A New, Solid-State, Nonlinear Analog Component

Abstract

Since the inception of the electronic analog computer as a useful engineering tool, the need for practical methods of solving nonlinear problems has steadily increased. This paper describes a passive, nonlinear device which, when used with operational amplifiers, provides the means for obtaining a large class of functions. These are obtained to a degree of accuracy and reliability not previously possible with a simple, economical device. A basic varistor squaring unit is described. The unit has been compensated for the various types of error inherent in the varistor itself, and is capable of providing approximately fifteen of the most basic and commonly used nonlinear functions.