Brl Report1115_0700 Report1115 0700

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Official Marine Corps Photo

Camp Pendleton, California

U.S. Marine Corps, Camp Pendleton
Media
Speed
Printer
Punched Cards
Magnetic Tape
Console Typewriter
U. S. Marine Corps, Headquarters
Magnetic Tape
Printed Reports
Punched Cards (IBM 523)
Flexowriter
Punched card output is always off-line.
Magnetic tape speed is effective speed as there is
no gap between records.
American United Life Insurance Company
*High Speed Printer
600 lineS/min alpha-numeric
900 lines/min numeric (1)
Paper Tape Punch
60 char/sec
Magnetic Tape
30,000 char/sec
Post reads all write
Console Typewriter
10 char/sec

* Interconnecting device permits both on-line
and off-line capability. Slews at 4,200 lines/minute.

NATIONAL 304

700

S. C. Johnson &: Son, Inc.
Media
Speed
Magnetic Tape
30,000 char/sec
Punched Paper Tape
60 char/sec
Console Flexowriter
10 char/sec
High Speed Printer
600 lines/min
National Cash Register Company, Hawthorne
NCR 340 High Speed Line
600-900 lineS/min
Printer
NCR 370 Punch Paper Tape
60 char/sec
IBM 514 Card Punch
100 cards/min
Magnetic Tape
30,000 char/sec
Card punch is used off line with the 320 Converter.
Bureau of Yards and Docks
Magnetic Tape
6
30,000 char/sec
3600 ft = 8.5 x 10 char.
Paper Tape
.
120 char/sec
2 code option, 10 char/in.
High Speed Printer
600-1200 lines/min
Console Typewriter
10 char/sec max.
Machine typeout or paper tape punch
The speed of the High Speed Printer varies and
depends on the amount of alphanumerical information
to be printed.

Camp Pendleton, California

Official Marine Corps Photo

CI RCU IT ELEMENTS OF ENTI RE SYSTEM
Type
Quantity
Diode s
8, 000
'Transistors
4,000
Magnetic Cores 158,400 -316,800
24,000 to 48,000 Alpha-numeric characters
The above data applies to the Central Processor
only.

proper bounding of each record, and timing check.
These are separate, independent checks with a~
conceivable out of the ordinary occurrence being
detected by at least 2 of these checks.
These same checks are in effect when reading and
while the tape to tape transfer (off-line copy) is
in progress.
High Speed Paper Tape Reader
Duplicate photo-electric reading, duplicate translation, error halt on inadmissable characters, are
fixed checking features as well as automatic detection of paper tape slippage, undue drifting on stops,
and broken tape detection - distinguished from end
of tape.
High Speed Card Reader
The fixed checking features are duplicate photoelectric reading and duplicate translation, error
halt on inadmissable characters, and also automatic
verification of clocking and column count, and detection of out-of-registration or slippage.
High Speed Line Printer
Automatic check for non data characters, correct

CHECKING FEATURES
FIXED

Processor
All transmission of data between the Processor and
plElripheral units is checked for parity by character,
plus echo check for correct number of characters.
All transmission of data in and out of the magnetic
core memory is verified by a check character with
each word.
~lgnetic File Operations
All recording on magnetic tape is immediately
c]lecked by re-reading at a check head placed immedia'~ely behind the write head.
Checks are made for
parity on each character, longitudinal parity check
oyer each record, character count on each record,

701

NATIONAL 304

Camp Pendleton, California

Official Marine Corps Photo

High Speed Paper Tape Punch
Fixed checking features include echo check off
punch dies to verify actual character punched and
detection of paper tape exhausted or broken.

number of characters, correct number printed, and
each hammer must fire one and only once per line.
Continuous check on the integrity of information
stored in the printer buffer during printing, each
buffer position printed once and only once-also each
hammer. Continuous magnetic reading of specie; trac~
on print cylinder so that printer electronics knows
the position of the cylinder with answer-back to
printer buffer verifying that the print cylinder position at the moment each hammer is fired is the
same as the character stored in the corresponding
buffer position. There are two complete individual
sets of circuits operating at different voltages-one
from buffer positions to activate corresponding
hammers and one activated by hammer action back to
buffer position. This answer-back verifies not only
correct character printed but also that the hammer
was fired at the precise instant to print the character clearly and with proper alignment. The vertical
format loop will halt the printer if it is parted.
Also, all control configurations (15 possible) in the
vertical format loop must have even parity, continuously checked.

NATIONAL

304

OPrIONAL

The Paper Tape Reader and Paper Tape Punch check
for character parity on codes that are checkable.
Certain peripheral units contain sequence-controlled
circuitry to test for proper operation and insure
proper electronic functioning.

POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE. PREPARATION
Manufacturer
Power, computer, basic system 38.5 Kw 48.1 KVA 0.8 pf
Power, air condi, package
12 Kw 15 KVA 0.8 pf
Volume, computer
630.2 cu ft
Area, computer
133.2 sq ft
Room size
1,200 sq ft
Above includes basic system with Tape Controller,
six Tape Handlers, a Line Printer and a Card Reader.
Volume, air conditioner
400 cu ft
Area, air conditioner
50 sq ft
Room Size, computer
120 sq ft

702

Capacity,. air conditioner
15 Tons
Weight, computer
10,850 lbs
Weight, Air conditioner
2,000 lbs
:Jnoor loading
110 lbs/sq ft
Weight is distributed around perimeter of frames.
Site preparation requirements
The specific site preparation requirements will
vary from installation to installation, depending
on available facilities, "show case" considerations,
and policy.
General requirements for physical environment inc:lude air conditioning, humidity control, and pro~~sions for maintenance of equipment.
There can 'be
flexibility in construction as pertains to the use
of false flooring, ceilings, or conduits. It is
usually recommended that false flooring be used, as
the area under the. false floor serves the dual purI~se of protecting cables and eliminates supply
allcts for conditioned air. A false ceiling elimin~tes the need for return ducts.
The power specific:ations call for 120/208 volts, three-phase, four
~~re, 60 cycles.
U.S. Marine Corps, Camp Lejeune
Power, computer
43.76 Kw
54.7 KVA
0.8 pf
400 N Power 18.24 Kw 22.8 KVA
Power, air cond
11.0 Kw
12.2 KVA
Volume, computer
630 cu ft
Volume, air conditioner
32,630 cu ft
Area, computer
147 sq ft
Area, air conditioner
2,190 sq ft
Capacity, air conditioner
27 Tons
W'eight, computer
15,000 lbs
W'eight, air conditioner
5,000 lbs
Air conditioning space partitioned off from existing warehouse. False ceiling and new raised-floor
d,esigned expressly for computer installation was provided. A remote installation including compressors,
a.ir handling units, and evaporative condenser was
installed. A new electrical service including 225
KVA transformers capacity installed.
U. S. Marine Corps, Camp Pendleton
Power, computer
35.5 Kw
44.4 KVA
0.8 pi
P'ower, air condi
32.2 Kw
40.4 KVA
0.8 pf
Volume, computer
' 635.2 cu ft
Volume, air conditioner
455 cu ft*
Area, computer
.
147.0 sq ft
Area, air conditioner
51 sq ft*
Room size, computer
1,860 sq ft
Room size, air conditioner
350 sq ft
Floor loading
96 lbs/ sq ft (Avg)
155 lbs concen max
Capacity, air conditioner
25 Tons
Weight, computer
13,150 lbs
Weight, air conditioner
7,200
*Does not include air filtering equipment or input/
output plenums.
Site is located in a warehouse building. False
ceiling, false flooring, air conditioning, power
substation installed. Data Processing Installation
covers 14,000 sq ft and includes EAM equipment,
office space, card and paper storage space, rest
rooms, as well as NCR 304 EDP Equipment. Total cost
$175,000.
U.S. Marine Corps, Headquarters
Bower, computer
46,.48 Kw 58.1 KVA
0.8 pf
60 CPS and 400 CBS.
Bower, air condi
28
Kw 35
KVA
0.8 pf .
Volume, computer
15,200 cu ft
VlOlume, air conditioner
3,360 cu ft
Area, computer
1,900 sq ft
area, air conditio~er
280 sq ft
RlOom size'
Between 1600 and 2000 sq ft

Floor loading
250 lbs/sq f't
Floor loading, computer
100 l.bs/ sq f't
Capacity
25 Tons
Weight, computer
12,950 l.bs
Site was installed in a brick building with concrete floors. Completel.y overhead air conditioning
delivery concealed by false ceiling. Raised f'alse
flooring for concealment of power and logic cables.
American United Life Insurance Company
Power, computer
38.5 Kw
48.1 KVA
0.8 pf'
(basic system)
Volume, computer
650 cu f't
Volume, air conditioner
600 cu ft
Area, computer
150 sq f't
Area, air conditioner
200 sq f't
Roam size, computer
2,000 sq ft
Room size, air conditioner
600 sq f't
Floor l.oading
llO l.bs/sq f't
Capacity, air conditioner
30 Tons
Weight, computer
ll,Ooo lbs
Weight, air conditioner
3,000 l.bs
Site preparation requirements
Due to the physical structure of' the existing buil.dlng, the location of' the computer area within the
building, and the requirement for a separate airconditioning system, the following additions and
modifications were made at this site. A 30 toh airconditioning and air handling system was instalJ.ed
composed of' three ten ton chilled-water coolers and
an air handling system capable of moving 9,000 cubic
feet of air per minute. This system provided for
autOmatic temperature and htnnidity control.sge~ed
to control. the computer room to 4~ relativeh'umidity:
and 74<>:F temperature. The control system was built
around Johnson Controls with Bristol seven-dayrecording devices. Air was delivered directly ~der
the raised floor with dampered registers around the
periphery of' the room to properly distribute the incoming conditioned air. Return air was vented through
the ceiling in registers into an air plenum between
the false ceiling and the existing ceiling and returned to the air-conditioning equipment. The' raised
floor was set ten inches above the concrete sl.~b.
The false ceiling was installed eight and one-half"
feet above the raised floor, and in the location
sel.ected was twenty inches below the previously
existing ceiling. A masonry wall. was contruc~ two
feet inside the existing brick and masonry walls of'
thE:! building and supplemented by movabl.e steel and
glass partitions where the room was divided away from
exterior walls. The raised floor is of' cast altnninum
in sections eighteen inches square with a vinyl floor
covering. Power and water were delivered to the
equipment room from existing central supply within
the building itself. The computer area itself' has
been equipped with MUzak installation and an ~ter
communicating system utilizing the existing speakers.
S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
Power, computer
70 KVA
Power, air conditioner
20 KVA
Volume, computer
740 cu f't
Area, computer
l.60 sq ft
Area, air conditioner
300 sq f't
Room size, computer
1, 300 sq ft
Room Size, air conditioner
700 sq ft
CapaCity, air conditioner
20 Tons
Site preparation included trenching of floor to
provide ducts and cable to equipment.

703

NATIONAL 304

National Cash Register Company, Hawthorne
Power, computer
44 Kw
55 KVA 0.8 pf
Power, air condition 24 Kw
30 KVA 0.8 pf
Volume, computer
790 cu ft
Volume, air conditioner
800 cu ft
Area, computer
166 sq ft
Area, air conditioner
100 sq ft
Room size, computer
1,800 sq ft
Room size, air conditioner
240 sq ft
F:loor loading
110 Ibs/sq ft
Capacity, air conditioner
30 Tons
Weight, computer
13,560 Ibs
Weight, air conditioner
4,000 Ibs
Site included along with construction of new building in 1956. False flooring has been installed to
support a 304, 320, 330, 9-332s, 340, 360,370, 380,
and 514.
Btu-eau of Yards and Docks
Power, computer
32.0 Kw 40 KYA 701 min pf
Volume, computer
10,440 cu ft
Volume, air conditioner
4,536 cu ft
At'ea, computer
1,305 sq ft
Area, air conditioner
432 sq ft
RI:)om size, computer
59 ft 4 in long
22 ft 0 in wide
8 ft 0 in high
Room Size, air conditioner
12 ft 4 in wide
35 ft 0 in long
10 ft 5 in h:Lgh
Floor loading
250 Ibs/sq ft
CapaCity, air conditioner
30 Tons
Weight, computer
12,950 Ibs
New cinder block building of 2,556 square feet was
built to house the data processor.

PRODUCTION RECORD
Number produced to date
Number in current operation
Number in current production
Number on order
Anticipated production rates
Time required for delivery

6
6
14
23
2 per month
18 months

COST, PRICE AND RENTAL RATES
Manufacturer
Monthly
Model
Component
Rental
No.
Data Processor includ304
$5,730
ing Control Console
(2,000 Word Memor,y plus
400 Special Words)
Data Processor includ6,560
304
ing Control Console
(4,000 Word Memor,y plus
800 Special Words)
6,240
304-2 Data Processor including Control Console
(2,000 Word Memor,y plus
400 Special Words); with
Micro-Flow, Magnetic Character Input, & Multiple
Printer Output
304-2 Data Processor" including
7,070
Control Console (4,000
Word Memory plus 800
Special Words); with MicroFlow, Magnetic Character
Input, & Multiple Printer
Output

NATIONAL

304

Purchase
Price
$366,600

420,000

399,200

452,600

Universal Off-line
$1,970 $126,000
Converter
Off-line Printer Converter
45,000
322
710
111,000
Magnetic Tape Controller - 1,740
330
30 KC
Magnetic Tape Handler-30 KC
415
26,300
332
High-Speed Line Printer
1,940
124,300
340
126,225
1,970
340-2 High-Speed Line Printer
Typewriter Printer (Extra)
3,400
70
351
28,800
600
354-2 Card Punch Buffer
700
33,550
355-2 Sorter Buffer
High-Speed Paper Tape
510
32,800
360
Reader
High-Speed Paper Tape Punch 280
17,800
370
High-Speed Punched Card
31,100
490
380
Reader
62,000
402-1 Magnetic Character Sorter 1,700
Maintenance/Service Contracting
Maintenance and service will be furnished to suit
the individual needs and schedules of each installation. On lease arrangements, the cost of maintenance
is included in the rental rates. Where the equipment is purchased, a maintenance contract is available.
U.S. Marine Corps, Camp Lejeune
Basic System
Monthly Rental
Components
1 Jul60 - 30Jun 61
304 Data Processor includ$5,730
ing Console (2400 word
memory)
320 Universal Converter
1,970
340 High Speed Printer
1,940
.330 Magnetic Tape Controller
1,740
380 High Speed Punched Card
490
Reader
332 Magnetic Tape Handler at
$520.00 each
at $415.00 each
320

Additional Equipment
Type 523 Summary Punch
75
Maintenance and service provided by contractor at no
additional charge when renting.
U.S. Marine Corps, Camp Pendleton
Rental contracting and rates for basic system
Monthly rental rate effective 1 July 1960 - $13,945.
304 Data Processor (1) $5730 - 330 Mag Tape Controller
(1) $1740 - 340 Printer $1940 - 320 Converter (1)
$1970 - 332 Mag Tape Handler (5) $2075 - 380 Card
Reader $490.
Additional equipment
IBM 523 Card Punch - $88 per month.
Maintenance performed by NCR personnel; cost included in monthly rental.
U.S. Marine Corps, Headquarters
Eff 1 Jul 60
304 Data Processor including
$5,730
Console (2400 word memory)
320 Universal Converter
1,970
340 High Speed Printer
1,940
330 Magnetic Tape Controller
1,740
332 Magnetic Tape Handler, 8 at
3,320
$415.00 each
380 High Speed Punched Card Reader
490
523 IBM Gang Summary Punch
~
Total monthly rental for 176 $15,275
hours usage
Maintenance and service contracting included in
rental costs.

S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
Component
Processor including Console
Controller
Printer
Printer Controller
Magnetic Tape Unit (9)
Paper Tape Reader
Paper Tape Punch

U.S. Marine Corps, Camp PEmdleton
One 8-Hour
Two 8-Hour
Three 8 ...Hour
Shift
Shifts
Shifts
Used Recomm Recommended Recommended
Supervisors
*
**
**
Analysts
1
1*
Programmers 3
3
3-Prim only 3-Prim only
Librarians
2
2
1 per shift
1 per shift

Price
$356,800
111,000
109,400
37,300
204,300
19,600
15,700

Operators
3
Tape Handlers2

$B5Ir;1m

National Cash Register Company, Hawthorne
!oblCl.thly rental contracti~ and rates for basic
sy,stem are :;04 Processor (4800 words) $6560 - 320
MQlti Purpose Converter $1970 - 330 Mag. Tape Cont~Jller $1740 - 370 Paper Tape Punch $280 - 380
PUJCl.ched Card Reader $490 - Nine (9) Mag. Tape Handlers at $415 each $3735 - 340 High Speed Line Printer $1940 and a 360 Paper Tape Reader $510.
AdJiitional equipnent includes a Universal IntercO:Cl.necting Device and a Paper Tape Rewinder and
Sp:Ucer.
Bureau of Yards and Docks
!obnthly Rental
Data Processor
$6,560
Magnetic Tape Controller - 30 Kc
1,740
Magnetic Tape Handler - 30 Kc
2,905
High Speed Line Printer
1,940
Ma.. Typewriter Printer
70
High Speed Paper Tape Reader
510
High Speed Paper Tape Punch
280
High Speed Punched Card Reader
~
Total Approximate Monthly Rent $14,495

3
2

2-Prim; 1-2d
1 per shift

***

1 per shift
1 per shift

***
All of our programmers, operators, and tape handlers
are equally proficient at programming and operating
and we intend to perpetuate this versatility.
Librarians are trained on the job for programmer /
operator work.
* - Officer-in-charge and Supervisor on Prime
Shift.
** - Senior Enlisted Programmer/Operator present
is Shift Supervisor.
*** - Requires increase in T/O of one person.
Operation tends toward closed shop.
Methods of training used includes formal training
by manufacturer and on-the-job training at the site.
U. S. Marine Corps, Headquarters
One 8-Hour
Two 8-Hour
Three 8.Hour
Shift
Shifts
Shifts
Used Recom
Recommended Recommended
Supervisors 1
1
1
1
Librarians
1
1
Operators
1
1
1
1
Engineers
7
o
7
In-Output
Oper
1
1
1
1
Tape Handler 2
2
2
2
Above personnel requirements are shown for COntputer
System operating personnel only. The number of
analysts programmers, coders and clerks is dependent
on the peculiarities of the accounting or reporting
system to be placed on the computer.
The number of engineers presently being used to
operate one shift would stay the same if the operating
period was expanded to two shifts. For a three shift
operation engineers would be on an "on-call" basis
for the third shift.
Operation tends toward open shop.
Methods of training used includes Equipn.ent Manufacturers School and on-the-job training for operating personnel.
American United Life Insurance Company
One 8-Hour Shift
Supervisors
1
Analysts, Prog. & Coders
7
Clerks
1
Librarians
1
Operators
2
Engineers
NCR
Technicians
NCR
In-Output Oper
24
2
Tape Handlers
Since the equipment was installed only on 2 May 60,
and because it has been used primarily for program
testing, it is impossible to make intelligent personnel distributions. Since production operating
time is required for information of this type it will
be some time before valid figures can be accumulated.
Operation tends toward open shop.
Methods of training used include two methods, a
formalized programming school, instruction for which
was provided by The National Cash Register Company,
and on-the-job training for the additional personnel

PERSONNEL REQU I REMENrS
Manufacturer
Since the National 304 System is a new system with
the first installation in November, 1959, at the
present writing it is difficult to determine normal
personnel requirements. It is anticipated that the
advanced solid-state design and overall system fabri.cation will result in most favorable operating
eJI;perience. The early performance of the initial
systems has borne this out.
It is eXpected that a typical 304 System can be
lDB~intained by 3 or 4 engineer-technicians.
Two and
th~ee shift operation will require some increase.
Training made available by manufacturer to users
iDLc1udes initial and turnover replacement training
aIlLd executive orientation. These are provided at no
cost to the user at mutually agreeable locations.
U.S. Marine Corps, Camp Lejeune
One 8-Hour Shift
Used Recommended
Supervisors
1
1
Programmers
3
5
L:I.brarians
2
2
0I»erators
3
4
Engineers
6
6
Te~pe Handlers
2
2
Cclntractor provides Programmer School periodically.
Contractor provides representative to assist in
initial stages of implementation.

705

NATIONAL 304

required. The training of operating persomlel was
handled by the user with the advice of the manufacturer as required.
S. C• .Johnson & Son, Inc.
Two 8-Hour
One 8-Hour
Shifts
Shift
1
1
Supervisors
2
1
l~i brarians
1
Operators
2
1
2
In-Output Opel'
1
2
Tape Handlers
Operation tends toward open shop.
Methods of training includes on-the-Job training
and a Programming School.
The above pertains to requirement s for operation s •
Systems and Programming Staff for maintenance of
existing system and future applications consists of
1 Program Supervisor, 4 Programmers, 1 System Planning
Coordinator, and 2 Systems Men.
National Cash Register Company, Hawthorne
One 8-Hour Shift
1
Supervisors
Programmers - Analysts - Coders
15
Clerks
2
Operators
2
6
Engineers-Technicians
1
In-Output Opel'
Operation tends toward closed shop.
Methods of training used includes programming
courses and on-the-Job training.
Bureau of Yards and Docks
One 8-Hour Shift
Used Recommended
Supervisors
4
8
Analysts
7
12
Programmers
7
1
Clerks
1
Librarians
4
1
Operators
Operation tends toward closed shop.
Training classes have been held on site.

RELIABILITY, OPERATING EXPERIENCE,
AND TIME AVAILABILITY
Manufacturer
Reliability and optimum operating experience were
basic design objectives with the 304 System. The
latest electronic developments and solid state devices have been used throughout. Design tolerances
are set beyond those of"worst case" conditions of
heat, voltage fluctuation and aging. Standardized
plug-in cards are used throughout as well as etched
circuit back panels to replace wiring harnesses and
(~ables.

Units are separately powered and contain circuitry
which performs a sequence of automatic reliability
tests to insure proper operation or to isolate for
replacement of circuit cards.
Individual units have extensive features to insure
reliability as stated +n Checking Features. The
High Speed Paper Tape Reader and the High Speed Paper
Tape Punch which can handle different codes by switch
selection, have a programmable check on the proper
code. A mode of the Test instruction can insure that
the proper switch is set.

