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197904

IT'S THE FLEXURE THAT GIVES THE MUSCLE TO THE UNMATCHED RELIABILITY OF
TALLY LINE PRINTERS.

Flexure technology-special steel couplings that support and move the print carriage. The print hammer fingers of the patented Tally print comb are also flexures .
Designed for unlimited life, a flexure has no wear points nor lubrication requirements. Adjustments are never necessary.

TALLY®
PRINTERS
W"ORLDW"IDE

OEM SALES OFFICES Boston (617) 272-8070 New York (516) 694-8444 Chicago (312) 885-3678 Los Angeles (213) 378-0805 Miami (305) 665-5751 Philadelphia (215) 628-9998 San Jose ( 408) 247-0897 Seattle (206) 251-6730

San Antonio (512) 733-8153 Washington, D.C. (703) 471-1145
BUSINESS SYSTEMS SALFS Orinda, CA ( 415) 254-8350

Thus the stage is set for a highly reliable printing technique based on low stress parts moving at low speed over short·distances. For example, print hammer movement-there's a hammer for each character position-is limited to the distance of a single character. Tally has eliminated clutches, belts, timing variabl es, cam shafts, pivots and sliding wear surfaces. There are no preventive maintenance requirements. No duty cycle limitations.
And this is only the beginning of the benefits you get from the Tally T-2000 printer. 125 or 200 lines per minute. Superb print quality. Quiet operation. Low cost of ownership. Contact your nearest Tally sales representative for more facts.
Tally Corporation, 8301 S. l 80th St., Kent, WA 98031. Phone (206) 251-5500.
CIRCLE 3 ON INQU IRY CARD

VOLUME 18, NUMBER 4

COMPUTER DESIGN
THE MAGAZINE OF DIGITAL ELECTRONICS
APRIL 1979

DEPARTMENTS

6 CALENDAR
10 COMMUNICATION CHANNEL
Closing the series on data communications testing, column discusses analog carrier channel parameters and how they are reshaped for efficient data transmission

22 DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY REVIEW
Advances in component technology have been marked by increased density and concurrent reductions in power requirements. The relationship between these two parameters aids in making design tradeoffs

48 DIGITAL CONTROL AND AUTOMATION SYSTEMS
Microcomputer control system provides slide drive positioning accuracy of 1 !Lin

120 TECH BRIEF

128

MICRO DATA STACK/COMPUTERS, ELEMENTS, AND SYSTEMS
Exposition on hardware and software interfacing of LED displays covers latching for 7-segment displays and multiplexing for multidigit displays

168

AROUND THE IC LOOP
A quarter-megabit magnetic bubble memory system employs block replication architecture with onchip loop redundancy map and address synchronization pattern

194

PRODUCT FEATURE
Minicomputer tape subsystem provides tridensity recording, three speeds, and other "big system " features

221 LITERATURE

224 GUIDE TO PRODUCT INFORMATION

228 ADVERTISERS' INDEX
Reader Service Cards pages 231-234

WBPA CIRCULATION: 67,155 (JUNE 1978)
Copyright 1979, Computer Design Publishing Corp. (USPS 127-340)

FEATURES
PROCESSOR ARCHITECTURE ANTICIPATES FUTURE PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS 71 by Richard E. Birney Evolved through an iterative development process, architecture of Series/1 processors exploits technological advances to meet present and anticipated system applications
DESIGNING A MICROPROCESSOR DRIVEN MULTIPURPOSE PERIPHERAL CONTROLLER 83 by Richard F. Binder A microprocessor based approach to a multiported controller design permits flexible handling of simultaneously active devices of the same or differing types
LOGICAL ENVIRONMENT COMPARISON TESTING HANDLES COMPLEX LSI DEVICES 95 by Abraham Bluestone Evaluation criteria for LSI device testing systems are provided and principal test techniques are listed and described. An economical test system, based on an updated version of comparison testing, meets these criteria
NUMBER SORTING ALGO'RITHM SAVES PROCESSING TIME 104 by Martin Newman Random number entries are rapidly arranged into desired sequential tabulation for easy data analysis by means of optimized software program
CONFERENCES
SOCIETY FOR INFORMATION DISPLAY INTERNATIONAL SYMPOSIUM 62 Accenting global progress in information display, SID 79 technical sessions will reveal developments including diode laser optical disc recording, and liquid crystal oscilloscope and matrix displays

... '·

Transaction processing typically involves a variety of documents , a station where the transaction takes place and a data base at some remote location . The Okidata CP210 Document/Passbook Printer sells transaction systems, combining unique forms handling flexibility with capabilities for data retrieval, data validation, documentation and verification.
The CP210 will print forms of varying size, thickness and format, one right after the other, without requiring operator adjustment. Car rental forms, contracts, even passbooks are dropped in and automatically positioned for each line of print. And, the entire transaction is recorded and verified on an integral journal printer.
The CP210 packs a 96 column, 110 cps bidirectional print mechanism, controls for two operators, self test circuitry that doesn't require a central computer and an RS232 interface with switch selectable speeds from 150 to 9600 bps-all in a unit smaller than an office typewriter.
The CP210 Document/Passbook Printer-field proven in thousands of installations worldwide.
Ol(IDATA
Okidata Corporation 111 Gaither Drive Mount Laurel, New Jersey 08054 Telephone: 609-235-2600

CIRCLE 4 ON IN9UIRY CARD

I I STAFF
Publisher and Editorial Director Robert Brotherston
Associate Publisher Anthony Saltalamacchla
Editor John A. Camuso
Managing Editor Sydney F. Shapiro
Technical Editor George V. Kotelly
West Coast l;:ditor Michael Chester Arcadia, Calif. (213) 574.7447
Associate Editors Peggy Kiiimon
James W. Hughes
Assistant Editor Joanne O'Donnell
Editorial Assistant Winifred L. Helfrich
Editorial Advisory B8ard Brian W. Pollard Ralph J. Preiss Rex Rice
Contributing Editors
RAH.ic.sh.asr.BduMAchhlimtlloeanrns
Harold H. Seward
Production Manager Judy Lober
Advertisinl<( Production Linda M. Wright
Art Di rector James Flora
Technicat Illustrator Charles Manchester
Circulation Manager Alma Brotherston
Marketing Manager Geoffrey Knight, Jr.
Marketing Prrduction Megan Kern
Research Associate Sidney Davis
c. Business Manager
David Ciommo
Vice President-Sales Lindsay H. Caldwell
Editorial & Executive Offices 11 Goldsmith St
Littleton, MA 01460 Tel. (617) 486-8944
(617) 646-7872
Edltorlal manuscripts should be ad· a~eued to Editor. Computer Design, '1 Goldamlth St.. Littleton, MA 01460. For delalla on the preparation and submlaalon of manuscripts, request a
copy cit the "Computer Design Author's
Gulde."
Computer Design is published mon thly. Copyright 1979 by Computer Design Publishing Corporation. Controlled circulation postage paid at Pontiac , Ill. No material may be reprinted without permission. Postmaste r: CHANGE OF ADDRESS-FORM 3579 to be sent to Computer Design, Circulation Dept., P.O. Box A, Winchester, MA 01890 . Subscription rate is $24.00 in U.S.A ., Canada and Mexico, and $40.00 elsewhere. Micr9film copies of Computer Design are avai Iable and may be purchased from University Microfilms, a Xerox Company, 300 N. Zeeb Rd , Ann Arbor, Ml 48106 .
COMPUTER DESIGN/ APRIL 1979

·
BULK CORE

NOW AVAllABI! WITH DIE INDUSTRY'S MOST EXTENSIVE LINE OF CONTROLLERS

Now Dataram's popular BULK CORE is available with interfaces that bring all the proven features of this high-capacity, highreliability, low-cost memory system to your minicomputer.
Use BULK CORE as peripheral storage or main memory. In either 7" or 153;.I" chassis. With storage capacities up to two megabytes in one chassis. And with dual-port capability available for DEC and Data General disk emulators.

Find out today how BULK CORE can help

you get more out of your minicomputer.

Contact Dataram at 609-799-0071 or send in

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I'd like to learn more about BULK CORE

for my

minicomputer. I

And in addition to offering high-capacity storage, BULK CORE has

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the added advantages of non-volatility and high reliability.

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PDP-I I (70 main memory Data General Novadisc® (4019 compatible) single-port emulator

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., ,~SliMfi~l ,. ,

' TEL609· 799·0071 TWX, 510-68 5-2542
C·nad·: Ahern & Soper Ltd .. Alberta, British Qolumbia, Ontario, Quebec· Flnl·nd: Systek OY, 90-737-233 · Fr·nce: YAEL. 956 81 42 · ltely: Mactronics Italia, 02/ 35 36 041 · Netherl·nda: Technitron b.v.. 020-45 87 55 ·Sweden: M. Stenhardt AB, (08) 739 00 50 · Swltzerl·nd: ADCOMP AG . 01/730 48 48 ·United Klngdom/l rel·nd: Sintrom Ellinor Ltd ., (0734) 85464 ·
Wnt Germ·ny/Auatrl·: O.E.M.-Elektronik GmbH , 07 11 -79 80 47 · Auatralla/New ZHlend: Anderson Digital Equipment, (03) 543 2076 · lndl·: Industrial Electronic Instruments, 79281 · 1ar..1: K.D.M. Electronics, 921513 · J·p·n: Matsushita Electric Trading Co.. Ltd.. 03 (435) 4501 · T·lw·n/Republlc of Chin·: Syscom Computer Engineering Co.. (02) 7022156.

CIRCLE 5 ON INQUIRY CARD

I I CALENDAR

CONFERENCES
MAY 8- 10-Society for Information Display lnternot'I Sym, Chicago Marriott Hotel, Chicago, 111. INFORMATION: Lewis Winner, 301 Almeria Ave, PO Bax 343788, Coral Gables, FL 33134. Tel: (305) 446-8193
MAY 11-13-West Coast Computer Faire, Civic Auditorium and Brooks Hall, San Francisca, Calif. INFORMATION: Computer Faire, 333 Swett Rd, Woodside, CA 94062. Tel: (415) 851-7075
MAY 17-Trends and Applications : Advances in Systems Techno!ogy Sym, National Bureau of Standards, Gaithersburg, Md. INFORMATION: Trends and Applications, PO Box 639, Silver Spring, MD 20901. Tel: (301) 439-7007
MAY 18-20-Mid-Atlontic Personal and Busi ness Computer Show, National Guard Armory, Washington, DC. INFORMATION : Mid-Atlantic Expositions, Inc, PO Box 3315, Annapolis, MD 21403. Tel: (301) 263-8044
MAY 23-25-Custom Integrated Circuits Conf, Americana Hotel, Rochester, NY. INFORMATION: Dr Andras I. Lakatos, Xerox, Webster Research Ctr, 800 Phillips Rd, Bldg 114, Webster, NY 14580. Tel: (716) 4224354
MAY 30-JUNE 1-APL79, Rochester, NY. INFORMATION: Fletcher McTaggart, I. P. Sharp Associates, Suite 1150, 183 Main St E, Rochester, NY 14604
JUNE 4-6-Mochine Tool Forum, Pittsburgh Hilton, Pittsburgh, Pa. INFORMATION: J. Vincent Hanratty, Westinghouse Electric Carp, Westinghouse Bldg, Gateway Ctr, Pittsburgh, PA 15222. Tel: (412) 255-3693
JUNE 4 -7-Notionol Computer Conf, New York Coliseum, Hilton Hotel, and Sheratan Centre New Yark, NY. INFORMATION: Marjorie Greimel, American Federation of Information Processing Societies, 210 Summit Ave, Montvale, NJ 07645. Tel: (20 1) 391-9810
JUNE 10- 14--lnternot'I Conf on Communications, Sheraton Hotel, Boston, Mass. INFORMATION: James J. Lanigan, Director, Public Affairs, GTE Sylvania Inc, 100 First Ave, Waltham, MA 02154. Tel: (617) 8909200
JUNE 13 - 15-Computer Applications in In dustry, Alpes Cangres, Grenoble, France. INFORMATION: The Secretary, Computers in Industry, PO Bax 354, CH-8053 Zurich, Switzerland

JUNE 17-20-Joint Automatic Control Conf, Hilton Hotel, Denver, Colo. INFORMATION : Prof T. F. Edgar, Program Chm, 1979 JACC, Dept of Chemical Engineering, U of Texas, Austin, TX 78712. Tel: (512) 471-3080

JUNE 20-22-lnternot'I Sym on Fault-Tolerant Computing, Concourse Hotel, Madison, Wis. INFORMATION: Prof Charles R. Kime, Dept of Electrical and Computer Engineering, U of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706. Tel : (608) 262-0206

JUNE 21-lnformotion Systems-Effectiveness for the User Sym, National Bureau of Standards, Ga ithersburg, Md. INFORMATION: Angela Turvey, 4910 Butternut Dr, Rockville, MD 20853. Tel: (301) 427-8105

JUNE 25 -27-Design Automation Conf, Town and Country Hotel, San Diego, Calif. INFORMATION: Robert J. Smith, Ill, Electrical Engineering Dept, U of Texas, PO Box 7728, Austin, TX 78712. Tel : (512) 471 -4540

JUNE 25-28-Joint Conf of the CIPS and DMAC, Quebec, Conoda. INFORMATION: Conference 1979, Deportement d'lnfarmatique, Faculte des Sciences et de Genie, Universite Laval, Quebec, Quebec, Gl K 7P4, Canada

JUNE 25-29-lnternot'I Sym on Information Theory) Grigano, Italy. INFORMATION: Prof M. Pursley, Dept of Electrical Engineering, U of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61801

JULY 16-18-Summer Computer Simulation Conf, Toronto, Canada. INFORMATI ON: Dr A. J. Schiewe, Chairman '79 SCSC, c/o The Aerospace Corp, PO Box 92957, Los Angeles, CA 90009

JULY 17- 19-lnternot'I Symon Circuits and Systems, Tokyo, Japan. INFORMATION: Kazuo Horiuchi, Dept of Electrical and Comm Engineering, Waseda U, Shinjuku, Tokyo 160, Japan

JULY 17-20-Joint lntermog/Mognetism and

Magnetic Materials Conf, Statler Hilton, New

York Conl

NChY~,INGFeOnRerMalATEIlOecNtr:icDr

E. F. R&D

Luborsky, Ctr, PO

Box 8, Schenectady, NY 12301

JULY 30-AUG 3-Computer and Peripheral Equipment Exhibition, Internat'I Marketing Ctr, Singapore. INFORMATION: Todd W. Burns, U.S. Dept of Commerce, Office of lnternat'I Marketing, South Asia-Rm 4126, Washington, DC 20230

AUG 29 -31-1 FAC Sym on Computer-Aided Design of Control Systems, Zurich, Switzerland. INFORMATION: CAD/IFAC, lnstitut fur Autamatik und lndustriel le El"ektron ik, ETH-Zentrum, CH-8092 Zurich, Switzerland

SEPT 5-8-INFO/ASIA, Ryutsu Ctr, Tokyo, Japan. INFORMATI ON: Clapp & Poliak, Inc, 245 Park Ave, New York, NY 10017
SEPT 25-29-Relcomex '79-Reliobility and Exploitation of Computer Systems, Ksiaz Castle near Wroclaw, Poland. INFORMATION: Mr I. Jozwiak, Institute of Engineering Cybernetics of Wroclaw Technical U, Janiszewskiego st 11 I17, 50-372 Wroclaw, Poland
SEMINARS
MAY 11-12-Microprocessor Sem, U of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Po. INFORMATION: Vincent J. Giardino, IEEE Mgr of Continuing Education, 445 Hoes Lone, Piscataway, NJ 08854. Tel: (201) 981 -0060, X174
JUNE 11-15 and 18-22-Chorofos Sem on Distributed Information Systems, Radis~on Chicago Hotel, Chicago, Ill; and Breckenridge Pavilion Hotel, St Louis, Mo. INFORMATION: Richard A. Laubhan, Project Communications Inc, 333 E Ontario, Suite 26038, Chicago, IL 60611. Tel: (312) 266-2113
JUNE 27 -29-Computers in Manufacturing, Chicago, Ill. INFORMATION: AllE Seminars, PO Box 3727, Santa Monica, CA 90403. Tel: (213) 450-0500
SHORT COURSES
MAY 14- 16-Softwore Design for Doto Communication Systems, George Washington U, Washington, DC. INFORMATION: Director, Continuing Engineering Education, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052. Tel: (202) 676-6106
JUNE 4-6-Microprocessor Programming, Rapid City, SD. INFORMATION: Vincent J. Giardina, IEEE Mgr of Continuing Education, 445 Hoes Lane, Piscataway, NJ 08854. Tel: (201) 98 1-0060, X174
JUNE 19-21-Using Interactive Graphics for PC Artwork Generation and Design, New York, NY. INFORMATION: Omnimation, 2076 Elberon St, San Pedro, CA 90732. Tel: (213) 833-9637
JULY 9-20-Computing Systems Rel iability, U of California, Santa Cruz, Calif. INFORMATION: Institute in Computer Science, U of California Extension, Santa Cruz, CA 95064
Announcements intended for publication in this department of Computer Design must be received at least two months prior to the date of the event. To ensure proper timely coverage of major events, material preferably should be received six months In advance.

COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

The DEC® RX02-Compatible Flexible Disk System with 30 day delivery.
Our new DSD 440 records data in both DEC double density and IBM 3740 single density formats . It is 100% software, hardware and media compatible with DEC LSI-11, LSl-11/ 2 , PDP-11 and PDP-8 computers including those equipped with extended memory. The DSD 440 can be set to emulate either the RXOl for downward compatibility or the RX02 for increased storage capacity and throughput.
Hardware Bootstrap
A 512-word hardware bootstrap is built into the interfaces for the PDP-11, LSI-11 and LSl-11/ 2 systems. In addition to bootstrapping both single and double density configurations, it also performs diagnostics on the CPU memory, and the disk interface and controller.
"Hyperdiagnostics..
Microprogrammed self-diagnostics are built into the drive and controller unit. User-selectable, stand-alone "Hyperdiagnostics" simplify maintenance and alignment procedures.

The DSD 440 data storage capabilities include write protection, power loss data protection, single track and complete diskette formatting . Diskettes can be formatted using sequ~ntial or user-selected sector interleaving. Special sector interleaving schemes can be implemented during formatting to improve system throughput.
Megabyte System
This powerful megabyte flexible disk system is packaged in a low profile 5 1/4-inch chassis.
The DSD 440 is being shipped in quantity now. Delivery is 30 days.
To find out more about it , contact Data Systems Design today. A data sheet and price list will be forwarded to you immediately.
~
3130 Coronado Drive. Santa Clara. CA 95051 (408) 249-9353 TWX : 910-338-0249
®Registered trademark of Digital Equipment Corporation

CIRCLE 6 ON IN9UIRY ~ARD

How Litronix' opens a new world
Rockwell AIM 65

Norand® Sprint 100 ' ·" Order entry terminal

Now designer~ have a communications peripheral perfectly matched in size and cost to the world of microcomputers.
Litronix invented the Intelligent Display* to give microcomputers a new way of "talking" to users in words, numbers or even sentences. And not surprisingly, these displays are already

Part Number

Features

Character Height

Horizontal Row
Spacing

Standard

DL-1416

General Purpose

.160"

.250"

Di sp lay

DL-1414

Compact Display For Hand Held EQuipment

.112"

.175"

Premium DL-2416 Display
New Rugged
Package

.160"

.250"

Vertical Row
Spacing 1.200"
.800"
.800"

Viewing Character Character Angle Pos111ons Segments

± 25°

± 50°

*Intell igent Display is a trademark of Litronix, Inc.

beginning to create a new class of microcomputerbased products.
The Intelligent Display is an alphanumeric LED readout that incorporates ASCII decoder, multiplexer, memory and LED driver in a built-in CMOS IC. It interfaces simply and directly to any microprocessor bus, much like a RAM. Power is
from a single +5V supply, and operating current
is low enough for any battery powered device.
Litronix puts intelligent communications in the palm of your hand or anywhere panel
space is limited. Three versions of the Intelligent Display are already available to fit a wicfe variety of applications. The smallest lets you fit 20 characters side by side in a space of only 3.5 inches.
Litronix' Intelligent Displays are already being used in the portable terminal, the low cost microcomputer and electronic translator above. They're also ideally suited for applications
likr control panel readouts. Handheld computer
COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

Intelligent DisplayTM of microcomputer applications.

Lexi c o n LK-3000 ' "·
Electronic tra nsla tor

terminals. "Smart" games and appliances.

Educational products, and more.

Use .-

Intelligent

Displa17s

in any

product that calls for alphanumerics. They'll

reduce component count and cut costs drama-

tically. Since everything is encapsulated in a single

package, design and production costs are

minimal. And because no display

....-..- .i..n. terfaccoemPpConbeonat rcdosistsnaereeded,

typically reduced by

25%. Typical OEM

volume pricing per

W. digit will range from $2 to $5 per digit,

depending on displaylfipe. For easy bread-

boarding with Intelligent Displays, ask about

our inexpensive, prewired Evaluation i<.it. To get data sheets and a copy of our applications note
on Intelligent Displays, or for a demonstration, phone or write Litronix, Inc., 19000 Homestead Road, Cupertino, CA 95014. Telephone (408) 257-7910.
litronix
AN AFFILIATE OF SIEMENS
.

CIRCLE 7 ON IN9UIRY CARD

COMMUNICATION CHANNEL

DATA COMMUNICATIONS TESTING OVERVIEWANALOG TESTING
Jeffrey R. Duerr Hewlett-Packard Company, Deleon Division Mountain View, California

That portion of the data communications system most
out of control of the user is the carrier channel. AT&T, the largest carrier, is composed of 23 01Jerating telephone companies across the u.s., servicing 83% of the country's subscribers. General Telephone, the next largest carrier, has about 8% of that service market. The remaining 9% is split among approximately 1550 independent telephone companies.
Standards and practices as defined by AT&T typically predominate in delineating the characteristics of these communications networks. A complete description of the properties of the analog channel as they affect data transmission is contained in the three Bell System Technical Reference publications listed in the bibliography. These documents are a basic guide to understanding the measurement requirements of the analog channel.
Carrier Facilities
There are three options when renting a voice channel from the carrier-dial-up, leased, or dii?;ital lines. While digital lines are coming into more widespread use since their inception in 1974, at the present time the first two categories are much more prevalent.
Dial-up lines, most commonly used for standard voice communication, are comparatively inexpensive, and, in a high percentage of applications, are quite suitable for basic data transmission. If such a line is unsuitable for proper data transfer because of noise or distortion, the user has the option to hang up and redial. The subscriber should be aware that he has no control over the routing of this dial-up network, and can expect widely varying transmission delays and characteristics from call to call.
Although full-duplex operation can be achieved on one dial-up line by frequency division multiplexing modems over short distances, transmission over longer distances is limited to half duplex. In this transmission mode the
10

user will experience a delay in switching directions because circuit components in the channel take several hundred milliseconds to turn around. Also, the customer may find that the average 15 to 20 s time required to dial and obtain a line might be more than he can tolerate in an inauiry-response application.
Leased lines, though more expensive, provide the user a readily available, consistent communications path, and afford him more control over the characteristics of his channel. To further imorove these lines for data transmission, the carrier will supply various types of conditioning to place more exacting requirements on channel 'amplitude, delay, and noise characteristics. Therefore, it would seem normal to believe that there is no need for analog test equipment to evaluate a dedicated link, since the carrier guarantees specific performance appropriate to a requested type of conditioning.
This may be true for a simple system, but as a computer communication center becomes more complex, time spent in discussing channel problems with the carrier becomes extremely costly. A better strategy is to be able to evaluate line deficiencies with µrocedures and equipment that are acceptable to the telephone company. Also, basic analog testing of the channel can do much to solve the finger-pointing dilemma.
Channel Parameters and Conditioning
When a carrier offers a service to the user, it must have previously filed with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) a tariff describing the service, the rates for that service, and detailed characteristics of the channel to be used. There are 11 parameters affecting data communications on an analog channel (see "Analog Channel Parameters"). In the basic channel, none of these parameters is controlled by tariff, although all except phase hits, gain hits, and dropouts are controlled to internal AT&T specifications.
(Continued on p 12)

Does its broad line mmaatkre·ixCpe· nr·itnrotenrics' family ·

th· e

beslf t NO Even though theCentronics 700

· series is a continually expanding

A printer family-currently 9 models and a range

W of print speeds from 60 to 180 cps - there's

much more to it than just breadth of line. For example, there's a choice of

6 different types of forms handling capability; choice of uni- and bi-

directional operation; and choice of 80 and 132-column formats. Why so

much choice? It c9mes from the simple, highly flexible modular 700 series

design that delivers superior reliability, exceptional parts commonality-

and competitive prices.

And like all Centronics printers, the 700 series is fully supported by the

largest worldwide service organization of any printer company. For com-

plete 700 series information write or call today. Centronics Data Computer

Corp., Hudson, NH 03051, Tel. (603) 883-0111.

C:EnTRD n1c:s®PRlnTERS
Simply Better

CIRCLE 8 ON IN9UIRY CARD

Analoa Ch·nnel , .............

Parameter Attenu·tlon distortion Envelope delay distortion

~ C conditioning

SIN ratio Harmonic distortion

D conditioning

Impulse Noise Frequency shift Phase jitter Echo

Controlled to Internal Bell specification

Phase hits Gain hits Dropouts

Not controlled

0
· 10
·20
UJ
i>= -JO
::':.5! ·40
!g -50
·60

dB RELATIVE

K EY FREQUENCY

140.625

390.625

640.625

890.625

1140.625

IJ90.625

1640.625

1890.625

2140.625

2J90.625

2640.625

2890.625

Jl40.625

JJ9Q625

J640.625

J8l>0.625

ABCDEFGHI JKLMNOP

JOO

2000

JOOO

FREQUENCY (Hz)

(a)

Attenuation distortion is the variation in signal attenu-

ation at different freguencies-the frequency roll-off curve

of the network. Because the line was originally designed

to transmit voice in the 300- to 3000-Hz band, severe

attenuation above 2000 Hz was not critical. However,

high speed data transmission has · important frequency

components at the higher frequencies, and this roll-off

becomes a significant factor.

Envelope del;iy distortion is the rate of change with

respect to frequency of the phase difference between

transmission and reception; signal delay through the

channel varies with frequency. This does not affect voice

reception because the human ear is virtually insensitive

to it. For this reason phase distortion was not tightly

controlled in original telephone system design, but when

using the voice channel for data transmission, envelope

delay becomes an important parameter. The higher fre-

quencies required for high speed data transmission sys-

tems necessitate more compatible delays across the fre-

quency band.

