Before the development of inexpensive electronic calculators and personal computers in the 1970s and ’80s, various types of mechanical analog calculators were in widespread use. These included numerical tables, nomograms (a graphical method of solving complex equations), abacuses, adding machines, and slide rules. This presentation will briefly discuss the history of mechanical analog devices and demonstrate the use of nomograms and slide rules.

This workshop will take place in the Upper Level of the Galvin Library on Friday, September 22, from noon to 1 p.m.