Technical highlightsThis year's technical program represents aviable example of progress in an explodintg

10 001- technology and introduces a welcome"!first" to the International Conivention

IEEE ClilYelltillI Cikti *1an, Technical Progrant CommitlteeECsn fi E.Marcelino Eleccio

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MARCH 18-21

This article, along with the Convention Technical category of sessions were asked to have their papersProgram itself, is an innovation. It was written to ex- aimed, not at members of their own Group, but at mem-plain the change in philosophy that underlies this bers of other Groups, or nonmembers of any Group.year's meeting. The intent of the convention program Based on careful planning around these criteria, the over-planners was not just to add one more technical con- all program is believed to be a balanced one, with some-ference to the many already scheduled for 1968, but, thing of interest for all. This selection leads to a programinstead, to provide something for the engineer's different from those available at other IEEE meetings.needs that is not available at those other meetings. To reduce parallel sessions, and to have larger meetingIn addition, there is included a description of the 49 rooms, with better facilities, the total number of sessionstechnical sessions arranged in 12 groups. has been reduced. In the regular portion of the program,

there were 80 sessions in 1966 and 72 in 1967; this yearThis year, 1968, marks the first major change in the there are 49. At the same time, many special features have

Convention Technical Program since its inception many been added, such as a display-demonstration-type Micro-years ago. Instead of an endeavor to solicit contributed wave Symposium at the Coliseum, two tutorial coursespapers covering recent specialized developments, we with textbooks and notes furnished, a workshop on pre-now have invited sessions, which cover only the most im- sentation of papers, whichi includes an actor-presentedportant and the broadest topics. A particular emphasis play, and a Film Theater, with a special instructionalhas been placed on filling the need of the average engineer feature of its own on large-scale integration.to keep up with the art, and to learn about the new sub- There will be no published short abstracts of papers;jects, started outside the IEEE, which will be part of in their place will be a Convention Digest, in which theIEEE tomorrow. Our program should appeal to a Group authors of papers in the regular sessions present muchmember, helping to expand the scope of his Group's more detailed reviews, complete with illustrations. To ainterest, and it should appeal to a non-Group member, man who cannot attend a particular session, the Digestwho can adapt to the state of the art in current Groups. is more valuable than our former abstracts, yet retainsThe sessions should attract the executive, or the man conciseness. For proper planning of his convention week,who plans to become one, and the marketing, sales, and every engineer is urged to read this summary of pro-production engineer, long overlooked in past Convention gram highlights, and also the session synopses, which arePrograms. included in the detailed program beginning on page 13.The Program Committee organized the sessions care-

fully to meet one or more of three basic criteria: (1) the Special Highlight Symposiumtopics should be relatively new to the IEEE, (2) they One traditional feature of past Conventions has beenshould be interdisciplinary and extend beyond the in- the Tuesday evening Highlight Symposium. This year,terests of any one of our organized Groups, or (3) the the session has been organized as an integral part of thesubjects should be treated in tutorial or survey fashion, technical program, and serves as an introduction to fourso as to be of value to someone who is not a specialist. of the technical sessions that follow. The topic selectedThose IEEE Groups who helped to organize the third is one of the most important to the future of electronics;

62 IEEE spectrumii MIARCII 1968

of the 1968 IEEE Convention

namely, the solution of problems concerned with the is followed by a panel discussion. Organized by Jamesworld's resources, environment, and population. Lufkin, this special event will be invaluable to good speak-

Fortunately, much of the technology developed for ers in improving their technique, and to bad speakers inspace exploration is applicable, and Session Chairman showing them how they got that way. Scheduled so as notR. C. Seamans, Jr., Deputy Administrator of NASA, is to interfere with the regular sessions or main conventioneminently qualified to define the theme of this meeting: events, it is repeated so that if missed on one of the days"New Directions in Space." He will be followed by four it can be heard on the other.speakers who will emphasize the United States' firm com-mitment to explore and exploit the infinite variety of earth Regular technical sessionsresources by whatever oceanographic, geologic, or Man and his machines. There are four interrelatedmeteorologic means are necessary. The role of electronics sessions, 3A, 4A, 5A, and 6A, that concern the mostas the key to this program will also be described. important computer man has-his brain-and those

Sessions 5E, 6E, 7E, and 8E on Wednesday and Thurs- many products that are designed by this computer-hisday will explain how the electronics industry, and the machines. Session 3A (Tuesday morning) is called "Man-engineer, will participate in this new commitment of Machine Interface-Or Who's In Charge Here?" It be-science to human welfare. comes apparent that the machine can become so vital to

the parent brain that the interrelationship of the twoSpecial sessions creates a new force, in which the question of who is in