Available in three levels, "C" conditioning is tariffed

to give varying degrees of control in the specifications

for attenuation and envelope delay distortion. The level

of conditioning required depends on the bit rate trans-

mitted, and is often defined by the modem manufacturer.

Sophisticated modems having automatic equalization per-

form a function similar to "C" conditioning, and generally

do not need it. In fact, such conditioning can prove to

be detrimental to overall performance in these cases.

"C" conditioning can change a normally smooth delay

characteristic to a curve with steep slopes and ripple.

This newer, more distorted curve will make automatic

equalizer compensation more difficult.

For 9600-bit/s operation "D" conditioning has been

tariffed. This specifies limits on signal-to-noise (s/ N)

ratio and on harmonic distortion. "D" conditioning allows

higher s/ N ratio and less harmonic distortion, which,

although unpleasant to the human ear, is of little handicap

to the modem. Harmonic distortion generates unwanted

harmonics as a result of nonlinear operations combining

two or more desired signals.

Although it is fairly easy to measure, nonlinear dis-

tortion measurement is a more accurate indication of

this parameter. NonlirJ.ear distortion affects reproduction

of higher frequency signal components at the receive end

and thus degrades fidelity of the received signal. Unlike

delay distortion, the effect of nonlinear distortion is irre-

versible and cannot be compensated for at the receiver.

Compensation must occur at the transmitter by reducing

0 TIME Im·) (b)
PIAR transmit signal frequency spectrum (a} and resultant envelope (b}. Signal is complex combination of harmonics, well defined in frequency and amplitude
the number of distinct levels transmitted which, in turn, limits the allowable bit rate. "D" conditioning controls these parameters so that 9600-bit/s transmission is more readily obtainable on voice grade lines. It is offered to the customer in two levels and can be used with or without "C" conditioning.
Specifications for impulse noise, frequency shift, phase shift, and echo are not defined by tariff, but are controlled to internal AT&T specifications. These are published in the AT&T literature, BSP 41004, pp 13-15.
Phase hits, gain hits, and dropouts are not controlled by practice or tariff. If the user can demonstrate that his data communications are degraded by a significant number of these disturbances, the carrier company can reroute and reconfigure the communications paths. However, for credibility, the measurements made to back up such complaints should be made with equipment and to standards acceptable to the carrier. The inability to properly define line troubles is very often an obstacle to clearing them up.
Testing the Analog Channel First level of testing on the channel can be done by simply evaluating its frequency response. Using simple equipment, the basic analog channel can be tested for continuity, signal loss at various frequencies, and noise over the bandwidth. More sophisticated equipment such as the Hewlett-Packard transmission impairment mea-
I COMPUTER DESIGN APRIL 1979

surement system (TIMS) series will make all of the measurements described. This equipment is widely used among operating companies and therefore provides a credible standard for defining line disturbances. Attachment of the equipment to the channel is done by connecting to the two or four wires of the local subscriber loop at the analog side of the modem. TIMS testing can be accomplished in looparound using one measurement set on a full-duplex system, or, using two instruments, one can test in one direction on a half-duplex system or in both directions individually on a full-duplex system. With some TIMS sets, another configuration called masterslave operation allows remote testing and feedback of results to a central station.
To define an overall figure of merit for a channel path that will describe its suitability to data transmission, AT&T has developed the peak-to-average ratio (P/ AR) measurement. This technique was designed to give an overall indication of envelope delay and nonlinear distortion, and return loss. A pulse train representative of a data modulated voiceband signal is transmitted. The spectrum and envelope of this signal is shown in the Figure. At the receive end, the P J AR of the signal is measured. As the signal traverses the transmission medium, P J AR will deteriorate because of channel impairments. A perfect channel would result in a 100 P J AR reading of the received signal. Readings of 50 or higher generally indicate that 2400-bit/ s or slower data rates are acceptable. P/ AR is also useful as a monitor of data channel parameters. If the P/ AR value changes by more than four points from an initial reading, it is likely that the channel parameters have changed significantly.
Cost Tradeoffs
How much should be invested in test equipment for a data communications channel? Basic analog level and frequency testing can be accomplished for $1000 to $2000. Test equipment that will handle all the tests described here can be purchased for $7000 to $9000.
Bit error rate (BER) testing is available in an instrument selling for less than $1000. Equipment that can perform all the digital tests described (Computer Design, Mar 1979, pp 12-18) will range from $2500 to $5000 per instrument.
Protocol test equipment (Computer Design, Feb 1979, pp 10-20) starts at about $3500 and ranges to over $15,000. The upper end of the range includes programmability in the basic instrument. At the lower end, there is monitoring capability only. As the price goes up, capability increases to include both monitor and simulation modes, plus storage cassettes to record longer periods of channel operation.
Other levels of expense involved in data communication testing center around facilities and personnel. For a simple point-to-point uncomplicated system, a data communications specialist may not be needed. As the network grows in sophistication, it will become necessary to add a resident technician and eventually a data communications staff.
In determining the actual cost of a system, the major factor should be the costs involved in the event of a system failure. Where downtime of several hours or days results in no serious loss of revenue, only a small investment in equipment is needed. However, many systems, such as airline reservation, bank charge card, and the like, start incurring heavy losses for each second of outage. Here a considerable investment in a data communications service facility, with a full range of test instru-

ments, and redundant communications equipment and channels, becomes profitable.
The Future
In the area of test equipment, more measurement capability for the dollar can be expected. Instruments will become programmable, be more interactive, and provide more prompting to the operator, allowing sophisticated tests on a complex network to be performed by less experienced personnel. While there is little pressure to combine digital, analog, and protocol testing in one instrument, it is reasonable to expect that programmable versions of these instruments might be combined in service and control centers for more efficient testing and system operation.
Overall, there is a dynamic growth in the need to move data quickly and accurately from point to point. Capabilities offered by public and private carriers, as well as by equipment manufacturers, are expanding to meet this challenge. Technical advances continue to offer new techniques and opportunities to meet communications needs. It is important that the expertise and facilities required to take advantage of these opportunities be maintained.
Bibliography
Bell System Technical References. Pub 41004: -Data Communications Using Voiceband Private Line ·Channels. Pub 41008: Analog Parameters Affecting Voiceband Data TransmissionDescription of Parameter. Pub 41009: Transmi&Sion Parameters Affecting Voiceband Data. Transmission-Measuring Techniques. Order from: AT&T, Supervisor Information Distribution Center, 195 Broadway, Rm 208, New York, NY 10007. Price, $1.50 each.

. . . . ELECTRONICS DIVISION

~ COMPONENTS DEPAr?TMENT

~ "I

CIRCLE 9 ON IN9UIRY CARD

I I COMMUNICATION CHANNEL

Speech Processor Provides Simultaneous Transmission of Voice and Data on Same Channel

TILl!PHONIS

l'l!f.l!PHONIS

7200 BIT/S DATA

E-Systems LPC-24 speech processor converts audio input from telephones to 2400-bit/s digital speech tor transmission simultaneously with computer data. Linear predictive coding techniques are enhanced by microprocessor control

Simultaneous transmission of digitized speech and data over the same channel is implemented by the LPC24 speech processor through use of linear predictive coding (LPc). Telephone speech, presented to the network in a 2400-bit/ s synchronized serial data stream, is multiplexed with computer data over a common circuit.
In operation (see block diagram) , audio input from a conventional telephone, received through a switchboard, is sampled and analyzed in the speech processor by LPC techniques. The resultant output is a synchronous, 2400-bit/ s data stream that can be manipulated in the same manner as any other data and is compatible with an Rs-232 or MILSTD-188 interface. This bit stream is

fed via a modem into the satellite or telephone line circuit to a comparable modem at a remote location. There the 2400-bit/ s stream is reconverted to audio form by another speech processor.
Depending on particular system implementation, digital voice can be applied in 2400-bit/ s increments. For example, 9600-bit/ s data are transmitted durin~ non-overlapping working hours. Then the data are idled for the overlapping period to allow voice transmission. Application of digital voice in 2400-bit/ s increments allows the data network to handle up to 7200-bit/ s data and a single channel of digital voice simultaneously without idling data transmission equipment and personnel.

Speech quality remains constant, with a claimed high level of speaker recognition and intelligibility. A microprocessor-controlled voice operated gain automatically adjusts input audio. Advanced Micro D evices 2900 series microprocessors also perform the LPC techniques and are used in troubleshooting to isolate faults to PC card level.
Physical characteristics of the speech processor-made by E-Systems Inc, PO Box 226118, Dallas, TX ·75266-include : size, 7 x 17 or 19 x 18" (17.8 x 43.2 or 48.3 x 45.7 cm); weight, 36 lb ( 16 kg); and power,
+ 100 W, 115/ 230 Vac 10%, 47 to
63 Hz. Operating temperature range. is 0 to 100 °F ambient ( -18 to 38 °C), and storage temperature range is -40 to 160 °F ( -40 to 71 °C).
Circle 400 on Inquiry Card

Network Processors Provide Ascending Levels of Processing Functions
A 5-member family of single and multiple data communications processors for networks of varying complexities has been introduced by Raytheon Data Systems Co, 1415 Boston-Providence Tpk, Norwood, MA 02062. Major features of the Raynee" processors-depending on model-

include line concentration, network control, virtual terminal support, and node-to-node communication.
Through line concentration, costs are lowered by reducing the number of lines required between operator terminals and host mainframe computers. Terminals installed "downline" communicate with these processors via low to medium speed lines, and messages are then transmitted from the processors to the mainframe over higher speed lines.

Network control can be maintained by using the processors to turn individual communications lines or communications controllers on and off. In addition, the processors can provide error counts and other network management statistics.
Instead of being dedicated to a single host under a single discipline, terminals now can transmit messages to as many as eight host mainframe computers under a variety of communications line disciplines. This

I COMPUTER DESIGN APRIL 1979

The Paper Tiger sets a new standard tor low-cost impact printers.

Integral Data

Tally

LemSeigler

Tam Inatrumen.ts Catron.lei

More capability. More versatility.

440

1200

300

110

719-2

For just $995. You get a full upper and lower

96-character ASCII set. upper and lower case

case 96-character set. Eight software-selectable character

Software-selectable character sizes

sizes. Plain paper. multiple copies. Forms length control. Parallel and

Throughput. lines per minute @ 10 char,/line

serial interfaces. Multiple line butter.

@ 132 char./line

Tractor feed. Automatic re-inking. 80 and 132 columns.

Parallel and RS-232 serial interfaces standard

It's all standard with the Paper Tiger.
Unbeatable capability.

CRT screen butler Footprint_(W x D =sq. ft.) Weight (lbs.)

The Paper Tiger prints just about any paper torm you need. From

Forms length control

address labels to multicopy in-

Full dot plotting graphics

voices and legal-size reports.

f:i'Unit Price

YES OPI'ION YES OPI'ION

YES

NO OPI'ION

275

100 Data not 440

40 available 64

YES

OPI'ION NO OPI'ION NO

l.37

3.45

3.18

3.58

YES OPI'ION YES OPI'ION

OPI'ION NO

$995 $2500 $1995 $1895

NO
NO
130 21
NO NO 2.44 45 NO NO $1350

Adjust the tractor width from 1-3/4 to 9-1/2 inches. Choose from 8 switch-selectable forms lengths. Print 6 or 8 lines per inch.
Unmatched versatility.
Want graphics? Add the Paper Tiger's software-selectable tull dot plotting graphics. Print illustrations. block letters. charts. graphs. and more.
Need a bigger butter? The Paper Tiger features an optional 2K-byte memory that holds a full 24-by-80

Comparison data fro m manulactur&I$ current literature
CRT screen.
And there's more.
The Paper Tiger is small. lightweight. and compact. That's because it's designed especially to work in small computer systems.
And it's built rugged and simple. For high reliabUity and easy maintenance. Just like the thousands of IDS printers already in the field.
See for yourself.
Check the comparison chart.

Find out why this Paper Tiger just set a new standard tor low-cost impact printers.
For more information, write or call. We'll send you our tree brochure. Integral Data Systems. 14 Tech Circle. Natick. MA01760. ( 617) 237-7610.
CIRCLI 10 ON IN9UIRY CARD
~Integral Data Systems, Inc.

No one portable everyone's needs.
Sowebuilt 21.
Everyone's needs are di1ferent. Some want the same versatility in the field they get from a bench model in the lab. Others are more concerned about weight. Some require basic performance models at an economical price. Tektronix offers a selection of21 portable scopes -15 real-time and 6 storage models - to satisfy just about everyone. Take your pick. You can't beat our 400 Series when it comes to high performance. Choose from 9 models ranging in bandwidth from 50 MHz to 350 MHz. All under 26 pounds (11.8 kg). Five with an optional DMM and delta time read out. Ifyou're looking for a battery-powered model that fits into a briefcase or toolbox, there's our 200 Series. Bandwidths to 5 MHz. Weights less than 3.7 pounds (1.7 kg). In between, there's the compact 300 Series, with bandwidths to 35 MHz. Each scope weighs less than 11 pounds (5.0 kg). And finally, we offer the low cost T900 Series, priced from just $795.00~
OUr worldwide service team goes where you go. We're with you all the way, with more than 500 service personnel at 46 Tektronix centers in the U.SA. and hundreds ofTektronix-supported service engineers in over 50 other countries to calibrate and maintain your Tektronix scope.
So let us show you the model that's right for you. Simply contact your Tektronix Sales Engineer. He'll arrange for a demonstration ofour portable or laboratory oscilloscopes. And for our latest portable oscilloscopes brochure, write: Tektronix,
Inc., P.O. Box 500, Beaverton, OR 97077. In Europe: Tektronix Limited, P.O. Box 36, St. Peter Port, Guernsey, Channel Islands.
. ~: We'rgeo.ing
places
''

Storage Models Nonstorage Models
Time Interval Readout

Product 466 464 434 314 214 T912 485 475A 475 465 465M 455 335 305 221 213 212 T935A T932A T922 T922R T921 OM44

Du·I Tr·c· D·l·~·d sweee Faate1t Sweep Rate

Other Special Feature·

Price·

100 MHz ~ 5 mV/div

)1:86

)'.eS

5 ns/div

3000 div/es stored writlni ·~eed

$5355

100 MHz !!!15 mV/dlv

)'.el

)'.88

5 ns/dlv

110 div/~· stored writlni speed

4375

25 MHz@ 10 mV/dlv

)'.eS

20 ns/div

Split-screen stora~e

3480

10 MHz ~ 1 mV/dlv

)'.88

100 ns/div

Only 10.5 lbs (4 .8 k!I!

2645

500 kHz~ 10 mV/dlv

)'.eS

1 es/div

Only 3.5 lbs (1.6 k!I!

1595

10 MHz~ 2 mV/dlv

xes

50 ns/dlv

Low-cost bistable storage

1545

350 MHz~ 5 mV/dlv

yes

)'.81

1 ns/dlv

Wld_est bw In a portable

5725

250 MHz~ 5 mV/div

xes

)'.88

1 ns/div

Hl~h-e:erformance 250-MHz portable

3800

200 MHz@ 2 mV/dlv

)'.81

100 MHz !!!l 5 mV/dlv

)'.8S

yes

1 ns/dlv 5 ns/div

H i ~hest ;aln-bw In a e:ortable Cost effective for 100-MHz bw

3435 2495

100 MHz~ 5 mV/dlv

)'.es

xes

50 MHz !!!l 5 mV/dlv

)'.8S

5 ns/div 5 ns/div

Trlservlce standard 100-MHz scope Cost effective tor 50-MHz bw

2620 2055

35 MHz~ 10 mV/dlv

)'.95

)'.88

20 ns/dlv

Only 10.5 lbs (4 .8 kg)

2175

5 MHz ~ 5 mV/dlv

)'.85

5 MHz !!!l 5 mV/dlv

1 MHz !!!l 20 mV/dlv

0.1 µs/div 100 ns/div 400 ns/dlv

Autorang l nR OMM Only 3.5 lbs p.6 kg! OMM / Oscllloscope ~ 3.7 lbs p .7 k!I)

1725 1190 1595

500 kHz@ 10 mV/dlv

yes

1 µa/div

Low cost for dual trace & batter1

1190

35 MHz~ 2 mV/dlv

yes

ves

35 MHz !!!l 2 mV/dlv

yea

10 ns/div 10 ns/div

Dela)'.ed sweep and dlfferentlal Variable trigger-holdoff and differential

1535 1245

15 MHz (ll1 2mV/dlv

)'.81

15 MHz !!!l 2mV/ div

)'.eS

15 MHz !!!l 2mV/dlv

20 na/dlv 20 ns/dlv 20 ns/div

Low-cost dual-trace acoee Rackmount version of T922 Lowest-cost TEKTRONIX Portable

975 1345 795

Oetlonal, facto!1-lnstalled, direct numeri cal readout of time Intervals and OMM functions for the 464, 465, 466, 475 and 475A 445

'U.S. sales prices are F.O.B. Beaverton, OR . For price and avallablity outside the United States , please contact the nearest Tektronix Field Office, Distributor or Representattve. Prices are subject to change without notice.

For those military systems people who have been waiting for a "go-anywhere" twin to the
Data General ECLIPSE®Computer System
Here it is: ROLM's MSE Mil-Spec ECLIPSE Computer System

Now you can have ACS, INFOS-,~.

, 9505 .

~2900. TWX 910-338-7350.

FORTRAN 5 in any environment. For more information write In Europe: Meuhlstrasse 19 0-6450, Hanau, Germany,

or call ROLM Corporation, 4900 Old Ironsides Drive, Santa 6181 15011 , TWX 4-184-170.

That's Why We're #1 in Mil-Spec Computer Systems

M113A1 Armored Personnel Carrier courtesy FMC Corp.

l' " " LI._I LI--LI-

MI l-S PEC Computers

ECLI PSE and INFOS are registered trademarks of Data General Corporation.

See our Computer and Telecommunications Products at AFCEA, Washington D.C., June 19-21, Cot/II/on Room, Booths 421-425. CIRCLE 13 ON IN'f)UIRY CARD

I I COMMUNICATION CHANNEL
"virtual terminal" support provides automatic protocol conversion for "host transparency" in mixed protocol networks.
The largest configurations provide node-to-node communication to permit one processor to communicate with another. This is said to simplify design and lower operating costs on large data communications networks.
Raynet-I is a single application PARS or bisync discipline concentrator and network manager for reducing communications lines and relieving host overhead for a single host; -II, also a single discipline unit, can be used with multiple hosts; while -III combines the features of -I and -II to allow mixed protocol terminals to connect to multiple hosts for multiple applications. -IV adds over lM bytes of local disc storage for store/ forward message switching so that messages can be sent from any terminal attached to one processor to other terminals or other processors. -V processors can communicate with up to four other like processors at up to 50k bytes/ s and provide internode data switching for geographically distributed mainframes and virtual terminals. Systems are upward compatible.
All configurations can include redundant processors complete with memory, appropriate peripheral devices, and operator consoles, for fail safe operation in highly critical applications. Communications disciplines currently supported include PARS/ IPARS for airline passenger reservations applications, bisync (binary synchronous protocol), soLc (synchronous data link control) protocol, and Univac U-100 protocol. The processors can be configured with an upward-expandable range of disc storage drives, magnetic tape drives, and other peripherals including CRT display/ keyboard operator consoles and report printers. cos (communications operating system) software is standard on all configurations.
Circle 401 on Inquiry Card
Processor Developments Increase Speed Three to Four Times
A 16-bit minicomputer-the 1600-02 model II processor-announced by Harris Corp's Data Communications Div, PO Box 400010, Dallas, TX 75240 expands memory of the older

-00 processor to 192k bytes and increases speed by three to four times, depending on application. From l.2M to l.4M instructions/ s can be executed.
The processor is built around a chassis of 20 slots, 8 of which are reserved for processor and memory. Extra slots and larger power supply, 60 or 120 A, enable future expansion. Depending on configuration, the processor is capable of supporting up to two 1200-card/ min readers; four 1200-line/ min printers; two disc controllers each with a maximum of four cartridge or Winchest-

er-type disc drives; one mag tape controller with up to four 9-track, 1600-bit/ in (630/cm) tape drives; one 200-card/ min punch; and as many as four concurrent communications channels. Data communications capabilities range up to 9600 bits/ s for asynchronous lines and 56k bits/ s for synchronous lines.
Existing company software for both 1600 remote batch and distributed data processing systems is compatible. For remote batch systems, the processor will support the memory-resident communications operating system (cos) and a complete

Model HBS-3/0VP
IN-STOCK NATIONWIDE ... FOR IMMEDIATE DELIVERY
EASTERN REGIONAL SALES OFFICE: Schenectady, N.Y. (516) 399-9200 ALA.: Hunlsville, Rakes Engr. & Marketing Corp. (205) 683-9260 ARIZ.: Phoenix, PLS Assoc. (602) 279-1531 CAL.: Pasadena, A-F Sis. Engr. (213) 681-5631; San Diego, A-F Sis. Engr. (714) 226-8424 ; San Jose, Richards Assoc. (408) 246-5860 COL : Denver, PLS Assoc. (303) 773·1218 CT.: Litchfield, Dig~al Sis. Assoc. (203) 567-9776 FLA.: Orlando, OEM Marketing Corp. (305) 299-1000 GA.: Duluth, Rakes Engr. & Marketing Corp. (4o4) 476-1730 ILL.: Chicago, Coombs Assoc. (312) 298-4630 IND.: Indianapolis. Coombs Assoc. (317) 897-5424 MD.: Wheaton, Brimberg Sis. Assoc. (301) 9462670; Baltimore, Brimber9 Sis. Assoc. (301) 792-8661 MASS.: Waltham, Digital Sis . Assoc. (617) 899-4300 MICH.: Southfield, L.H . Dickelman Co. (313) 353-8210 MINN.: Minneapolis, Engr. Prod. Assoc. (612) 925-1883 N.J .: Whippany, Livera-Polk Assoc. (201) 317-3220; Marmora, Holdsworth (609) 398-4340 N.M. : Albuquerque, PLS Assoc. (505) 255-2330 N.Y.: Roslyn Hts.. Livera-Polk Assoc. (516) 484-1276; Syracuse, C.W. Beach (315) 446·9587 N.C.: Charlotte, OVer & Over Inc. (704) 527-3070 OHIO: Cleveland, Marlow Assoc. (216) 991-6500; Dayton, Marlow Assoc. (513) 434-5673 OKLA.: Tulsa, Advance Technical Sis. (918) 743-8517 ORE.: Portland, Jas. J. Backer (503) 297-3776; Salem, Jas. J . Backer (503) 362-0717 PENN.: Pittsburgh, Marlow Assoc. (412) 831-6113; Newtown Sq.. Holdsworth & Co. (215) 356-8550 lEX.: Dallas, Advance Technical Sis. (214) 361-8584; Solid State Electr. (214) 352-2601 ; Houston, Advance Technical Sis . (713) 469-6668; Solid State Electr. (713) 772-8483 UTAH: Salt Lake City, PLS Assoc. (801) 466-8729 WASH.: Seattle, Jas. J. Backer (206) 285-1300; Radar Elec. Co. (206) 282-2511 WIS.: Milwaukee, Coombs Assoc. (414) 671-1945 EUROPE: Hanex, L.A.. CA (213) 556-3807 CANADA : Duncan Instr.. Weston, Ontario (416) 742-4448; Winnipeg, Manitoba, Cam Gard Supply Ltd. (204) 786-8481
D.C. POWER SUPPLIES Power One Drive· Camarillo, CA g3010 ·Phone: 805/484-2806 ·TWX: 910-336-1297
SEE OUR COMPLETE PRODUCT LISTING IN EEM & GOLDBOOK

C IRCLE 14 ON IN9UIRY CARD

I I COMMUNICATION CHANNEL

selection of emulation programs which communicate with mainframes manufactured by IBM, Univac, Honeywell, Control Data, Burroughs, Itel, and Amdahl. For distributed data processing systems, the processor supports the disc-resident extended communications operating system (Ecos); REGAL (remote general ap-
plication . language), an interactive programming language; COBOL for

local batch operations; key entry processing (KEP), a keystation management system; and FORMAT/10 and FORMAT/ 41 for keypunch replacerrient with key-to-disc.
Increased power enables more keystations to be configured, which then allows traditional key-to-disc data entry functions to be executed concurrent with the more sophisticated source document entry method of

capturing and processing data at the source. Larger memory and greater speed allows for larger and more flexible configurations of remote batch systems. Higher throughput volumes are achieved by increased line speeds, improved capabilities of peripherals, and the new peripherals supported in a remote batch environment. In addition, a greater number of concurrent communications jobs are possible.
Circle 402 on Inquiry Card

9"and 12"

Fourth Earth Station Added To ARPA Network

CRT

A contract for the installation and

DISPLAY

operation of a 5-m earth station at Point Sur, California has been

MONITORS

awarded by the Defense Communications Agency to American Satellite

with a

Corp (ASC) , 20301 Century Blvd, Germantown, MD 20767. The station

Ho·izontal Rate of:

Ktt Version
The low-cost CIQ-9 and CI0-12 CRT Display Monitors with a horizontal rate of

will be used by the Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA) for transmission and reception of high speed data. This installation will be

t5.72KHZ

15.72 KHz provide data equipment manufacturers with sharp, highly reliable image

the fourth land-based high speed

presentation.

data earth station placed in opera-

Separate horizontal drive, vertical drive,

tion by ASC for ARPA since 1975. In

Compatible with

and video signal inputs mean elimination of composite sync and video signal process-

1976 ASC also implemented a 4.5-fll station aboard a research ship sta-

TV120 or TV90

ing and simple output circuitry.

tioned in the Pacific for high speed

The completely new design of the com-

data communications to the mainland.

Priced Below the Competition

pact integrated PCB utilizes the latest semiconductor and other components, providing a dependable performance level never before possible .

ASC also provides nationwide wideband data service in the 3M-bit/s range to the Air Force Meteorolpg-

Built-in Quality,

Delivered with P4 phosphor as standard. Available options are P31 and P39 phos-

ical Satellite program as well as data communications services to NASA

Performance, Dependability

phors, sturdy zinc chromate plated chassis and a power supply module which is compatible with practically any power supply standard in the world.

in support of the space shuttle program, and a wideband secure voice link between California and Hawaii.
Circle 403 on Inquiry Card

Chassis Version

FEATURES · Uniform High Resolution · Integrated PC Board · Dependable Construction · Squareness of Picture
~ C. ITOH ELECTRONICS, INC.
5301 Beethoven Street Los Angeles . Call! . 90066 Telephone : (213) 39()..7778 Telex : (WU) 65-2451
280 Partc. Avenue, New York, NY 10017 Telephone' (212) 682-0420 Telex (WU) 12-5059

X.25 Support Expand~ Network Interface ·

Support of the X.25 international

standard packet switching protocol

by DTSS Inc, 10 Allen St, Hanover,

NH 03755 will allow users of that

company's systems to connect to any

Telenet node. In addition, through a

standard X.25 interface, users will

be able to access the ACS network

planned by AT&T as well as Data-

pak in Canada and Transpac in

France.

