Patching a signal to a MATHS function-generator input integrates it, producing lag, slew, or portamento

A MATHS function generator does not only make envelopes — it can process an incoming control voltage by integrating it. When a changing signal is applied to the direct-coupled Signal Input of Channel 1 or 4, the Rise and Fall controls limit how fast the output is allowed to follow it: Rise caps the rate of increase, Fall caps the rate of decrease. The result is lag, slew, or portamento (gliding pitch between notes). A key limitation is that MATHS cannot look ahead: it can only slow a signal down or pass it at the same speed, never speed up an external voltage’s rate of change. This is why a stepped CV becomes a smoothed glide rather than a sharpened one.

Examples

A stepped pitch CV into CH1 Signal Input with Rise and Fall raised: the pitch glides between steps (portamento). Lower Rise/Fall = faster glide; higher = slower, more gliding.

Assessment

How do the Rise and Fall controls act on a signal patched to the Signal Input? Why can MATHS smooth (slow) a stepped CV but never sharpen it?