Using a slide rule forces a person to think about what they are doing. How it works, significant digits, rounding errors, scientific notation, etc. calling it a “guessing stick” was just a joke.
I haven’t used a slipstick since the 1960’s, when I bought my first calculator. I have at least a dozen around the house now… and they’re solar powered, Betty.
Last time I used a slide rule, I was in junior high or high school. I don’t know if I would remember much beyond using the C and D scale and I’m pretty sure I don’t remember all of how to do that.
saywhatwhat about 2 years ago
Using a slide rule forces a person to think about what they are doing. How it works, significant digits, rounding errors, scientific notation, etc. calling it a “guessing stick” was just a joke.
Skeptical Meg about 2 years ago
I wonder if Napier immediately realised that adding logs was the same as multiplying the bases.
fuzzbucket Premium Member about 2 years ago
I haven’t used a slipstick since the 1960’s, when I bought my first calculator. I have at least a dozen around the house now… and they’re solar powered, Betty.
Just-me about 2 years ago
Last time I used a slide rule, I was in junior high or high school. I don’t know if I would remember much beyond using the C and D scale and I’m pretty sure I don’t remember all of how to do that.
mountainclimber about 2 years ago
I had (still have) a fancy slide rule. But how often do you need to estimate a hyperbolic tangent?
ChukLitl Premium Member about 2 years ago
After the Theocracy, “Slipstick” Libby was a wiz who took us to the stars.
bhscolleen about 2 years ago
Interesting how a obsolete instrument is silencing the “Betty” haters. Happy trails!
cha0ss Premium Member about 2 years ago
When Skynet activates and kicks off the Computer Apocalypse, don’t y’all come whining to me ’cause you need logarithms and shite.