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C13-641-101
Processors

Modular Computer Systems
Modcomp II and IV Communications Processors
A family of computer systems offering extensive communications handling capabilities.
Each system can support up to 256 fullduplex lines and interface with either CDC.
IBM. or other Modcomp computers. The
MAXNET system enables Modcomp networks to be operated in a distributed data
processing mode. The MAXCOM Communications Executive is the basis for front
ending and message switching. A full
complement of peripherals is offered. along
with a bulk core memory system. Memory+.
A Modcomp 11/45/CP2 with 32K bytes of
800 nanosecond core. 4-port memory interface. a 32-line Universal Communications
Controller with asynchronous Line Interfaces. a parallel link to another Modcomp
system. and a 12-megaword disk drive can
be purchased for $58.890; the monthly
maintenance charge is $651.

CHARACTERISTICS
The Modcomp IV minicomputer system shown above represents the
largest member of the Modcomp computer family.

VENDOR: Modular Computer Systems, 1650 West McNab
Road, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33309. Telephone (305) 9741380.

MANAGEMENT SUMMARY

DATE OF FIRST ANNOUNCEMENT: Modcomp II,
October 1971; Modcomp IV, June 1973.

Modular Computer Systems (Modcomp), founded in
1970, manufactures computer products based on "macromodular" design architecture, achieving the goal of most
computer manufacturers. The term modularity, as applied
to the Modcomp CPU's, means that all elements of the
processor-arithmetic logical unit, I/O control section, etc.,
are implemented in isolatable, asynchronous blocks, or
modules, which are largely independent of each other and
can be removed and replaced quite easily permit upgrading
without total redesign or extensive engineering changes.
Modcomp's major market areas are Manufacturing Industries, Power Industries, Process Control and Energy
Management. They enjoy strong representation in Communications applications such as Front Ends, Message
Switching and time sharing networks.
Modcomp offers a series of packaged computer systems
based on its Modcomp II and Modcomp IV computer
systems. This report discusses the communications processors of this series, which include ROM with specialized communications macro routines.
The modular hardware architecture allows for a variety of
asynchronous internal data transfer arrangements to I:>
JANUARY 1980

DATE OF FIRST DELIVERY: Modcomp II, December
1972; Modcomp IV, September 1974.
NliMBER INSTALLED TO DATE: 3000 (all models).
SERVICED BY: Modular Computer Systems.
CONFIGURATION
Modcomp otTers four basic communications processor configurations. Common to each system are a direct memory
interface, a communications ROM, and a control console.
The direct memory interface enables attachment ofa Universal Communications subsystem that will support up to 256
full-duplex communications lines. The communications
ROM provides storage for specialized communications
macro routines necessary for control of the lines.
The 1I/26jCP2 communications processor is based 0)1 the
Modcomp II, a 16-bit computer. Standard with this system
are 64K bytes of 1.06 microsecond, parity core memory.
The 11/233 Communications System contains a 1I/26/CP2
with all of the CPLI options to support the MAX COM
software system, a 4903 PCI, and a Universal Communications Subsystem.
The 1I/45jCP2 communications processor is basically the
1I/26/CP2 with a four-port memory access interface with 800
nanosecond cycle time. The main processor and the I/O bus
are each assigned a memory access port. The two remaining

C13-641-102
Processors

Modular Computer Systems
Modcomp II and IV Communications Processors

1:> maximize throughput. Communications lines and mass
storage devices can be attached so that internal data
transfer is via either processor interrupt or direct memory
access. For communications lines, a special direct memory
access (Direct Memory Interface) is available that does
not have to contend with other devices for memory access
or steal processor cycles. Alternatively, a low volume/
speed communications line can be attached to the Direct
Memory Processor along with other devices contending
for use of a common direct memory access port. A
memory interface option enables attachment of two out
of the four possible memory port accesses to favored
internal units such as the Direct Memory Processor.

ports can either be assigned to the main processor or to the
optional Direct Memory Processor (DMP). The DMP
enables up to eight peripheral devices to have direct memory
access.
The IV /35/CP-8 system is based on the Modcomp IV /35-8,
a 32-bit computer system that can process data internally in
mUltiples of 16 bits. Standard with this system are 128K bytes
of 1.06 microsecond, interleaved, parity core memory with
four-port memory access. Interlea\'ing of memory modules.
produces an effective memory access rate of 600 nanoseconds.
The Direct Memory Processor is standard with the IV /35/
CP-8 and enables up to 16 peripheral devices to have direct
memory access.
Peripheral Controller Interface

For a network of Modcomp systems, the company offers
MAXNET, a network control system. This software
permits each computer system to operate in a distributed
data processing mode. The applications programs without
effort, can freely employ the I/O resources resident anywhere in the network. In true distributed fashion, each
computer can trigger events and actions in other network
computers. Downline loading of programs is supported
along with remote initial program loading.

Each system has an I/O 8us with the capabilit~· of handling
eight electrical loads. Each electrical load will accommodate
attachment of either a 4903 or a 4905 Peripheral Controller
Interf:lce. Either Peripheral Controller Interface supports up
to four peripheral devices or communications controllers.
The 4905, additionally, includes a controller for attachment of
a console. Each system can, therefore, physically support up
to 32 communications or peripheral attachments, plus a
console. Optionally, a direct memory processor can be added
to the Modcomp II system to enable up to eight of the
attachments to transfer data via direct memory acces.~. This
feature is standard on the Modcomp IV system and enables
up to 16 attachments to enjoy direct memory access.

For a dedicated communications application, Modcomp
offers MAXCOM, a specialized system executive. This
software is designed to minimize system overhead and
memory, and is optimized for high throughput applications. It contains as standard, handlers for IBM 2780/
3780 and CDC UT-200 Emulators.

Asynchronous and synchronous interfaces are available for
direct attachment of communications lines to the Peripheral
Controller Interface. Data transfer for lines so attached is
under main processor (interrupt) control. Each interface
supports two full-duplex lines.