NATIONAL 304

706

U.S. Marine Corps, Camp ~Jeune
Good time
45.6 Hours/Week (Average)
Attempted to run time
52.2 Hours/Week (Average)
Operating ratio (Good/Attempted to run time) 0.87
Above figures based on period 1 Apr 60 to 29 Apr 60
Passed Customer Acceptance Test
4 Mar 60
Time is not available for rent to outside organizations.
During period measured above the system was not
afforded perfect temperature and humidity environment due to air conditioning equipment deficiency.
Break-down of Computer time - April 1960
Primary Shift
241.0 Hrs
Production (*)
182.5 Hrs
Down
10.8 Hrs
Idle
22.1 Hrs
Re-run
25.6 Hrs

Production total breaks down as follows:
Operational Use Time for Rental Purpose
161.3 Hrs
Lunch Time Opr, not subject to rental
7.4 Hrs
Set-up Time, not subject to rental
13.8 Hrs
U. S. Marine Corps, Camp Pendleton
Average error-free running period
39.48 Hours
Good time
36.5 Hours/Week (Average)
Attempted to run time
.48 Hours/Week (Average)
Operating ratio (Good/Attempted to run time) 76 to 1
Above figures based on period 1 Feb 60 to 30 Apr 60
Passed Customer Acceptance Test
14.Jan 60
Time on 2d and 3d shifts is available for rental to
outside organizations.
U.S. Marine Corps, Headquarters
Time will be made available to other government
agencies only and on a pro-rated cost basis. Time
will be on an "as available" basis.
System was turned over for M:l.rine Corps use on
12 May 60.
American United Life Insurance Company
Average error-free running period 2 weeks +
Good time
79.3 Hours/Week (Average)
Attempted to run time
80 Hours/Week (Average)
Operating ratio (Good/Attempted to run time) 0.991
Above figures based on period 2 ~ 60 to 25 May 60
Passed Customer Acceptance Test
2 May 60
Time is not available for rent to outside organizations.
The amount of time available for the accumulation
of the information requested is too short to prove
of much validity. The experience to date has shown
that the system is surprisingly solid and that a
high ratio of operating time can be expected.
S. C. .Johnson & Son, Inc.
Passed Customer Acceptance Test 10.Jun 60
Time is available for rent to outside organizations.
Bureau of Yards and Docks
.
Good time
294 Hours
Attempted to run time
302 Hours
Operating ratio (Good/Attempted to run time) 0.9733
Above figures based on period 11 Jul 60 to 9 Aug 60
Passed Customer Acceptance Test 11 Aug 60
Time is not available for rent to outside organizations.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS
Manufacturer
Outstanding features include a magnetic tape system
wh:Lch is gapless, with timesharing of off-line tapeto··tape transfer (copy) while searching. High InputsPal)er Tape - 1800 cps. Punched cards fed at 2000 cpm.
COlDm9.D.d structure is powerf'ul for ease of coding and
dehugging.
~rhe 304 System has complete off-line conversion
fal::ilities - for input and output transcribing. HoweVI~r, the input speeds of 1800 characters per second
fOlt' paper tape and 2000 punched cards per minute are
so favorable that many businesses will find it unnel::essary to go through off-line input conversion.
Folt' example, 30,000 transactions of 30 characters
eru::h would require only eight and one-half minutes
of processing time when reading paper tape on-line.
Trlmscribed transactions could be read from magnetic
ta][)e by the Processor in about one half a minute.
So the off-line input conversion would not save more
thlm eight minutes a day.
j\n extensive library of progJC'ams were accomplished
anll ready for use with the installation of the first
3Qll- System. National f s Electronic Autocoding Techni1llle --NEAT-- was developed to reduce coding costs
anll to simplify progJC'aDDIling. The pur,pose of NEAT is
to simplify the transition from flow chart to machine
cOIle without losing any of the flexibility and power
of the actual 304 instructions. It enables systematic
Orl?;anization to a problem. Coding in NEAT can be
thought of as the translation of a 304 flow chart
into pseudo instructions, employing mnemonic addressing. The result of processing NEAT on a 304 computer,
is a completed machine code, which may be produced on
magnetic tape, punched cards, oT' punched paper tape.
In the course of the computer run, automatic code
chl~cking is done for obvious inconsistencies.
COBOL
or COBOL-like language is being added to the NEAT
process • STEP, the progJC'am which takes advantage of
thl~ internal logic to handle magnetic file housekel~ping, is also in operation.
Other progJC'ams that
arl~ available are a Sort Generator, Librarian, monitoring, tracing, and programs to facilitate progJC'am
check-out.
]ETocedures for magnetic tape labelling, storing,
sklpping, and protection from humidity, temperature,
ell~ctrical, fire, or other damage are the normal procellures and care that are customary for mylar-magnetic tape.
U.S. Marine Corps, Camp Lejeune
Outstanding features include off-line copy operation for simultaneous processing and read/write,
ma::d.mum storage of data per reel of tape, and high
sp«~ed card reading.
Unilllle system advantages include ease of operation
by means of a console, which gives system control
an,l components with a minimum. number of controls, a
320 Multipurpose Converter for off-line operations,
m~ - a coding technilllle, which simplifies progJC'amming, and a monitor feature which simplifies codechecking.
~rape labelling is performed by means of STEP,
(S1~andard Tape Executive JETogJC'am), which labels tape
anll checks obsolescence of tapes before use.
U. S. Marine Corps, Camp Pendleton
Outstanding features are high speed card reader,
high speed printer, and transistorized solid state
computer.
Unique system advantages are no inter record gap
on magnetic tape and a built-in business command
structure.

707

Procedures have been adopted for magnetic tape
labelling, storage, shipping, and protection from
humidity, temperature and physical, electrical, fire,
or other damage. Two labels are used; one containing per.manent identification, and the other containing information of a temporary nature. Tape is
stored in a library which is temperature and humidity
controlled. A semi-automatic C~ system has been
installed for fire protection. A fire proof safe
will be used to house Historical Tapes.
U.S. Marine Corps, Headquarters
Outstanding features include no inter-record gaps
on tape. This allows an effective read-write speed
of 30 K per second, and the ability to address any
character or number of characters of a word in
storage.
Unilllle system advantages include transistorized
components, which bring about low power and air
conditioning requirements, and thereby reduces
installation costs.
Procedures have been adopted for magnetic tape
labelling, storage, shipping, and protection from
himidity, temperature and phySical, electrical,
fire, or other damage. Tapes are stored in an air
conditioned area. Shipment of tape is made in
"netic" containers. Any two of three installations
can reconstruct tapes of the third. Both outside
labelling on reel and writing on tape for positive
identification of all records is performed.
American United Life Insurance Company
The NCR 304 System features matched cabinets, console simpliCity, input-output computing compatibility, operating ease, transistorized construction,
interchangeable components, and up-to-date design
philosophy.
The system features variable record length, dual
search capability, absence of inter-record gaps,
read-back of write magnetic tape, built-in magnetic
tape executive routines, mnemonic autocoding techniques, and f'ull checking devices for input, output,
and computing.
Procedures have been adopted for magnetic tape
labelling, storage, shipping, and protection from
humidity, temperature and physical, electrical, fire,
or other damage. These procedures defy brief description but are available for those interested
upon request.
The general design and philosophy of the NCR 304
System is based upon the known and proven requirements of business and industry. The philosophy of
the system and the compatibility of input, output,
and computing make it possible to obtain the maximum
amount of flexibility in the operating procedures
of the using organization.
National Cash Register Company, Hawthorne
Outstanding features include high input speeds,
ease of programming, console designed for operator,
and a magnetic tape system.
Unique system advantages include a gap-less magnetic tape system, off line copy, automatic read
back after write. STEP-combination of circuitry and
progJC'amming to handle magnetic tape housekeeping.
NEAT Autocoding System - COBOL being incorporated.
Emphasis on reliability and checking of data movements.
Normal procedures for properly handling mylar
magnetic tape have been adopted.
This was the first in operation of the several
National Data Processing Centers. There is a 304
Center in New York City and a Center in D~on, Ohio.

NATIONAL 304

Bureau of Yards and Docks
Outstanding features include ease of programming
and program testing.
A procedure for labelling, storage, temperature
and humidity protection and fire has been adopted.

FUTURE PLANS
Mamrfacturer
While retaining all of the previous features and
specifications of the initial 304, an improved model
will be available starting in the Fall of 1960. The
Central Processor has been designated as the 304-2,
and will have MICRO-FLOW, Magnetic Character Input,
and allow multiple high speed line printing as output.
MICRO-FLOW is a new mode of single-address operation that essentially expands the instruction repertoire from 37 to 104 instructions. This new mode of
operation does not in any w~ supplant the powerful,
business-type instructions. MICRO-FLOW is designed
for scientific computation, permitting fixed or
floating point arithmetic, and for areas of operation
when the single-address mode might be faster or more
efficient. The single-address MICRO-FLOW and. the
three-address business-type instructions may be intermixed within a single program, switching from one to
the other to provide the most efficiency.
Magnetic Character Input can be provided with the
u.se of the 304-2 Central Processor in conjunction
with the National 402-1 Magnetic Character Sorter.
Checks or documents encoded with magnetic ink characters may be read at the rate of 750 documents per
minute. There will be input of the information into
the Processor memory, control over pocket selection,
and jump table control for unusual situations. The
Magnetic Character Sorter can be used off·-line to
sort documents as controlled by a panel on the Sorter.
For high-volume output operations, the 304-2 Central
Processor will enable multiple printers on-line, up
to four Nati0nal 340 High Speed Line Prirrters. Buffering and Busy Jumps will enable a maximum of timesharing.
U. S. Marine Corps, Camp Pendleton
It is proposed that the number of NCR 332 Magnetic
Tape Handlers be increased from 5 to 8, that the
NCR 304 Memory Size be increased from 2,400 to 4,800
words, i.e., 24,000 to 48,000 characters, and that
the number of computer applications be increased
from Personnel Accounting only, to that of Fiscal
Accounting (including Disbursing functions) and local
Supply Accounting.

NATIONAL 304

708

American United Life Insurance Company
Future plans with regard to this system include the
poSSibility, at the proper time, of expanding the
existing system to include additional magnetic tape
units, and perhaps another high speed printer.
Procedurally new applications will be added as desired. We are looking forward to performing operations on research, market analySiS, and a more
thorough analysis of sales and determining standards
of sales performance.

INSTALLATIONS

S. Marine Corps Base
Camp Lejeune, North Carolina
U. S. Marine Corps Base
Camp Pendleton, California

U. S. Marine Corps, Headquarters
WaShington 25, D. C.
Bureau of Yards and Docks
Department of the Navy
Washington 25, D. C.
American United Life Insurance Company
Indianapolis, Indiana
The National Cash Register Company
Hawthorne, California
S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
RaCine, Wisconsin
U. S. Navy New York Naval Ship;rard
Brooklyn 1, New York (Proposed)
U. S. Air Force, Headquarters, StrategiC Air Command
Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska

709

NATIONAL

;04

NATIONAL 315

MANUFACTURER
The National Cash Register Company

NATIONAL 315

Photo by the National Cash Register Company

APPLICATIONS

Specimen of single-stage instruction (two words):

The National 315· System has broad application
in all types of business and scientific data proeessing. Modular assembly of components penn1ts a
wide range of system organization from low-cost
systems up to large-scale capabilities. New design
concepts and features provide maximum versatility
and flexibility in application.

ADD TO MEMORY::

M~ 1 ~ I ~
2

Memory address is "100" + (contents
of index register 23).
Field length is 3 words.

L b ! are condensed by bit-wise coding into
one word.
~ forms the second word.
~

PROGRAMMING AND NUMERrCAL SYSTEM
Internal number system
Decimal digits/word

Binary coded decimal
3 (or 2 al~hanumeric
characters)
Decimal digitS/instruction 6
WordS/instruction
2 or 4
Instructions decoded
90 plus variations
Arithmetic system
Fixed point (Field lengths
up to 24 digits)
Instruction type
One-address-roughly 1/3
of instruction list
Two address- roughly 2/3
of instruction list
Number range
positive: 24 digits
negative: 23 digits

NATIONAL 315

710

S[~~ o::rngl;-Br~

rr;:1T :S1~

~literal"

ADD TO ACCUMULATOR the digit-field "200".
Op

L, D

X/Y

V
R

1
1

AlB

9. 9

o .6

LOAD six Index Registers, starting with Rl5; two
words into each register.

Photo by the National Cash Register Company
Rl:5 loaded from memory address "999/1 + (contents of
Rl:2) •
Rl6 loaded from memory address "1001" + (contents
of Rl2).
--etc--

.Qg,

Paper Tape and Punched Card input share all time
except actual transmission of each character. Paper
Tape, Punched Card and Printer output do the same.

ARITHMETIC UNIT

Lb X are

condensed by bit-wise coding into
and third words.
A forms the second word.
!forms the third word.
f~~st

Eec1men of double-stage instruction using a "literal'"
Op
S

L
I

X/Y
D

A/B

Incl. Stor. Access Exclud. Stor. Access
Mic;rosec
Microsec
Add
42
36
Mult
294 minimum
Div
1, 044 minimum
Arithmetic mode
3 digits parallel
Timing
Asynchronous
Operation
Concurrent and Polysynchronous
Peripheral units operate asynchronously with processor

SPREAD-LOAD 20 Index Registers, starting with RlO
Load zeros into every register from RlO through R29.
Automatic built-in subroutines include Scan, Move,
etc. Load, Spread-load, Store, Move, Augment, Spreadaugment: multiple registers.
Automatic coding using COBOL will be available for
use with delivery of the first system. In addition,
an, intermediate language - NEAT assembler-compiler is available for direct coding, and for optimization
of object program after COBOL translation.
Registers and B-boxes include 32 Index Registers
of' 5 digits each and 32 Jump Registers of 5 digits
ea,ch. This includes automatic storage of 3 different
link addresses. The Sequence Control Register (Inst·ruction Counter) is completely addressible. AutoJDB.tic input-output tallies are used.
The entire system capable of any degree of polys;ynchronous operation, wherein any designated collecti,on of peripheral units may each Demand program
at.tention whenever appropriate. Deman:;r-interrupt
is! subject to a Simple, flexible system of priorities,
aIlLd to master control which may forbid interrupt
al.together Whenever desired.

STORAGE
Media
Magnetic Cores

No. of
Words
2,000 to
40,000

No. of
Digits
6,000 to
120,000

Microsec

6 per word

Magnetic Tape
No. of units that can be connected
8 Units
No. of chars/linear inch 200,333 & 500 Chars/inch
Channels or tracks on the tape
7 Tracks/tape
Blank tape separating each record
3/4 Inch
Tape speed
120 Inches/sec
Transfer rate
24K, 40K, 60K Chars/sec
Start time
3 Millisec
Stop time
3 Millisec
Average time for experienced
operator to change reel
20 Seconds
Physical properties of tape
Width
1/2 Inch
Length of reel
3,600 Feet
Composition
mylar, 1 mil, laminated

Automatic program-tracing facilities for code
checking are included.

NATIONAL 315

COST, PRICE AND RENTAL RATES

INPUT
Media
Speed
Paper Tape
1, 000 char/sec
Any codes whatever, without limit. Inter-character
time is sharable.
Punched Cards
400 cards/min
Any possible codes, including binary. Inter-character and inter-card time is sharable, with Demand
Interrupt
Magnetic Character Reader 750 documents/min
Polysynchronous, with Demand Interrupt
Buffered Inquiry Units
333 KC alphanumeric
Each Inquiry Unit may be multiplexed to many remote Inquiry Stations, limited only by acceptable
queueing. Polysynchronous.

OUTPUT
Speed
600 lines/min alphanumeric
900 lines/min numeric
Buffered, sharable, with Demand Interrupt ability.
Paper Tape Punch
120 Chars/sec
Any code whatever. Inter-character time sharable.
Card Punch
100 or 250 cards/min
Same as Printer
Buffered Inquiry Units
333 KC alphanumeric
Same as for input.
Line Printer has Multiple Listing Feature to enable
simultaneous printing of three separate listings,
each with independent paper transport. An interconnecting device is available to permit push-button
switching of peripherals from one 315 Peocessor to
another, in multi-processor installations.

CHECKI NG FEATURES
Checking features include complete parity-checking
throughout the entire system.

PRODUCTION RECORD

NATIONAL 315

315-1
315-2
315-3
315-4
316-1
316-2

7 per month initially

Basic Processor
Bank Processor
File Processor
Bank File Processor

Price
$82,500
90,000
90,000

Monthly
Rental
$1,300
1,400
1,400

95,000

1,500

2,000 Word Memory

37,500

5,000 Word Memory

650
1,100

316-3
332-202

10,000 Word Memory

55,000
75,000

40 kc Magnetic Tape Unit

27,500

700

332-203

60 kc Magnetic Tape Unit
High Speed Printer with
357-1 Buffer
Card Punch Buffer
Sorter Buffer

36,000

900

72,500
25,000

1,425

340-3

Media
Line Printer

Number produced to date
Anticipated production rates

PRICE LIST

354-1
355-1
362-371
383-1

Paper Tape Reader and
Punch
Punched Card Reader

23,500
15,000
20,000

1,600

450
450
450
450

PERSONNEL REQU I REMENTS
Training made available by manufacturer to users
include a complete schedule of courses in programming, systems analYSiS, autocoding, COBOL, etc.
All courses are available on the customer's premises.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS

FUTURE PLANS

Outstanding features include a wide range of
cSlpacity and price with modula.:rcomponents, giving
w:l.de provision for future expansion and the Demand
Interrupt feature so that under permissive program
control peripheral units may interrupt, be reactivs~ted, and continue their operation independently
while the Processor returns to the primary program.
This processor is unusually economical of memory
s:pace for program storage.

Future plans include one and two degrees of magnetic tape simultaneity, a new concept of random
access memory - magnetic cards, optional high-speed
inputs, including paper tape at 1800 char/sec and
punched cards at 2000 cards/min, and inter-commUnication, with master-slave relationship among multiple
processors.

In multi-processor installations, all processors
are the same with only one coding system. Work may
bel divided among processors at convenience of user,
and each provides on-site backup for the other.
Peripheral units may be electronically switched
from one processor to another.
Normal procedures for magnetic tape handling are
relcommended.

713

NATIONAL 315

NATIONAL 390

MANUFACTU RER

National Cash Register Company Model 390 Computer

National Cash Register Company

Photo by National Cash Register Company

APPLICATIONS

ARITHMETIC UNIT

System is designed to handle all types of accounting
records, reports, and statistics, paper tape sorting
(Direct and Sequential), engineering calculations,
and linear pro~amming problems (Limited to 10 x 15
:matrix or less).

Operation
Incl Stor Access
Time
Micro sec
Add
11,000
Mult
250,000
Div
400,000
Above times are "worst case". Because of the 4
adctress system, command times all include access
and storage.
Arithmetic unit is constructed of 48 cores, with
transformers and diodes.
Arithmetic mode
Serial
Timing
Synchronous
Sequential
Operation

PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM
Internal number system
Decimal digits/word
Decimal digitS/instruction
Jnstructions per word
Instructions decoded
Arithmetic system
Instruction type
Number range
From - 1 x

Binary Coded Decimal
12
12
1

27
Fixed point
Four adctress
109 to + 9 x 109

STORAGE

Instruction word format
Instruction

Mode

Address Address Adctress
B
A
C
Operand Operand Modif1cation

Adctress
D
Next
Instruction

Two decimal digits each
Automatic built-in subroutines include block transfer, and sum and add pairs of numbers. Variable block
instructions perform some functions similar to B-boxes.

NATIONAL 390

714

No. of
Words
200
200 digits

No. of
Media
Digits
Access
Core
2400 22 microsec/bit
Magnetic Ledger
200 220 char/sec
Cards
Variable word length on magnetic cards

INPUT

COST, PRICE AND RENTAL RATES

Media
Speed
Paper Tape (Photoelectric)
400 char/sec
P\mched Card (IBM 024 or 026)
18 chari sec
Magnetic Ledger Card
220 char/sec
Speed of reading and writing depends on card length.
The average is 1.5 to 2.0 secs.
Console Keyboard (Standard)
The Magnetic Ledger Card is a standard ledger card
with standard visible posted information on the front
and strips of magnetic tape on the back capable of
storing up to 200 digits of information pertaining
to that account.

OUTPUT
Media
Speed
Paper Tape
17 char/sec
Punched Card
18 char/ sec
Magnetic Ledger Cards
Same as input
Accounting Machine Printer
1200 char/min
The Accounting Machine type printer is completely
programmable both horizontally and vertically. It
will accommodate continuous forms, Journals, cut
forms, and ledger cards all simultaneously, if desired and has all accounting machine,checking, comparing, and accumulating features.

.
.
Monthly
Price
Rental
Basic System
390-3 Console and Central
$56,300
$1,395
Processor
10,000
361-1 Paper Tape Reader
250
461-2 Tape Recorder
50
1,735
Additional Equipment
60
381-1 Punch Card Reader Coupler $ 2,250
468-1 Punch Card Coupler
815
27
Paper Tape Rewinder-Splicer 1,215
417
30
361-2 Paper Tape Reader
Maintenance service is included in the rental price,
or is approximately 5 to 6% of purchase price
annually.

PERSONNEL REQU I REMENTS
A typical installation will require a combination
supervisor and programmer, an operator, and possibly
one clerk. The number of input operators would depend on the volume and type of input media and the
method of creating it, e.g. by-product of necessary
parent machine operation, off-line separate operation, etc.

RELIAB I LITY, OPERATI NG EXPER I ENCE,
AND TIME AVAILABILITY

CIRCUtlELEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM
Type
Quantity
Diodes
4,000
Transistors
1,150
Magnetic Cores
9,792
14 vacuum glow triodes are used as indicators.

Acceptance test specifies 40 hours continuous operation without failure or error. Tests are run under
extreme marginal conditions.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS
CHECKI NG FEATURES
Among the fixed checking features are a 5 bi t parity
check, reader and punch check, power supply tolerances auto check, a print-out check, and ledger card
r,ead-write failure indicators are used. Test points
are available on all logical circuits.

POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT. AND SITE. PREPARATION
K'lA, computer
Area, computer
RI:)om size
Floor loading
W,eight, computer

4.8
78
10
20
40
1, 000
1,500

KVA
1 phase
sq i t
ft x 15 ft
lbs/sq i t
lbs concen max
lbs
Ibs, total

240v

Outstanding features include magnetic ledger
cards, accounting machine printer, 4 address
system, internally stored program, decimal coding,
and desk size. The unique Magnetic Ledger Card
which combines visible, auditable, historical
information posted on the front, with machine
language encoded on the back. Up to 200 characters of information pertaining to each account
can be stored on the back of each card. The
magnetic ledger philosophy provides unlimited
external storage facility and immediate random
access to a complete, up-to-date historical record.

FUTURE PLANS
Future ~lans include alphanumerics, a document
sorter {MICR) input, optical document and Journal
readers, automatic ledger handling, increased
speed and capacity, and a high speed printer.

PRODUCTION RECORD
N1~ber
~~er

produced to date
6
in current operation
6
N\llIlber on order
100+
~aticipated production rates
600 - 700 annually
Quantity production will commence in the first
q).m.rter of 1961.