Microwave presentations in Microwave Hall. The special control becomes a key one. One of the papers in thismicrowave feature is novel in several respects. It is session, by Gaines, is concerned with control of humanhardware or materials oriented, it includes displays and learning, which is probably more influential in controllingdemonstrations, and every topic is repeated so that, if it the future than any other man-machine reaction we canis missed in one presentation, there is an opportunity envision-short of complete annihilation. Another paperto hear it in the other. Details are found in the session (Senders) concerns attention and motivation, whichsynopsis and program, organized by Dr. Leo Young, surely affect the question of who's minding the store. Once,on page 16 of this issue. This symposium is a must for not so many years ago, man made pictures and graphicsthose who are active in the field. by himself, but today his machines do almost as well, as

Film Theater. Other meetings have effectively used Noll shows in his paper describing computer graphicsselected films from industry, government, and other in acoustics research. By the way, Noll also authoredsources to present important and timely developments. an interesting paper in IEEE SPECTRUM' that closelyThis year, our program has done this and, in addition, relates to Session 5A, and in which practical computeris innovating in another respect. Included in the pro- graphics has actually led to esthetic creations.gram and repeated each day is a specially made two-part In following up the "who's in charge" theme of Sessionrecorded talk on the effects and status of large-scale inte- 3A, Session 4A, "Man-Computer Communication"grated circuits; the speakers are outstanding leaders (Tuesday afternoon), explores the communication thatin this revolutionary field of solid-state technology, and exists between man's brain and its most intricate crea-the recording technique uses compressed speech with tion-the electronic computer. After two papers describesynchronized slides to cut listening time down to much the results of large time-sharing systems and the com-less than the original. As with the films, this is a highly puter-aided design of integrated circuits, another developsconcentrated and effective way to absorb information, the possibility of using the computer as a mathematicaland should not be missed. assistant. A final paper introduces a method of obtaining

Tutorial courses. Requiring special registration in a (machine)n multiplication of intelligence that ap-advance, the courses on Application of Integrated Cir- proaches the ultimate represented by the brain, that ofcuits and Computer-Aided Circuit Design were scheduled interacting computer networks.so as not to interfere with any of the regular convention The man-machine concept is carried a step further inactivities. They start each morning with a continental the four papers of Session 6A, "To Understand Brains..."breakfast, and finish in time for attendance at the regular (Wednesday afternoon), which endeavor to explain thetechnical sessions. brain in terms of a very complex, higher-order machine.Workshop-How to Present a Technical Talk. One of Should this be carried out in detail, we would clearly be

the most important skills that every engineer can use on the verge of designing the machine that will imitate, ifis that of organizing technical material for presenta- not emulate, man himself.tion to his management, to his colleagues, or to a techni- The involvement of electronics, principally the corn-cal society. This workshop consists of an original short puter, in the cultural interests of man has already beenplay, in which the major effects of good and bad tech- started in music, and is about to take place in art. Inniques are demonstrated in unforgettable fashion. It Session 5A, "Computer Output as Art" (Wednesday

Herold, Eleccion-Technical highlights of the 1968 IEEED Convention 63

morning), two practitioners, Knowlton on computer morning). In essence, they emphasize individuality at ali"software" and Michaels on apparatus, discuss the uses levels of learning, with close cooperation between society,of graphic computer output in the "science of the the industry, and the educational system.beautiful" as exemplified by pictorial art. Those who The remaining papers of these two sessions describehave read the previously described Noll article may come the growing reliance of teaching systems on sophisticatedprepared to support the idea, or disparage it. tn K. M. communication systems (television, "blackboard byBull, a Massachusetts art critic, they will have a spokes- wire") and high-speed digital computers. Every engineerman who will speak for both sides. This session prepares and manager will find that these sessions are not to beus for that day when, after machines do all the work missed.needed for physical survival, we might have to employ and some more that's new. After television, micro-them for intellectual and cultural survival as well. waves, and data processing, what are the next outstandingWhat we all need-education! The fast pace of electroniics fields for electronics? The Technical Program Committee

and electrical engineering has been so dazzling that few doesn't pretend to know the answer, but does claim that,of us are convinced of our ability to stay even with, much whatever these new areas of interest for IEEE are, they'reless keep ahead of, the field. Th-e same rescarch that has likely to be on the 1968 program!caused this exponential increase in technology, however, Some of these can be seen in Session 7A, "Marconi'scan help reduce the hopelessness by stepping up the pace Impact on Gutenberg" (Thursday morning), which coversof the learning process itself. Many of the disciplines almost every aspect of electronics in publishing-fromencompassed by the sessions of this convention owe their the thoroughly new, such as composition, typesetting,progress to the successful application of computers and and printing itself, to the somewhat more traditional sub-system analYsis. The same two techniques can be applied jects of control instrumentation, and distribution viato education, and will be discussed in Session IA, "Elec- facsimile or digital codes. The speakers are outstanding:tronic Technology in Education," and Session 2A, J. J. Boyle represents the world's largest printer and"Engineering Education--Continuing Studies." publisher, the U.S. government; H. B. Archer is fromAs the engineer becomes older, individual treatnment of the most famous graphic arts university in the U.S.;