When the Direct Memory Interface option is used for
communications lines, 256 lines can be physically attached. This is practical from a throughput standpoint,
if each line accommodates line speeds up to 1800 bps.
However, if all the lines have to handle heavy traffic
operating in excess of 9600 bps for prolonged periods,
more than 48 lines may cause too great a load on the
system.
The Memory+ System is an I/O feature not common
to many other communications processors. Up to 16.8
megabytes of core inemory can be attached to one system
for use as a mass storage device. Memory+, offering a
cross between the advantages of extended memory and the
control of an I/O handler, was developed jointly by
Modcomp and Dataram.

A 128-line Asynchronous Multiplexer Controller can also be
attached to the Peripheral Controller Interface. Cp to four 32line Asynchronous Multiplexers can be attached. Each
multiplexer requires a Line Interface for every two full-duplex
lines attached to the multiplexer. Data transfer for lines
attached to the multiplexer is on an interrupt basis.
Communications lines can have direct memory access for
data transfer via attachment of a Universal Communications
Controller to a Peripheral Controller Interface. This device
is also attached to the Direct Memory Interface feature that
is standard in each of the communications processor systems.
It is this feature that enables up to 256 communications lines
attached to the t:niversal Communications Controller to
transfer data to and from the memory without main processor
intervention. Universal Communications Chassis are required to house the Line Interfaces that are attached to the
Universal Communications Controller. The Chassis come in
two versions, each accommodating interfaces for 32 lines.
One version has single port access, and the other has dual
port access. Tl1e latter version is used in redundant configurations to attach the communications lines to another system.
Each Line Interface supports two full-duplex lines.
Adapters for attachment to Control Data, 18M, and other
Modcomp processors are offered for attachment to the
Peripheral Controller Interface.

USER REACTION

In October 1979, Datapro interviewed three users of
Modcomp Communications Processors with a total offive
units in use. These users were selected at random from a
list provided by the vendor. All of the installations had
been operating for a period of two to five years, and in
all cases the Modcomp system was being used as a frontend processor. Four of the five units were front-ending
CDC hosts (6000, 6600, Cyber 76, and Cyber 170) and
the fifth was front-ending an IBM 360. The users' ratings
1:>
are as follows:

Peripherals
Most peripheral devices are offered with an integral controller
for attachment to the Peripheral Controller Interface. Peripheral devices include: printers with speeds up to 600 Ipm,
7 and 9-track magnetic tape drives, fixed head disk drives
with up to one-megaword capacity, movable head disk drives
with up to an 168-megabyte capacity, floppy disks with up to
300K words capacity, and bulk core storage units of up to 2
megabyte capacity. A 300-cpm or a 1000 cpm card reader and
a 100 cpm punch can be attached to the Peripheral Controller.

19 1980 DATAPRO RESEARCH CORPORATION, DELRAN, NJ 08075 USA

REPRODUCTION PROHIBITED

JANUARY 1980

C13-641-103

Modular Computer Systems
Modcomp II and IV Communications Processors

{

Excellent Good

1:>

Overall satisfaction
Throughput
Hardware reliability
Promptness of maintenance
Quality of maintenance
Technical ,upport

0
I
I

3
2
2

(J
(J

Fair
0
0
0
I
2
2

Poor Wi\*
0
0
0

3.0
3.3
3.3

1.7

2.3
2.3

*Weighted average on a scale of 4.0 for Excellent.

No major difficulties were prevalent among the three sites
polled. One user mentioned that he had problems with the
system's modems and terminals, but said that these
problems were "nothing out of the ordinary", and were
unrelated to the operation of the M odcomp processors.
The ratings show a high degree of satisfaction with
throughput and hardware reliability. We were unable to
get three ratings on ease of installation and vendor
software so these factors arc excluded from the above
table. Three is the minimum number of responses for
which Datapro will calculate a weighted average.D

CRT's can be attached to the system over communications
lines. The Hazeltine 1500 and 1510 are offered b~ Modcomp.

Memory
The Modcomp II systems have either 32K bytes of 800nanosecond core memory or 64K bytes of 1.06 microsecond
core memory as standard. The 800-nanosecond memory can
be expanded in increments of 8K or 16K bytes. The 1.06
microsecond memory can be expanded in increments of 64K
bytes. Maximum allowable memory on any of the Modcomp
II systems is 128K bytes. Standard memory on the Modcomp
IV is 128K bytes of 1.06 microsecond memory. Expansion
is in 128K byte increments up to 1024K bytes. The second
512K bytes requires a Memory Expansion Unit. The first
512K bytes and the second 512K bytes each have a four-port
interface. Two of the ports on each interface are available
for direct attachment to other computers.

CONNECTION TO HOST COMPUTER
Adapters for local attachment ofthe Modcomp communications systems to host computers are available for Control
Data, IBM, and other Modcomp computer systems. Modcomp will custom build adapters for other host computers.
The adapters are attached to the Peripheral Controller
Interface and, when direct memory access is required, to the
Direct Memory Processor.

(

The 4820 Parallel Computer Link is used to attach the
communications processor to another Modcomp system.
Parallel direct memory transfer of 200K bytes per second is
possible with systems spaced within 150 feet of each other.
A Serial Link is available between two Modcomp processors
with the 4824 feature. Serial transfer is over a pair of coaxial
cables with data rates varying according to cable length; a
rate of 250K bytes per second is possible up to 1000 feet,
62K bytes per second at up to 2500 feet, and 30K bytes per
second at up to 5000 feet. Optional with the Serial Link is
the capability for one computer to initialize (IPL) the other
computer.
The 1941 Modcomp/CDC Satellite Coupler supports
parallel transfer of data between the Modcomp processor
and a Control Data 6000 or 3000 series computer system.
Either byte transfer through program interrupt or word
JANUARY 1980

Processors

transfer through direct memory access is accommodated,
with the latter transferring data at speeds of up to 600K
bytes per second. An optional feature enables a Control
Data processor to remotely load the Modcomp processor.
The 1950 Modcomp/IBM 360, 370 Interface supports attachment to either an IBM selector channel or a block multiplexer channel. Direct memory transfer rates of up to
250K bytes per second are possible and are limited to the
burst mode when attachment is to the block multiplexer.
Up to 256 device addresses are supported. Optionally, the
IBM processor can initialize the Modcomp processor.