Circle 404 on Inquiry Card

CIRCLE 15 ON INQUIRY CARD

COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

"BEFORE WE COULD BUILD THE WORLD'S LARGEST INDUSTRIAL DATA ACQUISmON SYSTEM, WE NEEDED NETWORK AND SYSTEMS CAPABILillES WE COULD DEPEND ON." "ONLY MODCOMP HAD THEM."
Jim Springer, Director of Data Systems, AVCO Electronics, Hun tsville. Ala.

Jim Springer is building what will be the largest ir.idustrial data acquisition system in the world. This system will be used for development and testing by one of the world's largest producers of diesel engines.
To implement the system, Jim chose MODCOMP's Classic®Computers, the MAX IV operating and communications system, and the MAXNET IV network extension. "Network software capability is the key.''
"The MAXNET IV network extension integrates all 120 computers in the system. This provides us with the performance characteristics of a stand-alone system, and the economic advantages of network resource sharing.
"In a real-time environment, that's essential." "MODCOMP gives us the high speed and performance we need - at a cost we can afford."
"The MAX IV operating system is ideal for this type of real-time multi-programming. And with the Classic's extremely fast floating-point processor, we have more than enough speed.
"This is essentially the same system we specified for testing NASA's Space Shuttle. Ordinarily, that kind of superior quality and reliability would be out of reach for industry.

But because of their experience with the NASA system, only MODCOMP could meet the assigned high performance levels at a cost industry can afford." "MODCOMP's tougher on their equipment than we are.''
"Our customer was concerned about equipment reliability in their plant. And with good reason. The temperature can get as high as 120 degrees. But we've seen the Classic perform in worse places. MODCOMP's 'hot room' test facility, for instance. That's 132 degrees. "
"Obviously we have a lot of faith in MODCOMP."
"We're just in the first phase of this system. But we have to know that, say, 3 years from now, the hardware will be available and that the software can be implemented or interchanged as needed.
"We recommend MODCOMP because we have a lot of faith in them. In their company, their equipment and their service.
"We know they can deliver. It's as simple as that."
At MODCOMP, we specialize in building real time computer systems and the network software capability to make them work.
Easily. Reliably. Affordably. And with the kind of performance you'd expect to find in the world's largest industrial data acquisition system.
If that's what you're looking for from a computer system supplier, do what Jim Springer did. Call MODCOMP.
·>MODCOID Dedicated to your success
Modular Computer Systems, Inc. 1650 McNab Road, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33309 (305) 974-1380

Sales offices: Atlanta , GA· Bos ton , MA· Chicago . IL· Cincinna ti , OH · Dallas, TX · Denver. CO· Detroit , MI· Hartford , CT· Hous ton , TX · Los Angeles, CA· Cla rk, NJ · Orlando, FL · Pitts burgh , PA · San Jose. CA· Washington, DC

CIRCLE 16 ON IN9UIRY CARD

DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY REVIEW

TECHNOLOGY AND ECONOMICS: IC POWER DISSIPATION VS PRICE
Montgomery Phister, Jr
Syste ms Consulting Sant a Monica, C alifornia

As component technology has evolved, system power
requirements have changed markedly. Early small scale integrated circuits required about one-third the power of discrete silicon circuits, and medium- and large-scale integrated circuits continue to display increasing reductions in power requirements per gate.
This reduction occurs because circuits internal to the device require little power, and device power requirements tend to be proportional to the number of internal circuits that are connected to output pins rather than to the total number of circuits. The relationship that exists between device cost and power requirements on one hand and circuit complexity on the other can be useful to the designer is evaluating design tradeoffs.
Gate/Flip-Flop Relationships
Fig 1 shows the distribution of gates and flip-flops over a sample of 38 medium-scale integrated ( MSI) circuits. 0 The average circuit (from this 38-circuit sample) con-
= tained about 2.7 flip-flops and 22 gates. The solid line,
having the equation g 24.4 - f, best represents the flip-flop/gate relationship for this sample.
Forty-two small-scale integrated (ss1) circuits were analyzed in a similar way, with the result shown in the lower left corner of the figure. The average circuit in this
= sample contained 3.5 gates and almost 0 .3 flip-flops, and
can be represented by the solid line g 4 - 2f.
22

If an average system designed using these elements has 17 gates for every flip-flop, system characteristics lie on the dotted line in Fig I. Such systems clearly must have a preponderance of gate-only circuits-circuits containing flip-flops fall far above the "average" line.
Power and Price/Gate Relationshi ps
Fig 2 shows price vs number of gates for the sample of standard circuits (solid lines), and for a smaller sample of low power Schottky circuits (dotted line). The equations were derived from least-squares fits to mid-1978 prices. The deviation of actual prices from the equations. is large-it averages 41 ¢, for example, for the "standard Ms1" sample.
0 The sample from which the equations used to generate Figs 1 to 3 were derived includes the following 74xx and 74xxx parts: Standard ssi-7400-11, -13, -14, -16, -17, -20, -23, -25, -26, -27, -30, -32, -37, -38, -40, -50, -51, -53, -54, -60, -70, -72, -73, -74, -76, -86, -107, -109, -125, -126, and -132; Standard Msr-7441-42, -45, -46, -48, -75, -83, -85, -90, -91, -95, -96, -147, -148, -150, -151A, -153, -154, -155, -157, -160A, -164, -165, -166, -173, -174, -175, -180, -181, -182, -190, -191, -194, -195, -196, -198, -199, and -251; Low Power Schottky SSI7400-02, -03, -04, -05, -08, -10, -13, -14, -20, -26, -27, -30, -32, -40, -51, -73, -74, -76, -86, -107, and -132; and Low Power Schottky Msr-7475-83, -90, -95, -96, -151, -153, -157, -164, -181, -190, -191, -194, and -195.
I COMPUTER DESIGN APRIL 1979

The NECSnaplock.

A rugged little extra that makes printers more reliable.

Raise the cover of most printers and you 'll find

Every cable and wire connection also has its own

retainers that keep circuit boards~;s ;e~ciu~re~~~~ rugged snaplock. Another 10 cable holddowns

in their connectors . NEC printers

prevent cable strain and wire chafing .

have board retainers too .

~ What 's so good about all these

But they also have more than two

locks and holddowns? Reliability.

dozen other locks and holddowns-

They keep out the gremlins that

far more than competitive printers .

cause printers to fail. NEC designs

Snaplocks , for example . NEC

printers with the industry's high-

SpinwriterTM and TrimlinerTM printers

est MTBF Arid it takes a lot of

have at least 16. Six to secure servo

snaplocks to help us reach that

and stepping motors , head assembly

goal.

and control panel cables. Ten more to fasten

Attention to the smallest detail. It tells

the driver board , voltage regulator, paper-out

a lot about NEC's motivation .

switch and operator panel power switch cables.

Send for our new printer brochures.

NEC. Going after

the perfect printer.

NEC
NEC ln'formation Systems, Inc.
Eastern Office : 5 Militia Drive : Lexington, MA. 02173, (617) 862-3120 Central Office : 3400 South Dixie Drive, Dayton , OH . 45439, (513) 294-6254 West Coast Office : 8939 S. Sepulveda Blvd ., Los Angeles, CA. 90045. (213) 670-7346 Southern Office : 2965 Flowers Rd . South , Atlanta, GA . 30341, (404) 458-7014
CIRCLE 17 ON INQU IRY CARD

I COMPUTER DESIGN APRIL 1979

8086 Syste01 Success.
Intel.delivers EPROMs, RAMs and peripherals you need to start building on the Architecture of the Future.

Intel's powerful microprocessor, the 16-bit 8086, gives designers the architectural foundation to create a new generation of microcomputer solutions. The success of these system designs, though, depends on the performance and availability of compatible support components.
We understood this interdependence when, seven years ago, we invented the first microcomputer. At each step since then, our achievements in data memory, program memory and peripherals have anticipated the demands of higher performance microprocessors. Today's 8086 designs can take advantage ofour full complement ofcompatible components to start building the systems of the future without delay.
Our EPROMs exist to support microprocessors
. Key to practical microcomputer design is the EPROM. We invented these erasable and reprogrammable memories to make system prototyping faster and simpler. Now that the 8086 has extended the use of microprocessors to i;nore complex data processing, the program flexibility of EPROMs is more important than ever.
: Two Intel®EPROMs, the 2716 16K and 2732 32K, are ideal devices for 8086 systems. Both were designed with high speed, 5-volt microprocessors in mind. And they're the only EPROMs that give designers two independent control

lines to eliminate the possibility of bus contention in multiplexed and multiprocessor systems.
A RAM for every purpose Intel delivers a variety of com-
ponents to meet the data memory requirements of 8086 systems. Whether you're working in shared or multiple memory environments, Intel's family of 5-volt static RAMs gives you a full range of speed and power solutions.
Intel's 2142 (lKx 4), for example , is an ideal RAM for high performance systems. Because it has the same two-line control as our 2716 and 2732 EPROMs, the 2142 also simplifies design in high throughput, multiprocessor systems. With announced second sources, the 2142 is the new 20-pin

industry stan-

dard. In an

18-pin format,

8086

Intel delivers

the industry

standard 2114, with access times to

200 ns and the proven performance

of the most popular 4K RAM ever.

For even higher speed and lower

power, use our 2141. It's the 4Kx 1 bit, high performance HMOS RAM that has speed versions to 120ns, operating current as low as 40 mA active and standby current of 5 mA.
Building on 16-bit architecture To get started quickly with
8086 designs, you can take advantage of the family of 28 interface and control components we've developed for Intel industry standard microprocessors. They include intelligent peripheral interfaces for keyboard display, communications devices and general purpose I/O peripherals. Intel controllers give you programmable command over floppy disks, SDLC/HDLC protocol and CRTs.
Start today The surest path to system
success with the 8086 is to specify Intel EPROMs, RAMs and
peripherals. They're all here now. For detailed information on any of the above products, contact your local distributor. Or write Intel Corporation, Literature Dept., 3065 Bowers Avenue, Santa Clara, CA 95051.
Europe : Intel International , Brussels, Belgium . Japan : Intel Japan ,Tokyo . United States and Canadian distributors: Arrow Electronics, Alliance, Almac/ Stroum , Component Specialties, Cramer, Hamilton/Avnet, Harvey, Industrial Components, Pioneer, Sheridan, Wyle/ Elmar, Wyle/ Liberty, L.A.Varah and Zentronics.

See us at ELECTRO '79, New York City, April 24-26.

CIRCLE 18 FOR INFORMATION

of electrostatic printer/plotters give$ you easy solutions for even your toughest problems. And we're also working right now to satisfy your needs for the future.
Whichever model you choose, you can count on reliability, clear and crisp graphics, high contrast and high resolution. Most models are also UL 478 listed. And even at our high plotting speeds, hardcopy is dry thanks to our exclusive, patented closed loop toning system.
We also make it easy for you in other ways.

es,

ottffgurat1ons.

fitpport of popular computers such

as IBM 360/370, PDP-11, HP-2100 and Data

General NOVA/ECLIPSE series.

Let us tell you more about our patented

designs, exclusive techniques and competitive

features that can help solve your problems.

For immediate help, call the toll-free number

below. Or write Gould Inc., Instruments Division,

3631 Perkins Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44114.

Call toll free for brochure: (800) 325-6400,
n. ext. In Missouri (800) 342-6600.

CIRCLE 19 ON IN9UIRY CARD

I - ·· .... 6 - .

····

Fig 1 Flip-flop and gate distribution of 31

MSI circuits. Each dot represents a circuit with

gates plotted along X axis and flip-flops aldng

.. ..~,

· I

Y axis. A (2) above a dot Indicates that two I · clrcul share same logic count

NUMBER OF GATES , g

200ISO-

/ /
/
/'
/
/
,,.0/ /
/ /
/ /.

PRICE IN CENTS

SFicgho2ttkyPIrClc..elAofflips-tfalonpdacrdosatsndtwlooworptchr.r.veeer

SSI

MSI

times a much a a gate. Thie ratio re-

--STANDARD - --·IJ:JW POWER

17. 7 ·I.lg · 3.61 29.0 + I.9g · 6.31

3. lg. 6.31 5.··· 10.71

mains same for both standard and SctaOtt-
ky clrculta

SCHOTTKY

'° 20

COMPLEXITYINUMBER OF GATES · 11 I

"Typical" power dissipation vs number of gates is plotted in Fig 3 for the same samples. Once again the leastsquares equations are shown, and the deviations are again large-51 mW for the "standard Ms1" sample.

Trading Off Costs and Power Savings

Suppose a module will contain 45 ss1 circuits with 9 HipHops, and 45 MSI circuits with 60 Hip-Hops. Further, suppose that the module averages 17 gates for each Hip-Hop. To estimate the cost of the ss1 components, using standard circuits, use the appropriate equation from Fig 2.

x 4 xis] 45 x [ 17.7 + u 17 ~ 9 + 3.6

= 997¢ = $9.97

In a similar way, cost and power dissipation of the other circuits can be estimated with the following results:

45 SSI Circuits 45 MSI Circuits

Standard Circuits Cost Power (W)

$ 9.97

3.04

35.40

8.61

Schottky Circuits Cost Power (W)

$16.52 0.66

61.50

2.45

Totals $45.37

11.65

$78.02 3.11

=Note that it costs ($16.52 - 9.97) / (3.04 - 0.66 W) $2. 75/ W to reduce power using ss1 Schottky devices,
= and ($61.50 - 35.40) / (8.61 - 2.45 W) $4.24/ W to
reduce power using MSI Schottky devices.
Therefore, it appears that the cheapest way to achieve a 20% reduction in module power requirements is to re-
place all ss1 components with Schottky devices. However, in any specific application, the designer will need to examine the relative costs and power savings of both MSI and

i
I

~ 300-

;;;

POWER IN mW

g 200-
"~ ' -;f

=~=ER
SCHOTIKY

SSI
!Ho+ 41.61 3.811 + 9.11

MSI
7.3g · 19.41 1.911 + 8.61
----

- -- -- 1001!.:: .,,,,.."' ..-

- - -fu;.f\.O,s- - - -
- - , $0

,,.. \·O I

COMPLEXITY (NUMBER OF GATES, ol

Fig 3 Power dlsalpitlons In standard and low power Schottky ICs. SSI Schottky cir· cults require only about 21 % of the power of standard SSI circuits. MSI Schottky devices do not provide as much savings-they require 25 to 45% of the power of standard MSI circuits

ssr 1cs, since the incremental cost per watt saved varies widely from one part to another. Furthermore, the designer must consider development, inventory, and other hidden costs, in addition to purchase cost, in making a choice, if the Schottky circuits chosen are not qualified part numbers at his company.

The Author solicits comments on the material presented here, data supporting or contradicting his approach, and suggestions for topics to be explored In future articles.-Ed.

Want to know what all the talk is about? Write for details. Computer Devices. Inc..
25 North Avenue. Burlington. MA 01803. Telex: 94-9398. Or telephone 617-273-1550, or toll free: 800-225-1230.

We travel In the best companies.

COMPUTER DEVICES !!)!g,

Cl,RCLE 20 ON INtj)UIRY CARD

COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL .1979

DIGITAL TECHNDLCJGY REVIEW

32-Bit Minicomputer Vies With Competitors In Price/Performance

Model 3220, a full 32-bit microprogrammed minicomputer, priced like a 16-bit machine, is claimed to outperform minicomputers in its price range and to be far lower priced than comparable machines. In this first member of the 3200 series, Perkin-Elmer Corp, Computer Systems Div, 2 Crescent Pl, Oceanport, NJ 07757 has provided full 32-bit architecture, BM-byte direct memory access bandwidth, four external priority interrupt levels, and memory expansion to 4M bytes of MOS memory.
Directly addressing up to 4M bytes of physical memory, the processor uses 256k-byte MOS memory modules made up of 16k RAM chips. Memory has a 500-ns access cycle time and provides a 20M-byte/ s bandwidth in quad-word write mode. Battery backup maintains data for 5 min at lM byte; extended backup holds lM byte for 80 min. Eight sets of 16 32-bit wide registers each have four levels of external interrupts. Each interrupt level has an associated register set used during interrupt handling on that level.
The standard instruction set is implemented in 2k words of fixed control store (ROM) . The set has been expanded to include a subset of commercial instructions and single and double precision transfer instructions for mixed mode floating point operations.
Directly addressing 4M-bytes memory, Perkin Elmer's microprogrammed 3220 minicomputer has full 32-bit architecture. 1/0 paths include EMDA bus with 8M-byte/s and multiplexer bus with 400k-byte/s throughput

· Error correction performed on full 32-bit words corrects .all single bit errors and detects all double and most multiple bit errors. A loader storage unit with watchdog timer loads the automatic boot load progq1m, implemented in 2k-byte P/ ROM, into memory. The boot load program checks out memory and certain processor functions before loading the operating system.
. An optional cache use~ . lk bytes of bipolar memory to prbvide improved memory cycle time in some applications. With an 80% cache hit ratio, memory access time of 340 ns c~n be achieved. The direct mapped, write through cache is organized in 64 blocks, each 16 bytes long. Both memory and cache are updated on a memory write if the location written is stored in cache.
Implemented with a multiplexer bus and an extended direct memory access bus, the processor's 1/ 0 system supports up to 1023 devices. Slow and medium speed devices connect to the multiJ)lexer bus, while high speed devices attach through the DMA bus. Throughout on the multiplexer bus is 400k bytes / s; the EDMA has an 8M-byte/ s throughput rate.
For floating point operations, the optional floating point processor makes 46 instructions available. This option contains eight 32-bit single precision registers and eight 64-bit double precision reqisters. Available to implement special mathematical or scientific algorithms, an optional 2k words of writable control store can also be used to code FORTRAN or COBOL RTL routines and special functions in microcode.
All software available for orevious 32-bit models 7/ 32 and 8/ 32 processors operates on the 3220. This includes rea~time multitasking os/ 32 operating system as well as COBOL, FORTRAN VII, ITC transaction monitor, BASIC, !TAM, and HASP.
A 256k-byte model 3220, including cabinet and power, cache, floating point processor, writable control store, and console, has a price of $46,100. With 512k bytes the orice jumps to $55,600, and with lM bytes to $71,600.
See at NCC Booth 2027
Circle 170 on Inquiry Card

Computer System Altered To Improve Reliability, Add Compactness
A redesigned HP 3000 Series m couples improvements in compactness and reliability with a reduced price. In the system Hewlett-Packard Co, 1507 Page Mill Rd, Palo Alto, CA 94304 has incorporated low cost power components and a redesigned system bay to cut costs while increasing system uptime. Performance of previous models is retaiqed.
The system is fully compatible with all software written for previous Series II and III and for Series 33 machines. This compatibility allows the machine to use MPE-III operating system, languages, IMAGE DBMS, utilities, and MFG/ 3000 manufacturing application software.
Prices for svstems now begin at $105,000, a $10,000 drop from former prices. This includes 256k bytes of 16k RAM error correcqng memory, 50M-bytes disc storage, 1600-bit/ in magnetic tape drive, 16 terminal ports, CRT console, and MPE operating system. This system expands to 2M bytes of memory, 960M-bytes disc storage, 8 tape drives, and 64 terminal ports.
Circle 171 on Inquiry Card
Key to Disc Systems Meet Needs for Productivity and Data Validation
Data entry Systems 3100 and 3200 combine software editing features and operator productivity aids with large storage capacities to meet user demands for data validation capability that does not degrade system throughput. Introduced by Inforex, 21 North Ave, Burlington, MA 01803, the 3100 is aimed at batch editing; the 3200 offioads validation chores from mainframe computers.
System 3100 provides 40k-bytes main memory and 2.5M-bytes disc storage. In addition to expanded program level capacity, it offers the ability to validate entries through comparison with user generated tables. The ability to generate data from tables through customer defined codes reduces key stroke requirements.
A logical upgrade, the 3200 runs 3100 programs with no modification.

DIGITAL TECHNDLDCIY REVIEW

It contains 64k-bytes main memory and from lOM- to 40M-bytes disc storage capacity. Provided are COBOL compiler, arithmetic capabilities, and ability to move and edit data continually. All are available as foreground or background tasks.
Both systems support 16 operator stations and various peripheral devices as well as communications options. A typical 3100 with 40kbyte processor, 2.5M-byte disc, tape drive, and eight operator stations sells for $49,240. A 3200 with 64kbyte processor, !OM-byte disc, 45in/ s tape drive, 600 line/ min printer, communications interface, and eight operator stations has a tag of $89,630.
Circle 172 on Inquiry Card
Video Terminal Cuts Cost While Expanding Features
Model 1410 video display terminal supplies the advanced features necessary for efficient data entry and inquiry at low cost. Among the attributes of the terminal, available from Hazeltine Corp, Computer Terminal Equipment, Greenlawn, NY 11740, are improved visual performance and a separate numeric keypad to speed entry and reduce. errors.
Priced at $580/ unit in 1000 quantities, the terminal uses an advanced microprocessor to attain reduced parts count, and increased dependability. Another asset is that the cooling fan has been eliminated through the achievement of significantly cooler operating temperatures. All electronics are contained on a single PC card, eliminating all interconnections except input power and monitor connections.
The unit accommodates all 128 ASCII codes, displaying 64 characters on a 12" (30.5-cm) diagonal screen. It operates with a standard EIA Rs-232 interface and provides eight switchselectable transmission rates up to 9600 baud.
Characters are formulated using a TV raster scan technique with a 5 x 7 dot matrix character window. Spacing of two dots between characters and three lines between rows produces a legible, well-defined char-

acter. Screen capacity is 1920 characters, displayed 80/ line on 24 lines. Characters are refreshed at a 60-frame/ s rate, noninterlaced.
Circle 184 on Inquiry Card
Minicomputer System Processes and Tabulates Research Survey Data
A turnkey minicomputer system designed to process questionnaire data and perform tabulation functions for market research surveys, TABMASTERTM consists of CPU with disc storage, magnetic tape drive, character printer, video display terminal, and software. Developed by Mnemonics, Inc, 280 Connecticut Ave, Norwalk, CT 06854, the system incorporates MARKETABn', a survey tabulation system written in FORTRAN.
This system software features three processing phases : clean, tilt, and tabulation formatting. It provides multilevel parenthetical nesting; weighting; filtering; automatic stub alignment; indentation, underscoring, netting, and sorting; and statistical calculations.
System hardware provides a basic 64k-bytes memory capacity on CPU which handles lOM- to 1600M-byte disc storage subsystems. The video display terminal has a 1920-character display and detached 64-character keyboard with 11 programmable function keys. The printer produces hard copy at 30 or 60 char/ s. The tape ·unit stores 6M bytes/ tape, operating at 800 bits/ in, 75 in/ s.
Circle 185 on Inquiry Card
Disc Storage Subsystem Offers Plug Compatibility With Massbus Controller
Disc storage subsystems Msc-05 and -06 are plug compatible replacements for DEC RP-04/ 05/ 06 disc drives used on DEcsystem-10 and -20, PDP-11 and -11/ 70, and vAx-11/780 systems. Designed by Micrncomputer Systems Corp, 432 Lakeside, Sunnyvale, CA 94086 to avoid the complex engineering implementation of the

DEC units, the subsystems can be added to an installation without changes to the operating system.
Architecture of the subsystem centralizes data transfer management functions, rather than using both disc drive control and disc storage control unit circuitry. While both systems perform the same functions, the use of microprocessor control logic provides more efficient execution of functions. As changes are made to the operating system to achieve higher throughput, the disc system will accommodate the changes.
Plug compatibility of the systems with the MASSBUS controllers allows them to be added to an installation without changes to the existing operating system. After the addition disc packs can be interchanged freely between the added drives and RP04/ 05/ 06 units. The subsystems remain compatible when the operating system is upgraded.
All operating system and device level diagnostics are supported with the systems, facilitating maintenance. In addition, extensive inline and offline subsystem diagnostics have been implemented to test microprocessor control logic as well as drive function . Inline diagnostics may be executed on any attached drive while the others continue normal operations. A front panel diagnostic display on each drive in the subsystem, allows monitoring of registers in the drive register set.
A dual port option to the subsystem permits access by two computers simultaneously. Subsystem operation in dual port mode is functionally transparent to both computers regardless of the number of disc drives attached. The subsystem dual port option supports MASSBUS reservation, request, and interrupt protocols for all drives in the subsystem. More than one subsystem can be attached to the same MASSBUS, providing the potential for dual data paths to multiple drives in a dual port system.
Circle 173 on Inquiry Card
12-MHz Dual Trace Scope Offers 15-mV Sensitivity In Compact Portable Case
A practical 3" (7.6-cm), 12-MHz oscilloscone, the series 1020 single and double trace scopes provide 15-mV sensitivity, TTL/CMOS operat-

I COMPUTER DESIGN APRIL 1979

I , DllllTAL Tl!CHNDLDGV REVIEW

VERTICAL CHANNELS

TO
SWEEP CIRCUIT

Dual vertical deflection amplifier section of 'Ballantine 's miniscope has no appreciable de drift with time, after a short warmup, and over full voltage range. Temperature drift is only 0.1 division zero shift for full O to 50 °C swing

FROM TRIGGER AMPLIFIER

FROM VERTICAL
J/K

CHOP LOCKOUT

Sweep and trigger circuits in series 1020 are all driftfree digital beyond analog threshold input of trigger binary until sweep generating op amp ramp generator is reached. Unblanking during sweep interval and blanking at all other times lowers power drain, improves available display brightness, and prevents flyback ghosts

ing efficiency, and shock and vibration resistant CRT, along with rugged construction which allows its use in any environment. Measuring 8 x 7.375 x 3.25" (20 x 18.7 x 8.25 cm) and weighing 5 lb (2.25 kg) , the unit operates on 12 Vdc at 1 A obtained from battery pack or with plug-in converter from an ac power line.
Sweep rates range from 100 ns to 100 ms/ div in 12 calibrated steps plus a continuously variable XlO magnifier. Use of standard rn and CMOS circuits allows low quiescent current drain and low dissipation in

operation. The high light output CRT h as a 1-kV accelerating potential to minimize dissipation in the high voltage p ower supply and CRT control circuits. As a result the unit l'equires less than 10 W with a nominal temperature rise of only 7 °C, thereby eliminating the need for a cooling fan.
Short length of the CRT provides high immunity to shock and vibration. Its P31 phosphor screen is shaped to a radius that assures constant sharp focus and an integral black graticule minimizes parallax

effects. Screen area is 8 x 10 divisions ( 1 div= 5 mm).
In order to provide all these functions within the package constraints, designers at Ballantine Laboratories Inc, PO Box 97, Boonton, NJ 07005 first minimized internal dissipation by using a high efficiency, high frequency PWM switching regulated power supply fed either by battery de or by de from an external line pluggable transformer rectifier module. To prevent conducted emi from entering the instrument, the filter for the transformer rectifier is located in a shielded compartment at the rear of the scope, providing broadband line attenuation for the battery cable circuit.
Selection of a short curved face mono-accelerator CRT met the size constraints and provided vibration and shock resistance, and a sharp round spot that stays in focus because of the uniformity of the glass face. To obtain a bright trace a 1-kV total accelerating supply is used with a much higher beam current that is concentrated into a small controlled spot. Screening the graticule directly onto the CRT's face virtually eliminates graticule-parallax errors or distractions.
In operation there is no beam searching. If there is nothing to trigger on an automatic bright line sweep trigger allows positioning of the traces. To add speed and simplify use an extra section on the sweep rate selector switch makes the transition from chopped to alternate mode automatic. Logical crossover from chopped to alternate is at 1 ms/ div. Trigger sensitivity is 0.25 div, de to 5 MHz and 0.5 div, 5 to 10 MHz internal; and 100 mV rms, de to ,5 MHz and 150 mV rms, 5 to 10 MHz external. The unit can synchronize on a glitch that is equivalent to a 20-MHz, 2-mV signal, as easily as it can on the leading edge of a 2-MHz clock. Accuracy is ±3%.
The unit is capable of operating from 0 to 50 °C; in transit or storage it survives -55 to 75 °C ranges. While not explosion proof by UL standards it is dust and dirt proof in use and will operate dependably at altitudes to 10,000 ft (3 km) without corona or arcing. The durable case can withstand rough handling, and yet is light enough to be hung from a neck strap. Since no ac voltage enters the unit it can be safely operated from this position.
Circle 174 on Inquiry Card

COMPUTER DESIGN/ APRIL 1979

CIRCLE 22 ON INtj)UIRY CARD~

Wtl() CA~ M~~T ffiUl? C3l?liT~'T ~~~U' I~ U 'UUMl~IATUl?~'? ITT CA~~()~ C~!