the learning process becomes essential for at least part of and H. F. George, E. W. Harslem, and J. S. Tewlow arehis continuing education. This individuality is expressed from three of the most significant groups in the field.in three of the five papers of Session IA (Monday This session presents a rare opportunity to hear, from

outside the IEEE, how important our industry has beenand will become in the field of printing and publishing.An area much talked about these days, but not of-

MODERN electronic color scanner, as used in the printing ficially recognized by the IEEE, is psyChop)h3'sics. In aindustry (see Session 7A). The electronic controls for the paper at Session 4C, "Psychophysics-A New Dimensionanalog computers provide a flexibility and precision not . . . .achievable with earlier methods. in Engineering" (Tuesday afternoon), C. J. Hirsch shows

that we wouldn't be where we are in radio and televisionif it hadn't been for Newton, Young, Helmholtz, Fechner,and other early investigators of sound and visual per-ception. Hirsch suggests that we've a long way yet togo in learning about man's perception of the electronicenvironment being built around him. Incidentally, in oneof the most fascinating color demonstrations yet as-sembled, R. M. Evans proves the point by showing thatthere's much more to color perception than the ordinaryexpert in color television is aware of. A third paper ison A. C. Schroeder's theory of how one sees color,which is one of the more remarkable recent theories,applying waveguide concepts to the visual sensors of theeye. Regarding perception in general, binocular vision,which few of us really understand, is beginning to be

_ | susceptible to computer study by the use of the cleverpattern generation that is described by Bela Juleszin the last paper of this session.

_ A feature of ultrasound that has hitherto been restrictedto the laboratory, that of using high-power ultrasonice_nergy practically, will be introduced to IEEE members

_ in the six papers of Session 4F, "High-Power Ultra-sonics" (Tuesday afternoon). A product of the leadinggroups in this field, these papers will review applications,the powerful transducers necessary to make them practi-cable, and the techniques that aid their effectiveness. Thisextension of ultrasonics beyond such fundamental usesas cleaning will be shown to be of major industrial im-portance.To the average IEEE member, biomedical engineering

is old hat, yet except for EKG apparatus and the X-ray

64 IEEE spectrum MARCH 1968

machine, medicine is still practiced mainly with chemicalsand surgery. Session 8A, "Planning for Payoffs in Bio-medical Engineering" (Thursday afternoon), is devoted toshowing that there is a predominating trend towardbetter understanding of the field, so that one can easilyforesee electronics (and system analysis) playing a majorrole in bettering human health. However, it's importantto bet on the right horse, not only on the track, but(metaphorically) in biomedicine as well. Session organizer0. H. Schmitt has four speakers who should be able toprovide the "tip" for the IEEE man who doesn't want tomiss this part of his future.Measuring the payoff. There are very few sessions of

the 1968 technical program that do not suggest to theenterprising engineer some way to advance himselfeconomically, as well as technically. At the same time,most technical sessions are not directly concerned witheconomic values, or with the judgments that must bemade as a result of their consideration. There are, how- MARK l1information rate changer rotating head assemblyever, five sessions that are so concerned; they cover showing mu metal shield; azimuth adjustment guide is

manaemen, inentin, 'd th tecnoloicald*ffon the left and wrap angle adjustment guide is on themanagement, invention, and the technological dilferences right. (See Film Theater.)due to different economies throughout the world.

Session IC, "Management of Research and Develop-ment" (Monday morning), features four papers on thissubject, which concerns the fountainhead from which hasflowed most of the economic rewards of our own in- man's survival is dependent upon the proper adaptationdustry. Session 2B, "The Patent Revolution" (Monday to, and effective use of, his worldly environment. Fourafternoon), discusses patents, which are the contracts be- sessions, 5E, 6E, 7E, and 8E, are the follow-up to thetween society and the inventor, and which have proved to Special Highlight Evening Symposium. They are con-be highly lucrative to both. One of the speakers, Arpad cerned with obtaining data for both exploring and ex-Bogsch, is a leading figure on the international patent ploiting the many resources of this environment and forscene, and speaks for the world community. The Ameri- weather prediction, and with the communication systemscan view is sometimes considered more parochial, but the required to obtain such data, including ordinary point-to-defending speaker, F. L. Neuhauser, will display the point communication.proverbial "other side" of the coin. This discussion ought The interesting fact emerges that the total view of landto be extremely interesting to engineer and manager alike. and ocean from space, using all the parts of the spectrum