TRANSMISSION SPECIFICATIONS
Three dual channel interfaces are offered for direct attachment to one of the four slots of a Peripheral Controller
Interface. Each of the interfaces will support two fullduplex communications lines. The 4810 Asynchronous Interface will support two 20 milliampere current loops with
speeds between 75 and 9600 bps. The 4811 Asynchronous
Interface will support two lines with an RS-232C interface
at speeds between 75 and 9600 bps. The 4815 Synchronous
Interface will support two lines with an RS-232C interface
at speeds between 110 and 20K bps.
The attachment of the 1905 Asynchronous Multiplex Controller to a Peripheral Controller slot enables multiple 32-line
Multiplexers (1910) to be attached to the Multiplexer Controller for support of up to 128 lines. Line Interfaces for
the Multiplexer are offered to support either RS-232C or
20 rnA current loop interfaces. Each Line Interface accommodates two lines. The lines can operate at speeds between
75 and 9600 bps.
Data transfer between the lines and memory for all of the
above attachments is under processor interrupt control.
Direct memory transfers, to support a greater number of
communications lines and to operate lines at speeds in
excess of 9600 bps, is available with the Universal Communications subsystem. This device attaches to a slot of the
Peripheral Controller and to the Direct Memory Interface.
The Controller is offered in several versions to support
32, 64, 128, 192, and 256 lines.
The Line Interfaces necessary for the supported lines require
a 32-port Universal Communications Chassis for mounting.
One asynchronous interface supports RS-232C and another
supports either a 20 rnA or a 60 rnA current loop. Asynchronous line speeds can be between 75 and 19.2K bps.
Synchronous interfaces are available in either byte mode
for use with BSC like protocols or bit mode for use with
HDLC like protocols. Both types are available in three
models; (I) RS-232-C, (2) Bell 301/303, and (3) CCITT
V.35 interfaces.

SOFTWARE
The Modular Application Executive (MAX) operating system provides three levels of system support: MA X II,
MAX III, and MAX IV.
MAX II and MAX III are compatible operating systems for
the Modcomp II computers; MAX III is a superset of
MAX II. They share common executive services, peripheral
handlers, and software.

MAX /I is designed for batch processing with limited realtime requirements. It is a multiprogramming system that can
execute multiple core-resident tasks concurrently with one
batch job stream. MAX II is available in a core version and
a batch version. The core version includes a taskmaster
which allocates time slices to any number of core-resident
tasks. It supports up to 256 unique execution priority levels.
The batch version supports both moving-head and fixedhead discs and magnetic tape.

1980 DATAPRO RESEARCH CORPORATION, DELRAN, NJ 08075 USA
REPRODUCTION PROHIBITED

C13-641-104

Processors

Modular Computer Systems
Modcomp II and IV Communications Processors
~

The MAX II core version includes re-entrant floating-point
simulation and re-entrant FORTRAN IV run-time packages; re-entrant executive services for I/O operations; execution control, byte string syntax analysis, code conversions,
and utilities; and a device-independent I/O system. The
batch version adds nonresident background and batch processing services to the real-time services of the core version.

MAX III is a real-time multiprogramming system with
foreground/middleground/background capabilities. It is
task-oriented and can have any number of tasks active in
up to 256 priority levels.
MAX III exists in three versions: a core version, a batch
version, and an extended version. The core version executes
resident foreground tasks contained entirely within fixed
areas of memory. It also includes a clock-driven CPU
control executive, re-entrant executive services, queued I/O
services that can be performed concurrently with task execution or with the calling task suspended, an off-line system
generation program for configuring the resident elements
and tasks of the system, and services for allocation of core
not used by resident elements. Also included in the core
version are a real-time clock for maintaining the time-ofday, timing task delays, and updating system watchdog
timers; an option allowing the execution of more than one
task at each priority level, and a feature allowing important
or frequently used library subroutines to be declared resident
at system generation time. Re-entrant library subroutines,
memory tables, and variables may be made global. The
system generation package permits generation of large coreresident systems in smatl core configurations.
The batch version of MAX III is a foreground/background
system which .adds the capabilities of a full-service loader
for overlay programs catalogued on either sequential or
direct-access devices. An optional background task may be
added which uses a nonresident job control overlay to
control batch processing operations. This version does not
contain middleground or batch check pointing capabilities.
The extended version of MAX III provides a full foreground/
middleground/background system, which permits establishment of one or more core pools for foregroun(l and
middleground execution. Core is dynamically allocated to
each task on a priority basis. The extended version also
permits one or more background areas to support batch
proces.~ing. These areas can be stored on a disk when higherpriority nonresident foreground programs require the memory space. The system allows background and middleground
core area sizes to be changed by the operator, spooling
of low-speed printing devices, and multiple-user BASIC
which can be executed as either a foreground/middleground
task or as a background overlay. Active tasks can request
additional core blocks for use at run time. These blocks are
automatically deallocated.
Foreground, middleground, and background tasks may be
either privileged or unprivileged. The unprivileged mode is
the user mode, where the task has absolute control within its
own memory boundaries only. Round-robin task scheduling
is an optional feature, allowing all tasks of equal priority
to have their execution times shared on a cyclic basis.