715

NATIONAL 390

NORC

MANUFACTURER

Naval Ordnance Research Calculator

International Business Machines Corporation

Photo by U. S. Naval Weapons Laboratory

APPLICATIONS

Arithmetic system
Instruction type

General scientific calculation in ordnance research,
develo:PDlent and testing. Primary effort has been
devoted to scientific computation, including satellite surveillance data reduction, orbital computation, missile ballistics, reactor design, war game
simulation. A small portion of the time is spent on
bu.siness type data reduction and computation.

Number range
10-43 to 10+31
A number ~ be written as

! x. xxx:x: xxxx

:NORC

xxx:x: • 10

AR ITHMETI C UNIT

PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM
Internal number system
Decimal digits/word
Decimal digits/instruction
In.structions per word
Instructions decoded
Instructions used

Floating or fixed point
Three address

Exclud Stor Access
Microsec

Binary coded decimal

Add

16
16

MUlt
31
Div
227
Construction
Vacuum tubes and diodes (switching)
Rapid access word registers
2,000
Basic pulse repetition rate
1 Me/sec

80
80

716

Photo by U. S. Naval Weapons Ie.boratory
Arithmetic mode
T1m:1Dg

Operation

Serial
Asynchronous
Concurrent

INPUT
Media
Speed
Magnetic Tape (8)
70,000 dec dig/sec
Keyboard
Manual. (Serial)
Eight tape units are in service. The packing density on magnetic tape is 500 char/inch, the l.inear
speed is l.40 inChes/sec. 0.5 inch tape is used.

1!Ul.tip1ication and division are partl.y performed :in
paral1.e1. Operation time depends on decimal. indices.

STORAGE
No. of No. of Digits
Access
Media
Words
(decimal.)
Micro sec
Magnetic Core
20,000
l.6 per word
8
J.Bgnetic Tape
40,000,000
Variabl.e
The core memory was bu1l.t by Daystrom Instrument
C~. and lnstall.ed :in March l.96o.
Original memory
was a 2,000 word W1l.l.iams CRT System with same word
Elize and access time. The magnetic tape system can
J:"ead or search forward and backward and wr1te for ...
l/aTd.

OUTPUT
Media
Speed
Magnetic Tape (8)
70, 000 dec dig/sec
Mechanical Printers (2) l.50 l.ines/min 407 mechanisms
CRT-Microfilm Printer
and Pl.otter
l.5,000 char/sec
Buil.t by Strombery Carl.son; uses Charactron CRT;
installed in l.958.

T-Li

NORC

CIRCUIT ELEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM
Tubes
Tube types
Crystal diodes
Separate cabinets

PERSONNEL REQU I REMENTS
T Dayjweek

9,800
20

Three 8-Hour Sh1f'ts~
Supervisors
1
Analysts, Programmers, Coders
40
Clerks
4
Operators
13
Engineers
2
10
Technicians
12
I.n-Output Oper

30 ,000
6

CHECKING FEATURES
Fixed checks include:
Bit count modulo~4 check on each word transfer
Modulo-9 arithmetic check
Illegitimate character check
Word-length and block-length check on tape reading.

Operation tends toward closed shop.
Methods of tra1n:lng used includes primarily on the
job training, except that for the 1090 System to be
installed, advantage is being taken of availabl.e
instruction from IBM.
'

POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE PREPARATION
Power, computer
Power, air condit

138 Kw
70 Kw

145 KVA
100 KVA

RELIABILITY, OPERATING EXPERIENCE,
AND TIME AVAILABILITY

0.95 pf
O. jO pf

Average error-free running period
1.2 Hours
Good time
133 Hours/Week (Average)
Attempted to run time
144 Hours/Week, (Average)
Operating ratio (Good/Attempted to run t~) 0.925
Above figures based on period 1 Jan 60 td 30 Jun 60
Passed CUstomer Acceptance Test June 1955
Time is available for rent to qua1ified out~ide organizations.

Above figures are estimated.
Area in existing concrete building was remodeled.
Special 12" raised floor used to cover air ducts
and cable raceway. 40 ton closed circuit air conditioner used for main racks. 25 ton system used
for auxiliary equipment and room cooling. Main
computer room approximately 2,000 sq ft, power
supply 500 sq ft, air conditioner JOO sq ft and
shops 700 sq ft.

Time, when available, is used by Defense ClCmtractors as well as govermnent agencies.
This machine is exceptionally well cb.eeke4, both
internall.y and with regard to input-output. Most
errors can be corrected immediately by the $Chine
operator with practicaJ.ly no lost time. S~e installation of core memory, error free period is
close to 2 hours.

PRODUCTION RECORD
Produced
Operating

1
1

COST, PRICE AND RENTAL RATES

ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMAR1(S

$2,500,000 is the cost of the machine as above
describ~d (without core memory and CRT printer)
plus Card-Tape-Card Converter.
Additional. ~osts were the Core Memory at $500,000
and the CRT Printer at $200,000. TOtal for the
system is $3,200,000.

Outstanding features incl.ude l.ong 'WOrd l.ength,
high arithmetic speeds, high tape speeds, checking
features, CRT printer, three address l.ogic, and ease
of programming.
Magnetic tape stored in computer room. in metal.
cabinets. Since the tape is not com;patibl.e With
other units there is no reason for it to l.eave the
compl.etely controlled climate of this area. Acetate
base tape is used.
Speed increased by taking short cuts in case of
zero operands and through the use of previous result
as an operand. Provisions for addition, subtraction,
and shifting of instruction words make possible programmed synthesis of instructions. A l.arge YBriety
o~ conditional. program transfer instructions are
available. Three address-modifier registers make
possible the modification of operand addresses without changing the stored instruction. Card-taplf-card
conversion is used.

FUTURE PLANS

The IBM 7090 System and the IBM 1401 System will
supplement the computer capability of the Naval
Weapons Laboratory.

I NSTAllAT IONS

S. Naval Weapons Laboratory
Dahlgren, Virginia

NORC

718

NORC

NORDEN VOTE TAL LYMANUFACTURER
United Aircraft Corporation
Norden Division
Data Systems Department

Norden Electronic Vote Tallying System )k)del 2602

Photo by Norden Division, United Aircraft Corp.

APPliCATIONS

The ballots are not mechanically registered. The
processor contains the necessary skew interpolation
circuitry to compensate for a misaligned ballot.
This circuitry is shared by the two ballot handlers.
Only one ballot handler feeds ballots at a time.
While one ballot handler is feeding and totals are
being accumulated, the second ballot handler is being reloaded with a spindled tray of ballots and
totals are being transmitted :for the stack o:f ballots
previously read. The alternate use o:f the ballot
handlers permits the continuous processing of ballots.
Each ballot is examined for acceptability in accordance with the Election Code to accept only valid
votes. Overvoted offices and incorrectly voted recall issues or recall candidates are not accepted,

The Norden Vote Tallying System is a special purpose
electronic system used to tally paper ballots at
high speed. Votes are accumulated by candidate and
issue in a magnetic core memory, and totals are
output to a printer-punch un1t. A short length of
punched paper tape is used to instruct the processor
as to the ballot width, color and format be:fore
ballots are read. This same tape establishes the
punch-out sequence. Two mechanical paper handlers
are attached to a processor. A ballot handler feeds
ba.llots in a fixed length of 24" and varying from.
9" to 3(>" in width at 10 ballots per second. Up to
s1:x: ballotW1dths may be individually selected by
paper tape instruction without manual intervention.

720

Photo by Norden Division, United Aircraft Corp.
but all va.1.id votes are accepted to update tota.1.s.
~rh1s analysis and updating occurs prior to the read:lng of the next ballot.

encode.· register.

ARITHMETIC UNIT
Add·. t:1me is 33 microseconds, including storage

PROGRAMMING AND NUMERTCAL SYSTEM
'InterD.al number system

Binary and Binary aoded

:Oigits per vord

3 decimal, 4 binary,

Dec:1mal

1 par-

ity
:Digit s/instruct ion
one a.1.pha per instruction
Instructions decoded
14 instructions
.Arithmetic system
Fixed point
Each operation is defined by an a.1.pha instruction
character.
Bumber range
000 to 999 for each of 540 tota.1.s
One alphabetic character defines an instruction
operation. For example, one character, folloved by
appropriate designators, instructs system on specific
l.ocations of voting sqUares on the ballots to be
read. Another alphabetic character initiates the
actual reading of ballots. Instructions are read
:f'rolIl punched paper tape' and are executed in sequence
as read frOllll the tape.
Essentially all operations in the system are builtin sl;ibroutines. These include updating of the totals
in aemory' as each ballot is read, checks on overToting, punch-out of candidate totals, etc.
All programm.iDg is 1il direct instructions.
:Registers include instruction register, memory inoutreg1ster,ballot mark input registers, and punch

721

access, 6.6 for the actual add operation only.
Arithmetic operation of updating totals after reading ~ach ballot is an automatic subroutine.
T:1m1ng
Synchronous, within data processor
Operation
Sequential
Arithmetic mode Serial

STORAGE.
Medium

No. of
Words

Magnetic Core Memory 600

No. of
Digits
17 bits

Access
Microsec
3 to 4

INPUT
Media
Speed
Punched Paper Tape
60 char/sec
8-channel tape
(7 information plus parity)
Paper Ballots
10 ballots/sec
Ballots can be up to 30" Vide, 24" long.

NORDEN VOTE· TALLY

OUTPUT
Medium
Speed
Cards (80-Column)
18 cOlumns/sec
System uses IBM 526 Printer-Punch

CIRCUIT ELEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM
Type'

Ballot handlers operate alternately in reading
ballots. While reading, drive motors in ballot
handler draw approximately 20 KVA from 220-Volt
3 phase line. Air compressor, low-vacuum fan, and
high-vacuum pump, reqrured for each system, draw
about another 20 KVA per full system from 220-Volt
3 phase line.

Quantity

Tubes
5651
6199
Diodes

DR-;85

Approximately 3,500
Approximately 1,000
Approximately 200

lN770

Miscl.

Transistors
2N426

Approximately 3,000
Approximately 600
Approximately 300
Miscl.
Magnetic Cores
10, aOO in each of two memories
Voltage regulator tubes used as reference tubes,
in power supplies.
Photomultiplier tubes in optical reading heads.
Follow-on systems will use lNTIO diodes.
Each memory has 18 core planes (one spare), with
10 columns, 60 rows in each.
Cores are General Ceramics.
Data is for lrbdel 2602 Two-handler system.

PRODUCTION RECORD
Number produced to date
1
Number in current operation
1
Time required for delivery
12 months
Production of additional systems to be started
soon for use in elections of 1962 and 1964.

2N;88

COST, PRICE AND RENTAL RATES
lrbdel 2602 System (2 lrbdel 610 Ballot Handlers,
2 lrbdel 620 Control Consoles, 1 lrbdel 640 Data
Processor cost approximately $600,000.
A slightly smaller system, lrbdel 2601 System
(1 lrbdel 610 Ballot Randler, 1 MOdel 620 Control
COnsole! 1 Model 630 Data Processor), cost approximately ~315,000.
Maintenance contract, issued on annual basiS, will
be available from the manufacturer.

CHECKI NG FEATURES
Checking features include paper tape parity, column
read, ballot jam, memory parity, format piCkup,
precinct number agreement, power supply monitoring,
double-punch and blank-column detection, and ballot
clock-track check.

POWER, SPACE, WEI GHT, AND SITE. PREPARATION
Power, computer
4.5 to 5
0.90 pf
Power includes tape reader and output card punch.
One system, employing two ballot handlers, requires approximately 1,200 sq ft of floor area.
Total installation load for system is approximately
15,000 pounds. Data processor weighs approximately
2,000 pounds; each ballot handler, about 5,200
pounds. Operator consoles and output printerpunches account for remainder. Floor should be
capable of supporting distributed load of 300 pounds/
square foot. Site preparation requirements for each
system include air compressor, an air fan to provide
high-volume low-vacuum air, and a vacuum pump for
high-vacuum pressure.

NORDEN VOTE TALLY

PERSONNEL REQU I REMENTS
Training made available by the manufacturer to
the user include programming and operator training.
Typical election requires two console operators,
and requires three ballot personnel per ballot handler. Total of 8 people per system per shift, plus
one supervisor for the entire facility (which may
be multiple-system facility).

RELIABILITY, OPERATING EXPERIENCE,
AND TIME AVAILABILITY
System employs solid-state construction throughout
to attain reliability, and employs modular assembly
techniques to facilitate rapid isolation and replacement of malfunctioning module. Indicator lights on
each control console provide information on status
of each component unit of system.

INSTALLATIONS

ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS
System reads voter-marked ballots at rate of 10
ballots per second, and tallies ballots in accordance with election codes. Checks for over-voting,
and provides for candidate rQtation on ballots.
Output totals are punched into cards; no manual
transcriptiOns of totals from counters is required.
System eliminates long hours of manual tallying of
bul..lots at individual preCincts. Handles variety
of sizes of ballots. Output cards can be processed
by conventional card equipment.

Los Angeles County, California

723

KORDD VOTE 'rALLY

N UMER ICORD

MANUFACTURER
Concord Control, Incorporated

Numericord Machine ToOl Director

PhotO by Concord Control, Incorporated

APPLICATIONS

STORAGE

The Numericord Director System is the Giddings &
Lewis Machine Tool Company's numerical, continuouspath control system for automatically and electronically controlling a wide variety of multi··axis
machine tools. Numericord is the registered tradeJD&rk of' the Giddings & Lewis Machine Tool Company 1
Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.

Medium
Magnetic Core Memory

No. of
Digits

334

Access
Microsec
10

INPUT
Medium
Speed
Paper Tape
600 lines/sec
Utilizes high speed photo-electric one inch wide
tape reader for input. Input system can also be
modified to accept the magnetic tape output of a
general purpose computer in lieu of the punched
tape.

PROGRAMMING AND NUMERTCAL SYSTEM
Internal number system

Binary Coded Decimal
Decimal digitS/instruction 43
Arithmetic system
Fixed point
Timing
Synchronous
Operation
Sequential
The NUmericord Director System utilizes a fixed
word length; instruction format and program for all
computations.

IruMERICORD

No. of
Words

724

OUTPUT
Medium
Speed
Continuous at 60 in/sec
Magnetic Tape
Output information is continuous phase modulated
~tized analog control signals on one inch, 14
channel magnetic tape. Magnetic tape output is
used as permanent information storage medhnn. between director systelll. E;md machine tool. Director
system can also be modified to control machine
tool directly without magnetic tape storage.

Normal personnel requirements for the system usually
consist of a trained operator and a trained electronic
technician who is on call but not necessarily present
at the equipnent at all times. Programming is done
by the regular data processing department mathematical programming section.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS

CI RCU tT ELEMENTS OF ENTI RE SYSTEM
Quantity

Type

Tubes
Diodes
Transistors
Magnetic Cores

600
5,000
300
300

CHECKI NG FEATURES
Fixed self-checking features indicate location of
errors to one or more of approximately 12 system
areas.

POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE. PREPARATION
Fower, computer
6 Kw
9
Volume, computer
250
Area, computer
45
Weight, computer
4,600
No special site preparation
designed for operation in any
ment.

KVA

0.66 pf
cu ft
sq ft
Ibs
required. System
normal office environ-

Purpose - provides fully automatic control of complete work cycles for general-purpose machine tools
having as :ma.ny as five simultaneous axes of movement.
Operation - places all machine movements and auxiliary functions under control of a magnetic tape
program which is prepared electronically from numerical data off part drawings.
Significance - provides a "store" of skilla which
makes workpiece accuracy a function of engineering
and methods planning completely independent of machine operator's experience.
Application - while capable of automatically operating any type of machine tool, optimum effectiveness
is achieved on multiple-axis, three-dimensional contouring machines.
Machine Scope - controls standard machine movements
to generate such geometric shapes as straight lines,
circles, ellipses and spirals or any shape that can
be mathematically defined or arbitrarily set up in
three-dimension coordinates.
Accuracy - tolerances obtainable with the Numericord System of machine control range from ± .0005"
to ± .001n on the largest and most intricate workpiece. No cumulative error.

FUTURE PLANS
PRODUCTION RECORD
Number in current production

For several years this system has been used primarily by the aircraft and missile industries. Modifications and adaptations of the system are now
being designed for special applications in precision
plane and contour map making, coordinatograpby, precision plotting, flame cutting, X-ray inspection,
and riveting.

8 in United States

COST, PRICE AND RENTAL RATES
Director, Power Supply, and Tape Recorder cost
approximately $225,000.
Tape preparation desk cost approximately $25,000.
System is normally not available for rental or
lease.
.
Users maintenance personnel are fully trained at
manufacturer's plant prior to system installation.

I NSTALLATI ONS

Republic Aviation Corporation, Farmingdale,
Long Island, New York
Giddings & Lewis Machine Tool Company,
Fond du Lac, Wisconsin

PERSONNEL REQU I REMENTS

Boeing Airplane Company
Wichita, Kansas
Convair, Division of General Dynamics
Fort Worth, Texas
Convair, Division of General Dynamics
San. Diego, California
Lockheed Aircraft Corporation
Burbank, California

One 8-Hour Two 8-Hour Three 8-Hour
Shift
Shifts
Shifts
Used Recom Used Recom Used Recom
1
1
2
2
3
3

Operators
1
1
2
2
Technicians
3
3
Operation tends toward open shop.
Equipment operation is relatively simple. Initial
personnel are trained on the job by manufacturer.
Addi tiona! personnel can be quickly trained on the
job as required.
Thp. Numericord Director is a special purpose digital computer and although it is sometimes programmed
manually, programs are normally prepared by a large
general purpose computer. When used in this fashion
the Numericord system can usefully be described as a
piece of special purpose off-line peripheral equipment used in conjunction with a number of large
general purpose computers.

North American Aviation Inc.
Los Angeles, California

725

NUMERICORD

OARAC

MANUFACTURER

Office of Air Research Automatic Computer

General Electric Company

APPLICATIONS
Scientific computation

aDd analysis.

PROGRAMMI NG AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM
Internal number system
Binary coded decimal
10 + sign
Decimal digits/word
Decimal digits/instruction
7
Instructions/word
1
Instructions decoded
21
Instructions used
21
Arithmetic system Variable fixed decimal point location, can be set to any of 11 digit positions initially. It must
remain at this location during any
given sequence of operations, in
order to obtain consistent results.
Instruction type
Two address (The machine originally
was a one address machine). ' The
modification to a two address machine facilitated access to storage and permitted execution of
special instructions with significant savings in time.
10
Number range
Variable :!: (10
- 1)
Number system used is the 2*-4-2-1 system.

ARITHMETIC UNIT
Add
Mult

Incl Stor Access ~ Exclud Star Access
Micro sec
Micro sec
400-1 7,000
91
800
10,000-26,000
10,000-26,000
1,200

Div
Construction
Vacuum tubes
·400
Diode s
2,500
Basic pulse repetition rate
Arithmetic mode

OllTPUT
Medium
Magnetic Tape

Speed
1,000 wOrds/min
Contents of tape translated by an off-line code
transcriber and typewriter.

CIRCUIT ELEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM
Tubes
1,200
Tube types
l2
Crystal diodes
7,000
Separate cabinets
2
Computer is housed in one cabinet and the magnetic
drum is housed in another cabinet.

CHECKI NG FEATURES
Exceed capacity
Unprogrammed stop
Wrong combination
Synchronized tape
Divide by zero
Product exceed capacity
Tape runout, power and cooling failure fault checks.

POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE. PREPARATION
Power, computer
Volume, computer
Area, computer
Weight, computer
CapaCity, air conditioner

23
600
80
6,000
10

KVA
cu ft
sq ft
Ibs
Tons

The two cabinets measure 15 by 2.5 by 7 it. and
4 by 5 by 6 ft.
150 Kc/sec
Serial by character
Parallel by hits
Synchronous
Sequential

Timing
Operation

PRODUCTION RECORD
Number produced
1
This system was developed on a research and development contract for the Air Force.

STORAGE
Media
Magnetic Drum
Magnetic Tape

No. of
Words
10,000
7,200 per

No. of
Access
Digits
Microsec
110,000
1,000-17,000
1,200 ft. tape

INPUT
Media
Speed
Magnetic Tape
1,000 words/min
Manual
Keyboard
Keyboard is located on main control panel.

OARAC

COST, PRICE AND RENTAL RATES
Approximate cost of basic system $185,000.

RELIAB I LITY, OPERATI NG EXPER I ENCE,
AND TIME AVAILABILITY
Average error-free running period
15
Good time
13,686
Attempted to run time
16,733
Operating ratio (Good/Attempted to run time)
Above figures based on period from Apr 53 to
Passed Customer Acceptance Test Apr 53

Hours
Hours
Hours
0.82
Apr 56

I NSTALLATIONS

ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS
The OARAC has been improved. The improved version
reportedly uses the same codes and commands as OARAC
in order that problems may be run without difficulty.
The problem exists with most computer installations
that a considerable amount of machine time is required
for checking out problems and it is planned to compensate for this by using the new machine, which is
faster than the old OARAC, for running checked-out
problems only.
The new machine is supposed to have a 10, OOC word
core memory, and is supposed to be able to perform
additions in 65 microseconds, excluding access time
or in 1;0 microseconds, including access time and
playback of the next instruction, multiply in 2.6
milliseconds and divide on an average of 6 milliseconds. This is supposed to result in an operating
time savings of approximately 25 to 1 for most programs.

727

Aeronautical Research Laboratory
Wright Air Development Center
Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio

OARAC

OKLAHOMA UNIV

Oklahoma University Computer 1066

MANUFACTURER
University of Oklahoma
Computer Laboratory

APPLICATIONS

ARITHMETIC UNIT

Located in the Merrick Building, North Campus, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma, the system
is used for general purpose scientific and engineering computation.
This computer is a copy of the Rice University computer.

