(DCS) A digital computer used for real-time control of a dynamic system, usually in an industrial environment, possibly as part of a {Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition} (SCADA) system. A DCS samples feedback from the system under control and modifies the control signals in an attempt to achieve some desired behaviour. Analysis of such digital-analogue feedback systems can involve mathematical methods such as difference equations, {Laplace transforms}, {z transfer functions}, {state space models} and state transition matrices. (2004-08-22)