MAX IV is a disk-oriented, real-time, commimicationsoriented multiprogramming system specifically designed for
medium-to-Iarge Modcomp IV systems. The operating systern utilizes the Modcomp IV hardware relocation capabilities, map protection, memory alloc.ation/deallocation
instructions, multiple register sets, and multiported memories to reduce system overhead. In addition to most of the
capabilities ·of MAX III, including a clock-driven CPU
executive, MAX IV offers 256 task priority levels with the
capability to execute multiple tasks at each level; re-entrant
executive services for execution control, byte .string syntax

analysis, and code conversion; dynamic allocation of system
resources; assigning privileged and unprivileged status to
tasks; and the option of core residency or disk residency
for tasks, if memory is to be conserved.
The basic executive services and functional capabilities of
MAX II and HI are included in MAX IV as a subset. Tasks
and overlays developed under MAX II or III will operate
normally under MAX IV provided·that the interface to the
operating system is via Modcomp macro calls, executive
services, or standard FORTRAN call subroutines.
The MAX IV operating system generally makes more
efficient use of disk-storage than MAX III, permitting such
additional functions as rollin/rollout of tasks between core
and disk as priorities dictate. MAX IV also has the same
re-entrant FORTRAN run-time package and output spooling capabilities as MAX III.
A file manager system is available as an extension to the
MAX IV operating system which can be used by any task
concurrently with MAX IV's basic I/O system. The file
manager organizes, maintains, and services multi-level files
in any size and number. Nesting of named data files and file
directories to any level while maintaining file security at
each level is permitted. Up to four levels of volume and file
access protection are provided using locks and keys. Both
volume and file disposition functions based on user expiration dates are available. Volume and file access are deviceindependent. The file manager provides both direct ·and
sequential access methods, as well as the ability for the user
to develop his own access method through the MAX IV
basic I/O system. File names may be of variable length,
controlled by the user. File space may be contiguous or
noncontiguous and is automatically allocated and deallocated.
The FORTRAN 1/0 Run-Time Package is written in a
re-entrant format, allowing a single copy to be shared by
all programs.
A comprehensive diagnostic capability provides assistance in
the form of error printouts indicating the types and number
of errors that exist in any line of coding.
The Modcomp BASIC interpreter supports an extended set
of the elementary capabilities defined by the Dartmouth
specification. A user can prepare and then CALL a set of
subroutines which perform special real-time functions useful
to him. The CALL statement enables BASIC to be used to
conduct interactive, on-line experiments. In applications
such as factory testing, test procedures for new devices to be
tested by the system can be developed and checked out in an
on-line interactive mode by the test engineer.

MAXCOM is a demand-driven operating system for dedicated communications applications. It does not support
background system processors. MAX COM can support up
to 256 tasks, each with a separate priority level. Drivers
are included for TTY, IBM Bisync, and CDC 200 UT
terminals as well as for CDC 6000 and IBM 360/370
host processors. The operating system provides queued I/O
services with the option of immediate return to interrupted
tasks, deferred return to interrupted tasks, or no return.
System generation is accomplished through the Modcomp
macro assembler or the CDC and IBM cross assembJers.
Generally, MAXCOM offers all the features of MAX II
plus the enhancements gained through the addition of the
communication macros to any Modcomp II CPU. The
minimum configuration needed to run MAXCOM is any
Modcomp I1/CP processor with 8K words of core. To
generate MAXCOM, however, a minimum of 16K words is
required.
~

JANUARY 1980

C13-641-105
Processors

Modular Computer Systems
Modcomp II and IV Communications Processors

(

MAXNET III is an operating system that permits linking
multiple Modcomp II or IV processors to form a distributed
network which operates an integrated system_ Each system
in the network has all the capabilities of the extended
version of MAX III plus the capabilities of the designated
host system to exercise control over all satellite systems.
In addition to handling the protocol, error checking and
retries, MAXNET provides the following capabilities:
• Downline program loading of satellite computers hy the
Modcomp host.
• Initial program loading, or initialization, of remote satellites by the host.
• Control of one computer's tasks by another computer
in the network.
• Selective use of local or remote peripherals by applications
programs.
The internal MAXNET protocol is Modcomp designed,
based on BSC protocol.
There are five specialized tasks to support network operations. These are the link task to interface the I/O system
and allow device-independent I/O transfers through the
network; a loader task for transferring other tasks from the
host system disk to a satellite system; a linking loader
that is specifically designed for network applications and
will receive binary inputs from the host system, perform
checksum validity checks, and request a predetermined
number of retries under error conditions; and a software
buffer management package which permits establishment of
buffers in other systems' global or common areas.
The configuration needed for a MAXNET III host system
is a Modcomp II or IV with I2SK bytes of memory and all
peripherals required by MAX III, extended version. Satellite
systems require 4SK bytes of memory as a minimum and
any Modcomp communications interface to the host system.

MAXNET IV is a superset of MAX IV with all of its
real-time mUltiprogramming capabilities and provision for
communicating with MAXNET III. The MAXNET IV
host system requires a Modcomp IV processor with 256K
bytes of memory and the peripherals required b) MAX IV.
A satellite MAXNET IV system requires I2SK bytes of
memory.
The CDC 2()0 User Terminal Emulator provides a means
for either a Modcomp II or IV to communicate with a
remote Control Data 6000 or 7000 Series computer. The
emulator operates under MAX II, III, or IV performing
its task concurrently with other real-time or background
tasks. The features of the CDC 200 lJser Terminal provided by the emulator include interleaved ]/0 transmissions,
switched or dedicated point-to-point operation at 2000 to
9600 bps, space and zero character compression, external
BCD transmission code, ANSI or IBM 26 punched card
input codes, and full double-buffering. Input may be from
cards, disk, or magnetic tape; output may be to printer,
disk, magnetic tape, or spooler.
The emulator requires a Modcomp processor with at least
7K words above the resident systems or tasks; one duplex
channel of a 4S15 Interface; an appropriate dial or dedicated
communications line and Bell 20lA, 20lB, 20S, or 209-type
modem; and access to a CDC 6000 or 7000 Series computer
operating under Export/Import, Cybernet, etc.
The IBM 2780/3780 Terminal Emulator enables a Modcomp II or IV to communicate with a remote IBM System/
JANUARY 1980