Incl Stor Access
Micro sec
7 to 16

Add
Mult
108
Div
108
Times are estimated.
Construction (Arithmetic unit only)
Vacuum-tubes
900
Transistors
60
Diodes
5,600
Arithmetic mode
Parallel
Timing
Asynchronous
Operation
Sequential

PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM
Internal number system
Binary digits/word
Binary digits/instruction
Instructions per word
Instructions decoded
Ari thmetic system
Base 28 ; Exponent has sign
plus 47.
Instruction type
With limited three-address
Number range Floating pt:
Fixed pt:
Instruction word format

Binary
54
54

100

Approx. 2500 (Micro
Programmed)
Floating point

STORAGE

plus 5 bits; Man., sign
One address
options.
2 -295 :::: In I < 2+248
- 1 < n < 1

6
6
15
4 Bit Address Operation Auxiliary
Field Red-Tape
of One Operand;
Operation
Sign Modification

1 T

15
4
8
15 Bit Address
plus B MOdifiers;
Indirect Address
Option; Sign MJd1fication

Automatic built-in subroutines
Provision for an entire class of these. Initially
will have none. Tests for tags and certain arithmetic conditions are done automatically in the "Trapping Mode" of operation.
Automatic coding
ALGOL Compiler
Registers and B-boxes
7 rapid access 54-bit registers (4 listed also as
fast access storage). 8 B-boxes - Instruction uses
any combination and gives sum of contents as modifier.
1 fictitious "zero" register. 8 special purpose 15
bit registers.
Number of binary digits per word or instruction
is 56 in memory, 2 of which are tags which can be
tested when bringing from memory.
About 2,500 combinatio'ns in the operation field
alone, with room for expansion.
One operand is taken from any of the 16 standard
registers; a result from the operation can be stored
back into any of the 16 or a B-box can be modtfied
as a final auxiliary operation.
Two of the B-boxes have special designations as
Control Counter and Pathfinder; respectively these
contain the address of the next instruction, and an
addxess from a previous transfer.

OKLAHOMA UNIV

Exclud Stor Access
Microsec
3 to 4

128

No. of
No. of Bin Access
Media
Words
Dig/Word Microsec
Flip-Flop Register 4
54
<1
Electrostatic (CRT) 8,192 (present) 63
8(avg)
Diode-Capacitor
4
63
Buffers
Magnetic Tape
No. of units that can be connected
8 Units
No. of char/linear inch of tape
500 Char/inch
Channels or tracks on the tape
10 Tracks/tape
Tape speed
75 Inches/sec
Start time
7 Millisec
Stop time
10 Millisec
Physical properties of tape
Width
0.75 Inches
The flip-flop registers are located in the arithmetic unit and listed there also. Barrier Grid type
CRT is used •. 63 bits include 54 word, 2 tags, 6
error correction code, and I parity. Diode-Capacitor registers are buffers to and from magnetic tapes.

INPUT
Speed
400 hexads/sec
44 words/sec
Ferranti T.R. 5 (Photoelectric)
Magnetic Tape
2 to 4 words/millisec
Typewriter
Manual (IBM Input -Output Writer)
Switches
Manual (Can set 4 Special-Purpose
Registers)
Operator can type to or from any register.
Sense, Mode, Trapping, Indicator Registers.
Media
Paper Tape

OUTPUT
Media
Line Printer

Speed
20 lines/sec (numeric)
10 lines/sec (alphanumeric)
100 Codes/sec 6 levels plus control
10 octal dig/sec

Paper Tape Punch
Typewriter
Magnetic Tape
Printer mechanism is Anelex 56-160.
Punch is Teletype BRPE II
Paper Tape preparation is by off-line Flexowriter.

CIRCUIT ELEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM

COST, PRICE AND RENTAL RATES

Type

Locally produced.

Tubes
5965
6197
Sl1E12

About 1,500
About
300
About
20 A high quality British
power pentode.
2D21
About 120 To drive printer hammer
solenoids.
1858
63 Barrier-grid storage tube.
Total approx.
2,000
Diodes
OMC-537
SG211
Other miscellaneous
About 16,000 total (estimate)
The majority of these are OMC-537 which is a GoldBonded Germanium Diode
Transistors
2N585
2N598
2N393
SBIOl
Others
Total 2,000 - 3,000 (estimate) mostly the :f'irst
two types
Primary uses: instruction decoding and gates, peripheral equipment, and memory preamplifier.
Magnetic Cores
700 Used for pulse transformers
The above quanities include some rather gross estimates for the control unit which is only partially
completed.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS
On any

instruction the address can be modified by

any combination of the 8 index registers (B registers),

the control counter as a B register allows easy rela.
tive addressing of subroutines. Large exponent base
for faster floating point operations, extra lqng
mantissa to minize loss of significance by shifts of

Provision for repeating the same instruction in a
l-word loop. Result of any arithmetic or logic clm
be returned to memory as a general "add-to-memory"
with a block transfer option.
Interchange options allow integer arithmetic, wner.
the :fixed point number range can be considered as
+ 247.
- Two tag bits in memory on either words or instructions.
A special register of "Mode Lights" allow special
modes of machine operation: trapping mode where
certain tests are made during the instruction execution.; repeat mode for repeating the same instruction.f
rounding on multiplication and floating point addition and subtraction is optional by "Rounding MOde".
There is provision for using two magnetic tape
units conCUlTent with normal program execution.
The designation 1066 refers to the Battle of Hastings, in as much as the computer is located at Bo~.
This computer is a copy of the Rice University
Computer, see that description for further ca.ments
that are applicable as of 1960-1961.

CHECKI NG FEATURES
Six bit error correction code plus parity on electrostatic storage and magnetic tape. Corrects s1ng1yoccurring bit failures. Exponent, mantissa overflow
indicators which can be automatically checked as a
trap condition.
Provision for marginal checking of circuits. Rounding is optional on results of certain arithmetic operations.

POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE. PREPARATION
Power, computer
Capacity, air conditioner

12 Kw (estimated)
15 Tons

PRODUCTION RECORD

Number produced to date
Number in current operation Sections only, not entire system
Number in current production 1
System operation anticipated in 1961.

729

FUTURE PLANS
Memory size to be increased to full 32,000 word
capacity after the system is running.

I NSTALLATIONS
University of Oklahoma
Computer Laboratory
Merrick Building - North Campus
Nor.mim, Oklahoma

ORACLE

MANUFACTU RER
Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Argonne National Laboratory, Jointly

Oak Ridge Automatic Computer and Logical F..ngine

Photo by Oak Ridge National Laboratory

APPLICATIONS

PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM

Located at X-IO site at the Oak Ridge National
Laboratory, use and application has been primarily
as a research and development tool for numerical
analysis, programming techniques, and problems in
physics, chemistry, engineering and biology. Methods
have been developed for solving linear equations,
matrix inversions, computing eigenvalues and vectors
of matrices, solution of reactor problems tnvolving
ordinary and partial differential equations. Monte
Carlo techniques have been designed and applied to
problems in health physics and shielding. Many "one
of a kind" problems are solved which involve methods
mentioned above as well as function evaluation, interpolation and statistical analysis. In the last
few years much effort has gone into data processing,
data handling and reduction. System is a large
scale and general purpose computer.

ORACLE

Internal number system
Binary
Binary digits/word
40
8
Binary digitS/instruction
Instructions/word
2
Fixed point
Arithmetic system
One address
Instruction type
Number range
-1 to + (1 _ 2- 39 )
Instruction word format
Order

Break
Point

Address

Registers
Accumulator, quotient and storage registers

730

Photo by Oak Ridge National Laboratory

AR ITHMETI C UNIT
Incl. Store Access Exclud. Store Access
Micro sec
Micro sec
Add
70
8
370-590
Slightly less
Mult
Div
590
Slightly less
Construction (Arithmetic unit only)
Arithmetic unit is constructed of vacuum tubes,
transistors, and diodes. Type 2N43 transistors
and type 1N68 and lNl9l diodes are used.
Arithmetic mode
Serial
Timing
Synchronous in storage
and asynchronous in aritbmetic
Operation
Sequential Concurrent in
magnetic tape hunting operations

Transfer rate
8000 chars/sec
Start time
5 Millisec
Stop time
5 Millisec
Average time for experienced
operator to change reel
30 seconds
Physical properties of tape
Width
2 Inches
Length of reel
1,000 Feet
Composition
.003" Mylar base
.001" Oxide coating

INPUT
Speed
200 char/sec

Medium
Paper Tape (Ferranti)

STORAGE
No. of
Words
2,048 6
3 x 10

Access
Media
Microseconds
Cathode Ray Tube
18
Magnetic Tape
50,000/block
Four handlers
128 words/block
No. of units that can be connected 4 Units
No. of chars/linear inch
170 Chars/inch
Channels or tracks on the tape
42 Tracks/tape
Blank tape separating each record 1 Inch
Tape Speed
47 Inches/sec

OUTPUT
Speed
Media
Photographic Curve
2000 char/sec
Plotter
Used for point plotting also
Characters are series of points
Console Typewriter
10 char/sec
Not normally used for output

731

ORACLE

Paper Tape
60 char/sec
Teletype BRPE-2
Magnetic Tape
1000 char/sec
Printed on typewriter at 10 char/sec
Output magnetic tape 1s run at 60 in/sec on
ORACLE and slowed to 0.6 in/sec for printing on
typewriter (IBM).

PERSONNEL REQU I REMENTS
Three 8-Hour Shifts
Used
Recommended
Supervisors
Analysts
Programmers
Coders
Clerks
Librarians
Operators
Engineers
Technicians

CI RCU tT ELEMENTS OF ENTI RE SYSTEM
Quantity

Type

Tubes
581+4
5965
701+4

4
40

1
1

Methods of training includes classes in basic
coding and algebraic language coding.

6211

RELIAB I LlTY, OPERATI NG EXPER I ENCE,
AND TIME AVAILABILITY

3633
6BC7
6AL5
6AK5
6AH6
12.AT7
12.AU7
l2.AX7
Total

5,000

Total
Transistors
2Nll-3
Magnetic Cores

200

Average error-free running time
4 hours
Good time
3,869 hours
Attempted to run time
4,252 hours
Operating ratio (Good/Attempted to run)
0.91
Figures based on period
Jul 55 to Jul 56
Acceptance test
1 Sep 53

Diodes
lN68
lN19l

ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS

100
None

CHECKI NG FEATURES
Word parity on memory
Word parity on magnetic tape
Character parity on paper and magnetic tape

POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT AND SITE PREPARATION
p

Power, computer
75 Kw
O.9Pf
Room size
60 ft x 60 ft
Capacity, air cond., computer
25 Tons
Capacity, air cond., room
15 Tons
A false floor consisting of four plenums covers
0.9 of room. Ducts under false floor and over roof
seals in closed loop air conditioning. A separate
4400-volt power line transformer is used.

I NSTALLAT IONS
Oak Ridge National Laboratory
P. O. Box X

Oak Ridge, Tennessee

PRODUCTION RECORD
Number produced to date
Number in current operation

1
1

COST PRICE AND RENTAL RATES
p

Aritlunetic Unit
Memory Unit
Magnetic tape unit
Input-Output and Console
Total

ORACLE

Two operating modes are possible in the ORACLE.
Mode 1 is the 1024 word mode in which time multiplex is used between a pair of Williams tubes to
determine the stored information for each bit.
When either tube reads a dash signal, a dash is
replenished to both. This method overcomes the
common type of screen blemish which would prevent
storage of a "1" (dot-dash).
Mode 2 is the 2048 word mode in which each tube
stores 1024 bits. The first tube is regenerated
in the first half of a major cycle and the second
tube in the second half.
IAS type computer.

$250,000

732

133

ORACLE

ORDVAC
Ordnance Variable Automatic Computer

MANUFACTU RER
University of Illinois

U. S. Army Photo

APPLICATIONS
Ballistic Research Laboratories
Exterior ballistics problems such as high altitudes, solar and lunar trajectories, computation for
the preparation of firing tables and guidance control data for Ordnance weapons, including free
flight and guided missiles.
Interior ballistic problems, including projectile,
propellat;lt and launcher behavior, e.g. physical
characteristics of solid propellants, equilibrium
composition and thermodynamic properties of rocket
propellants, computation of detonation waves for reflected shock waves, vibration of gun barrels and

ORDVAC

the flow of fluids in porous media.
Terminal ballistic problems, including nuclear,
fragmentation and penetration effects in such areas
as explosion kinetics, shaped charge behavior,
ignition, and heat transfer.
Ballistic measurement problems, including photo~rammetric. ~onospheric, and damping of satellite
spin calculations, reduction of satellite doppler
tracking data, and computation of satellite orbital
elements.
Weapon systems eValuation problems, including
anti-aircraft and anti-missile evaluation, war game
problems, linear programming for solution of Army
logistical problems, probabilities of mine detona-

Transistorized Arithmetic Unit

U. S. Army Photo

tions, and lethal area and kill probabilities of
mine detonations, and lethal area and kill probabl1,..,
ity studies of missiles.

Instructions used
Arithmetic system
Number range
Instruction word format
Left Instruction

6 Unused*
2 '\ Address
12
Order

PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM
Internal number system
Binary digits per word
Instructions per word
Instruction type
Binary digits in operation code
Binary digits in address

Binary

55 or 72
Fixed point
-1

< :lC < 1

Right Instruction

Order

1Unused*
2 ,I 12
Address

20 Bits
20 Bits
*One bit will be used to differentiate f1c
point numbers from fix point numbers
Rapid Access word registers - 3
Sexadecimal representation is used externally.
Negative numbers are handled as 2 complements.

40
2

One Address
6 or 9
12 or 10

735

ORDVAC

Magnetic Core Memory
Floating point operation mSlf be programmed.
Dual code - ORDVAC operates on a dual code basis.
The codes are, on a two instructions per word basis,
i.e. 20 digits per instruction:
Code A - 1,024 words of storage:
9 digit, command
1 digit, spare
10 digit, address
Code B - 4,096 words of storage:
6 digit, command
2 digit, spare
12 digit, address

ORDVAC

u. S.

A.rmy Photo

This system permits utilization of routines developed previous to the 4,096-word operation change over.

ARITHMETIC UNIT
Arithmetic mode
Basic pulse rate
Add time (Basic addition by
arithmetic unit)
Multiply time (exclud. store
access)
Divide time (exclud. store
access)

Parallel
Not pulse controlled
14 micro sec
700 microsec
700 microsec

u. S.

Transistorized Channel Selector
The total add time, including transfer to final
register, is 50 microseconds. None of the above
figures include access to storage.
Construction, Arithmetic unit only - Transistorized
on printed circuit plug-in boards, using 1,000 Type
2N128 transistors.
Timing
Asynchronous
Operation
Parallel

Army Photo

STORAGE
Media
Words
Magnetic core
4,096
Magnetic drum 10,032

Digits
163,840 bits
401,280 bits

Access

15 microsec
80,000 "
/48 words

Magnetic drum purchased from ERA Division of Sperry
Rand, Incorporated. The track selector for the
magnetic drum has been transistorized. Magnetic
core storage unit purchased from Telemeter Magnetics,
Incorporated. Both above storage units adapted to
ORDVAC and installed by Ballistic Research Laboratories personnel.

737

ORDVAC

INPUT
Media
Teletype tape (5 hole)
Punched cards

Speed
2.5 words per sec
40 words per sec (bin)
8 words per sec (dec)

Ferranti Hi-speed Paper
Tape Reader
Magnetic tape

20 words per sec (bin)
300 words per sec

The special purpose one inch wide magnetic tape
system for transferring telemetered data to ORDVAC
has 6 information tracks and 3 control tracks.

Air Conditioning
Computer
Core Memory
Magnetic Drum
Space
Computer
Weight
Computer

15 Tons
7.5 Tons
3 Tons
80 sq ft

630 cu ft
3,000 Ibs

PRODUCTION RECORD
Number produced to date
Number in current operation

1
1

OUTPUT
Speed
0.4 words per sec
0.4 words per sec
40 words per sec (bin)
8 words per sec (dec)
Transistorized magnetic core contents display.

Media
Teletype page printer
Teletype tape
Punched cards

CI RCU tT ELEMENTS OF ENTI RE SYSTEM
Tubes
Type

5964
5687
2C51
5965
6AL5
6A67
2D21
6080
6AN5
.OB2
7Alq
5963
6AV6
5R4
6L6
12AX7
6x4
5651
6AQ5

Quan
817
420
568
637
47
2
160
21
13
14
16
46
13
2
26
22
6
12
1

Transistors
Type
Quan
20
2N162
2N140
65
2N128
1300
2NI09
346
Diodes
Type
lN91
lN93
lN52

Quan
418
162
10

Type

c6J
6X5
003
6SF5
6AC7
12SN7
12A1J7
6AH6
6350
6829
6216
6BJ7
6197
6293
5998
6336
350B
0.A2
Total
Type

2NlO56
2Nll3
2N426
2N42 5
Total
Type

lN63
lN5BA
IN298
Totl:l.l

Quan
28
4
4
4
4
12
1
9
86
2
2
42
90
193
72

4
3

3~
Quan

250
75
25
10
2,091
Quan
15
10

22Q.
915

POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT o AND SITE PREPARATION
Power Consumption
Computer
Core Memory
Magnetic Drum

ORDVAC

40 K.W.
15 K.W.

6 K.W.

COST PRICE AND RENTAL RATES
D

Rental rates for additional equipment
$648.57 per month
The additional rented equipment is:
I.B.M. punch
$ 83.32 per month
$ 82.50
I.B.M. reader
I.B.M. reproducer
$122.50
I.B.M. tabulator
$360.25
Approximate cost of basic system
$600,000.

PERSONNEL REQU I REMENTS
Typical

Personne~

Three 8-Hour Shifts
Supervisors
Analysts
Programmers and Coders
Clerks
It::ngineers
Technicians

6
3

14
1
1

No engineers are assigned to the operation of the
machine, but are used for development and design of
additions to the machine. The technicians consult
the engineers when a total break-down occurs.

RELIAB I LlTY, OPERATI NG EXPER I ENCE

AND TIME AVAILABILITY
Average error-free running period Approx. 6 hours
Good-time
7,475 hours
Attempted to run time
8,760 hours/year
Operating ratio
0.85
The above figures are based on the yearly average of
the last 5 years. Approximately 2 hours per week
are used for scheduled preventive maintenance and 10
hours per week are used for running computer test
programs. The 1,286 hours difference above were used
~or testing, servicing, bad operating time, general
~provement, and the incorporation of new components.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS
The ORDVAC belongs to the group o~ computers whose
basic logic'was developed by the Institute ~or
Advanced Study and utilized in the IAS computer.
This IAS ~amily o~ computers is made up o~ such
machines as the ILLIAC, ORACLE, AVITJAC, MANIAC,
JOHNNIAC, MISTIC, and CYCLONE.
The ORDVAC is a direct-coupled machine using threedimensional construction. A direct-coupled machine
is one that connects the voltage level o~ one com··
ponent directly to the input o~ the next, without
voltage isolation between. This ~eature is very
helpful in trouble-shooting the system. Threedimensional construction is sometimes called lowcapaci tance wiring. In the ORDVAC, three-dimensional
wiring is employed by placing the arithmetic unit
and other controls on opposite sides, and interconnected wiring running across the open space
between. The machine can be remotely controlled
~rom commercial Teletype units.
ORDVAC is equipped with the option o~ two di~~erent
instruction codes. Code -9 (nine bits per instruction) makes 1,024 words o~ high speed core storage
available to the operator while Code -6 (six bits
per instruction) makes 4,096 words o~ high speed
storage available. Each code shares a common ninebit decoder; however, when the code -6 option is
used the instruction ~irst passes through a code
translator which translates the six bit instruction
into its 9-bit equivalent. There is no loss o~ time
while making the code translation.
The translator uses the ~ollowing number o~
circuit elements
Transistors
SB 100
2N 43
2N 140
Total
Crystal diodes
Resistors
Capacitors

General purpose magnetic tape stations will be
added to the ORDVAC shortly, with provisions for 8
stations. ORDVAC will control read, write, re-wind
~orward and backward, move tape ~orward and back N
words, starting at A address of memory, transfer to
B address o~ memory for next instruction, re-record
N words, pl~back N words, check ~or parity error,
trans~er on error, and other ~unctions.
Circuit Elements, Entire System
Magnetic Cores
Quan
OD
Thick
ITJ
172,032
100
mils
70
30
12 5
mils
260
5,376
375

135
24
12
171

The above components FI.rl" 'nounted on 21 printed
circuit boards. Power dissipation is approximately
5 watts.

INSTALLATIONS
Ballistic Research Laboratories
Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland

FUTURE PLANS
The Floating Point unit ~or the ORDVAC Willl~7
fUll~1~8ansistorized, with a number range o~ 2
to 2
, using a seven bit biased exponent. Numbers will be normalized automatically on trans~er
to storage. The mantissa o~ the normalized ~loat
ing-point number will have a range o~ 1/2> C > -1/2.
~is system will require that an existing register
be converted ~rom a one-sided shi~ting register to
a two-sided shifting register.
Fully transistorized control circuitry for new
indexing orders will be added in the near future.

739

ORDVAC

PACKAR 0 BELL 250
Packard Bell Computer

~el

MANUFACTU RER

Packard Bell Computer Corporation

250

Photo by Packard Bell Computer Corporation

PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM

APPLICATIONS
The PB 250 is a high speed digital computer designed
to be used for general purpose computing and as a
system component for on-line, real-time, data handling.

PACKARD BELL 250

Internal number system
Binary
Binary digits/word
21 plus Sign
Binary digitS/instruction 22
Instructions per word
I
Instructions decoded
63
Arithmetic system
Fixed point
Floating point by subroutine
Instruction type
One address (Mod1f'led)
Number range
6 dec:1mal. digits

740

INPUT
HIGH- SPEED
TRANSFER

OUTPUT

CORE
MEMORY

BLOCK

(EXTERNAL)

HIGH- SPEED BLOCK
TRANSFER

...

CARD PUNCH

~
MAIN
MEMORY
CARD READER

TYPEWRITER
LOW-SPEED
TAPE RE~DER
HIGH-SPEED
TAPE READER

CHARACTER
INPUT BUFFER

MAGNETIC
TAPE UNITS

r--.

TYPEWRITER

ARITHMETIC
UNIT

r--.

CHARACTER
bUTPUT BUFFER

PAPER TAPE
PUNCH

r-t

(SIX

MAXIMUM)

DIGITAL
TO
ANALOG
CONVERTER

...r

(SIX MAXIMUM)

MAGNETIC
TAPE UNITS

ANALOG
TO
DIGITAL
CONVERTER

i
CONTROL

30 INPUT

32 OUTPUT
.. CONTROL liNES

CONTROL LINES

Block Diagram by Packard Bell Computer Corporation
Instruction word format
22
15
Sector
Number

14
Sec
Tag

8
13
Op Code

7
3
Line Number

STORAGE

Index
Tag

No. of

Access
Media
Words
No. of Bits Microsec
Magnetostrictive to 15,888 to 349,536
1,540 avg
Ijelay Line
Magnetic Core
to 16,384 to 360,448
Magnetic Tape
No. of units that can be connected
6 Units
No. of chars/linear inch of tape
200 CharS/inch
Channels or tracks on the tape
T Tracks/tape
Blank tape separating each record 0.75 Inches
Tape speed
5, 10 Inches/sec
Transfer rate
1 or 2 Kc/sec
Start time
3 Millisec
Stop time
1.5 Millisec
Physical properties of tape
Width
1/2 Inches
Length of reel
2500 Feet

An index register may be loaded to modify line
number of address. (The contents of the index register replaces line number of all instructions where
a tag is specified.)
A single instruction can shift the memory location
of a specified number of words by one address position thus eliminating the need for address modification while maintaining optimum programming.
Optimum programming is provided for by provision
for relative addressing for next instruction.
Automatic built-in subroutines include square root
and gray-to-binary conversion.