Session 3C, "New Technology and Engineering for which sensors are available, adds a new dimension toEconomy" (Tuesday morning), is devoted to the technical our ability to analyze, predict, and utilize this environ-aspects of engineering economics, that part of the en- ment. Nevertheless, space data alone, using radio, light,gineer's training that has, alas, been so often overlookeds and infrared radiation from the earth's surface, constituteEach of the four papers covers a different facet of the sub- only one tool. Suboceanic and subterranean telemeteringject, the total of which should provide the engineer with systems also play an important part. One of the papersa better ability to measure "payoff" in terms of technical in this group of sessions discusses image processing bydecisions. On the other hand, the four papers of Session way of holographic techniques, whereby (ny pictorial5C, "New Tools for Elfective Management" (Wednesday data can be enhanced in value. (This specialized papermorning), are concerned with better tools for these is a fitting one to follow the more general treatments ofdecisions, via the computer as an adjunct to the engineer- optical processing and holography found in Session 4D.)ing manager, as well as to the engineer himself. Sessions 5E, "Earth and Environmental Sciences-The last session in this "management" category is ex- Exploration" (Wednesday morning), 6E, "Earth and En-

ceptional in that it brings together four top executives, vironmental Sciences-Exploitation" (Wednesday after-each the head of a major company, from four different noon), and 8E, "Potential Observing Techniques for thecountries. The theme, of what will unquestionably be an World Weather Program" (Thursday afternoon), haveexciting discussion, will be the technological differences sufliciently descriptive titles not to require comment.between nations, their underlying causes, and their ef- Session 7E, "A Survey of Satellite Communications"fects on our industry. The IEEE, as an international (Thursday morning), is exclusively devoted to satelliteorganization, must serve all of its members, and it is communication links from one point of the earth tomost important to recognize that technical and economic another. It is hoped that all of these topics, when theyvalues in any one country may differ substantially from are better understood by the engineer, will provide the keythose elsewhere. A session such as 6C, "International to controlling man's resources and environment. This,Aspects of IEEE-Closing Technological Gaps" in turn, should enable mankind to adjust to its prob-(Wednesday afternoon), may serve the 1968 Convention lems of overpopulation, underdevelopment (in someattendee to develop better understanding of his IEEE parts of the world), and overdevelopment (in other parts).associates who live under such different value systems. Building blocks for systems. A measure of an engineer'sThe earth and the space around it. In spite of the ad- success is contained in the systems that result from his

vances in science and the refinements of civilization, work. Reliability, accuracy, and performance of a system,

Herold, Eleccion-Technical highlights of the 1968 IEEE Convention Program 65

however, largely depend upon the constituent sub-systems. These integral building blocks are the subjectof six sessions, all concerned with the materials, com-ponents, devices, techniques, and packaging disciplinesthat are so important to our systems of the future.

Solid-state materials and phenomena are at the core ofsystem and device performance and Session 2D, "WhatCan Technology Expect from the Solid State ?" (Mondayafternoon), serves as an introduction to some of the othersessions. Four experts look into the present state of theart of magnetic, piezo- and ferroelectric, superconductor,and semiconductor materials and phenomena-ex-trapolating today's knowledge into device considerationsof the future. Although the semiconductor remains amaterial with the greatest short-term impact, few en-gineers can remain unaffected by the combined tech-nologies of these four areas.The application, safety, and evaluation of subsystem

components are the concern of three sessions. There arefour papers in Session 3D, "Large-Scale-Integration EXAMPLE of computer-generated art, courtesy of A. M.Technology and Its Application to Computer Systems" Noll (see Session 5A).(Tuesday morning); the first two concern the extent ofLSI customizing that will be required, and the second twoestablish a rationnale for the installation of LSI into largeand small computers. Session 5F, "Fuse Considerations niques using optical images, the nonlinear effects thatfor High-Power Semiconductor Applications" (Wednes- have been so useful in building radio- and microwave-day morning), contains six papers that instruct the en- frequency devices in the past will be adapted to opticalgineer on how to protect very-high-power semiconductor frequencies by Geusic of BTL. This technique holdsdevices against unintended surges and overloads. unlimited potential for future nonlinear and parametricOnce a subsystem component is inserted into the over- devices. A survey of lasers for displays, and a review of

