intermediate
  • 7 Modules
  • Certificate of Completion
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What You'll Learn

  • Understand fundamental principles of analog computing
  • Work with operational amplifiers and analog circuits
  • Design and build analog computers using op-amps
  • Solve differential equations using analog computers
  • Understand function generation and signal processing
  • Apply analog computing to real-world engineering problems
  • Interface analog and digital systems
  • Build practical analog computing projects

Course Content

Discover the elegant world of analog computation. From operational amplifiers to solving differential equations in real time, this course bridges the gap between historical computing and modern applications.
What is analog computing?
Lesson
History of analog computers
Lesson
Analog vs digital computing
Lesson
Modern applications of analog computing
Lesson
Op-amp fundamentals and characteristics
Lesson
Inverting and non-inverting amplifiers
Lesson
Summing amplifiers and differential amplifiers
Lesson
Building basic op-amp circuits
Lesson
Adder and subtractor circuits
Lesson
Integrator and differentiator circuits
Lesson
Logarithmic and exponential amplifiers
Lesson
Non-linear function generators
Lesson
Waveform generation circuits
Lesson
Voltage-controlled oscillators
Lesson
Precision function generators
Lesson
Noise reduction and filtering
Lesson
Analog computers for ODEs
Lesson
Solving first and second-order ODEs
Lesson
Simultaneously solving systems of equations
Lesson
Programming analog computers with patch panels
Lesson
Simulation and modeling with analog computers
Lesson
Control system simulation
Lesson
Signal processing applications
Lesson
Hybrid analog-digital systems
Lesson
Course review and best practices
Lesson
Review quiz
Quiz
Designing your analog computer project
Lesson
Final analog computing project
Assessment

Course Preview Video

Course Requirements

Basic understanding of electronics and mathematics is recommended.

  • Level: Intermediate
  • Delivery: Online / Self-paced
  • Prerequisites: Basic electronics and mathematics knowledge
  • Certificate: Certificate of Completion upon successful completion

Frequently Asked Questions

Can't find the answer you're looking for? Feel free to get in touch.

Do I need electronics experience for this course?

A basic understanding of electronics and mathematics is recommended. We cover the theory and practical applications in detail.

What analog computing topics are covered?

The course covers analog computing fundamentals, operational amplifiers, mathematical operations, function generators, differential equation solving, and real-world applications.

Will I build analog computing circuits?

Yes, you will build hands-on projects including op-amp circuits, function generators, and a final analog computer project.

How long is the course access?

You receive lifetime access to all course materials, including future updates and new analog computing techniques as they emerge.

Will I receive a certificate?

Yes, you will receive a Certificate of Completion after successfully completing the final project and assessments.

Is analog computing still relevant?

Yes, analog computing is experiencing a resurgence in low-power IoT devices, signal processing, and mixed-signal systems where real-time computation is critical.

Course Tutor

Prof. Alan Whitmore

Professor of Electrical Engineering & Computing History

Prof. Alan Whitmore is a leading expert in analog computing and computational electronics with over 20 years of academic and research experience. He holds a PhD in Electrical Engineering from Caltech and has authored numerous papers on analog computation and mixed-signal systems. Prof. Whitmore has restored historical analog computers and applies this knowledge to cutting-edge research in low-power and neuromorphic computing. His engaging teaching style makes complex analog concepts accessible to all learners.

Throughout this course, Alan will guide you through both theoretical foundations and hands-on circuit building, ensuring you gain practical skills in analog computing.

Course Reviews

Victor Chen

Prof. Whitmore's expertise in analog computing is truly exceptional. Building op-amp circuits to solve differential equations was incredibly rewarding.

Nina Rodriguez

Fascinating course! The history of analog computers combined with modern applications was eye-opening. The final project was challenging and fun.

Daniel Park

The mathematical operations module helped me understand how analog computers actually compute. Building an integrator circuit from scratch was very satisfying.

Sarah Thompson

Finally, a course that covers analog computing properly. The hands-on approach with real circuits makes the concepts stick. Highly recommended!

Michael O'Brien

This course exceeded my expectations. The blend of historical context and modern applications gives a complete picture of analog computing.

Emma Richardson

From knowing nothing about analog computing to building a complete working circuit. Prof. Whitmore makes complex topics easy to understand.