ARITHMETIC UNIT
Add
~t

Incl Stor Access
Micro sec
108 Avg
3~Avg

Exclud Stor Access
Microsec
12
276 (max)
252 (max)

INPUT
Speed
Media
Flexowriter
10 6 or 8 bit Char/sec
Paper Tape
300 6 or 8 bit Char/sec
Magnetic Tape
2,000 7 bit Char/sec
Serial
2 Me bit, 83.3 KC word rate
30 control inputs used with the transfer on external signal command are also available for control
applications.

Ijiv
348 Avg
Arithmetic mode
Serial
Timing
Synchronous
Operation
Sequential or non-sequential
The PB 250 operates at a clock frequency of 2 Me
giving a word time of 12 microsec. The arithmetic
unit is completely serial in operation as is the
magnetostrictive delay line memory. The serial
approach provides low component count with low cost
and high reliability. The 2 Mc clock provides microsecond speed formerly associated only with very large
expensive machines. The magnetostrictive delay line
memory can be expanded from the basic 1808 words in
1 to 256 word increments to 15,888 words by the
simple addition of plug-in units.

741

PACKARD BELL 250

NUMERIC ORDER

OPERATIONS GROUPING

COMMAND STRUCTURE
Sequence tag]
1 bit

OPCod.
6 bits

Index tag
1 bit

]

A and B Registers: One word registers, programmed independently
or combined for multiplication, division, square root, and double
precision operations.
C Register: For multiplication, division, tally, and control.
Operation

Arithmetic

Transfer

Loading &
Storing

Logical &
Shifting

Control

Input·
Output

Mnemonic Numeric
Code
Code
14
ADD
15
SUB
16
DPA
17
DPS
30
SQR
30
VLS
31
DIV
31
VLD
32
MUP
32
VLM
45
CLA
43
CLB
44
CLC
41
GTB
56
CAM
35
TAN
36
TBN
34
TCN
37
TRU
75
TOF
77
TES
05
LOA
06
LOB
04
LDC
07
LOP
01
lAC
02
IBC
STA
11
12
STB
10
STC
13
STD
MCL
71
26
MLX
40
EBP
42
AMC
46
AOC
47
EXF
20
NAD
21
LSD
RSI
22
SAl
23
NOP
24
HLT
00
50
DIU
51
RTK
52
RPT
RFU
53
LAI
55
57
CIB
6X
WOC
70
PTU
72
BSO
BSI
73