all system and becomes a member of a semiconductor the status of the revolutionary laser gyro, will round outarray, the detection of deviant behavior becomes an this very complete session on laser technology.enormous chore. Fortunately, test equipment has been de- Systems and how to build them. The byword in elec-veloped from infrared technology which not only has been tronics today is the "system." Everywhere we go, in theable to evaluate components prior to encapsulation, but military and in industry, we hear of the "system ap-can "fingerprint" entire microelectronic systems while in proach." Whenever electronic experience is called upon tofull operation. Among the four papers and three films of advise in education or in politics, or to propose a cureSession 4B, "Infrared Radiometry" (Tuesday afternoon), for social evils, one inevitably hears these same words.the paper on NASA's fast-scan infrared microscope, and In looking over the 1968 technical program, therefore,the film on the COMPARE infrared test system for solid- it should come as no surprise that systems-related topicsstate circuits describe two systems that exhibit a testing comprise the largest single assemblage. The IEEE mem-versatility of uncommon proportions. These testing ber who has not yet adjusted himself to this technique forsystems can be said to add a "sixth sense" to conventional the future would do well to take heed!information systems. The design of systems has come a long way in the pastThe proper assemblage of components into appropriate two decades. In Session 8C, "A Debate on Techniques for

modules and packages is a necessary step in "fitting" the System Synthesis" (Thursday afternoon), various pro-building blocks to a system. The evolution of monolithic tagonists will compare the results of three different meth-circuits into medium- and large-scale integration systems ods of system s nthesis: namely, digital simulation, use ofhas further complicated the problems first created by design indexes, and use of Bayesian statistics. The sessionprinted circuits. The four papers contributing to Session organizer promises a lively debate among the speakers,7D, "Systems, Materials, and Packaging Disciplines" and will try to play an objective part himself as moderator.(Thursday morning), provide answers to the more urgent Session 5B, "Digital Simulation-Key to System Design"problems facing intra- and interconnection techniques by (Wednesday morning), is closely related; the speakersoffering "software" in addition to "hardware" ap- here appear to have already made up their minds, sinceproaches. Specific coverage is given to interconnections all five use digital simulation as their technique. Specif-in hybrid systems, unique packaging characteristics for ically, this computer-oriented approach (what isn't thesespacecraft, minimizing connections of microelectronic days?) is used to design communication, computer, andcomponents to facilitate repair and replacement, and the power systems in a powerful argument for this method.use of substrates to reduce interconnection problems. A system that breaks down suddenly moves from theAs an introduction to an important building block of "asset" column to the "liability" column; hence, system

future electron devices, Session 4D, "Applications of reliability and maintenance are critical factors for suc-Coherent Light Technology" (Tuesday afternoon), will cess. There are four sessions in the program that allowfeature five papers on the laser and its applications. In for close examination of both the present status and futureaddition to a paper covering the all-important aspect of trends in this vital area. The four papers of Session 5G,holography, and another defining data-processing tech- "Assessment of Reliability Techniques" (Wednesday

66 IEEE spectrum MARCI 1968

morning), carefully examine the reliability of military tinuance of nature's delicate C02-oxygen balance), andand commercial systems, and the criteria required for produces high noise levels and inevitable fuel depletion.microelectronic and component reliability. In the after- Air pollution is now as important as economy in thenoon, there is a practical discussion of maintenance in future construction of generating plants for electricthe field (Session 6B, "Broadening Scope of Field Support energy; and the exotic power requirements of space de-and Maintenance"), and specific examples of a large mand maximum efficiency and operating time combinedseismic array system, a test range, and an early-warning with minimum size and weight.system serve to provide the audience with the back- Some of these requisites have been met with more thanground necessary to design and evaluate maintenance partial success by the development of nuclear reactorproblems of other kinds. plants2'3 and fuel cells. The three papers of Session 3E,The two companion sessions, 7B, "Automated Main- "Energy Sources" (Tuesday morning), are particularly

tenance-Theoretical Aspects" (Thursday morning), designed to present topical coverage of these energyand 8B, "Automated Maintenance-Field Experience" sources-from basic principles to current state of the art.(Thursday afternoon), carry the idea of maintenance a Fuel cells, electric automobiles, and nuclear energy con-step further by presenting the theoretical and practical version are provided ample coverage by representativesaspects of automatic fault detection, location, and repair. of NASA, GM, and the AEC.This is an exciting prospect for keeping a system in the In keeping with the interdisciplinary nature of modern"asset" column, and three papers of 7B permit more ef- science, Session 5D, "Better Electrical Products fromfective design by discussing the methods of automatic Chemistry" (Wednesday morning), will demonstrate howfault simulation and the automated maintenance of com- electric devices, particularly batteries and fuel cells, haveputers. A fourth paper covers similar considerations for benefited from the allied fields of chemistry. The mate-the nondigital (i.e., linear or analog) type of system. rials and techniques that have enabled electrical in-Fortunately, some of these theoretical ideas can be sulation, solid-state devices, batteries, and fuel-cell proc-backed up by the experience of one of the oldest electric esses to progress are the topics of four of these papers;systems we have-the telephone. Thus, the three Euro- the fifth presents a review of the chemistry and technol-pean and two American companies that discuss the auto- ogy of the power sources of today and tomorrow.mated detection and diagnosis of system faults in Session Better ways to get from here to there. Recent articles8B represent a first step toward complete automation. by G. D. Friedlander4 and E. L. Michaels5 in IEEE