SERIES o· o·c
o·u
o·P
Q·M

DESCRIPTION

DESIGNATION

D Submrniature connector, low cost

ORIGINAL-0

D Submrniature connector, low-cost for commercial applications

BURGUN-0 (Mark IV)

Flame-retardant D Subminiature

BURGUN-D (Mark IV)

All plastic 90° PCB D Submrniature

BURGUN-D (Mark IV)

D Subm1niature connector for more critical GOLDEN-D

applications conforms to MIL-C-24308

(Marki)

D Submrniature with LITILE CAESAR· contact retention system conforms to MIL-C-24308

ROYAL-D (Mark Ill)

INSULATORS Two-piece white NylOn Two-piece. burgundy glaas-filled Nylon
Two-piece, black glaas-lilled Nylon (UL rated IMV-0) Black glass-reinforced thermoplastic. (UL rated IMV-0) (flame retardant) Monobloc. dark green. Diallylphlhalate glass-filled Monobloc, dark green. Diallylphthalate glass-filled

CONTACTS
Solder, Wire-Wrapt and printed circuit Crimp snap-In rear release and printed circuit. Plastic cone retention. Crimp snap-in rear release and printed circuit. Plastic cone retention. Stamped printed circuit
Solder, printed circuit. Wire-Wrapt coaxial. high power and high voltage. Crimp snap-in rear release coaxial and /or high voltage.

twire-Wrap is a registered trademark of Gardner Denver Corp

SERIES
D"SP
20*
D*H D*J
D*D

DESCRIPTION

DESIGNATION INSULATORS

Mae Terminated D Submlnlature pin and MAS/TER"'·D

llOCket connector

CMarkVl

Black glass-reinforced thermoplastic. UL rated 94V-O (flame-retardant)

D connectors with double the dl!lllltv of crimp en11>-1n contacts In monotiloe
ineulalorl In a llandard D lhell

DOUBLE DENSITYD.

Monobloc. glass·filled nylon, dark green

Hermetically-Haled D connactora for appli- HERMETICD catlona with extreme pressure differential

Compression glass

Fill9r connectora for Improved control of radio frequency and electro-magnetic Interference

FILTERD

Diallylphthalate

Environmental D connectorl. vibration· proof and moisture l'Mlstant

ENVIRONMENTAL Dlallylphthalate

CONTACTS Non-removable insulation ill..,._ment termination. Crimp snap-In rear release.
Eyelet or solder pot.
Solder and printed circuit.
Solder non-removable and crimp snap-in re11 release.

ir.1979 International Telephone and Telegraph Corperatlon Printed In U.S.A.

CllBITAL TECHNDLDGV REVIEW

Modular Terminals Offer Flexibility Through Virtual Machine Design
BMTT"' series modular electronic terminals are described as being "based on a virtual machine design that leads to lower overall cost and provides maximum flexibility." The display based MT 200, printer based 300, and user programmable display based 600 terminal systems introduced by Burroughs Corp, Detroit, MI 48232 consist of separately packaged display screens, keyboards, printers, magnetic card readers, and memory subsystems which combine in a variety of ways to meet specific requirements.
Each terminal is built around a microprocessor that can be programmed to drive all te1minals in the family. This virtual machine technique eliminates the need for separate controllers and provides cost savings as well as long range protection from equipment obsolescence by allowing future elements to be added to the terminals without software revisions or equipment replacement.
The microprocessor supplies processing intelligence for displays, printers, keyboards, and for application programs, data storage, and peripheral control. It enables terminals to operate online to a host or as independent units for ofHine applications. Terminals provide a choice of standard data communications protocols, with data transfer rates from 600 to 9600 bits/ s.
Another element common to all terminals is an 1/ 0 subsystem that acts as interface between the microprocessor and memory and peripheral components. This subsystem contains its own single chip microprocessor and controller.
Preprogrammed display based MT 200 terminals offer a choice of 5, 9, or I2" ( I2.7, 22.9, or 30.5-cm) CRT display screens. Each screen has capacity of I5 lines, each up to 40 char long, and features a 96-char ASCII set. The system can be equipped with alpha, numeric, or alphanumeric keyboard.
MT 300 units are based on a 90char bidirectional matrix printer that offers either 4.5 or 8.5" ( 11.4 or 21.6-cm) wide printing format, accepts variab'e width documents for single line validation, and prints a continuous form journal. Buffered

for sustained operation, the unit can print reverse images (white against black) for emphasis. A numeric keyboard with 40-char Self-Scana display is included.
Versatile standalone systems, MT 600 user programmable display based terminals provide I2" (30.5-cm) display with capacity for 28 lines of 80 char each and alphanumeric keyboard. Up to 96k bytes of memory is included, and basic arithmetic functions (add, subtract, multiply, divide) plus positive and negative sign values are supplied. The unit offers a microprocessor controlled diskette subsystem that can store up to 160k bytes of data or control instructions.
In an interactive data entry application, the host computer causes a blank form to be displayed on the 600's CRT screen. Data ePtered through the keyboard are positioned automatically on the screen where they can be verified by the operator prior to transmission to the computer or printer. The unit can also perform forms creation and forms completion programs ofHine, or can function online as a conventional data entry station.
Circle 175 on Inquiry Card
Processors Capitalize On LSI/Packaging Technology To Raise Speed, Drop Price
Two 4300 series processors announced by IBM Corp, Data Processing Div, 1133 Westchester Ave, White Plains, NY 10604 offer increased memory capacity and improved internal performance over comparable intermediate size processors currently in use. While maintaining compatibility with System/ 370, the 434I offers 2M characters of main memory and up to 3.2 times the instruction execution speed of a IM-char model I38. A 433I with 0.5M-char memory offers four times the execution rate of a model 115 with 64k char at a lower price.
Advanced LSI and packaging technologies used in the processors reduce size and power dissipation. Dense packaging of memory chips and logic chips contributes to reliability and size reduction as well as significantly reducing power, cooling, and space requirements. Power and

cooling requirements for the 433I are said to be 70% less than those of a model I38, allowing the machine to operate in an office environment. The 434I reduces requirements by about 50% compared to the model I38.
A multichip carrier that holds up to nine LSI logic chips (see Computer Design, Jan I979, pp 170-I72) is credited with space savings in the logic package. The module's multilayer ceramic structure and large number of I/ o pins permit it to accommodate a large number of logic circuits. Fabricated from up to 23 ceramic layers in which up to 10 m of wiring are deposited during the manufacturing process, to intercon~ nect logic circuits and distribute electrical power, the modules measure either 35 or 50 mm square. The smaller one has 196 r/ o connecting pins; the larger has 36I pins.
Improved PC technology, including closer tolerances for circuit wiring and a greater number of internal planes for cards and boards, also plays a part in reducing size of the logic package. Wiring line width is held within a tolerance of ±0.00I" (0.025 mm) to permit precise fabrication of wiring lines. Wiring patterns are formed on thin epoxy glass sheets using both a subtractive etch process and an electroless copper plating process foi· signal planes. These sheets are lacquered together to form cards and boards. The process allows use of 8 planes in cards and 16 in boards, significantly increasing wiring flexibility. Lo!!ic modules are soldered onto the cards, with modu!e pins connecting to wiring on various planes.
Processor memory uses previously announced 64k-bit chips. These chips contain redundant bits to enhance productivity and integrate timing and addressing functions. Two 8-bit high speed buffers on the chip are !Capable of a 100-ns data rate. This data rate coupled with ability to read 72 chips at one time results in increased memory access speeds.
Densitv at the module level has been doubled over that of the 8100 and System/ 38 by stack!ng two 2 .5cm square ceramic substrates, each holding four 64k-bit chips. Using this module allows more than 0.5M bytes of memory to be obtained on a single I2.4 x I9-cm card.
Each processor is available in two models: the 433I has 0.5M or IM

DIBITAL TECHNDLDGV REVIEW

characters of main storage; the 4341 has either 2M or 4M. Both use the 3278 model A display console for operation and maintenance. The 4331 can operate as a standalone unit, linked to other 4300s, or attached to a central System/370. An integrated communications controller eliminates the need for a separate communications controller.

Announced for use on the 4331 processors were 3310 direct access storage providing up to 64.SM char. 3370 direct access storage for both processors offers storage for S71M char with a data transfer rate of l.8S9M char/s. Two separate data paths into the 4341 are provided by the 3880 storage control. Central to this unit is an LSI bipolar micro-

controller chip that can execute SM
instructions/ s and has 94 I/ o sig-
nal lines, and built-in error detection. Prices for a 4331 with O.SM and
lM char of main memory are $6S,OOO and $72,SOO, respectively. A 4341 with 2M- or 4M-character memory is priced at $24S,OOO or $27S,OOO. Deliveries are scheduled for second and fourth quarter of this year, respectively.
Circle 176 on Inquiry Card

Now an acousto-optlc modulator that can be mounted dlrectly onto the laser!
I-low did we do it? By building the Bragg angle adjustment into the modulator head
and providing a threaded adapter that permits mounting to a Coherent Radiation Model 80 HeNe, or other laser with compatible threads. No
more mounts or angle adjustments, we supply the
entire system! We didn ' t skimp on
specifications when we designed this one either. When used with a Coherent Radiation Model 80 He-Ne, the modulation is 70% @ 3 .SMHz and 50% @
4.75MHz. These bandwidths can be increased by using a laser with

smaller beam diameter, or employing beam
forming optics. Extinction ratio is conservatively specified at 1000:1. The static transmission is 96% and the diffraction
efficiency is 85%, yield-
ing a dynamic transmission of 80%.
The Coherent Radiation Model 80 He-Ne laser which features an encapsulated, hermetically sealed head, is avai Iable with 2, 4 or 6mw power output, or with a polarized output.
You get all that, plus the built-in Bragg angle adjustment in an acoustooptic modulator head that is only 2" diameter and 3'/·"long.
There's a Coherent answer for every laser need.

14 Finance Dr., Commerce Park, Danbury, CT 06810 Tel. (203) 792-2850 Telex 969-651

CIRCLE 23 ON IN(j)UIRY CARD

Interactive Design System Offers Graphic Networking Capabilities
A small graphics system, the Dual Processor System introduced by Gerber Scientific Instrument Co, 83 Gerber Rd, South Windsor, CT 06074 provides production capabilities of interactive design systems, and programming, security and communication features of data management systems to users in computer aided design and manufacturing areas. The system, designed to insure productivity at low cost, provides the advantages of the company's graphic networking architecture in a smaller system. Among these are CAD/ CAM capabilities, tutorial user interaction, queued plotting and communications, multiple levels of data file security, automated archiving and backup, distributed process performance and availability, and graphic network expandability.
System hardware includes two HP 2113 E series computers with 64k of core memory. The two computers work in parallel to improve throughput. The two processors share a single high performance disc that provi:les SOM bytes of storage and a 2S-ms average seek time. Featuring a fail safe head retraction system that retracts heads in event of a power failure, the disc is driven by a microprocessor based controller which handles access to the disc from both the DMS and ms computers.
Each system supports up to four graphic workstations and peripheral devices including drafting systems, remote communications options, programming terminals, printers, and magnetic tape units. Systems expand to 2M bytes of main memory and BOOM bytes of disc storage.
Circle 177 on Inquiry Card
COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

Grinnell hasyour display...

from low cost imaging and graphics to f color image processing

Our modular, solid state systems can meet your computer display requirement, easily and economically.
And, they're intelligent. Every system has a complete alphanumerics and graphics package, and a powerful instruction set that simplifies programming-no need for complex macro-instructions and high order programming languages.

There's also a choice of standard resolutions : 256 x 256, 256 x 512, 512 x 512 (30 Hz or 60 Hz refresh) and 1024 x 1024. Plus plug compatible interfaces for most minis.
Options include overlays, function memories, pseudo-color tables, zoom and pan, independent cursors with trackball and joystick controls, split-screen , image toggling, and real time digitizers that grab and store images and sum consecutive frames.

Grinnell displays are already used for tomography, ERTS imaging, process control, image processing, animation and much more. All systems drive standard TV monitors.
So before you choose a display system, let our experts show you how to maximize performance and min imize cost. For details, and/or a quote, call or write.

GRINNELL SVSTE:M 2159 Bering Drive, San Jose, California 95131 (408) 263-9920

CIRCLE 24 ON IN9UIRY CARD

''It's As Different From Other Systems As The Steam Shovel Is From The Shover'
Mark Levi General Manager, Microcomputer Systems

Starplex" Developtnent
System

"Right now, what's holding back new developments in microprocessing are the existing development systems.
The Starplex System is going to change all that.
And as of this moment, if you're in the business ofdesigning or programming
808018085 based products, this is the tool that can make your life infinitely less tedious.
So sophisticated is the Starplex System, it can virtually take you by the hand and walk you through its own operation.
Where other systems require scores of individually typed instructions, the Starplex System can do the same job at one stroke of a key.

Where other systems offer you blood, sweat, and repetition, the Starplex System offers HELP, PAUSE, EDIT, DEBUG, CONTINU E. To name a few of the unique functions on our keypad. Where other systems leave you fumbling
SIMPLE KEYSTROKE CONTROLS
SYSTEM OPERATING MODES
CRT-ORIENTED EDITOR
HIGH LEVEL LANGUAGES
ISE CAPABILITY
PROM PROGRAMMER
PRINTER
TOTAL PRICE
IE)tclus1ve of PROM PTOQrammer and ISE I

COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

through thick manuals looking for escape clauses, the Starplex System guides you through your work path with a series of menus, prompts, lights, and audible signals.
And while some systems can communicate only in assembly, ours is fluent in BASIC and FORTRAN. Languages which can be loaded- as usual-with one keystroke .
Now others may have claimed their
systems were "easy"be1r0re. But we've got
the software to prove it. Which is why we
do not hesitate to publish here a comparison chart which will show at a glance where things really stand.
The Starplex System is designed to be used with current and future National microprocessors, as well as BLC/SBC Series/SO microcomputers.
It's fully expandable, with four chassis slots allowing the addition of standard Series/SO boards. Plus a programming station which accepts optional personality boards for 270S and 2716 PROMs.
Integrated into the Starplex package are five microprocessors, 64K bytes of memory, dual 256K byte floppy discs, a 1920 character CRT, a 50 CPS printer, and stan-

dard ASCII keyboard in addition to the special function keypads.
All the software you'll need is included in the package. A powerful operating system, macro assemblers, editor, debugger, and other key software modules.
We also offer the In-System Emulator (ISE), an extremely valuable option for hardware development. It works through an easily understood command interface. ISE uses its own memory for memory mapping- a timesaving feature which also allows true real-
time debugging. Because Starplex ISE
incorporates symbolic debugging, you can debug code in the same assembly mnemonics in which it was written. And it's the only system emulator capable of debugging two microprocessors simultaneously in a multiprocessor system.
By any standard of comparison, the Starplex Development System represents a colossal leapfrog over the field in every category, save one: Price. And so, while others ask in excess of $20,000 for the privilege of unnecessary toil, our price is just $13,SOO. On the theory that not only is less more, but more should cost less. We would jump at the chance to tell you the whole story in detail. Write or call me for a complete brochure on the Starplex Development System. Address your request to Mark Levi, General Manager, Microcomputer Systems, National Semiconductor Corporation, Drawer 28, 2900 Semiconductor Drive, Santa Clara, California 95051. Or dial these toll-free numbers: 80053S-1866; 800-672-1811 in California. In Europe, write National Semiconductor GmbH, lndustriestrasse 10, 8080 Fuerstenfeldbruck, West Germany."

Computer Products Group
~ National Semiconductor Corporation

·TEKTRONIX· and 4014'" are registered trademarks of Tektronix, Inc.. use of which in no way constitutes endorsement.

DIGITAL TECHNDLDGV REVIEW

Single Board, 64-Channel Analo9 1/0 Systems Plug Into Unibus Backplane
Channel capacity of 64 analog inputs and choice of high or low level signal capability with 12-bit A-D conversion are standard performance features of DT l 71X series analog l/ o systems. Mounted on standard hex-height boards, the single card systems plug directly into a hex SPC slot in the Unibus backplane of DEC's PDP-11 minicomputers and are powered from the computer's 5-V supply.
Additional features offered on these single card systems by Data Translation Inc, 4 Strathmore Rd, Natick, MA 01760 are logic controlled 3-axis point plotting capability:, signal inputs down to 10 mV full scale either isolated to ±250-V common mode or nonisolated, and direct program compatibility with

DEC models. Optional are full board DMA interface for both input and output channels, programmable gain amplifier to extend dynamic range, and 100-kHz throughput.
DT 1711 is a. realtime analog l/o system designed for high level applications. Its input section accepts full scale unipolar inputs of 0 to 5 and 0 to 10 V as well as bipolar inputs of ±5 and ±10 V. The oncard 12-bit A-D converter is jumper connectable for corresponding data outputs that are binary coded for unipolar inputs and either offset binary or 2's complement for bipolar. Throughput is 35 kHz with 100 kHz optionally available. For point p _otting under program control, the output section con tains two D-A converters and Z-axis pulse output.
Channel capacities are 16 single ended or 8 differential inputs, 32 single ended or 16 differential, or 64 single ended or 32 differential. A 14-bit A-D converter is available

as is a programmable gain amplifier option for gains of 1, 2, 4, and 8.
An input system only, the DT 1712 is identical except that it has no point plotting converters or related output section circuitry. The DT 1715 is a low level l / 0 system that accepts full scale inputs from 10 mV to 10 V; in other respects it is identical to the 1711.
Another low level l/ o system, the 1719 has an isolated analog input section that withstands and rejects common mode voltages, to ±250 V. This unit uses a reliable and expandable reed relay flying capacitor technique that provides 126-dB common mode and 90-dB normal mode rejection at 60 Hz. Available with four differential input channels and ah optional programmable gain amplifier with digitally set gains of 1, 10, 100, and 500, the device can take up to 20 samples/ s in random channel select mode or 40 samples/ s in sequential mode.

ADl>OM

,...:. _____,

A 0 OMA CONTHOL I

AD CSR

_JI

12·811 AD
CONV ANO lb ·BIT
TRISTAT E DATA LATCH

ANALOG IN

AD BUF READ

I 001\'[

X O~<..OUT VOACOUT
DT 1711 series analog 1/0 systems provide 16- to 64-channel, 12-bit data acquisition with optional point plotting capability. Single board systems from Data Translation plug directly into Unibus backplane of PDP-11 minicomputers Circle 178 on Inquiry Card
45

Dll31TAL TECHNDLDl3V REVIEW

lsoFTWAREI
Software Packages Allow Graphics Hardcopy From Minicomputers
Software packages offer plotting capability for various printer/ plotters on Data General, DEC, and Sperry Univac computers. Written in FORTRAN, the packages are designed to run under the minicomputers' operating systems to provide graphic hardcopy on Versatec, Printronix, and Gould printer/ plotters.
To give Sperry-Univac« users the speed and reliability of electrostatic -plotting, Versatec, 2805 Bowers Ave, Santa Clara, CA 95051, has integrated Versaplot version 07 plotting software subroutines for use on 1100 computers under the EXEC-8 operating system. The package consists of FORTRAN and assembly language source code and a batch job stream to compile and assemble the source and build libraries.
Level E FORTRAN-V callable subroutines are compatible with basic pen plotter routines and commercial software packages. Enhancements include programmed grid overlay, area shading, and solid or dashed curved line generation.
Provided on 9-track, 800- or 1600bit/ in tape, the package allows user adjustable plotting windows, automatic stripping of plots wider than plotter paper width, and multiple line widths. Complete with graphics programming manuals and operating manual, price is $5,500.
Circle 179 on Inquiry Card
A device driver and support for PLOT 5000 software under Data General's advanced operating system allow Eclipse users to generate graphic hardcopy on Gould series 5000 printer/plotters. Available from Gould Inc, Instruments Div, 3631 Perkins Ave, Cleveland, OH 44114, the package includes user oriented features such as ERASE, multiple and fractional weight lines, and a plot monitor program (PLT). PLT features allow users to set global and local program switches at run time, enter number of copies to be produced, produce trace messages as the monitor executes, and direct error or trace messages to flies.

Both a graphic and alphanumeric handler, the AOS driver allows suspension of spooling output from disc files, providing direct output of buffers from main memory. In alphanumer~c mode the driver allows the printer/ plotter to simulate a standard line printer.
Circle 180 on Inquiry Card
Written in machine independent FORTRAN, a software plotting package for Printronix printers is available in versions that run under Data General's RDOS and DEC's RT-11 without modification. Replacing the standard subroutines in an existing plotter program, the package developed by Rhintek, Inc, PO Box 220, Columbia, MD 21045 produces an output pfot with 60 x 72 points/ in resolution.
The package includes all source code on a 9-track, 800-bit/ in magnetic tape in RDOS DUMP, RT-11, or card image format. Cost is $950.
Circle 181 on Inquiry Card
Project Control Software Combines Interactivity With Resource Calculati~ns
READINET combines interactive computing techniques with classical PERT/CPM time, cost, and resource calculations to provide a conversational project control system suitable for the construction industry and large manufacturers. All interaction is through a CRT terminal with printed reports and analyses available on 'Command.
Developed by Educational Data Systems, 1682 Langley Ave, Irvine, CA 92714, the system can process projects with any number of activities and events. Up to 16 different resource types can be associated with each activity. Each resource type may have its own unit cost, and each activity may be assigned a nonresource linked cost to cover factors such as materials and rentals.
Weeks of 5, 6, or 7 days may be selected and an unlimited number of holidays may be specified at run time, providing the flexibility to experiment with the effects of changing work weeks. Multiple staits and finishes are allowed, and scheduled dates may be assigned to any event.

Critical situations may be represented by allowing ending events to float.
Progress is reported as a percentage completed of each activity; when an activity is completed, the completion date is printed. Up to nine tabular reports are included in the reporting menu, as well as ad hoc reports, bar charts, and resource allocation/ finance reports. Reports can be printed out directly or can be displayed on the CRT screen.
Using one optional module allows 'time card data and real costs to be reported. An optional interrogator module pe1mits use of the CRT to investigate the status of any activity or event in detail. With it the network can be searched for activities or events that satisfy a complex selection criterion based on descriptors connected with .AND. and .OR. operators.
The system is written in Business BASIC under the IRIS operating system and uses random access file structures. It can automatically create or delete files, and allows multiple projects to be processed simultaneously from different online terminals. Provided on diskette, cassette, or paper tape, the system consists of 23 programs. Price for a basic package is $2900.
Circle 182 on Inquiry Card

Sort Utility Designed to Run Under PDP-11 Operating Systems

Running on Digital Equipment Corp's PDP-11 minicomputers, the SPEED-

SORT/ 11 sort utility can be invoked as a user command or called from a FORTRAN program. Written by Pennington Systems Inc, 65 S Main St,

Bldg A, Pennington, NJ 08534, the

system runs under Rsx-llD, Rsx-llM,

and IAS operating systems and can

sort fixed or variable records and

spanned or unspanned b~ocks.

The utility accepts two levels of

command files, including partial com-

mand. A high speed second order

"verify" mode permits users to spec-

ify sort keys and reports whether

records in the file are alreasJy in

order. Sort keys may be integer ( 16-

or 32-bit signed), floating (32 or

64 bit), character (8-bit unsigned ) ,

or word (16-bit unsigned).

Circle 183 on lnquiry ·Card

COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

OEM'S ... USE THE
LEADING
NEW Tractor Feed Type
EPSON MODEL 3110 WITH 80 COLUMN FORMAT
AS PART OF YOUR SMALL BUSINESS AND PERSONAL COMPUTER SYSTEMS
Now available for both tractor feed and friction feed type applications , the Epson Model 3110 Dot Matrix Printer Mechanism features a 100 million character head, with exceptionally clear printing. Long life of the head with ruby-jeweled support comes from the mechanism's precise alignment and pin movement ... using techniques developed by Shinshu Seiki Co. , Ltd ., Epson's parent in Japan. The Model 3110 prints 80 columns at 150 characters per second ,
with a 5 x 7 dot matrix character.
Tailored for the small-business and personal computer markets , the Model 3110 is attractively priced for OEM's large- or small-lot orders , and is stocked for prompt delivery.
Write for complete information and OEM prices.