Description
Add
Subtract
Double Precision Add
Double Precision Subtract
Square Root
Variable Length Square Root
Divide
Variable Length Divide

~~~i~g:~ Length Multiply

Clear A
Clear B
Clear C
Gray to Binary
Compare A and M
Transfer if A Negative
Transfer if B Negative
Transfer if C Ne~ative
Transfer Uncon itionally
Transfer on Overflow
Transfer on External Signal
Load A
Load B
Load C
Load Double Precision
Interchange A & C
Interchange B & C
Store A
Store B
Store C
Store Double Preci9ion
Move Command Line Block
Move Line X to Line 7
Extend Bit Pattern
AND M & C
AND OR Combined
Extract Field
Normalize and Decrement
Left Shift and Decrement
Right Shift and Increment
Scale Right and Increment
No Operation
Halt
Disconnect Input Unit
Read Typewriter Keyboard
Read Paper Tape
Read Fast Unit
Load A From Input Buffer
Clear Input Buffer
Write Output Character
Pulse to Specified Unit
Block Serial Output
Block Serial Input

Numeric
Code
00
01
02
04
05
06
07
10

11
12
13
14
15
16
17
20
21
22
23
24
26
30
31
32
34
35
36
37
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
50
51
52
53
55
56
57
6X
70
71
72
73
75

Mnemonic
Code

Description

HLT
lAC
IBC
LDC
LOA
LOB
LOP
STC
STA
STB
STD
ADD
SUB
DPA
DPS
NAD
LSD
RSI
SAl
NOP
MLX
SQR
DIV
MUP
TCN
TAN
TBN
TRU
EBP
GTB
AMC
CLB
CLC
CLA
AOC
EXF
DIU
RTK
RPT
RFU
LAI
CAM
CIB
WOC
PTU
MCL
BSO
BSI
TOF
TES

Halt
Interchange A & C
Interchange B & C
Load C
Load A
Load B
Load Double Precision
Store C
Store A
Store B
Store Double Precision
Add
Subtract
Double Precision Add
Double Precision Subtract
Normalize and Decrement
Left Shift and Decrement
Right Shift and Increment
Scale Right and Increment
No Operation
Move Line X to Line 7
Square Root
Divide
Multiply
Transfer if C Negative
Transfer if A Negative
Transfer if B Negative
Transfer Unconditionally
Extend Bit Pattern
Gray to Binary
And M & C
Clear B
Clear C
Clear A
AND OR Combined
Extract Field
Disconnect Input Unit
Read Typewriter Keyboard
Read Paper Tape
Read Fast Unit
Load A from Input Buffer
Compare A and M
Clear Input Buffer
Write Output Character
Pulse to Specified Unit
Move Command Line Block
Block Serial Output
Block Serial Input
Transfer on Overflow
Transfer on External Signal

Command. List by Packard :Bell Compu.terCorporation

OUTPUT
Media
Flexowriter
High Speed Paper
Tape Punch
Magnetic Tape
High Speed Serial

Speed
10 6 or 8 bit char/sec
110 6 or 8 bit char/sec
2,000 7 bit char/sec
2 Me bit, 83.3 KC word rate

The high speed (2 Me) input and output is through
a 2 Me external shift register 'Which can be loaded
or unloaded in serial or parallel :from equiJ:Hllent such
as A to D, D to A converters, shaft encoders, etc.
Input and output can also be made through an 8 bit
character buffer 'Which is used for Flexowriter, Paper
Tape, and Magnetic Tape input and output. For example, an adaptor card which connects our Model M3 A
to D converter directly to the character bufter is

PACKARD BELL 250

available. 32 control output lines are available
for use 'With the Pulse to Specified Unit command
for control applications.
Both punched card and line printing equipnent v1ll
be available by mid 1961.

CIRCUIT ELEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM
and It. :mag-

There are 400 transistors, 2,500 diodes,
netostrictive delay lines in the system.

COST PRICE AND RENTAL RATES
g

:M:odel
Number
PB 250

Sale
Price

Item

COMPUTER with Flexowriter and 2320-word memory
PB 250-T In Free-Standing Case
$40,500
PB 250-R For Rack Mounting
39,500
PB 250-R With Shelf & Slides for Rack Mounting Flexowriter 39,900

MSR·l

MEMORY MODULE (up to 256 words)

Monthly
Lease
Price
$1,230
1,200
1,210

1,200

MTU·l

MAGNETIC TAPE UNIT _

14,750

445

HSR·l

PAPER TAPE READER (300 characters/sec)

7,500

230

HSP·l

PAPER TAPE PUNCH (110 characters/sec) .

4,950

155

MX-l

MEMORY EXTENSION CHASSIS

1,000

MT·l·250 MODULE TESTER (less oscilloscope)
SK·l

3,000

SPARE PARTS KIT

3,100

RR·l

RACK

500

PBS-l

COMPUTER STAND .

250

PBD-l

DESK.

500

SIX ADDITIONAL SIGNAL INPUT LINES (max. 3 sets)

300

FX·lR

FLEXOWRITER (with shelf & slides for rack mounting)

4,900

150

FX-lT

FLEXOWRITER (for table mounting)

4,500

140

PS-8

BATIERY POWER SUPPLY when included instead of a.-c supply

1,500

HSB-l

BUFFER REGISTER .

4,750

PRICES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE AND ARE F.O.B.' OUR PLANT, LOS ANGELES. CALIFORNIA

CHECKING FEATURES
All operations involving the memory are parity
checked. Checking is also done in the assembly
program and in the subroutine.

POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE PREPARATION
Power, computer
Volume, computer
Area, computer
Weight, computer

0.1 Kw
7 cu ft
2.8 sq ft
110 Ibs

PRODUCTION RECORD
Number produced to "date
3
Number in current operation
3
Number in current production 20
Number on order
30
Anticipated production rates 2 units per week
Time required for delivery
6 months

PERSONNEL REQU I REMENTS
Training made available by the manufacturer to the
user includes a two weeks programming course and a
two weeks maintenance course which are included in
the price of the machine.

RELIABILITY, OPERATING EXPERIENCED
AND TIME AVAILABILITY
The PB 250 uses only solid-state circuitry and is
completely modularized. The circuits used were
developed for the TRICE DDA which operates at ; Mc,
and have been in operation for over two years.
For applications where power failures and resultant loss of memory cannot be tolerated a battery
power supply is available which will operate the
computer for several hours without line power.
The low component count less than 400 transistors
and less than 2,500 diodes insure maximum reliability. The computer requires only 40 watts of power
exclusive of input-output devices. This power is
dissipated over a large area providing freedom from
failure due to heating problems.
A built-in marginal circuit testing system combined
with a diagnostic service routine permits the dynamic
testing of all circuits in the computer and the identification of any drifting component. The entire
computer consists of 115 plug-in modules, a plug-in
magnetically regulated power supply, and a standard
paper tape reader, paper tape punch, and electric
typewri ter. The computer proper requires only 30
watts of d-c power so that air conditioning is not
needed. A battery supply is available.

PACKARD BELL 250

Photo by Packard Bell

ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS
Outstanding features include a 2 Me clock frequency
source providing microsecond speed at a price lower
than previous microsecond machines, and expandable
magnetostrictive delay line memory and a powerful
command list including square root and gray-to-binary
and double precision commands.
Other advantages include three methods of inputoutput; control lines, character buffer, and 2 Me
serial, plus inexpensive standard buffer equipment,
making the computer adaptable to additional peripheral equipment.
The primary design objective of the PB 250 was to
provide a computer that would be used as a standard
systems component so that a large number of system
requirements formerly satisfied only by a special
purpose one-of-a-kind system can be met by the
PB 250 plus the proper selection of off-the-shelf
i.nput-output equipment. The high speed, powerful
command list, versatile input-output, and low price
have met this objective.
Performance - The PB 250 operates at speeds comparable to those of large scale computers. The maximum operation rate is over 40,000 instructions per
second. Typical times for a 22-bit word are:
addition and subtraction
12 microseconds
multiplication
276 microseconds
division
252 microseconds
square root
252 microseconds

PACKARD BELL 250

The last three commands are variable in length.
For example, the product of a 10-bit multiplier
and a 22-bit multiplicand requires 132 microseconds.
A repertoire of fifty-one commands permits the full
speed of the PB 250 to be realized. Among these are
double precision commands which automatically operate
upon 44-bit words. Floating point routines operating
on a 7-bit characteristic and a 37-bit (11 decimal
digit) mantissa require less than 3 milliseconds.
Three complete input/output systems are integral
to the computer. The first operates on characters
of up to 8 bits at a maximum rate of 2,000 characters
per second on input and 20,000 characters per second
on output. Buffering permits the computer to operate
simultaneously with input/output operations. The
second system operates upon serial information at
rates up to 85,000 words per second. The format of
this information is automatically controlled by an
internally stored mask. The third system consists
of 30 input lines which can be sampled under program
control and 32 output lines upon which signals can
be placed under program control. These lines permit
the computer to sense and control the state of external devices.
Ease of programming - The PB 250 is a single
address computer with an index register. Program
optimization in the PB 250 is provided by a unique
minimum access scheme. If speed is not a consideration, the computer is treated as a straight-forward
single address system. If, on the other hand, mini-

744

Photo by Packard Bell
mum access is a consideration, a sequence tag bit
in the command word causes the computer to read the
next command immediately following the execution of
the indicated operation. The use of this sequence
tag permits computation rates of up to 41,666 commands
per second.
A special index register permits automatic address
modification while optimum programming is maintained
by selecting the optimum address in each memory line.
Further, a single instruction permits shifting every
word in a given line by one address position. Thus,
optimum programming may be retained and the need for
address modification eliminated.
Flexibility - The flexibility of the PB 250 makes
it adaptable to a wide range of application. The
memory is expandable from 2,320 words to 15,888 Words.
Further, the length of the additional memory lines is
optional and so may be designed to fit any specific
requirement. Magnetic core memory is also available
as an option. The PB 250 has the widest range of
auxiliary equipment of any general purpose digital
computer, including punched card equipment and up to
six magnetic tape units.
CINCH, the Floating Point Interpreter for the PB 250
general purpose digital computer, is designed to per-

mit rapid programming of scientific and engineering
problems and to allow persons generating problems
to do the actual programming of the problems themselves. CINCH's structure permits those who have
used the commonly accepted interpretive programs
to learn CINCH coding quickly. This is made possible
by the fact that CINCH was designed after consideration of other interpreters, combining the best of
their features and adding new features that experience has shown to be desirable.
CINCH is a floating point interpretive system,
which means II scaling" is no longer a problem. There
is no need to keep track of number magnitude. In
addition, CINCH offer~ 7 index registers for looping
and program control. Debugging systems are offered,
including a selective program trace and memory print.
Input and output are convenient to use. Commands are
written in an easy to remember notation. CINClI obeys
the human law of self preservation in that it will
not execute an instruction which would cause it to
damage itself.
The CINCH interpretive memory can contain up to
4,095 words. One word is required to represent a
command; two words are required to represent a floating point number.

PACKARD :mm:..L 250

PENNSTAC

Pennsylvania State (University) Automatic Computer

MANUFACTURER
Pennsylvania State University
Electrical Engineering Department

Photo by Pennsylvania State University

APPLICATIONS
System is used primarily for the education of
digital computer engineers and the performance of
research in digital computer design.
PENNSTAC has been designed to (1) carry out scientific computation and (2) be used in a classroom
for teaching computer design and programming. For
the second purpose mentioned, the following features
have been included in the computer: (1) a visual
display of the coded contents of the four registers;
(2) a control panel reduced to the essentials for
operation and enabling reduced-speed operation;
(3) visible and accessible components, easily modified, and (4) an output system enabHng instruction
concerning communication between the computer and
an asynchronous device.

PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM
Internal number system
Decimal digits/word
Decimal digits/instruction
Instructions/word
Instructions decoded
Arithmetic system
Instruction type
Number range

11
1

Fixed point
One-plus-one

Instruction word format
Next Instruction Operand Address

Operation Code

X X

X X X

XXXX

For example:
22

PENNSTAC

Binary coded decimal
11

2469

Photo by Pennsylvania State University
This instruction states: Add (22) the number at
(2469) to the number in the A-register, leave the
result in the A-register, and take the next instruction from drum location 1345. The tag digit is not
used.
Registers
A-register - accumulator
B-register - receives information from drum
C-register - accumulator for holding information
to be stored on the drum
D-register - holds instruction
The internal number system is the 2*421 binary coded
decimal system. There are four bits per decimal
digit.

ARITHMETIC UNIT
Incl. Stor. Access Exclud. Stor. Access
Microsec
Microsec
Operation
Average
Maximum
Average
Add
94
4,700
3,445
Mult
2,985
5,969
5,335
5,076
10,152
7,426
Div
Construction (Arithmetic unit only) 117 vacuum tubes
Arithmetic mode
Parallel in binary
Serial in decimal
Synchronous
Timing
Sequential
Operation

PENNSTAC

PRODUCTION RECORD

STORAGE
No of
Words
2500

Hedium
IBH 650 Drum

No. of
Digits
27,500

Number produced to date
Number in operation

Access
Microsec
2350 (Average)

PERSONNEL REQU I REMENTS
INPUT

Speed
10 char/sec
60 char/sec

Quantity

'rubes
2 C51
588 7
12BH7
6L6
6W6

264
200
796
42
40

Total
Diodes
H02 0 77
'rransistors
2N94A

1 1/2
2

General Information
The new system presents two major modifications.
First is the Internal Output control by means of
which the output is controlled almost entirely by
the program. The format switch and the format tape
will be eliminated. Second will be the addition of
a second output device, a sixty-digit-per-secQnd
Teletype Punch. The output information from the
Teletype Punch will be in the form of punched paper
tape. The programmer can select as the output
device either the Teletype Punch or the ten-digitper-second Flexowriter.

CI RCU tT ELEMENTS OF ENTI RE SYSTEM
Type

1
1
1

ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS

OUTPUT
Medium
Paper Tape (Flexowriter)
Paper Tape (Teletype)
Teletype model BRPE2

One 8-Hour Shift
1/2

Supervisors
Programmers
Clerks
Operators
Engineers
Technicians

Medium
Speed
Paper Tape
440 char/sec
Ferranti photoelectric reader. The punched paper
tape is standard 7/8' inch tape. Six channels are
used. The tape is prepared by a F299MA Burroughs
Bensimatic.

2*421 coded decimal number system used on PENNSTAC
Decimal Equivalent

1,342

5,768

1
2

5
6
7
8
9

CHECKI NG FEATURES
Checking features include sensing for wrong combination in the four registers, exceed capacity, unusually lengthy instruction time, divide by zero,
read-in false start, and synchronism alarms.

Wrong Combination

"
POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE PREPARATION
Power, computer
7.2 Kw
Power, air conditioner 7.2 Kw
Volume, computer
Volume, ai.r conditioner
Area, computer
Area, air conditioner
Room size
Floor loading

9
10.2
320
72
80
13
65
3.3
110
Capacity, air conditioner
12.5
Weight, computer
3,500
Weight, air conditioner
1,500
Overhead conduits for power, signal
air conditioning.

PENNSTAC

2*421 Code
000 0
o 001
001 0
o0 1 1
o1 0 0
101 1
1 1 0 0
1 1 0 1
III 0
1 1 1 1

0.8 pf
¥:VA
¥:VA
0.7 pf
cu :E't
cu ft
sq :E't

"
"

100 0
1 001
101 0
o1 0 1
011 0

COST, PRICE AND RENTAL RATES
Approximate cost of basic system

sa :E't

ft x 23 ft
Ibs/sq ft
Ibs, concen max
Tons
Ibs
Ibs
wires, and

748

$100,000.

RELIABILITY, OPERATING EXPERIENCE,
AND TIME AVAILABILITY
System has been in operation since 1955.

Operation Code
50

51
52
53
54

55
56
57

Table of Operations of PENNCODE
Basic PENNCODE
Operation
A + B -7K
Add
Subtract
A - B -7K
A·B-7K
Multiply
A 7- B -7K
Divide
Add Absolute
A + IBI -7K
Subtract Absolute
A - IBI -7K
K+AB-7K
Addiply
Subtiply
K-AB-7K

Description

..fA -7 B,

Square Root
Compare
Move

Transfer Negative

Transfer Non Zero

If K < 0 take next instruction from ~.
If K ~ 0 take next instruction from t.

Unconditional
Transfer
Return Jump

63
64

Escape

72
73

No operation
Read In

Read Out

75
76
77

Stop
Conditional Stop
Translate In

Translate Out

If A bdel Basin
Washington 7, D. C.

CHECKING FEATURES
David Taylor Model Basin
Magnetic tape error detection and correction.
Improper command.
Overheat alarm.
Non-existent peripheral eqaipment detection.

PKILCO CXPQ.

PROGRAMMED DATA
PROC ESSOR
Programmed Data Processor

MANUFACTURER
Digital Equipment Corporation

:Photo by Digital Equipment Corporation

APPLICATIONS

Instruction word format

System is designed for general purpose computing,
on-line and real-time uses, on-line auxiliary to
larger computers, and special applications requiring
variety of input-output equipment and/or high operating speed.
An advanced computer and other utility programs
are being developed.
Registers and B-boxes include a memory buffer, an
accumulator, an In-Out Register (and accum extension),
a program counter and a memory address register.

PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM
Internal number system
Binary
Binary digits/word
18
Binary digitS/instruction
18
Instructions/word
1
Instructions decoded 25 basic, 53 incl. augmented
Arithmetic system
Fixed point
Instruction type
One address
Number range
_(217_1) ~ N~(217_1)

ARITHMETIC UNIT
Incl. Stor. Access
Microsec
Add
Mult

Div

PROGRAMMED DATA PROCESSOR

r(64

300 avg
600 avg

Exclud. Stor. Access
Microsec
0·75
300
600

Photo by Digital Equipment Corporation
Arithmetic mode
Parallel
Timing
Synchronous
Operation
Sequential
MUltiply and Divide by subroutine augmented by
MUltiply Step and Divide Step instructions.
Normal input-output is promarily sequential. An
optional in-out system allows concurrent operation
of several in-out devices.

STORAGE

No. of
No. of
Media
Words
Digits/word
Core
1024 or 4096
18
Additional memory banks may be added.
Magnetic Tape
No. of units that can be connected 64
No. of chars/linear inch of tape 200
Channels or tracks on tape
7
Blank tape separating each record 3/4
Tape speed
75
Transfer rate
15,000
Start time
3
Stop time
3
Physical properties of tape
Width
1/2

Access
Microsec
5 (cycle)
Units
Chars/inch
Tracks/tape
Inches
Inches/sec
Chars/sec
Millisec
Millisec
Inches

INPUT
Media
Speed
Paper Tape Reader
300 char/sec
Typewriter
10 char/sec
Many optical input devices are available.

OUTPUT
Media
Speed
Paper Tape Punch
20 char/sec
Typewriter
10 Char/sec
CRT Display
20,000 pOints/sec
Many optical output devices.

CIRCUtlElEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM
Type
Diodes
Transistors
Magnetic Cores

Quantity
3,000
2,700
73,72 8

CHECKI NG FEATURES
Overflow checks are included.
check system is optional.

The memory parity

POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE. PREPARATION
Power, computer
0.8
Volume, computer
70
Volume, console table
84
Area, computer
12
Area, console table
21
Room size
12
Weight, computer
1600
Site preparation not required.

Kw
cu ft
cu ft
sq ft
sq ft
x 12 ft
Ibs

PRODUCTION RECORD
Number produced to date
Number in current operation
Number in current production
Number on order
Time required for delivery

1
1
1
1

4 months

COST, PRICE AND RENTAL RATES
Computer , with 4096 word memory, typewriter, punch
and photoelectric tape reader
$110,000
Service contracts available.

RELIABILITY, OPERATING EXPERIENCE
AND TIME AVAILABILITY
,
PDP-l is built of DECls standard line of reliable
digital building blocks.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS
The machine has an unusually high (>1) operations
per second to initial cost ration. It is, thus, well
suited to many real time control problems and is an
excellent machine for interpetive programming.
Greater than 100,000 operations per second, flexible input-output, and powerful order code for a
machine of this size.

FUTURE PLANS

A 36 bit version of this machine is being designed.
The new Model (PDP-3) will multiply in 20 microseconds including memory access.

PROGRAMMED DATA PROCllSBOR

RASTAC

MANUFACTURER
Laboratory for Electronics

Random Access Storage and Control

l'hoto by Photo International for Laboratory for
Electronics, Inc.

APPLICATIONS

PROGRAMMI NG AND NUMERTCAL SYSTEM

System is designed f'or mass information handling,
providing integrated random access computer storage.
RASTAC was developed to provide large scale digital
computers with a random high speed data retrieval
capability. Generally speaking, the storage media
of' most computers is not geared to the requirement
for frequent access to segments of' its f'ile - the
queueing problem tends to reduce the systems usage
to that of an electronic f'Ue clerk. RASTAC permits
considerably more access to information by the computer' of an updating station and at the same time,
.leaves the computer free to perform its prime data
:processing functions.

Internal number system
Digits per word
Digits per instruction
Instructions per word
Instructions decoded
Instruction type

Optional
Variable
12
Variable

Two
One address, specifying
beginning of' transfer point

Instruction word format
12 Character Instruction

~ I TRACK I ADDRESS I SECTOR I· NO
1M = Instruction marker
OF = read or write operation

OF SECTORS I OF 11M 1

There are three registers, viz the I/O Register,
the instruction register, and the track address
register. The RASTAC. System is designed to be opera..
ted with any large computer installation and there.,.
fore the choice of the number system or digits per
word is entirely up to the option or the machine
characteristics of the user. The only fixed word in
this system is the 12 character inst:ruction vord.

RASTAC

;66

This instruction word is coded in excess 3 decimal
notation.

ARITHMETIC UNIT
No arithmetic unit as such
Synchronous
Sequential

Timing
Operation

STORAGE
Access
No. of
Microsec
Digits
197,000 avo
1875 to 62
million
Up to 33 file drums can be included in the standard
system giving a maximum of approximately 62 million
characters. The access times given above include
drum switching. The file drum rotates at 3 rps and
recording ~s serial. Each file drum has a capacity
of 15 x 10 bits. The average random access time to
any part of the file remains constant, independent
of the total number of drums. Each file drum unit
contains its own reading and writing mechanism and
track selection devices.

Medium
lID File Drum

No. of
Words
Variable

INPUT

Media
Speed
Keyboard (Alphanumeric)
Manual
Paper Tape
330 char/sec
From any Computer
20 kc character
The system is designed to work as an input-output
device connected to a large computer; as such, its
information transfer rate is 20 kc character rate.

Medium
To any Computer

OUTPUT

Speed
20 kc

CIRCUtlELEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM
Quantity
Use
150
DC and pulse power drivers
8,000
Primarily for logic
100
Flip-flops and inverter
switches
Magnetic Cores
2,000
Logical amplifiers and
inverters
The system is composed of nine basic types of
highly reliable magnetic modular building blocks,
plus a small number of special plug-in counter
packages. All packages are readily accessible as
well as completely interchangeable within a given
type.
Type

Tubes
Diodes
Transistors

CHECKI NG FEATURES
Operational errors which may occur during a read or
write routine and parity errors of the paper tape
input are detected. Errors are classified internally as critical or non-critical depending on their
effect on information in the storage. Critical
errors stop reading or writing instantly. Non-criticalerrors allow reading to continue to the end of
the addressed information.

POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE PREPARATION
Power, computer
13.3 Kw
15.3 KVA
Volume, Central System
300 cu ft
Volume, File Drums (ea)
35 cu ft
Area, Central System
48 sq ft
Area, File Drums (ea)
9 sq ft
Room size
25 x 30 ft
Floor loading
200 Ibs/sq ft
200 Ibs concen max
Weight, computer
3,200 Ibs, total
Weight, File Drums
800 Ibs, each
Clean atmosphere is desirable but not essential,
inter-cabinet cables may be run in void beneath
floor or in conduits as may be dictated by the site.
3 phase, 110-12Ov AC power is required.

PRODUCTION RECORD
Time required for delivery from receipt of order
8 months

COST, PRICE AND RENTAL RATES
Central System Controller
$100,000 to $300,000
File Drums
$ 34, 000 to $ 38, 000
Maintenance and service contracts are available
and are customarily negotiated under separate contracts.

PERSONNEL REQU I REMENTS
Training is available to the users by the manufac
turer. Since the RASTAC System is normally incorporated into a large computer complex the problem
of deciding yhe typical personnel requirements are
integrated with those of the large computer installation with maintenance and engineering service on
a shared basis with the computer. The actual system
users themselves are of many and varied types and
need little instruction or operational abilities.

RELIABILITY, OPERATING EXPERIENCE,
AND TIME AVAILABILITY
A similar system, RASTAD has been in operation for
a period of approximately 8 months. During this
time, the reliability figures have shown a mean.
time-to-failure of approximately 200 hours. The
previously established reliability figures of the
component board types used in the RASTAC System in
conjunction with the circuitry technique, etc.,
have shown this to be a conservative figure.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS
High capacity bulk storage with low access -time,
make the RASTAC System suited for integrated operation with a computer.
The unique advantage of the RASTAC System is the
flexibility of the storage device. The storage
capacity can be raised from the basic 15 million bits
to 500 million bits with no change in random access
time.

FUTURE PLANS
New developments at Laboratory for Electronics, are
concentrated in two main fields with regard to the
RASTAC System, that of additional output devices and
of newer and better storage devices. In storage
development, a new flexible Bernoulli Disk is being
used to decrease the cost per list stored and the
access times.

RASTAC

RASTAD

MANUFACTU RER

Random Access Storage and Display

Laboratory for ElectroniCS, Inc.

APPLICATIONS

STORAGE

System is designed for mass information handJ.ing.
It can function as an integrated random access computer storage and display system and as an information storage and display unit for reference library
techniques, such as management sales reports, status
of operations, and inventory and production control.
RASTAD Was developed to provide large scale digital
computers with a rando~ high speed, data retrieval
capability. Generally speaking, the storage media
of most computers is not geared to the requirement
for frequent access to segments of its file .. the
queueing problem tends to reduce the systems usage
to that of an electronic file clerk. RASTAD permits
considerably more access to information by either
the computer or the output display devices and at
the same time, leaves the computer free to perform
its prime data processing functions. Additionally,
the output rate of the display devices provides data
availability rate far in excess of that prov:lded by
the usual output devices.

No. of
Medium
Words
lID File Drum Variable

No. of
Access
D:igits
Microsec
1875 to 62
197,000 av
million
Up to 33 file drums can be included in the standard system, giving a maximum of a~proximately 62
m1llion characters. The access times given above
include drum switching. The file drum rotates at
3 rps and recording is serial. Each file drum has
a capability of 15 x 106 bits. The average random
access time to any part of the file remains constant,
independent of the total number of drums. Each file
drum unit contains its own reading and writing
mechanism and track slection devices.

INPUT
Media
Speed
Keyboard (Alphanumeric)
Manual
Paper Tape
330 char/sec
From any computer
20 kc char
The system is designed to work as an input-output
device connected to a large computer; as such, its
information transfer rate is 20 kc character rate.

PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM
Internal number system
Optional
Digits per word
Variable
Digits per instruction
12
Instructions per word
Variable
Instructions decoded
Two
Instruction type
One address, specifying
beginning of transfer :point
Instruction word format

OUTPUT
Medium
Speed
Remarks
SM-II Viewer System 20 kc Direct View Storage Tube
Device with instruction
keyboard
The SM-II is a completely flexible output display
device. The information displ~ed is stored on the
face of the tube. This display may consist of a
page of information or may take the form of a map,
chart, graph or any abstract display desired. The
total display capacity for the 21" Viewer is 13,000
characters. Storage time for a display is up to
20 minutes. This retention capability permits the
superimposition of the pertinent data over an original display for a more complete evaluation at a
single viewing.
Data retrieval and display is accomplished by
preSSing keys on a keyboard similar to an office
calculator. The desired information is retrieved
and displayed in less than 2 seconds after the start
key is :pressed (this occurs where only one viewer
is used). Under more severe conditions where ten
viewers were requesting information at the same
moment, the waiting time for displaY-Of~ormation
on the lowest priority viewer would be less than 20
seconds.

12 Character Instruction

[IM
IM
OP

I TRACK I ADDRESS I SECTOR I NO OF SECTORS IOP IlMl

= instruction .marker
=

Read or write operation

The RASTAD System is designed to be operated with
any large computer "installation and. therefore the
choice of the number system or digits per word is
entirely up to the option or the machine characteristics of the user. The only fixed word in this