360 or 370 computer. The emulator operates under MAX II
or III as either a foreground or background ta~k. Provided
with the emulator are these features of the IBM 27S0/37S0;
multiple record transmission, horizontal format control,
EBCDIC transmission code, transparent text transmission,
37S0 space compression, extended ENQ or error retry,
, variable-length records, and switched or dedicated point-topoint operation at 2000 to 9600 bps. Input may be from
cards, disk, or magnetic tape; output may be to printer,
disk, magnetic tape, punched cards, or spooler. The emulator
may be non-resident and can perform its operations with
other batch or foreground tasks.
Minimum requirements for operation of the emulator include a Modcomp processor with 5 to SK words of memory
ahove the resident tasks or systems; other requirements
specified for the CDC 200 lJser Terminal Emulator above;
and access to an IBM 360 or 370 computer under OS/VS,
OS/HASP, DOS/VS, DOS/Power, etc.
The IBM HASP Workstation Terminal Emulator operates under MAX III or IV on either a Modcomp II or IV
with 8K to 10K words of memory above the resident tasks
or systems. Additional requirements include a duplex channel
of a 4S15 Interface; a dial or dedicated communications
line, a Bell 20lA, 20lB, 20S, or 209-type communications
modem; and access to an IBM 360 or 370 computer under
OS/VS, OS/HASP, or OS/ ASP.
The HASP emulator includes these features of the workstation: multi-leaved I/O transmission, EBCDIC transmission code, transparent or nontransparent transmission,
space and duplicate character transmission, switched or
dedicated point-to-point operation at 2000 to 9600 bps;
file insertion; input from punched cards. disk, or magnetic
tape; and output to punched cards, disk, magnetic tape or
printer. The emulator may be non-resident and can operate
with other batch or real-time tasks.
LANGlJAGES: For the Modcomp" or IV, a 4K assembler
or 16K macro assembler (6K resident requirement) are
available, as is a FORTRAN-coded cross assembler for use
on an IBM System/360 or 370 (DOS, 65KB) or a Control
Data 6000 Series system. Also available for the Modcomp
" or IV are ANS FORTRAN IV and an extended BASIC.
The Assembler operates in two-pass fashion and requires a
minimum batch processing area of 8K bytes, which can
handle up to 200 symbol names. With additional available
memory, the symbol table can be expanded at the rate of
one symbol for every three words of memory.
Featured in the Assembler are both absolute and relocatable
object format; free-field assembly format; a set of directives
for aiding in expressing constants, allocating storage, interprogram communications, and listed output formatting;
error diagnostics; an object listing including source and object
code; symbolic addressing; the ability to define new instructions implemented in the ROM controller; and the capability
to accept symbolic constants both as operands in an immediate instruction and in data statements.
The Macro Assembler is a free-format language processor
that contains all of the assembler capabilities, plus additional
features which include the generation of nested macros,
recursive macro calls, assembly-time branches and macro
exits.
The Macro Assembler is a two-pass processor that generates
relocatable and absolute object format and requires a minimum batch processing area of 24K bytes. This language
processor contains directives which allow the definition of
macro prototypes, conditional assembly, custom hardware
macros,symbol definition, plus local and global label pro- _
cessing. The user can define COMMON blocks for com- ~

1980 DATAPRO RESEARCH CORPORATION, DELRAN, NJ 08075 USA
REPRODUCTION PROHIBITED

C13-641-106
Processors

Modular Computer Systems
Modcomp II and IV Communications Processors
~

munication between FORTRAN and assembly-language
programs and subroutines.
The Modcomp FORTRAN IV compiler meets the specifications of the American National Standards Institute (X.39,
1966). Real-time extensions are provided which make FORTRAN a useful data acquisition and control language.
Modcomp FORTRAN IV is designed to produce efficient
code through subscript optimization, block-level optimization, and the utilization of all Modcomp II or Modcomp IV
machine capabilities, such as all general registers and the
full instruction set.
Direct-access I/O to disk files is provided through DEFINE
FI LE statements. A file manager provides the utility functions for the creation and deletion of disk files to be used
with the FORTRAN direct access I/O system. READ and
WRITE may be free-format.
The programmer using the Modcomp FORTRAN IV compiler can write source code incorporating in-line assemblylanguage coding, including macro directives. The user can
also call all the MAX executive services through in-line
assembly-language coding for maximum run-time efficiency.
A set of CALL subroutines which are compatible with ISA
Standard 61.1 has been added to the MAX IV System
Library. They provide real-time capabilities for execution
control of real-time ta.~ks, status testing, and interrupt
utilization. Array extensions provide the user with the freedom to use any arithmetic expression as an array subscript.
Arithmetic capabilities include 16-bit and 32-bit (Modcomp
IV) integers, plus 32-, 48-, and 64-bit (Modcomp IV)
floating-point operations. The Modcomp floating-point
hardware unit is fully supported by the compiler.
The FORTRAN I/O Run-Time Package is written in a
re-entrant format, allowing a single copy to be shared by
all programs.
A comprehensive diagnostic capability provides assistance in
the form of error printouts indicating the types and number
of errors that exist in any line of coding.
The Modcomp BASIC interpreter supports an extended set
of the elementary capabilities defined by the Dartmouth
specification. A user can prepare and then CALL a set of
subroutines which perform special real-time functions useful
to him. The CALL statement enables BASIC to be used to
conduct interactive, on-line experiements. In applications
such as factory testing, test procedures for new devices to be
tested by the system can be developed and checked out in an
on-line interactive mode by the test engineer.
UTILITIES: Modcomp provides a set of functions to
maintain source, object, and load modules on disk storage;
a file maintenance processor for files processed by the
file manager; a direct-access maintenance processor for
FORTRAN-defined direct access data files; and a sort/
merge routine with a standard control language.

PERIPHERALS
Three fixed-head disk models, the 4103-1, 4104-1, and 41061, respectively provide storage capacities of 262,144 words
(524,288 bytes), 524,288 words (1,048,576 bytes), and
1,048,576 words (2,097,152 bytes). Each disk drive has its
own controller and contains 64, 128, or 256 tracks, 32 sectors
per track, and 128 16-bit words per sector. Average rotational
delay is 8.7 milliseconds, and the data transfer rate is 512K
bytes (256K words) per second. The 4100 Series disk drives
are manufactured by Digital Development Corp.