CIRCLE 26 ON IN9UIRY CARD

DIGITAL CDNTRDL AND AUTDMATIDN SYS TEMS

Microcomputer Contro l System Maintains Slide Drive Positioning Accuracy
W. E. Barkman
Union Carbide Corporation Oak Ridge, Tennessee

Closed-loop control of machine tool slides is routinely provided by manufacturers of numerical control systems. However, these systems-whether hard- or softwired-<lo not always provide the flexibility and initial low cost often required in the early stages of a development effort. Fortunately, single-board computers do meet these requirements and can be used successfully in early prototype development situations.
At the Oak Ridge Y-12 Plant* development of linear motor slide drives is accomplished with a test bed such as shown in Fig 1. A transistor amplifier driven motor and a 1000-lb (454-kg) air-bearing slide are mounted on a steel-topped concrete table that is isolated from building structural vibrations by a pneumatic isolation system. Slide position information is provided to the control system via up/ down pulses from a HewlettPackard laser interferometer.
Control System Confi gura+ion
Input signals required for the servo system consist of position following-error and rate information. T;aditionally, the following-error is formulated within the numerical control (NC) as a digital word, while the rate signal is obtained from a tachometer that is attached to the drive lead screw of the machine. Unfortunately, the rate signal is not as easily accessible in this instance because there are no rotating parts in the linear motor slide drive system.
An Intel SBC 80/ 10 single-board computer was chosen to provide the position following-error data required for closed-loop operation. Rate information was obtained by coupling the up/ down pulse output lines from the laser display to individual frequency-tovoltage (F·V) converters and summing the outputs from the F·V converters with an operational amplifier. This rate signal could also h ave been generated using the microcomputer but with an associated penalty in the execution time of the control loop software. Also, a hardwired circuit could have been used in place of the microcomputer but at the loss of needed flexibility in the early stages of development.
Additional microcomputer hardware used to close the position loop consists of an Intel System 80 chassis,
48

SBC 104 combination memory and inputjoutput (1/0) board, and SBC 310 high speed math unit and an Augat wirewrap interface board. On the interface board are 16-bit up/ down counters and buffers for the system command anq feedback signals, a 16-bit digital-toanalog converter ( DAC ) that drives the servo amplifier, and the F·V converters. The 16-bit command and feedback data are coupled to the 1/ 0 card via 50-pin flat cables from the wirewrap board, while the up/ down command and feedback signals, followin g-error signal, and rate signal are passed through an auxiliary plug added to the card cage frame. These signals are coupled to the System 80 chassis via BNC connections mounted on the rear panel.
The control loop software begins operation by issuing a strobe signal to the interface board (Fig 2 ) that causes the current contents of the feedback and command counters to be latched into the buffer registers. (A hardwired logic circuit on the interface board ensures that a data transfer is not attempted while input pulses are present.) The software then reads the contents of the input buffers and converts these counts into a common base using the fixed point multiplication capabilities of the math unit. This step is necessary since the value of the feedback pulses is frequently a fraction of the value of the command pulses.
After the input data are properly scaled, the command and feedback words are subtracted to form a new increment of following-error. This increment is then added to the previous following-error value and the result is output to the DAC. Software operates in a continuous loop, updating the following-error once every cycle.
The computer code was configured to obtain the minimum cycle time for updating the system followingerror (thereby avoiding abrupt changes and minimizing interface capacity requirements) . Therefore, assembly language programming was required, with attention given to utilizing the fastest instruction sequence, while
*Operated for the Department of Energy by Union Carbide Corp, Nuclear Div under Contract W-7405 eng 26.
COMPUTER DESIGN/ APRIL 1979

Zilog rockets out in front again to launch a new generation.
For the first time, the architectural sophistication and data processi ng capabilities of large, main-frame computers has been captured in the cost-effective, easy to use format of the microprocessor. Now you can have the freedom to create entirely new, innovative systems, unhindered by the primitive architectures of previous microprocessors.
Flexibility soars to new heights.

A revolution in sophistication.
The ZBOOO has been designed from the ground up with options to fit your application needs exactly. For the full 8 M B addressing capability, choose the 48 Pin DIP
version. Its compani on device, the Memory Management Un it, opens the way to dynamic relocation , memory protection and multi-tasking appl ications.

The Z8000 allows you to directly address up to 8 MB of memory. All 16 registers are a full 16 bits wide and are completely general pu rpose. The powerful , problem-solving instruction

set supports 7 different data types from bits to 32 bit words , has 8 addressing modes and 418 usable opcode combinations .
The general register architecture helps avoid the well-known bottle-
necks inherent in dedicated register MULTI· [ designs.When this architecture is coN~1~~~L ' combined with the powerful instruction set , the ZBOOO system throughput is an explosive 50% greater than any other 16 bit microprocessor available today.

SUBSTRATE DECOUPLING CAPACITOR

A REVOLUTIONARY NEW WAY TO
·THINK ABOUT MICROPROCESSOR
SYSTEMS. INTRODUCING ZILOG'S zaooo.

For smaller, less memoryintensive applications, select the 40 Pin version of the Z8000. It's software compatible with the 48 Pin Z8000 but addressing is limited to 64KB in each of its six address spaces. It comes in a standard 40 Pin package.

PERFORMANCE/PRICE RATIO
8080

literature package; in the U.S. order directly from Zilog, elsewhere from your Zilog distributor.

Wait 'till you meet the family.
We're starting off this new microprocessor era with a bang, but it's just the beginning . Soon to come are the Memory Management Unit, peripheral interfaces, FIFO buffer elements, universal peripheral controller and memories for any application you might have.
And , all the new 1/0 chips, memories and, of course , the companion Z8, take advantage of the flexible Z-BUS architecture to maximize performance, ease of interconnection and minimize PC board area.
Zilog delivers on the next generation of microprocessors. Again!
With the introduction of the Z8000, microprocessor technology explodes . to new heights. Bursting with a rich and sophisticated architecture, the Z8000 not only opens the way to revolutionizing your next generation

n ~ ~

~ ~ ~

TIME
of products, it has the built-in

growth potential to carry your product

development efforts out to totally

new and unexplored horizons.

Imagine the possibilities, then light your own fuse!

Sound exciting? It is. Get your own fireworks blazing by placing your order today with your nearest Zilog
distributor. In the meanwhile, give your
engineering staff a headstart on the fireworks by ordering the Z8000

10460 Bubb Road , Cupertino. CA 95014 (408) 446-4666 TWX 910-338-7621 EASTERN REGION : (617) 667-2179 MIDWESTERN REGION : (312) 885-8080 SO.WESTERN REGION : (714) 549-2891 NO.WESTERN REGION : (408) 446-4666 EUROPE (ENG LAND): (0628) 36131 /2/3 WEST GER MANY: (08106) 4035 JAPAN : 03-476-3010
An affiliate of EJf{ON ENTERPRISES INC.
~
Zilog

CIRCLE 28 ON IN9UIRY CARD

DIGITAL CDNTRDL AND AUTDMATIDN SYSTEMS

"'""J"'""'"" l- 1a_/,_

...li:Ol'ULSE GENERATOR
I

Fig 1 Early test bed confi gu ration . lntellec 8 microcomputer was subsequently replaced by SBC 80/ 10 single-board microcomputer system

attempting lo maintain some degree of modularity. For instance, the hardware math unit was chosen not only for its speed in performing fixed-point multiplication (typically 15 µ,s) but also for the parallel processing capability. This enabled the software to initialize the arithmetic operation and then continue with other tasks such as 1/ 0 servicing and sign adjustment until the math operation was completed. (A math

unit status-checking sequence was also added in anticipation of the eventual use of a faster processor.)
Following completion of data scaling, the followingerror was formed by subtracting the position command word from the feedback word. However, this was not done with the math unit because of the time required to convert back and forth from fixed-poin t to floatingpoint (fixed-point subtraction is not available with the

WIREWllAI' INTERFACE llOARD

SBJIO MATH UNIT

DOWN

COMMAND COUNTER/BUFFER

...._--..,J~o/.,, SBC 104

t F1f~ 'IOM~~.D.!O:W!UNPL._,....IFFE£EDiBrAoCsKAcit----,..,.____,.._......_, MCOEMMBOIRNYATION K;:,_o BU~...-'I SBC 80110

·--

COUNTER/BUFFER

-.- AND

MICROCOMPUTER

--..+--l=-~RTER 1/\----1 110 BOARD

1-ei FREQUENCY-TO-
~ llOLTAGE CON'/SITERS

t--

J STROBE
TO COMPUTER/BUFFERS (INITIATES DATA TRANSFER I

I. READS N'UT DATA
2. SCALES DATA
3. CALCULATES CUMENT FOLLOWING-£RllOlt
4. OUTPUTS FOLLOWING[ ERROR
5. CONTINUES

ANALOG FOUOWING-ERRORl

l ANALOG RATE

....--...L--~--,

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COMPENSATION AND FILTERED

LINEAR MOTOR

VELOCITY

FEEDBACK

SERVO AMPLIFIER

,___ JL.._ _ UP

1----- ..,.__ _.,RlE>OSOXUJTION EXTENSION

.n..
DOWN

LASER INTERFEROMETER

Figure 2 Control system block diagram. Microcomputer reads feedback and command Information and outputs following-error to servo system

CIGITAL CONTROL ANC AUTOMATION SYSTEMS

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_._

......_........................

· ·

0 . 1IN (0 25 CM)IMIN

.,.. -- - - ·

.. ..... · , ·· ·I·

' · ~ ~··

· . ... ... . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 . . .. . . . .. . . .

.. ... .... .. . .

.. Ill

Fig 3 Positioning test results demonstrating following-error ripple at 0.1-, 0.2-, and 0.5-in/min (0.25-, 0.5-, and 1.27-cm/min) ·feed rates. Processor continually executes control loop software and updates following-error every 500 µ.s. [Vertical scale 0.2 µ.in (5.1 nm)/div, horizontal scale 50 ms/div, and feedback resolution 0.1 µ.in (2.54 nm)]

0 .5IN ( 1.27 CMl/MIN

SBC 310) and because parallel processing was not reasonable at this point in the software. Instead, 24-bit subtraction was accomplished by using the "double add stack pointer" instruction (which generates a carry) and an "add register to accumulator with carry" instruction, for a nominal subtraction time of 14 µ,s.
Nominal execution time of the software is 500 µ,s. This means that the number of counts being processed each cycle with a 0.1-µ,in (2.54-nm) feedback resolution and a maximum feed rate of 0.5 in (1.27 cm) / min is relatively small. However, the input counter/ buffers must be sized to accept sudden excursions due to external disturbances, or sudden changes in feed rates. For this reason, a 16-bit up/ down counter was used to accumulate the position feedback pulses. An 8-bit counter would have been sufficient for the command pulses but the 16-bit counter provides extra capability for future use. A 12-bit command counter would also have been adequate but would have required extra software data manipulation.
A 16-bit DAC was chosen initially in hopes of being able to accommodate large values of following-error. Unfortunately, as the size of the DAC increased, the amplitude of the least significant bit also decreased so that the full range of the DAC was not really usable. An amplifier was added to the DAC output to attempt to extend the usable range (this results in amplifier saturation at a fraction of the DAC full scale output but it does provide a cushion against data loss) .
While this provided the necessary signal amplitude to ensure good sensitivity, it also resulted in a distinct nonlinearity. A preferable solution was to program the microcomputer to provide a software gain break so that an 8X increase in gain occurred at followingerror values below 1.6 µ,in (40.6 nm). This extremely low gain-break setting was possib~e only because of the very high gain servo loop [system following-error for
54

normal operating conditions is less than 1 µ,in (25.4
nm) J. This technique permitted a "tighter" position
loop for normal operating conditions but avoided amplifier saturation for large amplitude disturbances. Nevertheless, it was determined that a 12-bit DAC would be adequate since a minimum drive signal of approximately 0.04 V was required to accurately control the motor. Higher resolution DACs could be used with an accompanying change in the gain-break factor but also with a "sharper" nonlinearity at the gain-break point.
Other limiting factors influencing system performance are the bandwidths of the F-V converters and the laser interferometer. As system resolutions are extended, the feed rates at which the F-V converters saturate and the laser loses data are lowered. This can be alleviated to a certain extent by increasing the bandwidths of the F-v converters (at the expense of degraded low speed performance), but the laser bandwidth is not readily increased.
Test Results
In its present configuration the drive system utilizes lag compensation and filtered velocity feedback to provide stability and high position-loop gain. The system positioning accuracy is demonstrated by monitoring the position following-error ripple as displayed in Fig 3. Variations in this position following-error signal for a constant velocity command (as determined by a constant "rate" of position command input pulses ) are a direct measure of the system "positioning uncertainty." Of course a de signal component is required at all times to maintain the desired position versus time relationship, ie, constant velocity. As demonstrated by the figure, the variations in the DAC generated following-error signal (which define the positioning uncertainty) are less than 1 µ,in (25.4 nm) at feed rates between 0 and 0.5 in (1.27 cm) / min.
I COMPUTER DESIGN APRil. 1979

~SLC-1

· ·
[

· Battery supported calendar clock
· Fits all computers via standard RS-232 or 20mA loop serial interface
· No user modification to operating system required
· Dual independently selectable Baud rates
· Automatically provides time when requested by computer
· Automatic time restoration after power failure

· Complete µp computer system
· Optional ten digit display

-.,:::=::======~

· Price $575 (single qty.)

For more information on this timely product, contact:
Digital Pathways Inc. 4151 Middlefield Road Palo Alto, CA. 94306
Phone: (415) 493-5544

«!~

DIGITAL PATHWAYS

CIRCLE 30 ON IN9UIRY CARD

DIGITAL CDNTRDL AND AUTDMATIDN SYSTEMS

DC&AS BRIEFS
Modular CNC Enables OEM to Customize System Configurations
Low cost and microprocessor based, the series 7100 computer numerical control is available for 2- and 3-axis lathe and mill applications, with or without spindle or table control. Programmable interface capability and adjustable parameters enable customizing by the OEM to machin~ applications. Major components.-operator control panel, controller, and power supplyare supplied by Allen-Bradley, 747 Alpha Dr, Highland Heights, OH 44143 in a freestanding cabinet or can be configured by the OEM. One RS-408 and two Rs-232 ports permit interface with peripherals.
Predesigned firmware options can be added either at the factory or in the field. The executive or control program is on a self-contained, nonvolatile P/ ROM module, program ~torage and editing requirements are handled by RAM with battery backup, and nonvolatile EAROM is used for adjustable machine tool parameters and optional programmable interface.
Built-in di?gnostic capabilities include provision for operator messages, 1/ 0 status indicators, test points, power turn-on sequence, system diagnostics, and programmable interface search-monitor. System diagnostics are on a separate, pluggable module.
Circle 150 on Inquiry Card
Capabilities of Low Level Automation Microcomputer Systems Extended
Now with extended range and functions, 210 microcomputer systems are available on either single- (100 x 160 mm, version E) or double-height (233 x 160 mm, version D) Europa format PC boards with the same range of functions. A full set of boards includes singlecard computers, memory expansion modules, 1/ 0 for device connection or computer linking, and digital and analog process interface modules. Both versions have a 9k-byte memory on the board. Version E now also has a memory module for up to 16k bytes and a combined digital 1/ 0 module.
Based on the SAB 8085 microprocessor, the E version CPU can be supplied with up to 9k bytes of RAM and ROM. The combined digital 1/ 0 module for signals up to 24 V has eight isolating channels. It is possible to make up miniaturized controllers with only two Europa cards and a power supply of only 5 V. Main memory can be extended to 64 bytes.
Memory of version D has been doubled to 9k bytes. A pocket-calculator sized test panel is now available for simple hardware and software tests and is particularly suitable for putting a system into operation onsite.
56

Floppy disc drives are connected to the 1/ 0 modules if they are to be used in a data collection system. Either standard diskettes or minidiskettes may be used. Programs can now be generated on the 210 system itself with STEM program package either on a 3914 typewriter or, for greater convenience, on a 3974 alphanumeric display unit.
Both microcomputer systems, intended for lower levels of automation, are produced by Siemens AG, Postfach 103, D-8000 Munich 1, Federal Republic of Germany. They are not marketed in the u.s.
Circle 151 on Inquiry Card
Program Loader Can Be Used With Either of Two Controllers
A single program loader introduced by Struthers-Dunn, Inc, Pitman, NJ 08071 can be used to load two different models of controllers made by that company. The Director 1001/ 3001 program loader is suitable for use with the 1001 controller, which handles from 8 to 32 ;1/ os, or the 3001, which has a capacity of up to 128. It can be . used alone, as during initial program construction; linked by cable tg controller units, as during debugging or monitoring; or in programming of a light erasable ROM chip, which is subsequently detached from the programmer and plugged into a controller.
RAM serves as design memory. Circuitry is displayed on a CRT by depressing numeral and symbol keys. A "clear" key allows incorrect contacts, coils, or lines to be erased, while a "delete page" key removes entire pages of a program, and specific elements or sections can be checked with a "search" key.
Circle 152 on Inquiry Card
General Purpose Analog Signal Scanner Meets IEEE-488 and RS-232 Requirements
Intended to complement a controller either by itself or in conj unction with an 8502A digital multimeter in precision data acquisition systems that are · compatible with either IEEE 488-1975 or EIA RS-232-B/ C standards, the 2204A scanner may be connected directly to as many as 100 channels through 10 scanner circuit cards. The microprocessor based instrument, made by John Fluke Mfg Co, Inc, PO Box 43210, Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043, uses two types of plug-in circuit cards: one, for general purpose applications, has 2-pole dry reed switches; the other, for very low level signals, has 3-pole switches. Input connector cards are available for either ordinary input or thermocouple signals. Optional extender chassis increase capacity up to 1000 input channels. Maximum sequential scanning rates are 125 channels/ s when used in a system or up to 5 channels/ s in automatic mode. Thirty-two selectable scanning rates are available in automatic mode.
Circle 153 on Inquiry Card
I COMPUTER DESIGN APRIL 1979

Unretouched photograph of screen

~u S Domestic pnce

ISC SALES REPRESENTATIVES : AL : 205 / 883-8660 , AK : (GA ) 404 / 449-5961 . AZ : 602 / 956-5300 . AR : (GA ) 404 / 449-5961 , CA : Los A n ge les 2 13 / 937-5450 or 213 / 476-1241 , Golela 805 / 964-8751 , Irvine 714 / 557- 4460 , Mountain View 415 / 964 -9300 . San Diego 714 / 292-8525 , CO: 303 / 759-0809 , CT: (White Pt a in s. N Y } 9 14 / 949-6476 or ( H o lcomb . NY ) 716/ 657-6309 . DE : (PA ) 215 / 688-7325 , DC: ( MO ) 301 / 656-3061 , FL: Ft Lauderdale 305 / 776-4800. Melbourne 305 / 723-0766 , Or lando 305/ 4 25-5505, Va lparaiso
904 / 678- 7932. GA: 404 / 455-1035, HI : 808 / 94 1-9319 , ID: (UT ) 801/973-7969 , IL: (No.) 312 / 564-5440 , (So.) (MO) 314 / 821-3742 , IN : ( I L) 3 1 2/564-5 4 40, IA: ( M O) 3 14 / 821-3742 , KS : 913/ 362-2366 , KY : (O H ) 216/ 267-044 5 or 513/ 434-7500, LA: 504 / 626-9701 , ME : (MA ) 61 7/ 879-7530, MD: 301/656-3061 , MA: 6 1 7 / 879- 7530, Ml : 313/ 588-2300,
MN : 612 / 822-2119, MS : (AL ) 205 / 883-8660, MO: ( Easl ) 314 / 821-37 4 2 (Wesl ) ( KS ) 913 / 362-2366 , MT: (CO ) 303/ 759-0809, NB : (KS) 9 13 / 362-2366 , NV : (AZ) 602 / 956-5300, NH : (MA ) 617 / 879-7530, NJ : (White Plains. NY) 914 / 949-64 76 or {Holcomb, NY ) 716 / 657-6309, NM : 505 / 265-5655, NY : White Plains 914 / 949-64 76, Holcomb 716 / 657-6309.
NC: 919/ 682-2383, ND: (MN ) 612/ 822-21 19 . OH: Cleveland 216/ 267-0445, Daylon 513/ 434-7500, OK: (TX ) 214 / 840-2169, OR : 503/ 620-5800, PA: (Easl) 215/ 688-7325 (West) 412/ 892-2953. RI: (MA) 617 /879-7530. SC: 803/7 98-8070, SD: (MN ) 612 / 822-2119, TN : 615/ 482-5761 , TX: 214 / 840-2 169. Houston only 713/ 780-2511 , UT: 801 / 973-7969 , VT : (MA) 617 / 879-7530, VA : ( MD ) 301 / 656-3061 , WA : 206 / 455-9180, WV : ( PA ) 412 / 892-2953, WI : ( IL) 312 / 564-5440, WY : (CO ) 3031759-0809,
EUROPEAN EXPOR T SALES : ( MA) 617 / 661-9424 , BELGIUM : Brussels 02-242 36 04 . ENGLAND: Bournemouth 0202- 293- 115 . FRANCE: Rueil 749-40-37. GREECE: Athens
....Intelligent Systems Corp. 642- 1368, ITALY: Roma 805/ 647 or 872-457 . THE NETHERLANDS: Poeldijk 01749-7640, SPAIN: Barcelona 204-2099, SWEDEN: Vallingby 08-380-370, SWITZERLAND: Bern 031-224481 . WEST GERMANY : Muntch 89 3188 1, AUSTRALIA a NEW ZEALAND: Melbourne 543-2077 . Meadowbank 808-144 4 . Chermside 59-6436. Welli ngton . NZ 64-4585. Auckland , NZ 814-9384 , CANADA : Datamex. Ltd . (01stributor) Dorval 514 / 636-9774 , Ottawa 613 / 224-1391 , Toronto 416 / 787-1208. Vancouver 604 / 684-8625, CENTRAL a SOUTH AMERICA, MEXICO, CARIBBEAN: (GA) 404/ 394-9603, FAR EAST: (CA ) 2 13 / 382-1 107 , JAPAN: Tokyo 402-8596 , IRAN : Teh ran 891148. SAUDI ARABIA: Jedd ah 27790
o 5965 Peachtree Corners East o Norcross, GA 30071 o Telephone 404-449-5961 o TWx810-766-1581

CIRCLE 31 ON INQUIRY CARD

The SA4000 Fixed Disk Drive. The SA4000 Series of rigid disk drives are the newest line of low cost mass storage products from Shugart. Our floppy disk drives have been the industry standard for years , and now our fixed disk drives are setting new standards of their own . Like the lowest cost per megabyte in their capacity range so you can have up-todate Winchester storage at a price that won 't bite into your system profits.That means real dollars and cents savings to help keep your system competitive. SA4000 drives are available in capacity ranges that are just right for most systems too-14 .5 and 29 megabytes (unformatted) . And when you design our drives into your system, you can be sure you've got a system architecture that's compatible with IBM S/32 , S/34 and System 1 fixed/floppy architecture.
Winchester Technology and Two Configurations . Shugart fixed disk drives use industry-proven Winchester head and media technology to preserve your data in its own safe, sealed environment. The model SA4004 , with 14.5 megabyte capacity, utilizes one disk and four heads. The SA4008, 29 mbyte version , has two disks and
eight heads. Eight optional fixed heads are available to give you an additional 144 kbytes (unformatted) of head-per-track storage for applications such ;:i.s indexed files or table look-up. The SA4000 Series offers an easy
upgrade too. Keep you r floppys for 1/0 and
system back-up. Add our rigid disk drives for the additional capacity and throughput you need to upgrade your operating systems and mass storage.

When You Think Actuators, Think Fasflex WM Shugart's new, proprietary Fasflex IITMis another
result of Shugart's headstrong commitment to R&D . This open loop band actuator is virtually
wear-proof, and it doesn't require any adjustments in the field . Heat dissipation? With Fasflex II
it's extremely low-only 200 watts is typical. But the Fasflex II acutator is only one of the benefits you get with the SA4000 series. The drives
weigh a mere 35 pounds - that's about half the weight of comparable units. They're compact. They use only 5.25 inches of
panel space, they can be easily mounted in a 19-inch RETMA rack.The drives are rugged ,
yet easy to maintain . The PCB and spindle drive motor are open and accessible on the underside of the drive. No preventive maintenance is required.
And If You 're Looking at the Bottom Line. SA4000 drives are easy to integrate into your system . The drives utilize a simplified interface which can be easily designed into your system. In addition , you can use the same power supply for
both the SA4000 drives and floppy drives, since they have the same voltage requirements . Want to get on-line
quick? Our new SA4600 controller handles up to four SA4000 drives with an option to control up to four single or
double density floppy disk drives. Bottom line? Lower overall system cost. So now's the time to design a classy system with the head of its class-the compact, reliable,
low cost SA4000. Shugart Associates, Headquarters: 435 Oakmead Parkway, Sunnyvale, California 94086
(408) 733-0100; West Coast Sales/Service: (408) 252-6860; Midwest Sales/Service: (612) 574-9750 ; East
Coast Sales/Service: (617) 893-0560; Europe Sales/ Service: Paris (1) 686-00-85 ; Munich (089) 17-60-06.
~.Shugart
The Headstrong Company
Cl1RCLE 32 ON INQUIRY CARD

THE ONLY

J2K BYTE CQ PUTER
FOR UNDER 1000. .

(QTY=IJ

DIGITAL CONTROL AND AUTOMATION SYSTEMS

* **DSELDIAVEYR*Y*~ Microcomputer Analog 1/0 Systems

1/0 System Interfaces Computer To Measurement and Control Signals

The series 500 measurement and control 1/ 0 system, announced by Neff Instrument Corp, 1088 E Hamilton Rd, Duarte, CA 91010, interfaces various types of 1/ 0 signals to a controlling computer using a single 1/ 0 assembly and only one of the computer's 1/ 0 ports. It accepts contact closures, voltage levels, and frequency inputs, as well as low level transducer signals via one of the analog systems. Outputs include contact closures, voltage levels, analog voltages or currents, and pulses for driving stepper motors.
Plug-in function cards configure the system for specific types of 1/ 0 signals. A serial controller permits operation of up to eight remote systems located up to 20,000 ft (6 km) from the computer to provide full distributed 1/ 0 capability. Expansion is possible at
both local and remote sites. Computer 1/ 0 circuits include a 4k RAM in which
the computer stores scan lists and instructions required to control the peripheral devices. Data are transferred to computer memory on one DMA channel.
Circle 154 on Inquiry Card

Adaptable CNC Eliminates Inflexibility Problems of Some More Costly Systems

By eliminating problems of size, complexity, and in-

flexibility found in some other computer numerical

controls, the 8138 Taskmaster becomes a cost-effective

system. It is readily adaptable to fast, precise position

control applications and can be used to direct a range

of machine operations from linear interpolation in two

or three axes to circular interpolation in two axes.

Summit/ Dana, PO Box 1906, Bozeman, MT 59715

claims that modular design of this CNC makes it

immune to obsolescence. Expansion can be accom-

plished by a simple substitution of circuit boards.

A standard system offers a 250-command memory and operator selectab~e resolution from 0.0001 to

0.001" (0.0025 to 0.025 mm), and 4-A/ phase motor

drivers. It operates in ambient temperatures as high as

50 °C.