system is the 12 character instructio'n word. This
instruction word is coded in excess 3 decimal notation. There are three registers, the I/O register,
the instruction register, and the track address
register.

ARITHMETIC UNIT
No arithmetic unit as such
Timing
Synchronous
Operation
Sequential
Drums are asynchronous.

RASTAD

768

CIRCUIT ELEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM
Use
Tubes
DC and pulse power drivers
150
Diodes
8,000
Primarily for logic
Transistors
100
Flip-flops and inverter
switches
Magnetic Cores
2,000
Logical amplifiers and
inverters
The system is composed of nine basic types of
highly reliable magnetic modular building blocks,
plus a small number of special plug-in counter
packages. All packages are readily accessible as
well as completely interchangeable within a given
type.
Type

Quantity

CHECKING FEATURES
Operational errors which may occur during a read
or write routine and parity errors of the paper tape
input are detected. Errors are classified internally
as critical or non-critical depending on their effect
on information in the storage. Critical errors stop
reading or writing instantly. Non-critical errors
allow reading to continue to the end of the addressed
information.

POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT. AND SITE. PREPARATION
Power, computer
13.3 Kw
15.3 KVA
Volume, Central System
300 cu n
Volume, File Drums (ea)
35 cu n
Area, Central System
48 sq n
Area, File Drums (ea)
9 sq n
Room size
25 x 30 n
Floor loading
200 lbs/sq n
200 Ibs concen max
Weight, computer
3,200 Ibs, total
Weight, File Drums
800 Ibs, each
Clean atmosphere is desirable but not essential,
inter-cabinet cables may be run in void beneath
floor or in conduits as may be dictated by the site.
3 phase, llO-12Ov AC power is required.

PRODUCTION RECORD
Number produced to date
Number in current operation
Number in current production
Time required for delivery

1
1
1

8 months

COST, PRICE AND RENTAL RATES
Central system controller
File Drums
Viewers, displays

$100,000 to 1300,000
$ 34,000 to
38,000
$ 20,000 to
30,000

Additional equipnent
Viewers
$ 20,000 t.o $ 30,000
File Drums
$ 34,000 to $ 38,000
Maintenance and service contracts are available
and are customarily negotiated under separate contract. Rental is negotiable.

PERSONNEL REQU I REMENTS
Training is available to the users by the manufacturer.
Since the RASTAD System is normally incorporated
into a large computer complex the problem of deciding the typical personnel requirements are integrated with those of the large computer installation
with maintenance and engineering service on a shared
basis with the computer. The actual system users
themselves are of many and varied types and need
little instruction or operational abilities. The
display units simply require a request and location
of information and proceed from there automatically.

RELIABILITY, OPERATING EXPERIENCE,
AND TIME AVAILABILITY
The RASTAD System has been in operation for a period
of approximately 8 months. During this time, the
reliability figures have shown a mean-tiroe-to-failure of approximately 200 hours. The previously
established reliability figures of the component
board types used in the RASTAD System in conjunction
with the circuitry techniques, etc., have shown this
to be a conservative figure.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS
Outstanding features include high capacity bulk
storage with very low access time, coupled with the
ability to display large sections of information for
long periods with minimum access to the files. The
RASTAD System is suited for integrated operation with
a computer.
The unique advantages of the RASTAD System is the
extreme flexibility of the storage and display devices. The storage capacity can be raised from the
basic 15 million bits to 500 million bits with no
change in random access time. The display generation equipment allows an unlimited number of viewers to be driven from one symbol generator at speeds
an order of magnitude greater than the fastest
mechanical output devices. The characters displayed
can be either alphanumeric or abstract synbols and
can be changed in a matter of minutes.
The high output speeds of the display devices
coupled with the access times of the central storage
enable up to 100 output devices to be coupled with
the RASTAD System before queueing times become a
serious problem.

FUTURE PLANS
New developments at Laboratory for ElectroniCS, are
concentrated in two main fields with regard to the
RASTAD System, that of additional output devices
and of newer and better storage devices. With regard to the output of display devices, systems are
being developed to enable wall displays for the
briefing room applications of the integration of
access systems for microfilm archival storage and
systems for hard copy read out devices. In storage
development a new flexible Bernoulli Disk is being
used to decrease the cost per list stored and the
access times. The access times of these disks will
allow many hundred viewers to be coupled into one
system without overload. New low cost types of
viewers are being developed using stored video techniques for display recirculation.

RASTAD

RCA 110

MANUFACTU RER

RCA 110 Electronic Industrial Computer System

Radio Corporation of America
Industrial Computer Systems Department

CHECKI NG FEATURES

APPLICATIONS
The system is designed to perfor.m industrial control
functions, on-line in real-time. The RCA 110 was
designed not as a "package" but as a total system which can be tailored to the exact data control needs
of each user.

Computer free time is automatically assigned to
self checking routines.

POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT AND SITE PREPARATION
p

Power, computer
Size, computer

PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM
Binary or binary coded
dec:1mal
Binary digits/word
24
Arithmetic system
Fixed point
Instruction type
One address
'l'here is a limited two address feature. There are
71 wired-in instructions.
Registers include 7 indexable address modifier registers and 8 high speed input-output registers.

5.0 KVA
220 Volts
82 x 34 x 105 inches

Internal number system

ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS
The system automatically responds to off-limit or
emergency situations and handles them on a priority
basis with a complete analysis of priority after
each instruction. This eliminates the delay between the occurrence and the recognition of an
emergency condition. The system will correct the
most urgent situation first, but if more than one
trouble-spot should occur at the same time, it
automatically appraises the urgency of each and
handles it in turn.

ARITHMETIC UNIT

Incl Stor Access
Micro sec

Add
Mult

INSTALLATIONS

728
868

Div
Timing
Synchronous
Word time is 28.89 microseconds.
is 936 kilocycles/sec.

Radio Corporation of America
Industrial Computer Systems Department
Electronic Data Processing Division
21 Strathmore Road
Natick, Massachusetts

Clock frequency

STORAGE
Media
Bo. of Words
Access Microsec
Magnetic Core
256 to 4,096
Magnetic Drum.
4,096 to 51,200
8,300 avg.
Drum transfer rate is 200 kilocycles/sec. Up to
12 buffer tracks are available for inpu""-output.

I NPUT OUTPUT
Industrial control

RCA 110

770

RCA llO

RCA 200

MANUFACTURER
Radio Corporation of America
Missile Electronics and Controls Division

RCA Series 200 Guidance Computer

APPLICATIONS
InteriaJ. navigation and guidance digital. di.fferential.
anaJ.yzer.

PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM
Internal. number system
Binary
Binary digits/word
20
Arithmetic system
Twos compl.ement
Instruction type
Single instruction - integrate; coding specifies
integrator interconnections.
Number range
- 1 ;:S N < + 1
Instruction word format
MPm.P11me 0
- 8f. Address - Y Reglster
Mem. Plane 1
Mem. Plane 2
- tiXMdress - - R Register Mem. Plane 3
Programming capability consists of sel.ecting up to
l26Z's as components of ~, selecting a 6Z to be
used as tiX, and specifying lengths of Y and R registers.

ARITHMETIC UNIT
Time for processing one integrator is 850 microseconds.
Construction (Arithmetic unit only)
Transistors
1,500
Diodes
300
Magnetic cores
1,024
other components
2,100
Arithmetic mode
Serial.
Timing
Asynchronous
Operation
Arithmetic unit is seriaJ.,
operating on 2 bits at a time. Computer is a digital. differential. analyzer.

STORAGE
Medium
Coincident Current
Core Memory

No. of Words
16 integrators

No. of
Digits

20 bits/
integrators

INPUT OUTPUT
Input consists of error signal. in accelerometer
control loop; computer converts this signal. to digital. form in conjunction with a digital. velocity
meter. The computer is part of the accelerometer
control loop.
Core memory is loaded with a photoelectric reading
head, through which a 25" length paper tape is pullea.
by hand.

Output consists of increments of desired quantities,
which are used to drive stepping motors.

RCA 200

CI RCU tl ELEMENTS OFENTI RE SYSTEM
Type
Quantity
Diodes
300 Zener diodes
Zener diodes to be replaced by resistors in subsequent models.
Transistors
1,500
Types 2N404 and 2N357
Magnetic cores 1,024

CHECKING FEATURES
All checking is performed through programming. A
pluggable checkout panel is used to display all

important computer signals as an aid to programmed
checkout.

POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE. PREPARATION
0.02 Kw
Power, computer
0.06 cu ft
Volume, computer
Weight, computer
4.5 Ibs
Power, space and weight specifications are for
micromodular version.

RELIAB IlITY, OPERATING EXPERIENCE,
AND TIME AVAILABILITY
System has been operating for over 3 months and is
about to go on flight test.

FUTURE PLANS
System to be micromodularized in early 1961. Present
operating version contains "mini-modules", having
the two base dimensions the same as those of RCA's
micromodule, but with a height of 1 to 2 inches,
depending on the module.

RCA 300

MANUFACTU RER
Radio Corporation of America
Missile Electronics and Controls Division

RCA Series 300 Central Computer

OUTPUT

APPLICATIONS
Real time control, airborne and shipboard applications (guidance, navigation, fire control, etc.);
sensor signal data processing, air or shipboard
(trajectory analysis, target keeping, etc.); and
missile-space applications - guidance, on-board
checkout, data reduction, etc.

Media
Speed
Flexowriter
10 Char/sec
Analog/Digital Conversion
41,667 words/sec
Direct Digital
41,667 words/sec
Up to 32 channels of A-D conversion are available.
5 channels are operative in the prototype. The direct digital output is used for discrete control of
external devices.

PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM
Internal number system
Binary digits/word
Binary digitS/instruction
Instructions/word
Instructions decoded
Arithmetic system
Instruction type
Instruction word format

Sign

Binary
13
13

CIRCUtlELEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM
Quantity
Diodes
1,346
S4096
6465OC3
670
651CO
212
653C9
Transistors
2N357
1,692
2N404
3,708
Above counts are for a configuration consisting of
1,024 words transfluxor memory, 1,024 words core
memory, 18 analog input yords, and 18 analog output
words.
Type

33
Fixed point
One address

Command
B Box
Operand Address
All input and all output proceeds automatically
upon recognition of "Start Input/Output" instruction.
There is one B-Box of 8 bits. Modular nature of
parallel machine permits word length to suit problem.

CHECKI NG FEATURES

AR ITHMETI C UNIT
Incl Stor Access
Exclud Stor Access
Micro sec
Microsec
12
Add
24
86
Mult
96
Div
168
156
Construction (Arithmetic unit only)
Transistors
1,418
Diodes
518
Arithmetic mode
Parallel
Timing
Synchronous
Operation
Concurrent

Checking is accomplished by repeat programming.

POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE. PREPARATION
Power, computer
Volume, computer
Weight, computer

0.135 Kw
3.0 cu ft
100 lbs

PRODUCTION RECORD
Number produced to date
Number in current operation
Time required for delivery

STORAGE

1
1
12 months

RELIABILITY, OPERATING EXPERIENCE,
AND TIME AVAILABILITY

No. of
No. of
Access
Media
Words
Digits
Microsec
Transfluxors
8,192 max.
106,300
3
Cores
1,024 max.
13,330
4
Transfluxors are used in non-destructive read-out
mode for program storage; cores are used for data
storage.

Computer operating in laboratory for over twelve
months.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS
Outstanding feature is the transfluxor memory.

INPUT
Media
Speed
Tape Reader
20 char/sec
Voltage Analog-to-Digital Con
50,000 bits/sec
Direct Digital
41,667 words/sec
The tape reader loads programs only. There are
3 A-D converter channels in prototype. Up to 32
are available. Up to 32 words of direct digital
inputs (from shaft of A-n converters, etc.) can be
accepted.

INSTAllATIONS
Radio Corporation of America
Missile Electronics and Controls Division
Burlington, Massachusetts

773

RCA 300

RCA 301

Radio Corporation of America 301

MANUfACTU RER

Radio Corporation of America
Electron1~ Data Processing Division

Picture by Radio Corporation of America

APPLICATIONS

The computer is a general purpose, digital, stored
program, transistorized machine consisting of high
speed storage, program control, a control panel,
and a power supply.
The program control unit contains circuitry for the
interpretation and execution of the instructions.
The high-speed storage unit is a magnetic core,
decimally addressed, random-access device which provides the storage for data and programs. Memory
cycle time is 7 microseconds. The basic unit contains 10,000 or 20,000 alphanumeric characters. The
control panel contains the controls and indicators
necessary for the operation and maintenance of the
computer.

PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM
Internal number system
Binary coded decimal
Number of binary coded decimal
Variable
digits per word
Number of characters per
10 RCA 301 characters
instruction
Number of instructions per word
Variable
Number of instructions decoded
40
Arithmetic system
Fixed point
Programmed Floating point
Instruction type
Two-address
Number range
Limited by size of memory
Instruction word format
1

The power supply unit supplies power for operation
of the control panel, the high-speed storage, and
the program control, and standard voltages for the
control of the input-output equipment. Transistor
and diode logic techniques are employed throughout
the system.

RCA 301

Operation
Code

N Character

Automatic coding

A Address

B Address

RCA Narrator - COBOL (COmmon
Business Oriented Language)

A variety of general-purpose service programs are
provided. These include distribution-sorting,
trace, memory dump, on-line input-output service
routines, the RCA 301 Interpretar and the RCA 301
COBOL Narrator.

OUTPUT
Media
Punched Paper Tape
Punched Cards
Magnetic Tape
Record File
Hi-Speed Printer

ARITHMETIC UNIT
Microseconds
Add time (decimal), including
210
instruction acquisition
Programmed multiply time, average
7,800
Transfer instruction
126
Compare
56 to 161
Basic cycle time
7
Ari tbmetic mode
Serial
Timing
Synchronous
Operation
Concurrent
Above times assumes 6-character fields.
Multiply time assumes average multiplier digit is

Speed
100 char/sec
100 cards/min
See Magnetic Tape
2,500 Char/sec (transfer rate)
600 lines/min (120 Char/line)

CI RCU tT ELEMENTS OF ENTI RE SYSTEM
Types
Transistors
3656
3680
Diodes
85l0674-D3
Quantity depends on system.

CHECKING FEATURES
STORAGE
No. of
Char.
20,000

Media
Magnetic Core
Record File

Over 4.6 x 106 , each

Accuracy control is accomplished on the RCA 301
system by the following methods:

Access
Microsec
7

Processor, Models No. 303 and No. 304
Pro~ram Control
The following conditions will stop computer operations:
Incorrect parity in memory address register
Incorrect parity in memory register
Incorrect parity in operation register
Incorrect parity in N register
Incorrect parity in N R (repeat) register

4.25 x 106

The number of words of storage is variable due to
variable word length. The Record File is random
access. Up to 5 files ~ be used. Access to files
is simultaneous.
Magnetic Tape

Hi Data tape

Input/Output
Any of the following conditions will stop computer
operation:
Device not operable or not responding to
applicable computer command
Parity error in data received from input device
Non-verification of data sent to an output
device
Paper Tape Reader - Punch Control - Model No. 311
The computer is caused to stop whenever any of the
following conditions occur:
Failure to receive the write-verify pulse
Incorrect parity of information being read
Characters in a gap space
Reader not following command
Punch not following command

Type 580 Tape Station, with Tape Adaptor, records
222 char/inch at 100 inChes/sec. The type 581 Tape
Station, with Tape Adaptor, records at 333 char/inch
at 100 inChes/sec.
No. of units that can be connected
12 Units
No. of chars per linear inch of tape 250 Chars/in
Channels or tracks on the tape
1 Track/tape
Blank tape separating each
Inter-Block gaps =
approx. one inch
record
Tape speed
30 Inch/sec
Transfer rate
7,500 Chars/sec
Start time
Up to 20 Millisec
Stop time
Not exactly established
(overlaps computation)
Average time for experienced
45 Seconds
operator to change reel
Physical properties of tape
Width
1/2 Inches
Length of reel
1,200 Feet
Mylar
Composition

Card Reader Control - Model No. 314
The card is read at two stations and a hole
count check is made. An error will stop the computer, and the Card Reader.
Punch Card Control - Model No. 315
The cards are automatically read after punching.

INPUT
Media
Punched Paper Tape
Punched Cards
Magnetic Tape
Record File

Speed
100 Chars/sec
600 cards/min
See Magnetic Tape
2,500 Char/sec (transfer rate)

On-Line Printer Control - Model No. 316
Signals are returned to the printer control
module from the On-Line Printer, so that corrective
measures can be taken whenever any of the following
conditions occur:

TI5

RCA 301

Low paper supply
Ribbon failure
Printer motors off
Power supply off

POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE PREPARATION
Estimated Area (Average System)
Data Processing Equipment Area
Additional Area Consumed by Aisles,
Exits, structural columns and
unusable corners
Engineering Service

Record File Control - Model No. 317
Any of the following conditions will cause the
computer to stop:
Incorrect parity of address sent to Record File
Non-verified write information
Record file not following command
Incorrect parity of information being read

1,550 sq ft

Estimated Power

Monitors the write-veri~ check, the addressverify parity check, the operability, and the
response to commands of the Hi-Data Tape Group.

Data Processing Equipment
Engineering Service,Requirement

Paper Tape Reader-Punch - Model No. 321

Card Reader - Model No. 323
Each card is read twice to permit an accuracy
check.

Data Processing Equipment Requirement
Engineering Service Equipment
Requirement

On-Line Printer - Model No. 333
Signals are sent to the Computer so that correcti ve measures may be taken which cause the Printeroperation to stop whenever aQY of the following cond.i tions occur:

8.4
1.0
9.4

The above cooling is based on the requirement to

remove the heat dissipated by the equipment. This
equipment will give satisfactory operation in an
environment of 72 degrees F temp. and 5~ relative
humidity.

Low paper supply
Ribbon failure
Printer motor off
Printer in non-operable condition

Estimated Floor Loading

Card Punch - Model No. 334

The installed RCA equipment can be placed on a
floor which will support a loading of 100 lbs/sq ft.
Most office buildings have floors that meet this
loading requirement.
It must be understood that above estimates are
not to be considered complete or final in any re~
spect. Final specifications on power, cooling and
floor loading will be issued.

The cards are read after punching to permit an
accuracy check of the punched data.

361

Parity check is performed on the information to
be written and on the address received from the
Hecord File Control for the selection of records.
G~oup

25.9
3.5
29.4

Above power requirement should be 208V, 4-wire
system at a constant voltage to insure proper power
for the eqUipment, and does not include any power
requirements for the computer system and engineering
service area.
Tons
Estimated Cooling

The information received at the punch is checked;
and when parity is correct, a write verify pulse is
returned to the Paper Tape Reader-Punch Control.

Ri-Data Tape

425 sq ft
300 sq ft

Above estimate does not include any space for Analysis, Programming Personnel, Magnetic Tape Reel
Library, Operating Supplies, Air Distribution or
Power Equipment.

Hi-Data Tape Group Control - Models No. 318 and
No. 319

Record File - Model No.

825 sq ft

- Model No. 381

Site Preparation
The layout and installation are very flexible.
Site preparation is a customer responsibility normally accomplished by electrical, mechanical and
structural contractors employed by the customer in
arrangements that are not part of the EDP eqUipment
purchase lease or service.

Automatic stop of tape at end of reel
Write lockout
Wri te verify
Address verify
Operable indication
Record File Mode Control - Model No. 391
Parity checks of data and address are performed.

State and local laws and regulations require that
a professional engineer or architect take responsibility for preparation of the site and procurement
of necessary permits.

Simultaneous Mode Control - Model No. 392
Parity checks are performed on SOR and M registers. An error will stop the computer. However, the
other modes will complete their operation before they
BtOp.

PRODUCTION RECORD

580/581 Adaptor - Model No. 393
The write-verify pulse is received when the headwri te current is of correct parity. Operabl.li ty and
response to commands are also checked.

RCA 301

Prototype under construction
Time required for delivery from receipt of order
18 months

TI6

RCA 301 Card System

1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1

623
314
634
315
361
317
632
316
303

COST, PRICE AND RENTAL RATES
Basic
Monthl;y Rental
$
350
130
200
275
300
125
700
150
1,750

Sellins Price
$ 15,850
6,900
8,900
13,750
14,900
6,25 0
32,200
7,850
89,400

Card Reader
Card Reader Control
Card Punch
.
Card Punch Control
Record File
Record File Control
On-Line Printer
On-Line Printer Control
Basic Processor (10,000 char.)
Total

:I>

196,000

:I>

3,980

301 Basic Processor with 20,000
characters of core storage
321 Paper Tape Reader/Punch (100 char/sec)
311 Paper Tape Control
381 HiData Tape Group (6 tape stations
7,500 char/sec)
318 Hi Data Control
391 Record File Mode Control (Permits
simultaneous operation of up to five
Record Files)
329 Simultaneous Mode Control (Permits
simultaneous read-write and under some
conditions read-write-com~ute)
393 Tape Station Adaptor (Permits use of
22,222 or 33,333 char/sec tape stations)

:I>

112,900

:I>

2,350

RCA 301 System and Components
1
1
1
1
1
1
1

7,800
5,900
74,900

170
120
1,520

17,900
32,800

375
690

27,900

590

15,900

320

Equipment lease and service agreements available

PERSONNEL REQU I REMENTS
Typical Personnel Required per Shift
Three 8-Hour
One 8-Hour
Two 8-Hour
Shift
Shift
Shift
1
1
Supervisors
1
Analysts
*
*
*
Programmers
*
*
*
Coders
*
*
*
Clerks
0.5
0.5
0·5
Librarians
0.5
0.5
0·5
1
1
Operators
2
Engineers
0
0
0
0
Technicians
0
0
In-Output Oper 0.5
0.5
0.5
Tape Handlers
0.5-1.5
0.5-1.5
0·5-1.5
Totals 10
6
7
The number of persons working in an RCA 301 EDP
center is dependent upon the work and complexity
activity of the system.
*If it is desired to accelerate the system development and programming, this area should be augmented
until the initial peak is overcome.
Training made available by manufacturer to users:
RCA offers, without charge, courses in the application and use of the RCA 301 Transistorized EDP
System equipment. RCA will provide training of personnel or representatives of the users in the analysis
of data processing tasks to be assigned to the equipment, in the development of procedUIal systems and of
computer programs, and in the revision and correction
of the procedures and programs developed by trainees.

This training
mutually agreed
after selection
tion program is

of analysts will be performed at
upon locations beginning 15 days
of equipment. A continuous educaalso available to prospective users.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS
Features include:
a. Variable item. and record length
b. Building block concept
c. Large internal magnetic core storage for its
size
d. Random access file
e. Low installation cost
System advantages are:
In addition to the library, RCA provides the
customer with an Automatic Assembly System designed
to smplify and therefore expedite the writing of
programs.
The system is "machine oriented", i.e., its format is designed to accept instructions closely analogous to actual machine instructions.
English language progrananing (COBOL) will be
available to users of this equipment.

FUTURE PLANS
RCA continues electronic research in support of this
system.

I NSTAllATI ONS

u. S. Navy Administrative Office,

EXOS, AO, EAD,

EDPB, Washington 25, D. C.

RCA 301

RCA 501

MANUFACTURER
Radio Corporation of America
Electronic Data Processing Division

Radio Corporation of America 501

Photo by Radio Corporation of America

APPLICATIONS
Manufacturer
A general purpose, self checking, readily expandable system in the intermediate and large-scale
performance class. The system design uses the "building-block" philosophy which results in an expandable,
flexible integrated data processing operation, which
can be tailored to the customer's needs at the time
of delivery and expanded whenever future needs require it. The system may include both on-line and
off-line input and output devices in additlon to
the Computer with High-Speed Storage. On-line equipments are electrically connected to the Computer and
are controlled by the Computer Program. Off-line
equipments are not electrically connected to the
Computer and they are operated independently of the
latter. Both on-line and batch data-processing are
available in the System.
U.S. Naval Propellant Plant
The NPF system located in Bldg. 749 (JATO Test
Area), Naval Propellant Plant will be an ordinary
five-tape digital computer system which will be used
with an Automatic Data Acquisition System on-line
to monito~ firings of solid propellant rocket motors
and to calculate immediate quick-look parameters to
indicate to monitoring personnel corrective action
required. All applications of the computer will be
strictly scientific. It will be used to compute
theoretical specific impulse, experimental specific
impulse from ballistic firings, heat transfer, and
burning rate. The tapes to be used in on-line fir-

RCA 501

778

ings are non-gap type.
Scott Air Force Base
Located in Building 1604 at Scott AFB, Illinois,
the system is used for traffic control, personnel,
traffic analysis, manpower authorization accounting,
programmed communications, unit authorization list,
and circuit directory.
Air Reserve Records Center
Located at )800 York Street, Denver 5, Colorado,
the system is used for maintenance of personnel data
on USAF reservists, preparing statistical reports
reflecting the reserve military personnel strengths
and skills, controlling military reserve manpower
requirements and allocation of skills in the event
of mobilization, preparation and control of ques~
tionnaires sent to individual reservists and to the
Selective Service Boards, control of the Reserve
Officer Promotion Act promotion program, preparation
of mailing labels for periodicals, preparation of
rosters for personnel assignment control, and determination of those eligible for discharge and preparation of applicable discharge certificates.
Fidelity-Philadelphia Trust Company
Located at 135 S. Broad Street, Philadelphia, the
system is now processing 42,000 Special Checking
Accounts. On July 1, 1960 accounting for 30,000
Personal Loans will begin. Cut-over of 50,000 Regular Checking Accounts will begin late this year with
completion planned during the first half of 1961.
General Tire and Rubber Company
Located in Akron, Ohio, the system is used for

Photo by Fidelity-Philadelphia Trust Company
billing, inventory control, sales analysis, and
accounts receivable within the Tire Division.
State Farm Life Insurance Company
Located on the 9th Floor at 112 East Washington
Street, Bloomington, Ill., the system is used for
consolidated records of life insurance policyholders
for purposes of premium billing and accounting, policy reserve and dividend liability, policy termination benefits, policy loans, summary accounting ana.
statistics, agents' compensation and production statistiCS, budget setting and compliance reports, unit
costs, and actuarial studies.
Electronic Data Processing Division, RCA
Located at Camden, N.J., the computer is used for
Justification of engineering change notices, providing technical information for changes in the field,
customer reliability studies, testing of special
features resulting from configuration modifications,
develop long term maintenance techniques, procedures
and teChniques, analysis of methods costs, and debugging service routines, diagnostic routines, and
customer reliability routines.
RCA Electronic Systems Center
Located at the Cherry Hill Plant, RCA Electronic
Systems Center, Merchantville, N.J., the system is
used for customer program testing (preparatory to
customers receipt of leased or purchased system),
presentations (demonstration for potential customers),
training (RCA and customer personnel in programming

779

and operation), and revenue work (data processing
for customers not presently in the market for data
processing equipment of their own).
RCA Service Company-Electronic Data Processing
Sales Department
Located at 1725 "K" Street, N.W., Washington 6,
D.C., the system is used for sales demonstrations,
debugging, and computing and calculating operations
for governmental agencies, commercial and indu~trial
business organizations.
EDPD-New York Electronics System Center
Located at 45 Wall Street, New York, N.Y., the
system is used for a complete back office data processing system for brokerage firms, national el~c
tion predictions, and investment analysis for investment advisory firms.
RCA Astro Electronics Division
Located at Locust Corners, N.J., the system is
used for scientific and engineering investigations,