If one of us were asked to design a system for the SPECTRUM, and perhaps one's own demonstrable frustra-planet Venus, would automatic maintenance and repair tions, have called attention to a burgeoning problembe enough ? Clearly it would not, which leads us to the that has reached epic proportions-the restrictions onnatural extension of such systems-the adaptive or self- safe and quick travel that are imposed by the close con-learning system. Our own body is, of course, a beautiful centration of an overabundant populace.example of this, for it contains homeostatic as well as It is not surprising that computers and automatic con-dynamic adaptive features. Session 7C, "Adaptation and trol techniques play an important role in the solutionsLearning in Systems" (Thursday morning), includes offered by Sessions 1E, "Transportation-I" (Mondayfive papers on this topic, from theoretical concepts about morning), and 2E, "Transportation-Il" (Monday after-adaptive curve fitting, to practical application of an noon), since speed and reliability are the essence of anyadaptive antenna system. One of these papers is written solution to this problem. Although particularized to theby a leader in this area from the U.S.S.R., and his paper Northeast Corridor, the M.I.T. study in Session IEon adaptation and learning in automatic systems is ex- develops the problem of high-speed ground transporta-pected to reveal recent advances in that country. tion and can serve as a general introduction to the other

There is another problem in systems design and prac- papers. One of these describes a novel taxi-bus systemtice, which is very basic but as yet not fully determinable. called "Genie"; and the remaining two discuss trends inThis is the subject of Session 6G, "Integration vs. Con- rail transportation, and introduce error-ratio measure-federation: Which Criteria for Aerospace Systems ?" ments of a computerized teletypewriter system that might(Wednesday afternoon). For an aerospace system, just well influence the railway's fight for survival.how far should one go in integrating a unique system? Session 2E is primarily concerned with the automobile;Three highly placed and highly qualified speakers from two papers emphasize the problems of highway automa-the armed services, and two from industry, describe how tion, and two describe modern developments in intersec-the problem has arisen, and the pros and cons of integra- tion control, including Toronto's highly successful traffiction versus confederation. The former notion implies an control signal system.almost complete interdependence of all the components Uses and abuses of the ether. Many IEEE membersand subsystems; whereas confederation, just as on the make their living out of the use of the ether. To someonepolitical scene, permits substantial independence among concerned with a radiation-susceptible system unrelatedthe system parts. A panel discussion following the formal to communication, there is always the question of whetherpresentation of papers should add contingent and un- one fellow's "use" isn't someone else's "abuse." Sessionscheduled color to an already fascinating session. iF, "Effects of Electromagnetic Energy Outside of Coin-

Sources of energy. Energy is one topic about which no munication" (Monday morning), deals with this problemone is satisfied. If we don't have enough energy, we can- well beyond the conventional interference and noise.not develop our other resources, and even when there is The effects on biological systems, on our environment,plenty, we worry about pollution and depletion. The and on nonradio equipment have not usually beenknownworld's transportation network, most of which relies on to the persons responsible for the source of radiation.fossil-burning energy systems, is possibly a major danger The three papers in iF are designed to dispel this ignor-(recent queries by scientists seriously challenge the con- ance and show the truth of the old maxim, "it's an ill

Herold, Eleccion-Technical highlights of the 1968 IEEE Convention 67

of "problem solving." The question here is no longer"who is in charge?" but "what must be done?" To thisend, any technique that can increase accuracy and reli-ability while shortening real-time operation is acceptable.Throughout these sessions, the computer has proveditself an invaluable aid to the investigator. In short:the problem's the rub-and the computer's the "solve"!The increasingly complicated types of information

processing introduced by computer technology requireunique solutions, and the five papers of Session 1 D, "NewIdeas in Information Processing" (Monday morning),run the gamut. High-speed requirements for large-scaleintegration and computer-graphic addition and multipli-cation are solved by integrated circuitry and hybridanalog-digital methods in the papers by Chung andHagen. Representation of variables is enormously simpli-fied by Gaine's use of random pulse sequences; and twonew methods of information transfer by fiber optics areoutlined by a trio from the American Optical Company.Finally, a means of storing and retrieving this informa-tion by holography is introduced by Kalman.The complexity of most problems require that the

engineer's approach-especially in the face of time-shar-ing and cost considerations-be founded on already well-established techniques. The specific applications con-tained in the two papers of Session 2C, "Computer-Aided Engineering" (Monday afternoon), describe small-card wiring changes and an on-line flight data condition-ing system. It is likely that these two techniques can beextended to embrace problems of a more general nature,