Models 4126/4127 cartridge disk units provide removablecartridge storage for up to 1,299,200 16-bit words (2,598,
400 bytes), while Models 4128/4129 provide storage for up to
2,598,400 16-bit words (5,196,800 bytes). Model 4126 consists
of a controller for one to four drives and one 4127 drive. Model
4127 is the add-on drive for the 4126 subsystem. Model 4128
includes a controller for up to two drives; each drive includes
two disk cartridges (IBM 1315-type), one of which is removable. Model 4129 iI dual-cartridge add-on for Model
4128. Both units attach to the processor via the direct
memory processor (DMP) channel, and the controller interface requires two slots in the peripheral controller interface.
Write lockout is provided to insure track protection. Both
models store data with 100 words per sector, 32 sectors per
track, and 200 tracks plus 3 spares per surface. There are a
total of 406 tracks on the 4126/4127 and 812 tracks on the
4128/4129. Data transfer rate is 97,800 words per second,
and average access time is 90 milliseconds (including a 20millisecond average rotational delay). Head positioning time
is 15 milliseconds track-to-track and 135 milliseconds across
all tracks. The drives rotate at 1500 rpm. The 4120 Series
drives are manufactured by Diablo (Models 31 and 33).
The 4136 moving-head disk subsystem consists of a controller
and up to four disk drives, providing a total of up to 20
megawords (40 megabytes) of storage. The Model 4136 is the
master drive and is provided with the controller. The Model
4137 iI the add-on drive. The 4136 and 4137 each provide
5,013,504 words (10,027,008 bytes) offormatted storage. The
subsystem connects to the processor by means of a direct
memory processor channel and occupies two slots on the
peripheral controller interface. Data is stored at 2200 bpi
on the disk packs, which have 4 tracks per cylinder, 24 sectors
per track, and 128 words per sector. There are 408 cylinders
per pack. The drives have an average rotational delay of 12.5
milliseconds. Track-to-track, average, and across-all-tracks
head movement times are 10, 35, and 70 milliseconds,
respectively. Data transfer rate is 156.25K words (312.5K
bytes) per second. The drives are rack-mountable and require
8~ inches of vertical height. The 4136/4137 drives are manufactured by Wangco (Model T 2222).
There are eight models of the 4138 disk drives (IBM 3330type) offered: 4138-1 through 4138-8. The 4138-1 includes one
41,981,184-word (83,962,368-byte) disk drive and a controller
for up to four drives. Model 4138-2 iI the add-on disk drive.
Models 4138-3 and -4 includes a dual-port adapter which
permits two controllers to access one drive. Each disk drive
that is to be "dual-accessed" must have the dual-port adapter.
The 4138-3 includes one 4138-2 disk drive, dual-port adapter,
and two disk controllers. The 4138-4 includes one 4138-2 disk
drive and the dual-port adapter. The 4138-5 is the doubledensity version of the 4138-1 and includes one 83,962,368word (167,924,656-byte) disk drive and a controller for up to
four drives. The 4138-6, 4138-7, and 4138-8 are the doubledensity versions of the 4138-2, 4138-3, and 4138-4, respectively.
The 4138 disks have either 404 cylinders plus 7 spares, or,
in the double-clensity version, 808 cylinders plus 7 spares;
19 tracks per cylinder; and 5,376 words (10,752 bytes) per
track. Physical layout specifications for the 4138 include
128 words (256 bytes) per sector, 42 sectors per track, and
102,114 words (204,228 bytes) per cylinder. Also included
in the 4138 subsystems are features such as error checking
on an individual sector basis, overlapped seeks for two to
four drives, and buffering of a full track of data. Average
head positioning time is 28 milliseconds, and average rotational delay is 8.35 milliseconds.Track-to-track and acrossall-tracks head movement times are 10 milliseconds and 55
milliseconds, respectively. The 4138 controller occupies four
slots in the peripheral controller interface. The 4138 disk
drives are supplied by Ampex (Models 9100 and 9200).
Two floppy disk models are offered. Model 4521 includes a
sin21e floppy disk drive and a controller; Model 4522 includes

JANUARY 1980

C13-641-107

Processors

Modular Computer Systems
Modcomp II and IV Communications Processors
dual floppy disk drives and controller. The controller can
support up to two drives and connects to the direct memory
processor through one slot in the peripheral controller interface. The drive automatically unloads the heads 600 milliseconds after each transaction to minimize disk surface wear.
Storage capacity is 157,696 words (315,392 bytes) per drive,
with 128 words (256 bytes) per sector, 16 sectors per track,
and 77 tracks per drive. Average rotational delay is 83.3
milliseconds with a disk rotational speed of 360 rpm, and
average seek time over 28 tracks is 290 milliseconds. Trackto-track head positioning time and head settling time after
the last step are both 10 milliseconds. Head load time is 80
milliseconds. The 4521/4522 floppy disk drives have a data
transfer rate of 157,696 words (315,392 bytes) per second
and are manufactured by Shugart.
The 4190 Memory+ System is a bulk core memory system
designed to replace head-per-track swapping disks in highperformance systems. The bulk core subsystem operates as an
I/O device and can accommodate up to 4 million bytes in
16 256K-byte increments. Addressing is organized into tracks
and sectors, and Memory+ controller commands are the same
as those issued to a head-per-track controller. One significant
exception, however, is that Memory+ permits data transfers
of as little as one word.
There are 128 words (256 bytes) per sector, 32 sectors or
4096 words (8192 bytes) per track, 32 tracks or 131,072
words (262,144 bytes) per module, 8 or 1,048,576 words
(2,097,152 bytes) per file, 2 files or 2,097,152 words (4,194,304
bytes) per 4190, and up to four 4190's per CPU. Each
Memory bulk core module is a continuous 128K by 18-bit
array that is folded around the four surfaces of two printed
circuit boards. The two boards are hinged together for easy
access to any core area.
Each file can have its own dual-access interface, which
permits the addition of a second device controller, allowing
overlapped file access within a single-CPU system or shared
access from another CPU. A self-test capability is present
in each file, allowing either file in the Memory+ system
to be taken off-line for testing or repair.
The controller operation is comparable to that of Modcomp's peripheral fixed-head disk systems, but there are
significant performance differences. Access to a Memory+
device can occur within 1 microsecond following service
initiation, and data can be transferred at rates of 3 to 4
megabytes per second using currently available Modcomp IV
models. Should a main memory port be unavailable, data will
be transferred via the I/O bus at its normal rate. Data
buffering is not required since there are no overflow implications in the core memory modules.
The controller utilizes standard virtual-mode addressing for
management of data transfers between Modcomp IV main
memory and Memory+. Standard Modcomp II and IV main
memory protect features are also implemented.
With two controllers connected to a single file, dual access
to that group of up to eight core modules is time-shared.
When two controllers are connected to two files, however,
one controller may access one fde while the other controller
accesses the other file. Either controller can lock out the
other form accessing either file.