Options provide 999-command memory, axis informa-

tion display, backlash compensation, programmable

canned cycles, absolute programming, step and repeat

functions, automatic tool offsets, autocycles, linear and

circular digitizing in the jog mode, 6-axis control,

8-A/ phase motor drivers, and 1/ 0 interfacing for

remote programming and external program storage in

EIA or ASCII code.

Circle 155 on Inquiry Card

1IUISl'IY.
FRIDAY
5

For: DEC LSl - 11 & LSl-11 /2 <FORTRAN SUBROUTINES AVAILABLE for RT-11J DEC PDP-11 UNIBUS INTEL SBC-80 Series & NATIONAL BLC-80 Series ZILOC MCB Series (Z-80) MOSTEK/PROLOC STD BUS COMPUTER AUTOMATION LSI 2, 3, & 4 Series

Precise Analog 1/0 for any micro.
Data Translation manufactures the largest array of analog 1/0 modules and systems In the industry. Standard interfaces for every major micro· computer. From Isolated inputs to extremely hlgh·speed Inputs. Designed to meet your most stringent data acquisition needs In a wide range of measurement and control applications.

Highly reliable systems in only
s Clays.
our goal Is to ship the most reliable analog 110 systems available anywhere. That's why we go to such great lengths to ensure the highest rellablllty. Delivery? we doubt that you'll find any company faster than Data Translation. we assure five-day delivery. When you order on Monday, we deliver by the next Monday. No excuses. No delays.
SEND for Full Technical Data or Call us.
GSA contract No. GS·OOS-64219

DATA TRANSLATION

. . . . . . . . . .11!!!1!1. . . .llllllll!!l!lllllllll!!~INC
4 Strathmore Rd ., Natick MA 01760

(617) 655-5300

Telex 948474

CIRCLE 34 ON IN9UIRY CARD

Global progress in information display will be accented at SID 79. The symposium, to be held at the Chicago Marriott Hotel from May 8-10, will consist of 13 technical program sessions. Speakers from the U.S., Japan, Hungary, Germany, The Netherlands, and England will reveal recent developments in such topical areas as projection , graphic, fluorescent, and thermal displays and recording; garnet display components ; diode laser optical disc recording; and liquid crystal, oscilloscope, and matrix displays.
Opening ceremonies, with welcoming remarks to be given by general chairman J. B. Flannery, Xerox Corp, and program chairman P. M. Heyman, RCA Laboratories, and SID Honors and Awards presentation will be preceded by the annual SID business meeting, conducted by B. J. L«;lchner, SID President. Highlighting this opening Ruth Davis, Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Advanced Technology, in her keynote address, will discuss the government's increasing need for display developments as witnessed by the unsatisfied needs of military users. In two invited addresses H. W. Tanka, of Tanka, Walder and Ritger, will speak on research and development policy and economic growth in Japan and J. A. Rajchman of Jan Rajchman, Inc, will discuss displays in the next decade, examining the expanded potential attributable to LSI developments and exploring possible routes open for future developments.
Two parallel discussion panel sessions are scheduled for Tuesday evening. The panelists will demonstrate and assess hardware and software technology trends in home displays and appraise design options in display electronics. Cameras and recorders will not be permitted in the session halls.
Held on Monday, May 7 and Friday, May 11 , the annual tutorial seminars will be co-hosted by the University of Illinois Electrical Engineering Department. Eight lectures, two each morning and two each afternoon, will focus on technology developments including phosphors for high contrast CRTs, advances in electron optics that are leading to improvements in spot quality and color, and liquid crystal display optics. Each group of two seminars will be followed by a short, audience/speaker interactive discussion. Advance registration for the seminars is required. Fees are $110 for both days or $70 for one day.
·In the evenings, following the formal talks, attendees will have an opportun ity to meet face-to-face with speakers. Tuesday evening, the exhibitors will host a social hour in the exhibit area. Wednesday evening, the Lake Forest College campus will be the scene for a cocktail hour, buffet dinner, and lecture on holography. There is an additional $18 fee for the Lake Forest College evening.
A copy of the SID Digest of Technical Papers, which features 800- to 1000-word illustrated condensations of all contributed papers, is included in the Symposium fee of $45 for members and $60 for nonmembers. For more information, contact Lewis Winner, 301 Almeria Ave, PO Box 343788, Coral Gables, FL 33134.
Details of the advance program that follow reflect information available at press time.
62

Society for Information
Display
International
Symposium
May 8-10 Chicago Marriott Hotel

TECHNICAL PROGRAM EXCERPTS

Tuesday Afternoon

Session 6 Display Systems

3:40-5 pm

Ballroom I

Chairman: T. 1P. Sosnowski, Bell Laboratories
"Relationship between Display Parameters and CRT System Cost," W. R. Elliott, Boeing Aerospace
An explicit expression identifies the cost of the usually specified display system ·performance requirements. One factor to be assessed is the con tribution of deflection power to the cost of vector CRTs.
"Distributed lfotelligence in a Graphics Display System," J. Hatvany and P. Verebely, Computer and Automation Institute of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Hungary
An interactive vector-type graphic display family is ·based on a modular architecture. Graphic functions are distributed between microprocessors by an internal communication system with intensive use of multiprocessing methods.

Session 7

2-5 pm

Ballroom 11

Nonimpact Printing

Chairman: L. G. ·Bfggs, Tektronix, Inc
"High Speed Thermal Recording," K. Saito, et al,, Oki Electric Industry Co, Ltd, Japan
A high speed thermal recorder with the ability to record lines in less than 10 ms uses parallel drivers to heat the head elements instead of multiplexing them.
"Analytical -Design Method of Ink Jet Pri'nting," R. Takano, NTT Yokosuka Elec Comm ·Labs, Japan
Conditions for realizing high speed reliable ink iet printing, analyzed in .terms of the ink droplet forming mechanisms,

COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

Aud iotronics Model DC-946 Data Display

This popular Audiotronics data display is one of our 48 standard models. We have sold thousands of them to giants in the industry. Maybe it's perfect for your requirements. If not, talk to us about your specifications. We're dedicated to innovative product design , quality production standards and
complete customer satisfaction. Whatever you need, we have the experience and talent to design it, or improve it. Contact us today.
Model DC-946 features :
· modular construction
· 5" cathode ray tube {12.7 cm)
· solid state ·DC operation-12V de inputs
· choice of signal inputs: TTL (standard) Composite video {plug-in module)
· standard 15,750 KHz horizontal scan frequency
· 650 lines resolution

~ ~

AUDIOTRONICS
VIDEO DISPLAY DIVISION

530 F IFTH AVENUE N .W N E W BRI G HTO N . MN. 5 5 112 · (612) 633- 313 1

CIRCLE 35 ON IN9UIRY CARD

mosaic dot size, ~nd beam deflection characteristics, will be discussed.
"Printing Speed of an Electrophotographic Laser Beam Printer Using Overcoated <Photoreceptors," A. C. Wu, Sycor Inc
From experimental results for various settings of ac and de corona devices in a laser beam nonimpact printer using an overcoated photoreceptor the optimum printing speed of printer can ·be determined.
"Stylus Writa·ble Electrophoretic Display 'Device," A. 1Chiang, et al, Xerox Research Center
An electrical stylus writa·ble electrophoretic (SWEP) device produces multipixel, large information content images without requiring a threshold medium or integrated switching elements.

Tuesday Evening

Evening Panel I

8 pm

Home Displays-Not for TV Only

Ballroom. I

Moderator: C. N. Judice, Bell Laboratories
Panelists: P. Hughes, National Semiconductor Corp; L. Schwartz, Bell Laboratories; R. Clark, Communications Studies and Plan· ning Co, England; T. Shipchandler, Texas Instruments, Inc; D. Pinsh, Interstate Electronics ·Corp
Application of hardware and software technology towards intro· ducing new computer based services into the home will be assessed. To emphasize reality rather than speculation, displays of the future will be demonstrated.

Evening Panel 2

8 pm

Ballroom II

Requirements for Display Elec+r. .ics

Moderator: E. R. Strandt, Delco Electronics
Panelists: D. ·Bell, Signetics Corp; 1p, A. Curran, Texas Instruments; B. Uellande, Motorola Semiconductor Products Corp; T. Leeder, Fairchild Optoelectronics Div; D. Nerge, National Semiconductor Corp; G. R. Seaton, Dionics, Inc; and P. Emerald, Sprague Electric Corp
The design engineer generally has several options in selecting a given display technology for a specifi c application; each requires different driver and data processing facilities. The complexity of the associated electronics limits the designer's options. The panel will discuss aspects of these and how to meet design and cost objectives.

Wednesday Morning

Session 8

9-11 :45 am

Ballroom I

Flat Panel Technology

Chairman: L. E. Tannas, Jr, IH ycom, Inc

"A Vertical Self-Shift Plasma Display 1Panel," S. Sato, et al, Fujitsu Laboratories, Ltd, Japan

Operating principle and panel characteristics of ac plasma display facilitates editing and tabulation, while retaining driving circuitry simplicity inherent to the self-shift technique.

"A 240-Character Vacuum Fluorescent Display and its Driving Ability," K. Kasano, et al, ·Ise Electronics Corp, Japan

Microprocessor driven 240-charact·er display with >200-fL brightness includes multilayer substrate of Al-thin-film conductors and a glass thick-film insulator.

"Thin film Transistor Switching of Thin-Film Electroluminescent Display Elements," S. K. Kun, et al, Westinghouse Electric Corp

Low voltage TFEL compatible with TFTs will be discussed, citing operating characteristics, and applicability to high contrast, high brightness displays,

"Multi-Mode LED Display Program," K. T. Burnette and W. Melnick, ·Bunker-Ramo Corp

Progress will be rePorted on the development of a modular flat panel LED flight display. A 4 x 3" (10 x 8-cm) concept demonstrator display, assembled from 1 x 3" (2.54 x 8-cm) modules of green GatP, 64 element/in (25/cm), 0.25" (6.'35 mm) square monolithic LED arrays will also be covered.

"Metal-Elastomer Display Connectors," L. S. Buchoff, Hulltronics
A connector technology makes it possible to economically design a large number of closely spaced contacts (2 mils w x 4 mil centers). Metal paths bonded to an elastomer base are the . contact pads and interconnections.

Session 9

9-10:40 am

Ballroom 11

CRT Technology

Chairman: C. Infante, Tektronix, foe
"CRT for Displaying Nanosecond Transients," B. Janko, Tektronix
An 8 x 10-cm microchannel plate electron multiplier is an integral part of CRT for oscillographic display of fast transient signals. Viewing and photographic recording of transient signals with writing speed in excess of 3 x 1010 cm / s has been demonstrated. "Log Taper ;Magnetic Deflection," C SaWYer, Disp]ay Components, Inc
In high speed computer driven CRT displays, deflection power, and therefore efficiency, are at a premium. Yoke-g]ass bulb interface and development of an o·ptimal geometry will be analyzed.
'"Non-Glare Concave Surface CRT," E. Miyazaki, Matsushita Research Institute, Japan
By using a concave faceplate with an appropriate radius of curvature, reflections can be made inconspicuous.

Session I 0

I 0:55-1 I :45 am

Ballroom II

Transmission Displays

Chairman: I. F. Chang, IBM Research Center
''Transmissive Electrochromic iDisp]ay with a Porous Crrstalline WO, Counter Electrode," K. Matsuhiro and Y. Masuda, Asahi Glass Co, Ltd, Japan
A transmissive electrochromic display, uses an electron beam deposited and heat treated WOa film as counter electrode which is porous, crystalline, and has little optical absorption and excellent reversibility in charge injection and liberation.
"Thin-Film Iron Garnet <Display ComPonents," B. Hill and K. P. Schmidt, Philips Research Laboratories Germany

Linear ·and 2-dimensional electronicaHy controlled passive display components using Faraday-rotation in magneto-optic memory films will be discussed. A film, integrated into a 35-mm format display wafer, has been imaged using a slide projector.

Wednesday Afternoon

Session 11

2-5 pm

Ballroom 1-1 I

High Density Information Storage

Chairman: J. L. Simonds, Eastman Kodak Co
"Solid-State Storage for Display," H. Chang, IBM Research Center

Bubbles and CCD are high density, low power, low cost storage
devices that are suitable for terminals and displays, Characteristics of presently available modules and projections for cost
and performance improvements in the coming decade will be reviewed. 1Magnetic disc and optical disc storage technologies will also 'be assessed.

"Diode Laser Optical Disc Recorder," K. Bulthuis, Philips Research Laboratories, The Netherlands
A high density recording and retrieval system using a gallium aluminum arsenide diode laser writes information on a pre· grooved double sided 12" (30.5-cm) disc which allows readout of any address in a mean-time of 250 ms, thereby providing virtually instant access to 5 x 10' bits.
"High Performance Optical 'Disc Recording Structures," R. A. Bartolini and A. E. Bell, RCA Laboratories
Many high density optical recording systems require storage media capable of high recording sensitivity and high playback SNR. Thin-film antireflection recording structures provide the required performance for an optical video disc system. The design and optimization of these structures are suitable for use in conjunction with a wide variety of optical recording media.

COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

Biomation's KIOO·D- - no other
logic analyzer even comes close.

No wonder the KlOO·D is our fastest selling new logic analyzer ever. It gives you 16channels,1024 word memory, clock rates up to 100 MHz, signal timing resolution to lOns-plus a buW·in display and keyboard control.

Biomation's KlOO-D puts it all right at your fingertips -

more performance and features than any logic analyzer ever

It starts with the micro-

processor-controlled key-

board and mteractive video

display To give you fast,

precise control, the display

:;.....;=;__~ serves as a comprehensive

control status menu, with

all selectable parameters

in reverse video. There's

a single, labelled key

for each function, corre-

sponding directly to status display choices So guesswork

is eliminated

For example, in 1the data domam, you can direct the

display to read in hexadecimal, octal, binary or ASCII,

or any combination, by selecting one of four control buttons

There's also a unique "sequence" key that enables you

to rearrange the order in which channels are displayed, to

aid in data decoding, to simplify side-by-side comparison

of timing_signals and to enable you to cancel any channels

you're not interested in seeing A separate key controls

horizontal expansion.

That gives you an idea of the ~·100- D's display versatility.

Here's a picture of its astounding captuJ:e capability

By providing timmg analysis of signals as fast as 100 MHz, you can capture logic signals with resolution to lOns And the 100 MHz clock rate protects against obsolescence as the speed of your systems gets faster and faster The K100-D also has a latch mode that can capture glitches as narrow as 5ns.
With the 32-channel input adapter, the KlOO-D is ideal for exploring the new world of 16-bit microprocessors. To give you unprecedented analysis capability, there's a built-in Auto Stop capability you can use to detect, record and display any match (or rrusmatch) between incoming data and previously recorded data held in a reference mem-
ory. Or using Search Mode you can key in a specific word and the KlOO-D will find it in memory
To get the full impact of the KlOO-D, you really do need to have it at your fingertips That's why we would like to arrange a demonstration Call us at (408) 988-6800. Or, for more information, write: Gould Inc, Biomation Division, 4600 Old Ironsides Dnve, Santa Clara, CA 95050
·}GOULD
CIRCLE 36 ON INQUIRY CARD

COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

The Future Has Arrived.

Intel delivers the 8086. Powerful. Practical. And the Architecture of the Future. Here today.

We have seen the Future and it is called 8086. Even better, it's here today. Our new 16-bit microcomputer is an
architectural triumph, introducing designers to a new world ofsystem expansion capability, high-level language programming and dramatically increased system thruput.
Why we call it "The Future"
To deliver the Future, we designed the 8086 with a totally new architecture, super-efficient for implementing high-level, block-structured languages such as Pascal and PL/M-86.
The 8086 addresses up to a full megabyte of system memory with new addressing modes and efficient register utilization that totally support such minicomputerlike capabilities as relocatable and re-entrant code and instruction look ahead.
And the 8086's powerful new instruction set includes both 8-bit and 16-bit multiply and divide in hardware, with efficient byte string operations and improved bit manipulation.
We're committed to delivering the industry's highest performance, today and into the future. The 8086's architecture maximizes system thruput today by delivering ten times the processing power of its 8-bit predecessors. Planned expansion promises another order of magnitude increase in performance through the addition of

1/0 processors, special instruction
set extension processors, memory management and distributed intelligence configurations.
SY.stem components for expanded multiprocessor applications are available right now, supporting the MultibusTM architecture in timing, control and drive levels. They include 8288 Bus Controller, 8282/8283 Octal Latches and 8286/8287 Octal Transceivers.
Get a jump on the future.
8086 is the most successful new microcomputer ever. The list of major market leaders who have evaluated 16-bit machines and chosen the 8086 is staggering.
One reason for the 8086's success is our commitment to your success. We've made the 8086 the industry's best-supported microcomputer. The cpu, interrupt controller and six additional support circuits are on distributors shelves, with more on the way. You can take advantage of the 28 existing lntel®peripheral interfaces. Our 2716 (16K) and 2732 (32K) EPROMS provide programming

flexibility and unique features for 8086 users, including protection against bus contention.
And we complete your system with a variety of off-the-shelf +5 volt MOS RAMs.
You can begin hardware/ software development today, using the lntellec®Microcomputer Development system with ICE-86TM in-circuit emulation, PL/M-86 and ASM-86 for assembly language programming and 8080/8085 software conversion.
SDK-86, a complete system design kit including all essential components, makes it easy to begin prototyping without delay.
For an additional head start, iSBC 86/12TM single board computer brings the power of the 8086 to the Multibus with a fully assembled and tested 16-bit system.
The Future belongs to you.
Get to market first and capture a piece of the future for your product. You can order the complete 8086 family from your distributor. Or, for more information, contact your local Intel sales office or write: Intel Corporation, Literature Dept., 3065 Bowers Avenue, Santa Clara, CA 95051.
intel"delivers.
Europe : Intel International , Brussels, Belgium. Japan : Intel Japan, Tokyo. United States and Canadian distributors: Arrow Electronics , Alliance , Almac/ Stroum , Component Specialties, Cramer, Hamilton /Avnet , Harvey, Industrial Components, Pioneer, Sheridan, Wyle /Elmar, Wyle/Liberty, L.A.Varah and Zentronics.

See us at ELECTRO '79, New York City, April 24-26.

CIRCLE 37 FOR INFORMATION

The Cook-able Computer
Introducing a ruggedized version of Intel's iSBC* 80/IOA Single Board Computer

From Cryogenics to Hades
Our ruggedized SECS 80/10A likes it hot - or cold. It shrugs off shock, vibration , moisture. And thrives on dust, dirt and grime.
Meets MIL-E-5400, 16400, 4158 - and more. This makes our SECS 80/10A pertect for military systems and tough industrial applications - petroleum , steel , oceanography, communications .
In fact, anywhere a rugged microcomputer is needed.
Functional counterpart of Intel iSBC 80/lOA
Exclusively licensed by Intel , our SECS (Severe Environment Computer System) is a functional counterpart of the standard iSBC 80/10A board. Even uses the same development system software.
*Trademark of Intel Corporation
1!1111 SESCO
Severe Environment Systems Company
A Subsidiary of Electronic Memories & Magnetics Corporation
20630 Plummer Street· PO. Box 668 ·Chatsworth California 91311 Telephone : (213) 998-9090 ·Telex : 69-1404

The difference is in the packaging
Our SECS 80/10A, which uses rugged Intel 8838 chips , is mounted on a 9" by 6" shock and vibration resistant, full ATR compatible board. Conduction cooled , it operates from - 55°C to + 85°C . Add our numerous support modules and you end up with a versatile severe environment microcomputer system at a fraction of the development cost.
Other SESCO products
We also have a complete line of MIL SPEC core and semiconductor memories . New products include D-DAS, a digital data acquisition system for the 1553 bus , and SETS, a compact digital tape recorder with 23 megabit capacity.
When you're faced with a tough environment, "buy SESCO ... it works!"
SECS B0/10A

CIRCLE 38 ON INQUIRY CARD

COMPUTER DESIGN/ APRIL 1979

"Replication of Optical Discs," D. G. Howe, et al, Eastman K<>dak Co
Full bandwidth NTSC video ·signals, laser recorded in thin metal fi.lms evaPorated on glass or plastic substrates, have been photographically replicated. The replicas <>f submi cron spots in 2-µ ]ayers using positive density images are tolerant to poor optical contact during replication and essentially immune to handling or cleaning damage.
Thursday Morning
Session 13 9 a m to 12 noon Chicago Ballroom D
Liquid Crystal Displays
Chairman: A. R. Kmetz, ·Bell Laboratori es
"General Theory of 1Matrix Addressing Liquid C rystal Displays," M. ·G. Clark, Royal Signals and Radar Establishment, England
Analysis of matrix addressing of an rms responding di splay c<>vers both binary and multilevel addressing wave form s. The method in the multilevel case can be extended to grey scale displays.
"Addressing Methods for Non-Multiplexed Liquid Crystal Oscilloscope Displays," I. A. Shanks and P. A. H olland, Royal Signals and Radar Establishm ent, England
Addressing method directly drives x-Y matrix LCDs to di splay single-valued fun ctions such as oscilloscope waveform s. "Storage-Type Liquid Crystal Matrix Display," C. Tani et al, Nippon Ekctri c Co, Ltd, Japan; and 0. Kogure, NTT Ibaraki Elec Comm ·La'b, Japan
Switching of the relaxation transient of the nemati c-choles teri c phase change ·between a wide angle scattering and a clear quiescent state will be reported. The approach has made it possible to produce low ·power storage type matrix LCDs up to 306 x 574. "512-Character Display of Refl ective Twiste d Nemati c Liquid Crystal by Two-Frequency Addressing," M. H oso kawa, et al, Suwa Seikosha Co, 1Ltd, Japan
Two-frequency addressing of a 56-line twisted nematic di splay using an improved material which affords a refl ective high contrast and wide viewable angle characters will be reported.
"Properties of a Display Device using Depolarization in Twisted Nematic Liquid Crystal Layer," T. U chida, et al, Tohoku University, Japan. Twisted nematic ]ayer device with de polarization provides a wide angle for viewing and has high contrast, sharp threshold, and fast response and r ecovery. "An BO-Character Alphanumeric Liquid Crystal 'Display Syste m for Computer Terminals," K. Odawara, et al, Hitachi Ltd
A 1-row, BO-character 5 x 7 dot matrix alphanumeric liquid crystal display system with twisted nematic mode uses a CMOS controller and CMOS 40-stage drivers. "Reflective and IFositive Mode Color LCD using Choleste ric-Nematic Phase Change Type Guest-Host Effect," T. Ueno, et al, Nippon Electric Co, Ltd, Japan. A cholesteric dye display with dark characters <>n an electrically driven light background will be described.

SEMINAR DISCUSSION EXCERPTS

Monday Morning

Moderator: H . Cene Slottow, Univer sity of Illin ois

Session I

8:30- 10 am

Chicago Ballrooms F/G

Nonscattering Liquid Crystal Display Optics

Dwight W. Berreman, Bell Laboratories
Liquid crystal thickness, optical anisotropy, elastic constants and surface anchoring affect the sp eed and viewin g angle, contrast, gray scale, and multip]exibility of nonscattering liquid crystal displays. These effects and adiustability of parameter s will he discussed.

Session 2 I0:30 am-12 noon C hicag o Ballroom F/ G Advances in Printing
K eith S. Penningt<>n, IBM Research Ce nter
The data processing and offi ce products markets have an increasing need for printing products with improved reliability, cost / performance, and over.all fun ctional capabilities. This lecture will review the maior trends and fun ctional rnquirements in these areas of printing, citing th e current state-of-th e-art and nonimpact printin g technologi es.

Monday Afternoon

Moderator : I. Chang, IBM Research Center

Session 3

I:30-3 pm

Electron Optics in CRTs

Chicago Ballrooms F/G

R obert G. 'E. Hutter, P olytechnic Institute <>f N ew Y<>rk
Recent developments in th e des ign of electron gun s and defl ection yokes leadin g to better spot quality and improved color dis plays will be described. Ex a mples will illustrate the utilization of th e computer in solvin g design problems

Session 4 3: 15-4:45 pm Chica go Ballrooms F/G
New Phosphor Developments for High Contrast CRT Displays
Robert A. Buchan an, and T. Brant Maple, Lockh eed Research L a borat ory
New thin ·film materials are m aking it possible to produce CRT di splays wi th ever-increasin g contrast. In this address, the properti es of presently available luminescent films will be prese nted, al ong with background and analytic material.

Friday Morning

Moderator: Walter ·G<>ede, Northrop Electroni cs Div

Session 5

8:30-10 am

Ch icag o Ballrooms F/G

Plato IV System Architecture: A Case Study of
the Organization of Software and Hardware in Interactive Computer Systems

R obert K. Rader, Softw are Group, University of Illinois
The Plato rv system was design ed to run thousands <>f interactive gra phics terminal s for use in an educational setting. Design and implementation of thi s system will be discussed and concepts demon strated, stressin g the integration of software and hardware elements into the ·sys tem, and the software ·structures that determin e th e interacti ve characteristics of the system.

Session 6 I0:30..am-l 2 noon C hicago Ballrooms FIG
The Use of Synthetic Speech in Interactive Computer Systems
Bruce A. S herwoo d, University o f Illinois
This lecture will demonstrate the ease with which synthetic speech output can be added to interactive programs, citing its application to computer based education. Techniques of compressed digitized speech and recorded audio will also be d emon s t r a t ed.

Friday Afternoon

Moderator : Aris Silzars, Tektronix, Inc

Session 7

I :30-3 pm

Chicago Ballrooms F/G

Intelligent Terminals

F. H. 1DiU, IBM <Research Center

Inclusion of microprocessors in CRT terminals is an attribute

commonly called intelli gence. The talk will attempt to classify

present termin als ·by fun ction and capability, look at future Pos-

sibilities based on developments in micropmcessors, memory and storage, and discuss some of the problems a ssociated with ter-

minals intelligence.

We heard you and ...
HERE IT IS. A SMART APL
TELERAY
with ...
· · · High-Resolution APL overstrikes
Five years of listening to thousands of APL users told us to give you the new Teleray Model 11. Its true overstrike , programmable wide-character display and "instant character replay" give you the most versatile APL/ASCII terminal yet available . . . and

And ... Mail-in Super Service
Direct-mail servicing , from your operating station to our Service Dept. with no middleman . No-tools , snap-in modules replace in 60 seconds, and reusable mailers get your modules back and forlh to you without expensive service calls . Call us toll -free for any service help you need . .. and, so . ..
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PHON E (6 1 2) 9 41 3300

And ... 3? Programmable
Functions
Call up forms and function sequences , answerbacks , in any combination , plus more programmable features than ever before ... and

SEE MODEL 11 AT INTERFACE '79

Call for immediate info!