COMPARE system (see Session 4B) achieves automated in turn extending the value of these papers to the listener.troubleshooting analysis of the infrared signatures of Two other papers cover rapid synchronous logic simu-

lators and the COMMEND I program, designed to play an

increasing role in faster and better mechanical design.Optimum computer performance can be additionally

improved by the adroit selection of methods similar towind. . . " In the paper by Buehler, for example, there is those described in Session 4E, "Modern Algorithmicevidence that radio noise, a form of air pollution, can be Methods for Computer Solution of Electrical Engineer-turned to advantage to predict temperature inversions ing Problems" (Tuesday afternoon). The common pit-and smog. falls confronting the novice are tutorially outlined in theAnother form of ether abuse conies from overcrowding, two papers covering the discriminate use of precon-

and Session 2F, 'Propagation in New Spectral Regions" structed subroutines and numerical analysis programs.(Monday afternoon), is an important survey of the Specific treatment of complex waveforms through filterscharacteristics of microwave and millimeter wave- is given by Hamming, and an iterative method for thelengths, as affected by the atmosphere and the weather. fast Fourier transform is described by one of its innova-Expansion in this region appears to be essential and a tors, Cooley of IBM.knowledge of the problems to be faced will help many an The three sessions in this grouping should greatly helpengineer adapt to the future. those with a little sophistication in computer technology

The five papers of Session 3F, "Recent Advances in to improve their skill, and those who have no backgroundRadio Wave Propagation" (Tuesday morning), deal with to appreciate what they are missing.conventional frequencies, between HF and SHF, but ... and we should also mention these. The 1968 Con-they disclose unconventional knowledge about their ference should make the engineer aware of the diversityuse under special conditions. Among the topics covered of research "tools" that are at his disposal. In additionare jungle radio propagation and long-range communica- to the computer, which has become synonymous withtion with deeply buried antennas, all at lower frequencies; speed and efficiency, a practically bottomless "tool chest"short-wave (HF/VHF) propagation using the earth- stands within the grasp of every scientist to help himdetached, wide-band, low-loss ionospheric "whispering develop his understanding and stimulate his imagination.gallery"; predictions of cover-age and interference by low- One such tool is inf6rnnation theory. Formerly discountedantenna measurements over irregular terrain at VHF/UHF; and a survey of what is known and unknown as a "curious intellectual game," Shannon's brainchild

about terrestrial interference with satellite communica- has given substance to digital computers, extended thetions links. scope of deep-space communication, simplified automatic

1968's best engineering tool-the computer. Man- control, clarified language processing and pattern recog-machine interaction was the topic of a previous group of nition, and contributed fundamental concepts to thesessions. The present group, however, explores the theme behavioral, management, and biological sciences.

68 IEEE spectrum MARCH 1968

Session 6F, "Progress and Trends in Information in and beyond the audio-frequency range.Theory" (Wednesday afternoon), is a state-of-the-art The publicity accorded early superspy disclosures andsurvery of this field. There are two papers that describe more recent cinema spoofs has created close publicthe threefold increase in the data-decoding rate of space interest in the electronic surveillance techniques employedtelemetry and the practical decoding algorithms that are by these "masters of deceit." If this influence wereoffered by information theory. A useful approach to restricted only to television serials, magazine ads, andpattern recognition, and the limitations of data-com- children's toys, perhaps no more would come of it. How-pression techniques are the topics for two more papers. ever, the four papers of Session 6D, "Electronics andStill another paper includes a history of how theoretical Privacy" (Wednesday afternoon), call serious attentionresults often show up mistakes in engineering intuition to the various individual, national, and legal aspects of(examples are given from radar, radio astronomy, com- this ubiquitous invasion of privacy that can result frommunications, and seismic instrumentation), and in- the overzealous use of a most powerful electronic tool.structs the practicing engineer on how the current theory In this session, a paper by B. Jamil reveals the state ofcan be applied to his own problem. the art of surveillance equipment, to establish a frame-The rapid developments in large-scale integration of work for the other three papers. The actual distinction