JANUARY 1980

The 4190 has a data transfer rate of 1.32 to 4.58 megabytes
per second, average. Up to four-way block address interleaving using more than one 256K-byte module yields a
transfer rate of 3.7 million bytes per second. Cycle time
for the bulk core memory is 1500 nanoseconds, with an
access time of 600 nanoseconds.

PRICING
Modcomp systems are available on a purchase-only basis,
with separately priced maintenance and software.
Delivery is made FOB Modcomp's plant. The warranty
period is 90 days after delivery. Modcomp provides onetime, no-charge, on-site installation at the purchaser's location within the contiguous United States. If a system is
purchased with software, an additional 5300 software service
charge is billed, which includes delivery of the operating
system (either Max II, III, or IV), support software (system
languages) in object or load module form, and one set of
software documentation. Additional copies of the software
are available at prices specified in the equipment price list.
Software is supplied only with systems that have at least
one disk drive or magnetic tape unit! disk drive combination.
Software is always provided on the least costly medium that
is compatible with the system configuration. Diagnostics
and utilities are provided at no charge.
Modcomp provides software training for users with a
basic knowledge of programming and maintenance training
for those with at least two years of related technical training.
Training courses are provided at the customer's site for a
minimum of 10 students on a prearranged basis. Charges
include 52000 for the fIrSt week and 51500 for week two
or three, plus 560 per diem portal to portal and one roundtrip economy air fare. Currently offered are 12 software
courses varying in length from two days to two weeks and
21 maintenance courses varying in length from one to three
weeks.
Full-service maintenance is provided under one of four
plans. VIP service guarantees a response time of eight
hours or less during prime time. Prime Time is defmed as
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday excluding Modcomp holidays. The VIP service also includes 12 preventive
maintenance calIs per year on a monthly schedule, unlimited
remedial maintenance calIs, six months to one year duration
of contract with a 30-day termination clause after the initial
six-month period, and no travel expenses if the customer is
within a 50-mile radius of the service center. The maintenance
rates quoted in the price tables are for VIP service.
Real-time service is a variation of VIP service offering
four-hour response time. This service is billed at 1.25
times the rate of VIP service.
IP service is another variation of VIP service that offers
the same features but without a guarantee as to response
time. Pricing is available on a special-quote basis.
Extended service offers coverages which can range from a
guaranteed two-hour response time up to and including
coverage 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Rates for this
service are on a special-quote basis. A customer may not
mix types of service within a single system configuration.

C13-641-108
'Processors

Modular Computer Systems
Modcomp II and IV Communications Processors
Configuration
Modcomp

Computer System
1

Console
Controller

1- -

-Console
- -

'" ~
-a~

1- - - - - -

- -

'C 0

£f

----------

1---------I
1

I
: Up to 4
I Communications
1 or peripheral
1 attachments
I
1

CPU
and
Memory

Up to 8 Peripheral
Controller Interfaces
1
r---I----------

r---------

'" ~
.s::: '" I
·c
I
'" ~ ,---------a..E
0.=

,,-- -------,

..,0 I
OU
~

Up to 32 Communications or peripheral
attachments plus console

One 1907 Universal Communications
Controller is attachable to one slot
of a peripheral controller and to the
Direct Memory Interface. The 1907
supports up to 256 full-duplex lines.

r-,----1

Up to 4
Communications
1 or peripherc.·1
1 attachments
1

Direct Memory Processor permits DMA
r for up to 16 peripheral attachments
on Modcomp IV system and up to 8
on Modcomp II system.

Purchase

Monthly
Maint,

Processors
Communications Processor, including Direct Memory Interface for
Universal Communications subsystem, communications macros
routines in ROM, and control consoleModcomp II CPU, 1.06-microsecond parity core memory;
64K bytes
Modcomp II CPU; 800-nanosecond parity core memory,
32K bytes, 4-port memory
Modcomp IV/35-B CPU; 1.06 microsecond parity core memory,
128K bytes, Direct Memory Processor, 4-port memory

11126/CP2
1I/45/CP2
IV/35/CP-3

21,650

25a

24,250

185

55.400

360

Memory
3608
3609

8K words of aOO-nanosecond core for 11/25, 45
16K words of aOO-nanosecond core for 11125, 45

4,330
6,700

30
33

3670

32K words of 1.06 microsecond core for 11/26

8,250

3646-8

Memory Expansion Unit for IV/35 for 512K bytes, includes
4-port interface
128K bytes 1.06 microsecond memory

9,aOO

17,950

2,580

2,060

1,550

3675

Peripheral Controller Interface
4905

Peripheral Controller Interface with 375X Controller for
console
Peripheral Controller Interface

4903

Direct Memory Processor
3704

8-channel DMP

(c;)

