DIFFERENCE ENGINES.

Abstract

Ths is a survey paper which deals with the development of the difference engines from their conception by Muller in 1786, through the attempts of Charles Babbage, their realisation by the Scheutz team, and their final practical use by Comrie in the period before the Secod World War. The circumstances behind the development of the most famous engines are described in moderate detail, while the machines of secondary importance are mentioned in an attempt to cover the overall development of these devices.