Abstract: A double precision approximate quotient network determines the quotient of a 2n bit number and an n bit number where the n bit number has a value of 2.sup.n-1 -2, 2.sup.n-1 -1, 2.sup.-1, or 2.sup.n+1. Apparatus determines the 2's complement and 2 times the 2's complement of the n most significant bits of the 2n bit number. A select circuit is responsive to the value of the n bit number to select one of (a) the 2's complement of the n most significant bits of the 2n bit number, (b) 2 times the 2's complement of the n most significant bits of the 2n bit number, (c) zero, or (d) the n most significant bits of the 2n bit number. A shift register right shifts the 2n bit number one place. An adder adds the shifted 2n bit number to the number selected by the select circuit to determine the quotient. The apparatus is particularly useful in determining a double precision approximate quotient for use in double precision floating point divide and decimal divide operations.

Abstract: A method for use with an article of manufacture allows great accuracy in machining the edge of a face on a prism to a predetermined position respective a feature carried on the face and formed by deposition of insulating material. The preferred application for this invention is in accurately machining the transducing surface of a disk memory transducer assembly so that the throat height of the thin-film head carried on an end face of the assembly has a precise value.