The role of analogue computers in classical control design

This paper looks at analogue computers and their role in the development of control engineering. Vacuum tube analogue computers were used extensively from the mid 40's to the mid 60's and the paper describes their general features and those of some specific machines. Later work involving machines with transistors and then integrated circuits is briefly discussed. Some discussion is included of how the machines were used both in education and industry to further the discipline of control engineering.