Is there chance to make computer with base-3 number system ?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility and implications of creating a computer based on a base-3 number system, contrasting it with the binary system currently in use. Participants explore theoretical aspects, potential advantages or disadvantages, and historical examples.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants wonder about the possibility of a base-3 computer, questioning why binary is the standard.
  • One participant argues that while a base-3 computer could theoretically exist, there may be no practical advantage to it.
  • Another points out that base-3 would require defining an intermediate state, complicating the design compared to binary's clear on/off states.
  • It is suggested that in a base-3 system, states could correspond to positive voltage, negative voltage, and zero voltage, although this might be less efficient.
  • Concerns are raised about the complexity of physically storing values in a base-3 system, with a call for more expertise in semiconductor technology.
  • A historical example of a base-3 computer, SETUN, is mentioned, indicating that such systems have been built.
  • One participant recalls a theoretical proof suggesting that the optimal base for computation might be e, but notes that practical implementation challenges would prevent such a system from being built.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a mix of curiosity about the concept and skepticism regarding its practicality. There is no consensus on whether a base-3 computer would offer any advantages over binary systems.

Contextual Notes

Discussions include unresolved questions about the efficiency and complexity of implementing a base-3 system, as well as the physical storage of values, which depend on specific technological considerations.

Chitose
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Is there chance to make computer with "base-3 number system"?

Hello, Chitose wonder chick here again.


No matter how advance cpu these day, It's still base on binary numeral system

0 and 1

So...

I wonder why we can't make computer with base 3 number system?
0 1 and 2 (or what so ever)

I know it's sci-fi but, I've heard something call 'Three diagram',
It's supercomputer that if you give them enough information, It can predict future with near 100% accurate.

..........

English is not my native language, forgive me if I'm wrong in spelling of gamma.
 
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You could make a computer that was base 3... but why? There is no advantage.
 


At the bottom of it is that 1 and 0 give two states on and off to make computer based on base 3 you would have to determine an intermediate state.
 


For base 3, you could have the state of positive voltage, negative voltage, and 0 voltage as the intermediate step. My gut instinct is this would be less efficient, though it would take an EE person to explain why.
 


I don't think it's simplicity, as much as it is complexity. You have to think more on, how do you store that value physically? I can't elaborate more than that. Someone with more knowledge on semiconductors needs to step in here.
 


There was at least one - SETUN (Russian)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Setun"
 
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As TheoMcCloskey points out, it HAS been done, but the other posts that suggest it's likely not advantageous are correct, because of implementation.

I saw a proof once (at least I THINK I remember it being a proof) that the OPTIMUM theoretical base for a compute would be e, but of course no one is EVERY going to build one of those for the same reason ... implementation details make it a bad idea.
 

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