Computing applications where analogue methods appear to be superior to digital

In solving scientific engineering problems and design studies the first step consists of formulating the mathematical analogue of the problem which is to be studied. It is then a matter of convenience which means are employed to realize this mathematical model¿analogue or digital. There are therefore no a priori reasons why either method is to be preferred and the choice will be dictated by the exigencies of the problem and the equipment in existence. Some advantages of analogue machines are quoted and three particular problems are studied for which analogue methods appear to be superior, namely the computation of non-linear heat flow, noise analysis, and the Monte Carlo method for solving neutron collision problems.