digital circuits previously described have made the appli- between the passive and active use of electronic devicescation of digital-filtering techniques feasible in a shorter either to provide security or to destroy privacy is de-time than expected. This is the topic of the four papers in fined by J. D. Foster in his treatment of the subject.Session 7F, "Digital Filtering-The Promise of LSI Whether the electronics engineer should remain in silentApplied to Signal Processing" (Thursday morning). A acquiescence or insure that adequate safeguards are pro-panel discussion on the implication of digital filters should vided in the information-processing systems of the futurecomplete the understanding of a method that threatens is a highly ethical question, however. The extent ofto end the virtual monopoly of its analog counterpart. ethical responsibility in designing these privacy safe-The successful application of relatively simple digital guards is the theme of P. Baran's paper on the threat

methods to intricate systems is indicative of the temper of future data centers. Although opinions seem dividedof present-day science. The system interference attributed over this issue, it remains to be seen what the engineerto existing wireless transmission methods would certainly makes of his unique and highly personal position.be curtailed if a number of them could be transmitted Which brings us to the much-touted legal aspects ofover the same channel. Even more practical, wire systems surveillance that will be presented by a distinguishedcould operate at higher efficiencies with fewer lines. All guest speaker, A. Yarmolinsky of the Harvard Lawthis is made possible with digital communication systems, School. Although electronic surveillance may at timesand the four papers of Session 8F, "Transmission Bit by be necessary in terms of local and national security, muchBit" (Thursday afternoon), treat the basic problems in of it is done on the personal and corporate level. All ofturn-processing, switching, multiplexing, and trans- it, however, concerns the delicate question of constitu-mission. It is essential that every well-rounded engineer tional rights, and recent test cases involving local andlearn the fundamentals of this versatile tool, bit by bit! federal sleuthing practices have defined the limits within

Electronic ingenuity has accounted for one of the most which these agencies must operate. Future court decisionsinvaluable research instruments of the 20th century-the are expected to extend these definitions even further.particle accelerator. This tool has established nuclearphysics as one of the leading modern sciences, and the Epilogueauthors of the five papers in Session 1B, "Recent Ad- The Technical Program Committee has tried hard tovances in Particle Accelerator Technology" (Monday meet program objectives that are, indeed, different andmorning), will attempt to explain why. One paper de- that provide help to every Convention attendee. Suc-scribes a recently completed 20-billion-volt accelerator, cess will be evaluated by the response of the readers ofand a second reveals the plans for the world's largest, this article, both in their attendance at the technical ses-about which we have heard so much: the machine to be sions and by their opinions (which IEEE members havebuilt in Illinois. Another paper outlines the coming gen- seldom been backward about expressing). If the objec-eration of highly flexible medium-energy accelerators; tives are met, and the program helps our members moveand a fourth measures the impact of computers on the ahead in the technical explosion evolving around us, thecontrol of these devices. As an added attraction-as Institute will owe a great debt to the many hard-workingthough one were needed-a paper on the potential use of session organizers, and the speakers they have invited,superconductive properties in accelerator design will whose participation is the heart of any technical pro-show just how revolutionary these tools can really be. gram. We look forward to seeing you at the ConventionThe immediate detection of voltage differences that and we welcome your comments.

may make or break a system sometimes demands voltagemeasurement devices with an accuracy of several parts in REFERENCESa million. With this in mind, Session 3B, "The Op Art of 1. Noll, A. M., "The digital computer as a creative medium,"Voltage Measurement" (Tuesday morning), includes a IEEE Spectrum, vol. 4, pp. 89-95, Oct. 1967.paper describing the new generation of digital voltmeters, 2. Shaw, M., "Nuclear power-the next decade of development,"and one that describes the total acceptance of the Zener IEE Spcrm vo.4 p 38,Ot 97did as th.okn cvlaestnadfrmsrcs 3. Vogely, W. A., and Morrison, W. E., "Patterns of U.S. energydlod as hewrkln dc oltge sandad fo mos prelse consumption to 1980," IEEE Spectrum, vol. 4, pp. 81-86, Sept.electric instruments. This session, tutorial in nature, also 1967.reports on the characteristics and performance of active 4. Friedlander, G. D., "Railway vs. highway-the zoom of things

dc~~~~~~~~~~~votgstnad,i.diio odvlpn h to come," IEEE Spectrum, vol. 4, pp. 62-76, Sept. 1967.dc votagestanards ln ddltln todeveopln the 5. Michaels, E. L., "Today's need for balanced urban transitdesign criteria for the generation of precise ac potentials systems," IEEE Spectrum, vol. 4, pp. 87-91, Dec. 1967.

Herold, Eleccion-Technical highlights of the 1968 IEEE Convention 69