TELERAY Sales Offices:

(201) 652-7055 (201) 944-1600 (203) 623-5352 (205) 881-9298 (206) 641-6444 (212) 947-0379

(301) 589-2802 (303) 279-7796 (305) 421-4989 (305) 645-3444 (312) 655- 0040 (313) 354-6421

(213) 328-9770 (404) 955-0293 (214) 661-0300 (405) 528-6071 (216) 585-8421 (408) 744-1930

(412) 243-8421 (416) 622-6752 (503) 292-3505 (512) 451-5174 (512) 828-0937 (513) 223-8421 (518) 587-2313 (602) 968-5962 (612) 535-5330

(613) 225-0411 (617) 459-2578 (713) 780-2511 (714) 273-4771 (714) 552-7850 (716) 381-4120 (801) 969-4034 (808) 523-1326 (919) 883-9125

CIRCLE 39 ON INQUIRY CARD

COMPUTER DESIGN/ APRIL 1979

PROCESSOR ARCHITECTURE ANTICIPATES FUTURE PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS

Design of Series/I processors and their re~ationship to instruction

set, interrupt structures, and I/O interf~cing are primary

determinants of system performance ~nd have a major infh1e~ce

on the machines' Ffe cycle

Richard E. Birney IBM Corporation, Gen~ral Systems pivision, Bocc1 Raton, Florida

A distribut~d imeq toward realtime, sensor based, and
data procesi;ing applications, design of IBM Series/ I
computer logic evolved from a planned iterative development process. A base architectur~stablished
from design goals and performance specifications-was
benchmarked against similar competitive and existing
corporation ' computers. Benchmarking included both kernel analysis and engi~eering investi1ptions of such design criteria as execution timf!s, code and storage
efficiencies, coding productivities, and system costs. Many iterations w~re implemented during tlie design evolution, and final de~hiions were based upon detailed information produced by hardw~re and software bench-
marks. Simultaneously aflecting the iterative process w~s an important set of distinctive factors that emphasized near.' a11d long-te~m . trend characteristics in ihe prevajling and expected growth of small computer systems with ~egard to technology, architecture, soft-
ware, and integrity. ·Basically, · mod~lar Series/ I computers provide I6-
bit general purpose architectures with direct storage 'addressing to 64.k bytes, and expaqsion to I6M bytes.
These architectures offer a choice of central processor designs, Proven bipol~r large-scale integrated (LSI) logic, and metal-oxide semi"conductor field-effect transistor (Mos FET) n-channel nierqory. A versatile instruction set handles basic hit, byte, word, dou~le ·word,

and four word (floating point) operands. Instruction length is variable frpm one to three I6-bit words, depending upon any one of 11 ad~ressing modes. Also incorporated are indir~ct addressing, with either preor post-indexing, and several additional co~piex addressing fo~mats. lnput/ 9utput (1/ 0) interfacing allows direct program c~ntrol, preemptive priority interrupt, and cycle stealing. C0mprehensive error checking and reporting are 'accomplished cooperatively be-
tween 1/ q devices imd the proc~ssor channel.
In impJementiqg the two central processors-the 4953 and the more powerful 4955-a I6-bit architecture was chosen to provide high performance systems at low cost (Table l). Comparisons made between similar program development library functions in 32-bit and 16-bit architectures generally revealed a greater than 20 % , and occasionally as high as 40% , savings in the amouqt of storage required to code equivalent functions with a 16-bit architecture. In addition the I6-bit width r~quces product cost by u~ing fewer pins and smaller cards for equivalent functions. Main storage savings p~us reduced package constraints are directly reflected in the cost to perform a functi0p.
71

TABLE 1 Comparison o' M·Jor Proceta0r Performance Characterlltlcs

Characteristic
Performance Maxi mum Storage Interrupt Levels Floating Point Processor Address Translator Program Console Logic Cards Maximum Channel Rate Storage Cycle Time

4953
135k Instructions/a 64k bytes 4 No No Yes 1 1.3M bytes/a 800 ns

4955
367k lnstructlons/s 256k bytes 4 Optional Optional Yea 3 1.6M bytes/a 660 ns

CEN TR AL PROCESSOR UN IT
14953)
CHANNEL INTERFACE

MA IN STORAGE · 64· BYTES
RAM

I ~----",'----~ I 0 CHANNEL

DIRECT PROGRAM
CONTROL
ATTACHMENTS (ie
TIMER , DIGITAL INPUT/ DIGITAL OUTPUT.
SENSOR 110, DIRECT PROGRAM CONTROL
ADAPTER . TTY ADAPTER)

C YCLE- STEAL MI CROPROCESSOR
ATTACHMENTS {l o
PRINTER , COMMUN ICATIONS,
DISKETTE)

I
CYCLE STEAL BUFFEREO HIGH SPEEO OISC
ATTACHMENT

REPOW ER CARO

i
I 0 CHANNEL CONTINUED

1
SOCKET AOAPTER CARO

USER·

I Ai~:~~~~NT I L ____ _J

Fig 1 Single bus processor design. Storage for up to 64k bytes resides on 1/0 interface. Selection of 1/0 devices is available along with repower capability to extend channel to additional 1/0 devices

Direct mam storage addressability of 64k bytes is sufficient for a large segment of small computer ap,plications; however, for larger tasks, this storage address limitation becomes a severe system restriction. To overcome the addressing constraint and yet retain the storage efficiency of the 16-bit architecture, an address translator is used to extend the main storage addressability of the 4955 to 16M bytes. The address translator supports eight simultaneously mapped address
72

spaces and is designed to simplify communication between address spaces, in contrast to more common address extension mechanisms. During execution of a particular instruction, three address spaces may be accessed. For example, the translator allows execution of a storage-to-storage move with the instruction fetched from one address space, the source operand from another, and the destination operand stored in a third location.
COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

The 4953 processor design trades off cost and performance features. Single bus architecture (Fig 1) allows low complexity in processor design by eliminating special interfaces to main storage. Since either storage or 1/ 0 fits easily onto the single bus, the 'system can be configured for any storage size without the cost penalty of unused card slots in the processor module. The disadvantage of this bus concept is that 1/ 0 activity impacts the central processor unit's lCPLi 's) ability to access storage, resulting in contention between 1/ 0 and CPU; subsequently, lower performance occurs within the processor when the channel is cycle stealing at full bandwidth.
Operating with approximately three times the internal performance of the 4953 CPU, the 4955 processor uses a separate storage bus to minimize contention between CPU and cycle-stealing 1/ 0 for main storage cycles (Fig 2). The CPU is designed so that the maximum 1/ 0 data rate of l.6M bytes/ s consumes approximately one-half of the 3.0M-byte/ s storage bus bandwidth ; the remaining storage bandwidth is reserved for CPU

cycles. This design implies that channel loads have little effect on CPU performance and that no " lockout" of the processor from main memory occurs because of 1/ 0 activity. Although storage may not reside on the .1, o bus of the 4955, the same 1/ 0 adapters may exist on either CPU.
System and Level Registers
Within the processor architecture, two categories of registers exist: system registers and level registers. System registers contain system wide information used by the operating systems and appear singularly within the processor. Level registers are used by a task in process at a particular priority level and are replicated for each interrupt level. This structure provides general purpose registers for ease of programming while replicating these registers on priority levels for fast interrupt response.
System registers can be accessed by a program only when the CPU is operating in privileged state (in other

MAIN STOR AGE · 64~BYTES
RAM

I--

AO ORESS
1---- RELOC ATION
TRANS LATOR

MAIN STORAGE <: 64, BYTES
RAM

r -I
I I I

CENTRAL PROCESSOR UNIT
14955 1
CHANNEL INTERFACE

t- __, - ~ll ~ H ~ j
A:J!lf;f <.;S UA I A
~ ESS
DATA

I I

I
+

i -

FLOATING POINT
PR OCESSO R

I 0 CHANNEL
I I

DIR ECT PROGRAM CON TROL
ATT ACHMENTS loe TI MERS,
DIGITA L INPUT DIGI TAL OUT PUT.
SENSO R 1/0, DI RECT PROGRAM CONTR OL
ADAPTER , TT Y ADAPTER)

CYCLE STE AL MICROPROC ESSOR
ATTACHMENTS. 1. .
PRIN TE R. COMMUNIC ATIONS,
DISKETTE)

RE POWER CARO

,..
I
CYCLE -STE AL BUF FE RED HIGH SPEED DISC
ATTACHMENT

1
I 'O CHANN EL CONTINUE 0

SOCKET ADAPTE R CA RO

USER ·

I I SUPPLIED ATTACHMENT
L _ __ J

Fig 2 Separate storage bus processor design. Using address translator, storage for up to 256k bytes is available. Fourteen 1/0 attachments may be fitted prior to repowering channel interface

PROCESSOR
STATUS
WORO BIT

FUNCTION SPECIFICATION CHECK

INVALIO STORAGE AOORESS

PRIVILEGE VIOLATION

PROTECT CHECK

INVALIO FUNCTION

FLOATING-POINT EXCEPTION

STACK EXCEPTION

NOT USEQ

STORAGE PARITY CHECK

NOT USED

CPU CONTROL CHECK

1/0 CHECK

SEQUENCE INOICATO~

AUTO -IN ITIAL PROGRAM LOAD

TRANSLATOR ENABLE

POWER /THE AMAL IP/Tl WARNING

CLASS INTERRUPT GENERAHO
PROGRAM CHECK INTERRUPT
SOFT EXCEPTION TRAP INTERRUPT
MACHINE CHECK INTERRUPT
STATE CONOITION INO INTERRUPT
GE~ERATEOI
PIT WARNING INTERRUPT

Fig 3 Processor status word register. Register records errors and exception status. Type of error generates corresponping interrupt, allowing system software to handle fault condition

words, by the operating systems). The most important system register is the Processor Status Word (Psw ) . This 16-bit register (see . Fig 3) records 'errors and exception conditions in the processor that mtJst be handled by the operating system.
Extensive error checking is evidenced within the processors by noting the bit conditions reported in the PSW. The program check interrupt lists errors detected in software. The soft exception trap interrupt lists exceptions where no error has occurred but where software intervention is required; for example, a stack overflow requires that more storage be allocated to the stack. Machine checks are hardware error~ detected by internal circuits. Remaining bits indicate state conditions and ·power/ thermal interrupt within the processor.
Level registers are replicated on each priority level and are also called Level Status Blocks (LSB ) . The LSB (Fig 4) contains the execution time es:;ence of a task and is available to the program in execution. Registers within the LSB and their functions artl
Instruction Address Register-Contains address of next instruction to be executed.
Address Key Register-Contains key used for address translation and storage protection.
Level Status Register-(LSR) Contains data relative to status of a task. Results of arithmetic or logical operations are set within bits 0 to 5 in this register and are used when branching based upon certain condi-
tions. Bits 8 to Il of the LSR indicate whether the
task is in StJpervisory state, being traced, presently in execution, or has all interrupts masked. Remaining bits are reserved for future expansion.

MAIN STORAGE
EFFECTIVE ADDRESS ISET LEVEL BLOC K,
CCOPY LEVEL BLOCK! DR LEVE L STATUS BLOCK POIN TE R IC LASS IN TE RRUPT)
INSTRUCTION ADDRESS RE(llSTER
ADDRESS KEY REGISTER
LEVEL STATUS REGISTER GENERAL PURPOSE REGISTER 0
GENERAL PURPOSE REGISTER 1

: :::;; %
·

GENERAL PURPOSE REGISTER 7

,(
BITS

COPY LEVEL BLOCK

OPERATING LEVEL REGISTER STACKS

Fig 4 Level status blocks. Set of 16-bit registers replicated on each priority interrupt level contains execution time environment of particular program, including address of instruction in execution, addressing keys used by program, statvs information, and general purpose registers. Level statu~ block is capable of being loaded and stored from main storage with set level block (SELB) and co'py level block (CPLB) instructions

COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

TABU! I

Operation

..Jor FUnolloM of lnllrucllon Set

Data Type

Designation

Address Mode

Move Add Subtract Multiply Divide Compare Branch 110
AND
OR
XOR Anet
StQp

illt Byte Byte/Field
Word
Double/Word Floating Point Single Prec181on Double Prec181on

Regleter-Reglater Register-Immediate Register-Storage Storage-Reglater Storage-Immediate Storage-Storage

REG (REG) (REG)+ (REG)* ADDR ADDR* (REG+ADDR) (REG-ADDRr DISP+(REG)* (DISP+REG)9 DISP2+(DISP1 +REG)·

+· Indirect addfnllnlr Increment by number of bytee addr~

General Purpose Registers-( GPRO to GPR7) used for data, addresses, or indexes.
Instructions are provided to allow the entire LSB to be loaded or saved in main storage, thereby providing for ease of task dispatching and preempt/ resume operations.
Instruction Set
The instruction set is powerful in function, as indicated by 211 instructions and 11 different addressing modes. Table ~ summarizes the major functions provided within the instruction set, dividing the functions into four categories. This level of function has not been typically available in low cost computers. High function, frequency of instruction usage, structured programming aids, and program reentrancy were driving forces in the design of the instruction set by system architects.
An example of the high function available exists in MOVE and COMPARE instructions. One version of these instructions moves a contiguous field of bytes from one location to another in main storage; these fields may extend from 1 to 64k bytes. Other instructions working with fields of bytes are: (a ) COMPARE-con· trasts one byte field to another, (b) FILL-replicates a general purpose register into a byte field, and (c) SCAN-searches a byte field for a particular value.
An example of a structured software design consideration is found in the provision of an addressing mode to accommodate the structuring of data (Fig 5). One technique used in structuring data is to create a directory that contains the addresses pointing to various data buffers. If the address of the directory is placed into a register, this particular address mode provides direct access to the data item in the particular data buffer. This technique is us~d in operating systems to

1--i REGISTER !ADDRESS Of DJ RECTORY

+ OIS PL ACEMEN Tl " 4

DIRECTORY DATA BUFFERO ADDRESS DATA BUFFER! AOORESS

IOISPLAC EMENT IN DIRECTORY!
_J

DATA BUFFER2 ADDRESS

DATA BUFFERJ ADDRESS

DATA BUFFER4 ADDRESS

~
+ DISP LACEME NT2 · 3
(DISP LACEMEN T IN BUFFER I

DATA BUFFER 2 BYTE 0 BYTE 1 BYTE 2 !'BYTE 3 BYTE 4 BYTE 5 BYTE 6 BYTE 7 BYTE 8 BYTE 9 BYTE 10 BYTE 11

Fig 5 Data directory addressing mode. (DISP2+ (DISP1 + REG)*) instruction is used to access data organized within directories. Register (REG) parameter specifies register containing address of data directory in main storage. Displac~ment 1 (DJSP1) specifies which data set within directory is accessed. Asterisk (*) indicates that ·data buffer address is obtained from directory, and Displacement 2 (DISP2) is added to it to obtain particular data element within data buffer defined by directory

access data in subsidiary control blocks connected to a master control block or directory. A base register is set pointing to the master control block, while the master control block contains an address pointing to a task control block. Having built the proper structure, desired data within the selected task control block can be accessed and operated -upon using a single instruction.
To support reentrancy within programs and program conventions, such as reverse Polish notation, last-in first-out {LIFO) stacking mechanisms are required. Stacks may be used either for data items {bytes, words, or double words) or for subroutine linkages. As stacks are accessed by a program, checking is performed to ascertain that the size of the stack does not grow to exceed the allocated storage. In Series/ l, instructions provide for ease of use in implementing subroutine calls and in placing data on stacks. For subroutine calls, the Store Multiple (STM) instruction saves registers onto a stack while its reciprocal, Load Multiple and Branch (LMB) instruction, restores the registers and provides a return branch to the calling routine _(Fig 6). After execution of an STM instruction the stack appears as shown in Fig 7; the stack control block is in storage, and the registers are saved in the main storage location defined by the stack control block. A work area also allocated within the stack provides a storage area for temporary variables when the subroutine may be shared among multiple tasks. The stack control block defines the stack boundaries and is used to check limits on each access to the stack. Since this control block resides in storage, multiple stacks can be defined.
1/0 Devices
Distributed processing, realtime control, communications network control, data entry, and business data processing are examples of the spectrum of applications addressable by Series/ l, mandating a large and diverse menu of 1/ 0 device handling capabilities. These
needs require that the 1/ o structure minimize the
number of CPU cycles necessary to operate an 1/ 0 device; otherwise, system configuration · would involve complex formulas to determine which 1/ 0 devices would preclude others. To achieve these goals, an asynchronous interface was developed that provides a microprocessor to perform channel control within each 1/ 0 attachment, thereby significantly reducing central processor involvement with a particular device. The type of microprocessor used is chosen by the designer of the device attachment to optimize cost/ performance of that particular device. Up to 256 1/ 0 devices may be attached, including hard files, display stations, diskette files, communication adapters, printers, tapes, sensor controls, S/ 370-channel attachments, and other devices designed for specific applications.
Two types of 1/ o are defined for this interface:
Direct Program Control (DPC)-1/ 0 operation is performed inline to the instruction stteam, allowing intimate control of the device by software.
76

(

MAIN

cSUBROUTINE I )

STORE MJ ULTIPLE

( SUBROUTINEZ )

BRANCH ANO LINK / SUBROUTINE I . 7
LEVEL EXIT

/ /

STORE MJ ULTIPLE

BRANCH ANO LINK SUBROUTINEl, 7
t1 - - - - - - LOAD MULTIPLE ANO BRANCH

LOAD MULTIPLE ANO BRANCH

Fig 6 LIFO stacking. Subroutine calls and returns are natural last-in first-out (LIFO) stacking function. Instructions are defined to simplify this function by providing stack operations. Branch and Iink (BAL) instruction causes branch to subroutine (SUB) while saving return address in register 7. Upon entry to subroutine , store multiple (STM) instruction saves all registers, including return address, in stack. Load multiple and branch (LMB) instruction restores registers that were saved in stack upon entry to subroutine and uses return address to branch back to calling program. Level exit (LEX) instruction returns control to processor when task has finished execution

Cycle Steal 1/ 0-1/ 0 operation is performed by the device parallel to the processor. Burst mode data transfers are also provided, allowing the channel to be dedicated to a particular device for the duration of a particular 1/ 0 operation. This capability is provided for critical devices that must be guaranteed a certain instantaneous data rate. Cycle 1/ 0 without burst mode is the predominant method of 1/ 0 control.
Those 1/ 0 commands where the 1/ 0 instruction and control blocks reside in main storage are represented in Fig 8. This diagram shows a DPC operation with data (whether read or write) in the storage location defined by the generated address plus two. Note the
reentrancy consideration in the 1/ o instruction. No
device specific information is located within the instruction; it is all contained in a control block pointed to by the OPERATE IO command. This technique allows common code sequences to be easily shared among multiple devices.
Also illustrated in Fig 8 is the format for a cycle stealing 1/ 0 operation. After transferring the immediate device control block to the device, the processor proceeds with execution of the next instruction. Meanwhile, the 1/ 0 device cycle-steals a Device Control Block {DCB) from main storage. The DCB contains all information needed by a device to perform an 1/ 0 operation. Upon completion of this channel command, the device determines whether another command exists; if true, the device will cycle-steal the new DCB and continue data transfer. If the command sequence is complete, a device end-interrupt will signal the processor, and the device will quiesce, awaiting a new com-
COMPUTER I DESIGN APRIL 1979

STA CK CONTROL BLOC K

HI GH STORAGE
_ J - - - - - - - j HLA
. ... .... .. .. ...... HLA2

LOW LIMIT ADDRESS (LLAI HIGH LIMIT ADDRESS (HLA) TOP ELEMENT AO DRESS (TEA )

nn :n:::: ;:;:, PREVIOUSLY ...!::: ~:;~KEO

.............. ... .... .. .......

OLD

........... . .~~ ..... ... . . .. . ~ TEA

···
RO Rl

D W APOINTER

WDYONRAK MIC AREA IOWA I

LLA LOW STORAGE

Fig 7 LI FO stack in main storage following STM instruction. Stack control block defines boundaries of stack, specifying upper and lower storage boundaries and address defining current top of data within stack. Within stack, reg isters (including return address in R7) are saved , work area is defined for use of temporary variables by subroutine, N field defines size of work area,' and L field specifies number of last register saved in stack oper~ ation. RL is register defined by L fielcj and contains DWA poi11ter to work area within stack

1/ 0 IN STRUCTI ON

,-----,

ADDRESS

t----i

CYC LE STE AL OPERA T ION

IN LINE EXECUTION · PROCESSOR · DEVICE · STORAGE · CHANNEL

~
.--

IMM EDIA TE DEV I CE CONTROL BL OC K

START COMMAND

DEVICE AOORESS

DEVICE CONTROL BLOCK ADDRESS

DIRECT PROGRAM CONTROL OPERATION

!---..i

DIRECT PROGRAMl CONTROL

COMMAND

DEV I CE ADDRESS

DATA

-+- - -- -- -- -

DEVI CE CONTROL BLOC K

L--1 CONTROL WORD

DEVICE PARAMETE R

DEVICE PARAMETER
PROGRAM CO NTROLLED INTE RRU PT IDENTIF IER STATUSAOORESS
......--- CHAIN ADDRESS

-- --

-- -- -- -- --
r CHAIN BIT
PROGRAt<" CON TROLLED INTERRUPT BIT
INPUT FLAG DEVICE CONTROL BLOCK TYPE SUPPRESS EXCEPTION BIT CYCLE STEAL ADDRESS KEY
~ COMMAND

RESIDUAL

STATUS

BLOCK

BYTE COUNT

CYCLE STEAL EXECUTION · DEVICE · STORAGE · CHANNEL

ADDRESS PO INTER

DEVICE CONTROL BLOCK

L.-,..

CONTROL WOR D

l 1 DATA

::!.

Fig 8 1/0 control. 1/0 operations are controlled by single 1/0 instruction, which points to storage location that contains 2-word control block called immed iate device control block (!DCB). For direct program control of device, second word of !DCB contains data transferred to or from device. For cycle steal ing operation, second word of !DCB contains address of device control block (DCB). DCB is fetched from main storage by device and is used to control 1/0 operations executing in parallel to execution of instructions by CPU. DCB specifies type of op~ration, where data are located in main storage, where status should be reported , and whether additional commands are to be executed prior to interrupting
CPU

mand. Microprocessors within the 1/ 0 device attachments fetch and interpret DCBs, freeing the main processor for program execution. Autonomous control of the interface by each 1/ 0 device minimizes the channel time for each operation and allows, within the device, parallel preparation of data and address for subsequent cycle steal operations.
Interrupt Mechanism
To provide the fast reaction required m realtime applications, three types of interrupt processing are offered.
Class Interrupts-Occur upon special conditions detected by the CPU itself.
Programmed Interrupts-Caused by an overt action of a program to change its execution priority.
1/ 0 Interrupts-Caused at request of 1/ 0 devices or other external stimuli.
Class interrupts are used primarily to report on internal checking by the CPU. Machine check interrupts occur when the hardware malfunctions, eg, a parity or 1/ 0 sequence problem. Program check interrupts occur when an improper instruction is attempting to execute; for e~ample, when an invalid storage address, protection exception, or an invalid instruction is detected. Other class interrupts are power/ thermal warning, supervisor call soft exception trap, and trace and console interrupt. When a class interrupt occurs, a complete snapshot of the status of the registers of the active priority level is automatically copied into a preallocated storage location. A second vector points to the location of the service routine for the particular class of interrupt, and instruction execution begins at that location. Since the class interrupt captures the state of the registers at the exception condition, the problem often can be resolved online by software without impacting unaffected tasks. Online problem resolution is highly desirable ill process control or other realtime applications.
Program initiated interrupts are performed by a pair of instructions called Set Level Block (SELB) and Copy Level Block ( CPLB) . These instructions allow all level registers to be set on any interrupt priority level. If the registers are set on a higher level, an interrupt is performed to th~t level. If they are set on a lower level, the level is held pending until current operation is complete. Since registers on a level define the essence of a task, ability to load these registers with a single instruction is very similar to dispatching a task. If registers of a selected priority level are first saved in main storage and a new task is loaded to that level, the basis of a preempt/ resume operation is accomplished with two instructions. Simple task dispatching and preempt/ resume capabilities are helpful in implementing efficient systems where multiple tasks having varying priorities are attempting simultaneous execution. These instructions minimize task switching overhead which, in turn, increases the performance and responsiveness of the system.
78

Capability for handling the 1/ 0 interrupts is demonstrated in Fig 9. With independent copies of registers for each interrupt level, the context switch to handle a new interrupt is performed by hardware in minimal time. Context switch time is that time required to save all registers and status of the task in execution and to set up the environment for the interrupting task. Typically, the majority of this function is handled by software, thereby impacting the responsiveness of the system. In addition to automatic context switching, hardware performs functions often found in first level interrupt handlers in previous machine operating systems. When the first instruction of the service routine is executed, hardware has already determined and placed in registers the following information:
(1) Address of device causing interrupt
(2) Type of 1/ 0 interrupt; eg, device end, attention, exception
(3) A breakdown status byte containing information concerning specific cause of interruption; eg, DCB Specification Check, Invalid Address
(4) A base register pointing to a data area that contains parameters relating to particular interrupting devices; this is called Device Data Block (DOB)
(5) Establishment of execution environment within level status register
(6) Loading of instruction address register with address of specific service routine for interrupting device
(7) Service routine may be unique or shared among several devices depending upon method by which software initialized each device's interrupt vector.
The multilevel 1/ 0 interrupt allows fast reaction to external stimuli. This fast reaction time requirement exists for many event driven environments and is beneficial to the performance of ap 1/ 0 intensive system.
ReliabilityI Serviceability
Reliability And Serviceability (RAS) is a high design priority because modularity makes it difficult to predict a specific standard system configuration, thereby complicating identification of failing components. To overcome this, the design approach requires that each replaceable part incorporate RAS capabilities that allow failing components to be detected during failure. Within the central processor, parity checks, microdiagnostics, and diagnostic instructions-which allow program manipulation of internal registers-are provided.
To monitor 1/ 0 integrity of the interface, the main processor channel provides timeouts on tag sequences and watches for incorrect sequences. Device adapters contribute to system integrity throu gh parity checking, cyclic redundancy checks where appropriate, diagnostic instructions, and the use of aids such as wrap-back connectors. These connectors isolate a dev ice from its attachment logic and allow the CPU to exercise the attachment without device involvement. This approach
COMPUTER DESIGN/ APRIL 1979

I l MAIN STORAGE
0000
OE VICE VECTOR
DEVICE DATA BLOCK IOOBI
IN TE RR UPT SER VICE ROU TI NE

STATUS

STAH

DEVICE DATA BLOCK ADDRESS

AOORESS KEY REGISTER LEVEL STAT US REGISTER GENERA L PURPOSE REGISTER O GENERAL PURPOSE REGISTERl

STATUS

·
DEVICE
ADDRESS

GENERA L PU RP OSE REG ISTERI

Fig 9 Priority interrupt scheme. Priority interrupts occur to hardware priority levei specified by device during interrupt sequence. After interrupt sequence begins on selected level, CPU places interrupting device's address and status in register, 7, then fetches storage location of device interrupt vector and places it in register 1. Next CPU fetches storage location specified by vector to obtain address of service routine. Execution of interrupt service routine then begins

permits determination of whether the device or its

to allow high response for realtime applications;

attachment has failed.