information retrieval, intelligence proceSSing
studies, and electronic production schedules.
RCA Service Company, EDP Administration
Located at Cherry Hill, Camden 8, N.J., the system
is used to conduct theoretical and practical courses
in the site utilization of electronic test equipment
for the maintenance of computer installations, devise special methods whereby sub-moduals are tested
in order for instructors and trainees to develop
new test methods for the computer and peripheral

RCA 501

Photo by New York Electronic Systems Center

Two RCA 501 Systems

Fixed point (Programming techniques make floating point features available
Instruction type
Two address
No limit (Depends on number of
Number range
characters in the memory)
Instruction word format

Arithmetic system

equipment, and conduct computer courses of instruction to develop trainees ability to interrogate the
logic of the equipment.
Ordnance Weapons Command
Located at the Headquarters, Ordnance Weapons
GOllllllalld, Rock Island, Ill., the system is used by the
National Inventory Control Point for supply management of Ordnance materiel, major weapon components
and spare parts, by the Production Equipment Agency
for inventory management of Army owned production
equipment, by the Rock Island Ordnance Depot for
stock accounting, by the Rock Island Arsenal for pro(iuction, planning, scheduling, and control and the
performance of reporting and comptroller activities
and by the NICP for ce,taloging.
Atlantic City Electric Company
The system, located at Accounting and Data ProceSSing Center, Egg Harbor Township, N.J., is used
for Customers Accounting - includes preparation of
bills and centralized receivable operation, Payrollincludes all normal payroll fUnctions and labor and
automotive cost distribution, and Stores Accountingincludes maintenance of master files of material and
supplies, pricing of material used, appl:lcation of
overheads and cost distribution of material and
supplies consumed. Other applications vlll follow.
Ordnance Ammunition Command
Located at the Ordnance Ammunition Command, Joliet,
Ill., the system is used for scientific and engineering applications pertinent to the reliability assurance program for ammunition and special weapons.
Raytheon Company - Missile Systems Division
Located at the Raytheon Company, Andover Plant,
Andover, Mass., the system is used for engineering
documentation, generation breakdown and parts list,
with changes, and for major item repair parts list
provisioning.

x
Op

Code

RCA 501

"A"
Address

XXX

"B"
Address

Char

Automatic coding
Registers
Decimal
ing input
memory in

Automatic Assembler
RCA Narrator (COBOL)
and B-boxes
Included
information is automatically decoded durto its octal equivalent. It is stored in
binary form.

ARITHMETIC UNIT
Manufacturer
Due to variable word length feature, time depends
on "n". Storage access is 15 microseconds for 4
characters.
All time is in microseconds.
Addition Time
Decimal

,On,

l5~ + 45n2 +
+ 90
Binary
45n
where
total number of spaces and/or minus characters
n
l
found to the right of both operands
n
number of digits in the shorter operand
2
n,
difference in number of digits of the operands

For negative sums, add ,O(n + 1) + 15 where n
number of digits in the sum.
n = number of characters in augend for binary
addition

PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM
Manufacturer
Internal number system
Binary digits/word
Characters/instruction
Instructions/word
Instructions decoded

XXX

MUltiplication ~ime (Microseconds)

Binary
Variable
8 ( Octal equivalent)
Variable
49

Decimal

~(80

15 [10 + (12nl + ,2) n2 ] + l5n"
~ > 0 and n > 0
2

for

Photo by Atlantic City Electric Company
15 (~ + n, + ,), for

15 (3n 1+ n 2+ 12) + 15n3 for

~=Oand~>O

15 (~ + n, + ,), for

where

and n2 = 0 (Item Separator Symbol alone or al.1 spaces plus I.S.S.)
where
~

2
n,

= number

of digits in multiplicand
= number of digits in multiplier

= total

number vf spaces (including sign) and/or
mdnuses to the right of the least significant
digits of the operands

Division Time (Microseconds)
Decimal 15 ( 26n1 - 7n2 +
for ~2:, ~

15n2(~-~)+41J

+15n ,

2
n,

15 (~ + 7) + 1 5n , for
3
~ = 0 (i.e., the dividend
missing)

n2=Oand~>0

15 (n, + ,), for

= number of digits in the dividend
::;:. number of digits in the divisor
= total

number of spaces (including sign) and/
or minuses to the right of the least significant digits of the operands

The figures below serve to indicate general relative
speed. For a specific case the formulas can be
applied (Microseconds).
to
Add
240
420
to
MUltiply
1,900
9,600
to
Divide
1,300
2,400

RCA 501

Photo by U.S. Army Ordnance Ammunition Command
Construction
Transistors
Diodes
Magnetic Cores
Magnetic Cores
No tubes are used
Arithmetic mode
Timing
Operation
Operands may be any
memory size.

135
400

4,096 (one matrix)
ll4,688 (one module)
Serial
Synchronous
Concurrent
length that does not e:x:ceed

STORAGE
Manufacturer
No. of'
No. of'
Words
Digits
Media
262,l44 (max)
Magnetic Core
Var~ab1e
Magnetic Tape
No. of units that can be connected 62
No. of chars/linear inch
333.33
Channels or tracks on the tape
16
Blank tape separating each record. 0.34Tape speed
Approx 100
Transfer rate
22,222 33,333 66,666
Start time
3.5

RCA 501

Access
Microsec
15 (4-char)
Units
CharS/inch
Tracks/tape
Inches
Inches/sec
Chars/sec
Mill1sec

Stop time
2.5 Millisec
Average time for experienced
operator to change reel
45 sec or less
Physical properties of tape
Width
3/4 Inches
Length of reel
2,400 Feet
Mylar Base
Composition
U.S. Naval Propellant Plant
Access
No. of Chars
Microsec
Medtwn
Magnetic Core
32,768 chars or
15 micro sec/
65,536 octal digits
char
The magnetic core memory can be expanded to
262,144 locations. A random access drum with 1.5
million characters is optional equipment. In certain
instructions, four characters may be brought out in
parallel with a total access time of 15 microseconds,
i.e. 15/4 microseconds per character. There is no
"word" concept in this computer. It is a variable
word length computer.
Scott Air Force Base
No. of
Access
Chars
Microsec
Medium.
Magnetic Core
16,384
15

Photo by Raytheon Manufacturing Company
Mitchel. Air Force Base
Medium
No. of Chars
Access Microsec
Magnetic Core
32,768
15
Expandable from 16,384 to 65,536 character locations in steps of 16,384 character locations.
Fidelity-Philadelphia Trust Company
Media
No. of Char
Access Microsec
Magnetic Core
16,384
15
Magnetic Tapes
9,000,000 per reel
30
General Tire and Rubber Company
Medium
No. of Char
Access Microsec
Magnetic Core
65,152
15
State Farm Life Insurance Company
Medium
No. of Char
Access Microsec
Magnetic Core
49,152
15
Electronic Data Processing Division, RCA
Medium
No. of Char Access Microsec
Magnetic Core
65,536
15
EDPD - New York Electronics System Center
Medium
No. of Char
Access Microsec
Core
65,536
15
RCA Astro Electronics Division
Media
Random Access File
High Speed Storage (Core Memory)

RCA Service Company, EDP Mministration
Medium
No. of Char
lohgnetic Core
Variable
Ordnance Weapons Command
Access Microsec
Media
No. of Char
Magnetic Tape
65,536
15
Magnetic tape for bulk storage.
Atlantic City Electric Company
Media
No. of Char
Access Microsec
Magnetic Core
16,384
15
lohgnetic Tape
9,400,000
30
Reading :from tape potential..ly simultaneous operation
Ordnance Ammunition Command
Medium
No. of Char
Access Microsec
Magnetic Core Type
32,768
15
Raytheon C~ - Missile Systems Division
Medium
No. of Char
Access Microsec
Magnetic Core Memory 32,968
15
Octal. numbering system makes this memory cdmparable to systems with much larger memory capacities.

RCA 501.

17boto by Air Reserve Records Center

INPUT
Manufacturer
Media
Speed
Paper Tape (Read)
Approx 1,000 char/sec
Magnetic Tape
22,222 33,333 66,666 char/sec
File Control
Approx 18,700 char/sec
On-Line Card Buffer
Up to 33,333 char/sec
U. S. Naval Propellant Plant
Paper Tape
1,000 char/sec
Magnetic Tape
33,333 char/sec
Speeds of 22 KC or 66KC are other options.
Magnetic tape start-stop time is 3.5 milliseconds.
Up to 62 magnetic tape stations can be connected online. Information is recorded twice on the magnetic
tape for accuracy control purposes.
Scott Air Force Base
Paper Tape
1,000 char/sec
Magnetic Tape
33,000 char/sec
Mitchel Air Force Base
Paper Tape (7 channel)
1,000 char/sec
On-line equipment
Magnetic Tape
33,000 char/sec
2300' usable tape per reel
Cards
400 cards/min
Off-line transcription
Punched paper tape density is 10 char/in.
Magnetic tape density is 333 1/3 Char/in.

RCA 501

Fidelity-Philadelphia Trust Company
Media
Speed
Punched Paper Tape
1,000 char/sec
Add Punches have been greatly improved by refinements made recently by the manufacturer (Friden).
General Tire and Rubber Company
Paper Tape
1,000 char/sec
Speed excludes time required to pass gaps.
State Farm Life Insurance Company
Magnetic Ta~ (8)
33,333 char/sec
Paper Tape tl)
1,000 char/s~c
Electronic Data Processing Division, RCA
Paper Tape
1,000 char/sec
Magnetic Tape
33 KC
RCA Electronic Systems Center
Paper Tape
1,000 char/sec
7 level code variable word length
MagneM.c Tape
33,333 char/sec
3/4" Mylar 7 level code w/parity parallel dual
recording.
RCA Service Company - E D P Sales Dept.
Magnetic Tape
7 channel Paper Ta~
EAM Cards (80 Col.)
EDPD - New York Electronics System Center
Paper Tape
1,000 char/sec
Magnetic Tape
33 KC

High Speed Magnetic Core Storage

RCA Astro Electronics Division
Media
Speed
Cards
Paper Tape
Magnetic Tape
RCA Service Company, EDP Administration
Magnetic Tape
7 channel Paper Tape
EAM Cards (80 Col.)
Ordnance Weapons Command
Magnetic Tape
33,333 char/sec
Completed variable item of record length
Paper Tape
1,000 char/sec
On-line
Punch Cards
400 cards/min
Off-line
Magnetic tape speed - 100 inChes/sec, packing at
333 1/3 chars/inch. Dual recording. Approximately
2400 ft per reel. Read reverse.
Atlantic City Electric Company
Punched Paper Tape
1,000 char/sec
Magnetic Tape
33,000 char/sec
7 level code (even parity) on 1 inch paper tape
Ordnance Ammunition Command
Paper Tape
1,000 char/sec
Magnetic Tape
33,000 char/sec
Raytheon Company - Missile Systems Division
Magnetic Tape
33,000 char/sec
3.5 mil sec start - stop time
Paper Tape Reader
1,000 Char/sec
On-line

Photo by Air Reserve Records Center

Card Reader
Off-line

400 cardS/min

OUTPUT
Manufacturer
Media
Speed
Magnetic Tape
Approx 16,667 22,222 33,333 66,666
Char/sec
File Control Unit
Approx 18,700 char/sec
On-line Printing Up to 900 lineS/min (120 chars)
Monitor Printing
Up to 10 char/sec
On-line Card Buffer
Up to 33,333 char/sec
Paper Tape (Punch)
Up to 100 char/sec
U. S. Naval Propellant Plant
Paper Tape
10 char/sec
Monitor Printer
10 char/sec
Magnetic Tape
33,000 Char/sec
Scott Air Force Base
High Speed Printer
600 lines/min
Magnetic Tape
33,000 char/sec
Card Punch
150 cardS/min
Mitchel Air Force Base
High Speed Printer
600 lines/min
Off-line equipment. 120 characters per line.
Computer Monitor Printer
10 char/sec
On-line electric typewriter
Magnetic Tape
33,000 Char/sec
Used with EMP off line or subsequent operation
Punched paper tape can be produced with simultaneous operation of Monitor Printer.

RCA 501

Random Access Drum Storage

Photo by Air Reserve Records Center

Fidelity-Pbiladelphia Trust Company
Media
Speed
High Speed Printer
600 lines!min
Down time has been negligible
General Tire and Rubber Company
High Speed Printer
600 lineS/min
On-line
Magnetic Tape
33.3 KC
lbnitor Printer
10 char/sec
State Farm Life Insurance Company
Magnetic Tape (8)
33,333 char/sec
On Line Printer
600 lineS/min
120 char/line
lbnitor Typewriter
10 char/sec
Paper Tape
10 char/sec
Electronic Data Processing Division, RCA
Card
150 cards/min
Magnetic Tape
33 KC
J.k>nitor Printer (Flexowri ter )
600 char/min
RCA Electronic Systems Center
Magnetic Tape
Electro-Mechanical Printer
Monitor Printer
RCA Service Company - EDP Sales Dept.
Magnetic Tape
Paper Tape - (7) channel
EAM Cards
Monitor Printer
High Speed Printer

EDPD - New York Electronics System Center
Media
Speed
Magnetic Tape
33 KC
Electro Mechanical Printer 600 lineS/min
On Line
Electro Mechanical Printer 600-900 lineS/min
Off Line
RCA Astro Electronics Division
Card
Magnetic Tape
On Line Printer
RCA Service Company, EDP Administration
Magnetic Ta~e
Paper Tape t 7) Channel
EAM Cards
MOnitor Printer (Flexowriter)
High Speed Printer
Ordnance Weapons Command
Magnetic Tape
33,333 Char/sec
Punch Cards
150 cards/min
Off-Line
Hard Copy
600 lineS/min
Off -Line
120 char/line
Tape speed is 16,667 char/sec if destined for the
Transcribing Card Punch.
Atlantic City Electric Company
Magnetic Tape
30 microsec/char
Printer (off line)
600 lines/min-Alpha Numeric
900 lines/min-Numeric only
Punched Paper Tape
100 char/sec

RCA 501

Magnetic Tape Storage
Ordnance Ammunition Command
Media
Speed
Monitor Printer
10 char/sec
On-Line Printer
600 lines/min
Magnetic Tape
33,000 char/sec
A printer line consists of 120 characters.
Raytheon Company - Missile Systems Division
On-line Printer
600 lines/min
Card Punch (Off-line)
150 cards/min
Magnetic Tape
33,000 char/sec
Monitor Printer
10 char/ sec
(Part of Console)

CI RCU tT ELEMENTS OF ENTI RE SYSTEM
Type

Transistors
2N583
2N269
2N585
2N270
2N579
2N301
2N586
2N581
2N247
2N301
2N277
2N469
Diodes
lN97
lN27°
lN91
Quantity depends on System.

CHECKI NG FEATURES
Accuracy Control is assured in the RCA 501 System
by the following methods:
Computer - MOdel No. 503
Program Control
The following Program Control conditions cause the
Computer to stop:
Incorrect parity in memory address register (3
characters)

Photo by Air Reserve Records Center
Incorrect parity in memory register (4 characters)
Arithmetic unit malfunction
Incorrect parity in output of bus adder
Incorrect parity in normal operation register
Incorrect transfer of operation from normal to
simultaneous mode
Time pulse generator malfunction
Malfunction of previous result indication
Illegal operand in decimal operation
Automatic Rerun
When selected, incorrect parity detected on reading from magnetic tape will automatically cause entrance to a routine which will back up the tape and
re-read it. The computer will stop if incorrect
parity is detected on re-reading.
Input-Output
The following input-output conditions cause the
computer to stop:
Tape station reading extra bits in the gap
Missing timing bit when reading a character from
the tape station
Tape station does not obey control signals
Odd number of characters from paper tape block
read
Incorrect parity from tape read (see automatic
re-run)
Incorrectly selected tape
Incorrect start message - end message sequence
Incorrect parity at the output of computer write
buffer or absence of Write-Verify signal from tape
station
Incorrect paper tape parity
On-line printer not operable
On-line Printer paper supply low
Tape Station - MOdel No. 581
Remote lockout
Local lockout
Inoperable indication
Automatic stopping of tape at end of reel
Write lockout
Write verify
Write-to-read switching time
Dual Recording

RCA 501

Punched Card Input
On-Line Printer - MOdel No. 533
The printer operation stops automatically under
the following conditions, and signals are sent to
the computer in order that corrective measures may
be taken:
Low paper supply
Printer Unit inoperative (MOtor switch is off
or ribbon is inoperative)
A visual indication is given of the number of
lines printed
Off-Line Printer - MOdel No. 535
Provisions are made for corrective measures to
be taken when the following conditions occur:
Failure to print in a selected column or printing in an un-selected column (Print Error)
Low paper supply
Line overflow
Incorrect parity
Tape station inoperative
Printer unit inoperative
A visible indication is given of the number of
lines printed or the number of messages printed depending on the plugboard connections.
Card Transcriber - MOdel No. 527
The following conditions initiate stopping of
the equipment:
Incorrect parity at the input or output of the

RCA 501

Photo by Air Reserve Records Center
Card Editor or at the output of the Card Reader
Incorrect SM, EM sequence
Tape station inoperable
Failure of write-verify check
Failure of comparison check
Failure of multi -punch check
Input hopper empty or output hopper full
E T W (End Tape Warning)
Card Reader - MOdel No. 528
The following conditions initiate stopping
equipment:
Incorrect parity at the output of the Card
Tape station inoperable
Failure of "Write Verify" check
Failure of comparison check
Input hopper empty or output hopper full
E T W (End Tape Warning)
~Tanscribing Card Punch - MOdel No. 537
The following conditions cause stopping of
equ.ipment:
Incorrect parity at the input or output of
Electronic Unit Storage
Incorrect SM - EM sequence
Incorrect punching check
Input hopper empty or output hopper full
Tape station inoperable

of the
Reader

the
the

Punched Card Output
Card Punch - MOdel No. 538
The following conditions cause the machine to
stop:
Incorrect punching
End file
End data
Feed failure
Output hopper full
Tape station inoperable
Tapewriter - MOdel ·No. 523
A parity check is included, which assures correct
parity of all characters punched into the paper tape.
Detection of incorrect parity by· the parity check
mechanism will lock the keyboard and the Check Indicator will be illuminated until the Code Delete Key
is depressed.
Simultaneous depression of two keys will neither
print nor punch either character.
TapeWriter-Verifier - MOdel No. 525
Same as above.
Computer Punch - Model No. 512-5 and No. 512-7
Computer Punch - MOdel No. 513-5 and No. 513-7
Information and control signals required to control the computer punch are derived from the computer.
The required electrical returns from the computer
'Punch to the computer are produced by the computer
punch. Parity is checked at the computer punch; if

Photo by Air Reserve Records Center
incorrect parity is detected, the computer will stop
and an indicator lamp on the computer console will
light.

POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE PREPARATION
Manufacturer
Power, system
5.6 Kw 230V 8.0 KVA 24,200 Btu/hr
Power, computer 1.5 Kw 115-12OV 2.1 KVA
(excl high speed stor)
Volume occupied
300 cu ft
64 sq ft
Area occupied
Room size
375 sq ft
Floor loading
13 Ibs/sq ft, distributed
78 Ibs/sq ft, concentrated
Weight, computer
5,000 Ibs, total
Site preparation
The layout and installation criteria are flexible
for the RCA 501 EDP System. Site preparation is a
customer responsibility normally accomplished by
electrical, mechanical and structural contractors
employed by the customer in arrangements that are
not part of the EDP equipment purchase lease or service. State and. local laws and regulations require
that a professional engineer or architect take responsibility for preparation of the site and procurement of necessary permits. RCA engineers are avail-

RCA 501

Photo by Air Reserve Records Center

On-line Printer
able to assist the customer in the installation
planning.

u. S. Naval Propellant Plant
Power, computer 13.6 Kw 15.6 KVA, including tape
stations and other peripheral equipment
Power, air conditioner 22 Kw 27.5 KVA
Volume, computer system
770 cu f't
Volume, air conditioner
1,000 cu f't
Area, computer system
98 sq f't
Area, air conditioner
100 sq f't
Room size, computer
27 f't x 27 f't
Room size, maintenance
17 f't x 13 f't
Room size, air conditioner
13 f't x 8 f't
Capacity, air conditioner
20 Tons
Air conditioner includes ADA system
Weight, system
10,000 1bs
Weight, air conditioner
2,000 1bs
Raised floor for cable runs, false ceilings, air
conditiOning through ducts in ceiling; existing bui1dModel
No. Description
50~

Computer
Tapewriter &
Table
581 Tape Station
561-2 High Speed
Storage
523

ing is earth-covered reinforced concrete; modifications required removing existing partitions, some
electrical and other utility services but essentially
no external modifications; power distribution new:
37.5 KVA single phase 2400/4160, 120/24Ov transformer.
Scott Air Force Base
Power, entire system
32.5 Kw 42.5 KVA
Volume, computer
11,664 cu ft
Volume, air conditioner
6,048 cu ft
Area, computer
1,296 sq f't
Area, air conditioner
504 sq f't
Room Size, computer
;6 ft x ;6 ft x 9 ft
Roam Size, air conditioner
28 ft x 18 ft x 12 ft
Capacity, air conditioner
40 Tons; 10 Tons required for computer system
Weight, computer
13,300 1bs, total computer and components
Installed false ceiling, raised floor, and power
requirements used existing room.

Mitchel Air Force Base
Equipment Recommended
Weight Concentrated Distributed OperaMax
Loading
Loading tiona! Kw KVA
Area
Facility Area Lbs.
Sq Ft
Sq Ft
Lbs/Sq Ft
Lbs/Sq Ft
78
13
7.1
10.1
64.0
375
5,000
22.0
8.4
3.7
0.2
0.25
185
50
6.2
23.6

25
110

20.4

125

145

900
1,500

127

Prop
BTU/Hr
KVA
208/120
8.0/2.1 24,200
685

1·3
4.3

3,750
2.9/1.4 10,240

6.1

5.6/.516,750

(The above items are located in the computer area)

535

Electro-Mechanical Printer

527

Card Transcriber 21.6
140
1,500
70
11
5.6
7.1
(The printer and card equipnent are located in 800 sq f't area adJacent to computer)

RCA 501

1,500

790

4.9

6.3/.8

19,800

Photo by Air Reserve Records Center

Assembly of Miniature Components

entire ceiling acts as a diffuser. This ceiling has
no insulation and no attenuation pan. The raised
floor serves as air return to air conditioner. The
air conditioning equipment was placed on raised concrete floor (5000 No., 2 1/211 min over ribbed steel
deck. )
Fidelity-Philadelphia Trust Company
Power, computer
26.6 Kw 34.:3 KVA o. rr pf
Power, air conditioner 42.53 Kw 49.48 KVA 0.862 pf
Volume, computer
13,016 cu ft
Volume, air conditioner
4,933 cu ft
Area, computer
1,627 sq ft
Area, air conditioner
592 sq ft
Floor loading
200 Ibs/sq ft
1,000 concen max
CapaCity, air conditioner
30 Tons
Weight, computer
2,000 Ibs
Weight, air conditioner
1l,600 Ibs
Weight, total
15,200 Ibs
Plenum chambers, perforated metal ceiling, Belair
flooring, storm windows, stainless steel framed
viewing window, special power lines.
General. Tire and Rubber Company
Volume, computing system
12,800 cu ft
Area, computing system
1,600 sq ft
Capacity, air conditioner
20 Tons
FaJ.se ceiling, raised floor, wall insulation, wiring installation of two 10-Ton air conditioning units,
partitioning, painting, etc.

The building type is brick construction, cement
floors nth asphalt tUe. The ceiling is acoustical
panel. suspended from wooden roof trusses. The basic
modifications made for the computer included a raised
all metal. floor with 1/811 vinyl covering (lobdular
4' x 2' floor panels), an inclosure of the entire
computer area with movable steel partitions (Type
IICC-AccoustiwalJ.'f by E. F. Hauserman Company), and
an addition of a separate air conditioner for the
computer area (27 linear diffusers each 48lr x 12" 195 cf'm with 411 throw.) (Unit is Carrier type 391n.1.
Electro static air cleaner is Minneapolis Honeywell
Model F22, No. 208 (Type C washing). Two condensing
units, each with 325,000 Fro/hi: at 105~ capacity
(Carrier type 5H40 compressors.).
Installation of electrical circuits of data processing eqUipment included a new main power distribution panel-board with main feeders No.4 350 MCM
type RH and No.1 1/0 ground wire, 3 1/2" conduit
to trans. vault. Mditional wiring circuits for
air conditioning equipment and office lighting were
also installed.
The original. ceilings in the computer area were
removed and installation of AMC metal pan (perforated) acoustic ceiling with metal attenuation pan
was made. The suspension system was "Kempll and the
material was glass fiber sound insulating pads with
minimum BRC of 0.85. The ceiling in the input-output area has the plenum above the whole area. The

791

RCA 501

Modular Assembly of Miniature Components

Photo by Air Reserve Records Center

State Farm Life Insurance Company
Power, computer
28.5 Kw
33.5 KVA
Area, computer
1,496 sq ft
Hoom size
Irregular
Weight, air conditioner
16,200 Ibs
Capacity, air conditioner
Two 5 Ton units
One 10 Ton unit
Conventional wall to "room off" area. 20 Tons of
supplementary air conditioning. Cables run between
floor and dropped ceiling (already there) of rooms
below. Necessary ducting was added for air conditioning.
Electronic Data Processing Division, RCA
Power, computer only
7.1 Kw 10.1 KVA, max
Area, computer
220 sq ft
Room size required
2,000 sq ft
Weight, computer and all peripheral
20,110 Ibs
Capacity, air conditioner
30 Tons
Air conditioning is chilled water system. False
flooring is used.
RCA Electronic Systems Center
Power, computer
7.1 Kw 10.1 KVA
0.7 pf
Power, air conditioner 100 Kw
50 KVA
Area, computer
64 sq ft
Area, air conditioner
360 sq ft
Room size, computer
375 sq ft
Room size, air conditioner
400 sq ft
Floor loading
13 Ibs/sq ft
78 Ibs concen max
Capacity, air conditioner
70 Tons
Weight, computer
5,000 Ibs
Weight, air conditioner
90 Ibs/sq ft
Site preparation requirements include false floor
raceways for cable, carpeting, building brick - fireproof, and false ceiling plenum chamber for forced
air system.

RCA 501

792

RCA Service Company - E D P Sales Dept.
85 KVA 0.77 pf
Power, computer
65 Kw
Set up for 2 system - only one now in use
Power, air conditioner
60 Kw
78 KVA
0.77 pf
Set up for 2 system - only one now in use
Volume, computer
2,430 cu ft
Volume, air conditioner
13,500 cu ft
Area, computer
441 sq ft
Area, air conditioner
1,350 sq ft
Room size, computer
38ft x 100ft
Room size, air conditioner
20 ft x 75ft
Floor loading
13 Ibs/sq ft
900 Ibs concen max
145 Ibs/sq ft max
CapaCity, air conditioner 60 Tons + 30 Tons standby
Weight, computer
43,500 Ibs
Weight, air conditioner
13,620 Ibs
Site preparation requirements include seven (7)
inch raised floor for cable distribution, acoustical
tile false ceiling and complete automatic CO fire
2
extinguishing system with central control panel indication.
RCA Astro Electronics Division
20 HP
Power, air conditioner
Volume, computer
15,000 cu ft
Volume, air conditioner
1,350 cu ft
(with plenum)
Area, computer
90 sq ft
Area, air conditioner
90 sq ft
Room size
1,000 sq ft
20 Tons
Capacity, air conditioner
Weight
20 Ton Worthington Unit
RCA Service Company, EDP Administration
Power, computer
7.1 Kw 10.1 KVA
Area, computer
64 sq ft
Room size
375 sq ft
Floor loading
13 Ibs/sq ft

Photo by Air Reserve Records Center

Automatically Printed Wiring
Floor loading
78 Ibs concen max
Weight, computer
5,000 Ibs
Site preparation requirements include raised floor,
increased air conditioning, ceiling to floor partitioning for classrooms, and acoustical tile false
ceiling. Air conditioning is an extension of the
building air conditioner.
Ordnance Weapons Command
Power, computer
31.9 Kw 40.25 KVA
230V ± 10~, 60 cycle
Power, air conditioner
60.5 Kw
Volume, computer
1,082 cu f't
Volume, air conditioner
5,600 cu f't
Area, computer
209 sq f't
Area, air conditioner
800 sq f't
Room Size, computer
3,652 sq f't
Room Size, air conditioner 1,600 sq f't
80 x 20 x 10 f't
Floor loading
113 Ibs/sq f't
200 Ibs concen max
Capacity, air conditioner
84 Tons
Weight, computer
23,500 Ibs
Weight, air conditioner
12,000 Ibs
Space can accommodate twice the complement now
installed. Figures are for full complement, including off line equipment.
Converted loft type warehouse, reinforced concrete
construction. False floor installed to permit all
cabling under the floor. Concrete block interior
walls except Tape Library which has semi-permanent
steel walls. False ceiling, metal, sound absorbing,
under concrete ceiling. Extension of bus ducts from
4th floor to 1st floor (± 65 f't). Equipnent itsel:f
re~ires 24 tons of air-conditioning. Balance is
for latent and ambient heat for a total of 24,000
sq f't area.

Atlantic City Electric Company
Power, computer
7.1 Kw
10.1 KVA
Volume, computer
320 cu f't
Area, computer
64 sq ft
Room size, computer
375 sq ft
Floor loading
13 Ibs/ sq f't
18 Ibs concen max
Weight, computer
5,000 Ibs
Air conditioner is part of general conditioning
system for entire building.
Computer installed in new buildings whose design included necessary structural considerations.
Ordnance Ammunition Command
Power, computer
74.1 Kw 90.5 KVA
Power, air conditioner 71.9 Kw
Volume, computer
8,160 cu ft
Volume, air conditioner
907 cu ft
(includ condensers, cooling tower & air filter)
Area, computer
280.20 sq ft
Area, air conditioner
120 sq ft
Room size, computer
1, 600 sq ft
Room size, air conditioner
343 sq ft
Floor loading
513.60 Ibs/sq ft
3,112.20 Ibs concen max
Capacity, air conditioner
50 Tons
Weight, computer
17,6001bs
Weight, air conditioner
12,162 Ibs
Required installation of pedestal type floor painted combustible walls with fire retardant paintmodified air conditioner ducts to channel return air
thru electro dust filter.

793

RCA 501

Photo by Air Reserve Records Center

Standardized MOdules
Raytheon Company - Missile Systems Division
Power, computer 30.25 Kw 38.9 !\VA (Complete System)
23 Kw
Power, air conditioner
Volume, computer
21,600 cu ft
Volume, air conditioner
12,480 cu ft
Area, computer
2,160 sq ft
Area, air conditioner
1,060 sq ft
Room size, computer
40 ft x 54 ft
Room size, air conditioner (47 ft 4 in) x (22 ft 4 in)
]'loor loading
100 lbs/sq ft
100,000 lbs concen max
Capacity, air conditioner
20 TOns
450 cfm per ton
Weight, computer
16,200 lbs
Weight, air conditioner
5,000 lbs
Exterior walls are filled concrete blocks, plastered and covered with "Kalistron".
Interior partition is floor to ceiling metal and
glass partitions.
Windows are existing metal frame windows removed
fmd space filled with glass blocks.
Ceilings are hung metal pan type with glass wool
insulation. Also included flush type fluorescent
lighting, supply and return air diffusers.
Floors are aluminum and tile raised floor as manufactured by "Lisky".
Protection of tape library is accomplished by an
automatic CO flooding system. Remainder of area
is protected~y a combustion sensitive "pyralarm"
which opens power circuit to computer equipment and
air conditioning system and signals alarm adjacent to
the room and in Main Guard House.
Power distribution is by main feed panel in computer room through cables under raised floor to each
piece of equipment.
The air conditioning equipment is housed in a room
built into a monitor centered over the me.in floor,
outside and to the north of the computer area. Exterior walls and flooring are made up of metal par'titions as manufactured by "Mahon". Interior flooring is made up of 211 x 6" matched boards. .All construction is for a four hour fire protection as re
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