1980 DATAPRO RESEARCH CORPORATION, DELRAN, NJ 08075 USA
REPRODUCTION PROHIBITED

JANUARY 1980

-----------

.--------

C13-641-109
Processors

Modular Computer Systems
Modcomp II and IV Communications Processors

(

Monthly
Maint,

1,240
2,580
515
515

50
13
5
5

Communications
1905
1910
1912
1914

Asynchronous Multiplex Controller; 128 lines
Asynchronous Multiplexer; 32 lines, 75-9600 bps
Asynchronous Line Interface; 2-lines, RS-232C
Asynchronous Line Interface; 2-lines, 20 ma current loop

1907A-2

Universal Communications Controller-

1907A-3
1907A-4
1907A-5

32-lines
64-lines
128-lines
192-lines

1907A-6

256-lines

1931
1932
1933

Universal Communications Chassis for 1907
1 Port (32 lines)
2 Port (32 lines)
Line Interfaces-all 2 lines
Asynchronous; RS-232-C 75-19.2K BPS
Asynchronous; 20/60ma Isolated 75-19.2K BPS
Asynchronous; 20/60ma Bat. supplied 75-19.2K BPS

1934-1
1934-2
1934-3
1939-1
1939-2
1939-3

Byte-Sync.; RS-232-C 2K-9.6K BPS
Byte Sync.; Bell 301/300 19.2-230AK BPS
Byte Sync.; CCITI V.35 40.8K BPS
Bit Sync., RS-232-C 2K-9.6K BPS
Bit Sync.; Bell 301/303 19.2-230.4K BPS
Bit Sync., CCITI V.35 40.8K BPS

1930-IX

481O-XY
4811-XY
4815
4819

(

Purchase

Directly attached Line InterfacesAsynchronous Interface; 2-lines, 20 ma current loop,
75-9600 bps
Asynchronous Interface; 2-lines, RS-232C, 75-9600 bps
Synchronous Interface; 2-lines, RS-232C, 11 0-20K bps
ACU Controller

3,710
5,150
8,240
Home Office
Quote
Home Office
Quote

3,610
4,440

50
50
50
50
50

30
30

515
515
515
570
670
600
825
905
850

1,450

1,450
1,450
2,900

10
10
13

880
880

2
4

Console
3752-X
3753-X

Console Controller, RS-232C, for 4903 only
Console Controller, Async Printer, for 4903 only

Adapters
1940
1941
1941-1

CDC 3000 Channel Adapter
MC/CDC 3000, 6000 Satellite Coupler
1941 with remote initialization

6,000
8,000
9,000

80
80

1950
1950-1
1950-2
1950-3
5950
4820
4824

MC/IBM 360, 370 Interface
1950 with remote initialization
1950 with power control
1950 with remote initialization and power control
IBM Emulator Channel
MC/MC Parallel Computer Link
MC/MC Serial Computer Link

8,000
9,000
8,800
9,800
7,000
4,120
2,060

70
75
90
90
70
40
40

Disk Storage

(JANUARY 1980

4103-1
4104-1
4106-1

Fixed-Head Disk and Controller256K words
512K words
1 Megaword

18,600
20,600
41,200

105
133
170

4126-1
4127
4128-1
4129
4136
4137
4138-1-E3
4138-2-E3

Movable Head Disk and Controller1.3 megawords
Additional 1.3 megaword drive for 4126-1
2.6 megawords
Additional 2.6 megaword drive for 4128-1
10 megabytes
Additional 10 megabyte drive for 4132
84 megabytes
Additional 84 megabytes drive for 4138-1-E3

9,800
7,225
12,900
9,500
14,450
9,275
33,000
25,750

85
40
125
80
140
90
230
200

4521
4522

Controller and Floppy Disk drive150K words
300K words

4,.Q20
6,180

40
60

C13-641-110
Processors

Modular Computer Systems
Modcomp II and IV Communications Processors

Purchase

Monthly
Maint.

Memoryt Bulk Core Storage

4190

256K-byte Device File and Controller; up to 2 megabyte
capacity
256K-byte Device File; does not include controller; up to 4
megabyte capacity
Memory+ Controller, with dual access
256K-Byte Memory Module for 4190 or 4191

4191
4193
4192

20,600

227

15,450

115

5,150
10,300

30
50

17,000
9,500
14,450
16,000
16,500

125
91
75
99
140

10,550
10,300
13,700
22,150

99
165
135
210

5,310
8,100

50
70

2,010
2,840

25
25

Printers with Controllers
4211-2
4213
4214-2
4216-1
4217-1

6oo-lpm Printer
50-150-lpm Printer
3OO-lpm Printer
loo0-lpm Printer
Printer IPlotter

Magnetic Tape Units with Controllers
4148-1
4156
4164-1
4168-1

9
9
9
9

track,
track,
track,
track,

800 bpi
1600 bpi
75 ips, 800 bpi
1600 bpi, 75 ips

Card Units with Controller
4411-2
4412-2

3OO-cpm Reader
l000-cpm Reader

CRTs
Basic CRT (requires 4811,1912, or 1931)
CRT; Hazeltine 1500 (requires 4811, 1912, or 1931)

4611
4612

Purchase
Price
SOFTWARE
Modcomp II/IV Diagnostics/Utilities
MAX II, Core-resident version
MAX II/III Operating System/Support
MAX
MAX
MAX
MAX

IV
IV
IV
IV

Operating System/Support
Listings
Support Software
Support Listings

MAX COM Software
MAXCOM Listings
VERSAPLOT Software
VERSAPLOT Listings
X-Y Plotter Software
X-V Plotter Listings
IBM 2780/3780 Emulator Software
IBM 2780 Emulator Listings
CDC 200 Emulator Software
CDC 200 Emulator Listings
MAXNET
MAXNET
MAXNET
MAXNET

III Software
III Listings
IV Software
IV Listings

Sort/Merge
Sort/Merge Listings

20-1.250
600
800-2,300
1,100-1,600
4,000
700-1,200
2,000
500-1,000
1,200
1,500-2,000'
1,500
250-750'
100
250-750'
100
250-750'
100
1,000-1,500
1,200
1,100-1,600
1,200
250-750'
100

'Price depends on recording medium .•
(/
I

JANUARY 1980

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