(d) reliability and serviceability-to optimize cost/

An example of RAS utilization is the system's Initial

performance; and (e) modularity-customizes system

Program Load (IPL). When the operator presses the

to application. A long product life is assured by

IPL pushbutton, a complex sequence of internal system ( designing the architecture to exploit structured tech-

integrity verifications is started. First, the processor

niques in software, to meet the challenges of new

thoroughly checks its data path and controls, and

circuit technologies, and to incorporate microprocessor

then tests its ability to properly read or write the

design concepts.

first 16k bytes of storage. At this point, the processor

channel tests the tag lines of the 1/ 0 interface to determine that they are in the proper states. If all

Bibliography

actions are satisfactory, the processor issues a LOAD command (Initiate Initial Program Load tag on interface) to the selected device. The device, upon receipt of the command, proceeds to check out its own data path to verify its ability to operate properly. Only after successful completion of each of these steps does the actual data transfer from the device to main storage begin. If any of the preceding steps fail, indicators are set, either within the device or in the first location of main storage, to signify how far this operation has

R. E. Birney and D. G. Bourke, "Series/I- An Architecture for the Future," Digest of Papers, COMPCON 77, Sept I978, PP 218224
IBM Corp, "Series / I 4955 Processor Description," GA34-002I, IBM Corp, General Systems Div, Atlanta, GA, I977
IBM Corp, "Series/I 4953 Processor Description," GA34-0022, IBM Corp, General Systems Div, Atlanta, GA, 1977
IBM Corp, "Series/I System Summary," GA34-0035, IBM Corp, General Systems Div, Atlanta, GA, I977
IBM ·Corp, "Series / I User's Attachment Manual," GA34-0033, IBM Corp, General Systems Div, Atlanta, GA, I977

progressed. The indicators are updated as the IPL se-

quence continues, and are used to identify a failing

unit.
Summary
Architectural design of Series/ I provides processing strength through (a) advanced instruction set-as evidenced in rich function, structured code, and reentrancy considerations; (b) distributed subchannel I/ O architecture-to minimize processor involvement in device control; (c) responsive interrupt structure-

Richard E. Birney, project engineer at IBM General Systems Division Laboratory, has been involved in both the definition and the development of Series/1. He holds eight patents, has published twelve technical disclosure bulletins, has received three invention achievement awards, and has merited an outstanding innovation award for work relative to Series/1. He holds BS and MS degrees in electrical engineering from the University of Texas.

Advanced Micro Devices continues its advanced course in microprogrammable mictoprocessing.
Step by step, function by function, we've been showing you how to build a fast, powerful ~itroprogrammed machine.
When the course is over, you'll know what we know. As it turns out, that's quite a lot.

CHAPTER FOUR: THE DATA PATH, PART TWO.
The heart of the CPU is the Arithmetic Logic Unit.
By putting ALU's together, you can build as long a word as you need. 8bits,16 bits, 32 bits, or more.

~ .s: evzcs- AS"6XJ.7~
~~~~~7~#'~.SOA/ ~
~-:Z~ ~~.A.;nZ9'~....... ~
~/~~~~~

. BUILDINGA MICROCOMPUTER,
CONTINUED.

COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

But at the ends of an array of ALU's there have always been 15 or 20 packages of glue. Multiplexers. Registers. SSL
Not any more. Now there's a single LSI chip that replaces most of the MSI lying around the ALU.
HELLO AM 2904. GOODBYE MSI.
Advanced Micro Devices announces the Am2904 Status and Shift Control Unit. It's a single 40-pin microprogrammable part that replaces 15 packs of gates and MSI. It's chock full of mux.
The Am2904 contains multiplexers to form the linkages. Multiplexers to control the carry-in. Multiplexers to test the status after an ALU operation. It even has two registers to save the status bits. All on one chip!
Get the Am2904 from Advanced Micro Devices. Then kiss all that MSI goodbye.

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Each of these messages is backed by a ton of theory and applications information.
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Next Chapter, A Complete 16-Bit Microcomputer.
81

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Cl.RCLE 40 ON IN9UIRY CARD

COMPUTER DESIGN/ APRIL 1979

DESIGNING A MICROPROCESSOR DRIVEN MULTl PURPOSE PERIPHERAL CONTROLLER
Requisites of adaptability to mix/match combinations of 1/0 devices, operation with existing software, and intelligence formulated the design of a microprocessor based multifunction controller architecture
Richard F. Binder Modular Computer Systems, Incorporated, Fort Lauderdale, l=lorida

R equirements for a revised generation of peripheral controllers becaine apparent while the ModComp CLASSIC computer series was still in the conceptual stage of design. System packaging was based on cardedge pluggable wirewrapped boards for modularity and ease of maintenance. To devote a full board space (approximately 550 integrated circuits) td a single card reader or line printer controller seertted unreasonable; this configuration would waste space and entail extra cost. The decision therefore was made to package several such low performance controllers on one board. Specifying that the design approach would be toward a multiported controller adaptable to many different devices in mix/ match cbnfiguration avoided
the problem of choosi~g which controllers to conjoin.
Also, . the new controller had to operate with existing ·software and would therefore require some intelligence. For example, the existing card reader controller is fully buffered and can transfer data in a direct 12-bit card image; in a transitional 8-bit code called "half-Astn," packed either one or two bytes per word; or in any 8-bit -code downloaded by the host minicomputer, again packed one or two bytes per word. It per.forms multipunch detection while translating to 8-bit codes. Other controllers to be reimplemented are similarly sophisticated.

Clearly, a microprocessor is the way to package the requisite intelligence on a single board. This approach relieves the designer of complex hardware and/ or custom microcode design; a microprocessor's firmware is generally mote maintainable than microcode fitted to custom logic. Also, interfacing to future devices should be easier.
General Architecture
Since a microprocessor based controller is extremely 1slow in relation to a c6tltroller implemented with discrete logic, the designer tnust take into consideration the microprocessor's response time. This response deficiency can be concealed for the most part under the overhead o! the host's intertupt-driven input/ output (t/ o) bus without slowing down the overall system. Several nearly instarit system responses are still required, however, such !ls the setting of controller busy status for the addressed port in response to a transfer-initiate command. These responses are generated by hardware in the form of a programmed logic array (PLA) to set status latches. A Z80A microprocessor computes all other status which are stored as 16-

hit words in four 4-word by 4-hit register files for access by the host's software. Fig 1 is a simplified block diagram of the multifunction controller's final design.
Actual execution of commanded operations is of course carried out by the microprocessor; all commands and data are loaded by the host into the command/ data (c / D) first in, first out (FIFO) buffer. This buffer allows the host to issue several commands in rapid sequence. The microprocessor fetches the commands from the buffer one at a time and processes each as required. Even though four independent devices can he controlled by this design, the c / D FIFO buffer need not he very deep in storage capacity; the interrupt-driven I/ o bus makes it possible for the microprocessor to control to some extent the rate at which it receives commands by controlling the rate at which it generates interrupts. The c / D FIFO buffer in the controller is 16 words deep by 21 hits wide (16 hits for the data and 5 bits to identify the command's function and destination within the controller) .
Similarly, since four independent devices can be controlled, the handling of one device cannot wait for the I/ o's response to an interrupt for another device. Therefore, three request FIFO buffers are loaded by the

microprocessor for the host: service interrupt (s1), data interrupt (DI), and direct memory processor (DMP). The first two requests are vectored in the host for software processing, while the third activates concurrent hardware in the host's 1/ 0 processor itself. As each request is needed, the microprocessor loads the request's source identification word into the appropriate request FIFO buffer. The request FIFO buffers are (unloaded by the host at its own rate, and the microprocessor is thereby freed to attend to other functions. Another use of the request FIFO buffers is made by device firmware sets (tasks) which must be able to "stack" more than one request of the same type ; a single register for each request type prohibits such stacking.
The microprocessor selected had to he fast enough to support the required system throughput. Tentative short benchmark routines were coded for the 8080A, :Z80, 9900, and 6800. One of the coded benchmarks was a routine to fetch the 21-bit contents of the C/ D FIFO buffer and transfer control to the appropriate task. The following table gives an approximate comparison of various microprocessors' performance derived from a sample routine based on the controller's firmware.

MULTIFUNCTION CONTROLLER
r---------- --------

DATA

C/ D FIFO BUFFER

COM · MAND
"' STATUS 1
~
g

IN~1~NT
SPONSE

ffi DATA
....
::>

DATA 4K4 S

0..

::;

~ I I STATU s : STATUS

~REQUEST:~ ~

I jE~_LWR~

.. u
<( D

.... <(

<D( 0_,

I 13)

.-----..

ACKNOW~- E~~5sT~-~

EDGE (JJ ' BUFFERS

ZBOA· CPU

INTERRUPT

DREG AIS

DATA ADDRESS

MEMORY BLOCK ENABLES

L---------- -----------------------------------~

Fig 1 Controller block diagram. Layout exhibits straightforward bus architecture. Distinguishing feature is address-
ing scheme consisting of displacement register (DREG) and peripheral-select PLA. This hardware makes p-0ssible firmware-transparent bank switching

I COMPUTER DESIGN APRIL 1979

Microprocessor

Clock Periods

Time

8080A-2

167 at 320 ns

53.4 µs

Z80A

92 at 250 ns

23.0 µs

9900

114 at 300 ns

34.2 µs

68BOO

58 at 500 ns

29.0 µs

Calculations based upon these short routines indi-

cated that of the machines coded for, only the Z80A

would be adequate. All further design was tailored ex-

plicitly for the Z80A; no detailed hardware or firm-

ware design was produced for the other machines.

(These values were attained by a designer most

familiar with the Z80. Greater familiarity with other

microprocessors might lessen the disparity in perfor-

mance, but the Z80's powerful instruction set, vectored

interrupt scheme, and twin register sets made it the

undisputed choice for this application.)

The four device ports (numbered 0 to 3) must be

adaptable to both serial and parallel devices. Original-

ly, the multifunction controller specification called

for support of a card reader, three types of line printers

(two parallel and one serial), a paper tape punch,

a paper tape reader, a serial console terminal, and

a full-duplex RS-232-C asynchronous channel with full

modem control and fully programmable parameters.

A typical configuration might include a card reader

in port 0, a line printer in port 1, and an asynchronous channel in ports 2 and 3. Packaging requirements specified a total of 80 signal pins for all four ports. This constraint, together with an analysis of all the parallel devices, led to a 20-bit port configured as eight bidirectional bits for data transfer, four bidirectional bits for status or control (handshaking, etc), seven input bits for status or control, and one output bit for control (Fig 2).
Of the seven input bits, two can be programmed ,online for signal inversion, and one of these two can be connected to either a pullup or pulldown resistor for device power sensing. The two groups of bidirectional bits, including control of their buffers, can be reprogrammed online. (For a card reader, all bits are input; for a line printer, all bits are output.) This interface configuration can be made to handle most common 8-bit devices. For serial devices, the 20-pin limitation requires that the parallel buffers be removed and replaced with a universal synchronous/ asynchronous receiver/ transmitter (USART), as well as appropriate line drivers and receivers.
The Z80A-PIO parallel 1/ 0 controller chip provides the required bit-programmable port capability (Fig 2), but it has only two 8-bit ports. Six PIO chips are

r - - - - - - - - -C~N~RoLZE~ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ,

PORTA
6

LINE PR INTER (EXAMPLE)

-·inn- s v

PAPER FEED

»<>---+------<--------+-{__!'. PRINT

BIDIRECTIONAL STATUS OR CONTROL

' WHOLE Z80A·PIO
PORT B 6

0.------------<:>--;---<RUN'
READY
_ ~+-:,.,.,------<;..--i--;--' _J LINE STROBE RUN
k : > + - - -- - - + - ' - ' - ' - - - - - < > - + - + - - , - - + ---<SENDDATA
VFU CHANNEL 8 PAPER LOW ><>-----,-c"""o..,.NT"'R'""O,-L...,0,-U=T=-Pu"'T=-------+--.., DATA STA OBE

5 v

3 PORT X 4
6 5 6
7
HALF'
PIO

BIDIRECTIONAL DATA

6 = 3 - STATE OUTPUT

I I

L-------------------------------~

Fig 2 Parallel interface port. Each parallel port interface consists of 3-state buffers connected to port's PIOs to provide each task with ability to program interface to suit its own requirements. For uniformity, all buffers are Intel 8226 even if used only i·n one direction

needed to drive four 20-bit controller ports. Since une and one-haif PIO chips provide 24 bits, the extra four bits control the buffers connected to the programmable bits. The two shared PIO controllers handle only data paths, and therefore are not connected to the microprocessor's interrupt system. All six chips are configured to operate in bit control ;node; hence, their handshake lines are not used. Handshaking is accomplished by addressing varioiis port bits. Each controller port has one complete Pio ,chip that can generate any needed interrupt.
For serial appllcations, all 24 bits are available to be programmed as required to best support the specialized serial hardware. To minimize serial hardware, the decision was made to restrict console tasks to port 0 or 1, and the channel task to ports 2 and 3 together. A serial line printer uses the console
hardware. A USART is connected so that it is handled
as though it were an external device. Serial handling may ~eetn somewhat clumsy, but the hardware involved in the microprocessor's bus structure is simplified since there is rio need to interface directly to a specific chip. This approach also helps to standardize the tasks in their port handling. The 280-SIO serial I/ O chip was not yet available when this controller was designed. Examination of the pr~liminary SIO specification, however, indicated that use of the SIO would seriously complicate the controller's internal structure; even if the IC had been available, it p_robably would not have been used. (The ·area in question is the displacement register, which will be discussed later.)
Some of the devices to be controlled require either timeouts or cyclic testing of status. These timing functions are triggered by a Z80A-ctc (counter-timer circuit) ; its four channels are allocated one to each controller port, and are used as timers for intervals .up to 16.4 ms (the longest timeout possible with the 4-MHz clock). Longer timeouts are made by firmware counting of CTC interrupts.
A se"."enth, or frontend, PIO is used between the microprocessor · and the host's I/ O to load the various requests into the appropriate FIFO buffets and to prbvide a vectored interrupt signlj.l to the microprocessor when the c/ o FIFO contains information to be processed. Sixteen-bit status and data words for the host are
stored in separate 4 x 4 register files whose inputs
are I/ O mapped for loading by the microprocessor.
Firmware Considerations
In order to be able to switch among several concurrent activities, the firmware is designed as a multitasking operating system consisting of an executive program and the various device handlers, or task:;. The executive is always present, while tasks are added as needed by plugging in read-oJJly memory (ROM) sets.
Executive Program
The executive occupies 768 bytes of ROM and 256 bytes of random-access memory (RAM), and has three primary functions: to initialize the system, control time-
86

START ( o)
INITIALIZE PARAMETERS
& CTC
INITIALIZE TASK PARAM·
ETERS
CALL TASK INITIALIZER
NEXT TASK
POLL
CALL APPLICABLE
INTERRUPT ROUTINE
CALL POLLING ROUTINE
sharing, and provide executive services available to all tasks. System initialization is performed at power-up [Fig 3(a)]. The first routine executed sets up the parameters required for the controller as a whole and initializes the CTC since the latter function is needed only once for all four ports. A loop is then entered which executes four times, once for each port. Tasknot-present status is loaded into the status register file, interrupt entry vectors are loaded into the PIO assigned to the port represented by the pass count of the loop (port 0 on the first pass, port 1 on the second, etc ) , and a test is made to determine whether the port's task ROM is present. If not, its command entry dedi-
COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

9071 110603 9074 210098 9077 FB 9078 04 9079 04
907A d
9 Q7R 70
9Qic 1 A
907D B7 907E CA 7790 9 0 81 D9
9082 2 AD 403
9085 CD8C90 9088 D9 9089 C37790
90 8 C E9

152

***********

153

* POLL *

154

***********

155

156

POLLIN G ROUTINE - TEST EACH TASK SEQUENTIALLY FOR POLLING

157

SERVICE REQUESTS, CALL TASK IF POLL FLAG IS NON-ZERO.

158

OPE ~ INTERRUPT WINDOW ONCE EACH PASS.

159

160

LD DE,P0LF

;FETCH POLL ~LAG ADDRESS

161

LD HL,DADR

;FETCH DISPL REG ADDRESS

162 POLL

;ENABLE INTERRUPTS

163

INC B

164

INC B

165

;DISABLE INTERRUPTS FOR POLL SERVICE

16 6

LO (HL) ,B

;WRITE DISPLACEMENT

167

LD A,(DE)

iTHIS PORT NEED POLLING S~RVICE?

16 3

OR A

16 9

J p z,POLL

;NO,TRY NEXT PORT

170

EXX

;vEs, SAVE CURRENT PARAMETERS

1 71

LD HL,CPOLEl

:FETCH TASK POLL SERVICE ENTRY

172

CALL icALL

;cALL POLL ROUTINE INDIRECT

17 3

EXX

;GET OWN RE~ SET

174

J P POLL

;NOW GO POLL NEXT PORT

175

THE Z80 DOES NOT HAVE A CALL-INDIRECT INSTRUCTION

176

THE FOLLOWING JUMP SERVES THE PURPOSE.

177 !CALL JP (HL)

(b)

Fig 3 Simplified _main controller flow. Controller and four tasks are initialized under contfbl of executive pt9gram (a). Program tHen enters polling lbop (b), which provides for priority interrupt service and for one task's round-robin polling service on each pass. In idle condition, loop executes in 11 µs/pass, ensuring reasonably rapid interrupt response

cated location in RAM is loaded with a common ignore· this-command return. If it is present, the first 10 ROM locations--<:ontaining PIO interrupt, CTC interrupt, com· mand interrupt, data transfer interrupt, and polling service entry addresses-are transferred to dedicated locations in either executive or task RAM. Control is then transferred to an initializer within the task itself; this routine sets up the port PIOs and CTC as required for the particular task, and generates and loads valid status to replace the initial status loaded by the executive. Control is then returned to the executive initializer, which processes all four ports in this manner before
enabling the hardware to respond to the I/ o.

Once initialized, the system enters an idle loop whose function is to control timesharing among the tasks present. This idle loop, called the polling loop
[Fig 3 (b) J, enables a task in two ways: interrupt
service (priority enabling) and polling service (roundrobin enabling) . Any activity must begin with an interrupt, either from a task's CTC port or from the outside world (the host or the device connected to the particular port). A CTC or device PIO interrupt is vectored to the relevant task routine, which takes ap-
propriate action. An interrupt from the host' s I/ o,
through the frontend PIO, is vectored to an executive routine which extracts the contents of the current c/ o
87

FIFO buffer location, decides whether it is a command or data, and transfers control to the task routine whose address is in the pertinent dedicated location. Whichever task routine is activated completes its action and returns control to the polling loop. The task activity in question may need service of a type which cannot be triggered by further interrupts (such as emptying a buffer asynchronously with its filling, to a device that does not handshake). Such service is activated by the setting of a dedicated location, called the polling flag, to any nonzero value.
Each task has its own polling flag and an associated polling entry dedicated location. During each pass of the polling loop, an interrupt window is opened for 2 µ.s. If no interrupt is pending, or upon return from the servicing of an interrupt, the loop tests one port's polling flag. If the flag is zero, the port number is incremented and the polling loop restarts, opening the interrupt window. Each port is tested once every four passes through the loop. If the polling flag is nonzero, the loop fetches the address of the task polling routine from the dedicated location and calls that routine. The task routine takes the action for which it has been set up and resets the polling flag if no further polling service is required, and then returns to the polling loop, which continues as before. Note that interrupt service always receives priority over polling service; this arrangement provides the fastest possible response to the outside world, and is guaranteed by specifying that all interrupt routines must enable . the interrupt before returning to the polling loop. If another interrupt is pendipg, it is serviced immediately.
To minimize both interrupt and polling service times, the system takes advantage of the Z80's two sets of working registers. One set contains registers A, B, C, D, E, H, and L; the second set is a duplicate of the first. A single instruction (Exx) will exchange all but A with their duplicates, and another instruction (Ex, AF, AF') will exchange A and the machine's flag register. The latter instruction is not used in the multifunction controller-A is considered volatile by each routine. The polling loop does the context swap for polling routines, but interrupt routin~s must do the swap themselves. One set is dedicated to the polling loop; register B contains the number of the next port whose polling flag will be tested, register pair DE contains the address of the polling flag in memory, and register pair HL contains the address of the polling routine being called. The second register set is available for use by any task or executive service routine. The Z80 also has two index registers, IX and IY, but these registers are not used in the controller because indexed instructions suffer a 1-µ.s/ instruction time penalty.
The e~ecutive provides several service~ to any task in the form of callable subroutines. These services perform the functions of
(1) Decoding commands that a task has determined to be of a control nature, such as controller interrupt connection, data transfer termination, etc. Appropriate action is taken and control is returned to the calling routine if required.
88

(2) Generating one request for a data transfer either
to or from the 1/ 0. This request may be either a
DI or a DMP request; the executive service routine tests current controller parameters to decide which type is proper.
(3) Initializing or terminating the host's DMP hardware by generating specialized DMP requests for these functions.
(4) Requesting startup or shutdown service of the host's software by generating an SI, and optionally resetting controller busy when setting the SI.
(5) Reinitializing the calling task exactly as is done at power-up. Primarily a diagnostic tool, this function is essentially free-the same routines are used in both cases.
Primary value of the executive services is to reduce the size of the tasks, since each task is limited to 768 bytes of ROM and 256 bytes of RAM. An added advantage lies in the fact that a task designer need not reinvent the wheel by designing all the common functions again for each new task; the effort required to implement new tasks is thereby minimized.
As mentioned above, tasks are limited in size. A more ~erious problem, however, is the necessity that any task (with certain specific exceptions) be installed into any port position. It is clear that the various port memory areas will have different starting addresses. A conventional software program designed to be loaded into various areas of memory (relocatable software) is accompanied by a list of locations within the program which must be modified upon loading to reflect the program's starting address. Once programmed, however, a ROM set cannot be changed; so it would seem that each task must come in four versions, one for each port. This constraint was considered unacceptable; stocking of all the different ROM sets would create problems for both manufacturer and user. The solution to this problem lies in relocatable firmware, which can be implemented by memory mapping, of which bank switching is a simplified form. Two address bits (AlO and All) are used to select one of the four tasks, and the most significant address bit (AlS ) is used to control whether the bank switch is invoked
[Fig 4 (a) J. All tasks, then, can originate at memory
address zero. It is possible to address any memory
= location in absolute mode (AlS 1), but only the = selected task is accessible in relative mode (AlS
0). The executive is always addressed absolutely to make its services available to any task. The addresses of those services are assembled with each task as "external" equates.
Located in executive RAM, the push-pop stack is addressed absolutely. PIO and CTC interrupt dedicated locations are also in executive RAM, but these locations are addressed relatively so that accesses to the same relative address in each task will be routed to the proper absolute address by the bank switching control hardware. The interrupts themselves are routed through the same absolute addresses by the vectors loaded into the hardware.
COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

(a) DATA BUS (D)

MP ADDRESS BUS (A)

(b)

FIRMWARE ADDRESS BITS

0100

0000

rn ~ 4000

4002

0 {

0 4004

4006

!SELECT DREG

'-·- - - - DREG CONTENT

l~B_Y_PA_S_S_D_R_E_G~~~~PORTSEaG~n 1100

0000

VECTOR

0000 0

cooo
C002 C004 C006

. .. A12 A11 A11 . .. MEMORY
SELECT ADDRESSING

. .. A2A1 Al EXECUTIVE
RAM ADDRESS
INPUTS

Fig 4 Memory displacement (bank switching). Task/ executive selection is accomplished by multiplexing A10 and A11 with contents of DREG. In absolute mode (A15 = 1), any area of memory is accessible; in relative mode {A15 = 0), only selected task is accessible. Interrupt dedicated locations in executive RAM are addressed by multiplexing A1 and A2 with DREG. Addresses generated by task firmware access same actual locations as does hardware interrupt entry. Displacement scheme makes it unnecessary for task to know its port address . In (b), firmware-generated address of 4000 may be actual address of 4000, 4002, 4004, or 4006, as controlled by DREG. Hardware interrupt response (c) concatenates interrupt register and actual vector supplied by interrupting peripheral to produce addresses in executive RAM that correspond to those produced by DREG-modified firmware addressing

Task Routines
Tasks consist of a series of short routines whose functions fall into the following categories: initialization, command and data transfer handling, request gen· eration, and device handling. During initialization, the executive passes control to an initializing routine in the task. This initializer is responsib!e for setting each of its PIOs with the required 1/ 0 bit patterns and interrupt enables, and its CTC port with a timeout and an enable if the CTC is to be used. It initializes task oriented, dedicated locations as required, and it generates and loads the proper controller status to the status register file for access by the host. Control is then returned to the executive. This initialization scheme provides the only reasonable means of con· troller setup-by the tasks themselves.
Commands to a task are received from the c/ D FIFO
buffer. A FIFO interrupt, recognized by the frontend PIO, triggers the executive routine which fetches the FIFO contents and transfers control to the task's com· mand handler. The command handler then decides what type of action is requested by examining the 16-bit data pattern of the command, making use of executive service if required, and takes that action. Control is then returned to the executive. Note that online task routines must execute as fast as possible in order to make way for other tasks which may be

time dependent. In one design case, compliance with this general rule required that an interrupt routine be divided into two portions; the second half of this routine is triggered by programming a PIO to generate an interrupt when an unused output bit is written to the true state. This splitting of a low priority interrupt routine permits higher priority activity to intervene while guaranteeing that the second half will execute much sooner than if it were a polling routine.
At the transfer rates for which the mu1tifunction controller is designed, direct memory access (DMA) adds unnecessary hardware and complicates such capabilities as character recognition and/ or processing. Therefore, data transfers are handled in much the same manner
as are commands. One of the extra c/ D FIFO bits
specifies the direction of the transfer; output data from the host are either output directly to the device or loaded into a buffer for output later, when the device is ready. Buffered data output generally is triggered by polling service, whereas direct output always is a result of a transfer requested by a device interrupt routine signifying that the device is ready. Input data may also be buffered or not, as applicab!e to a par· ticular device; for example, the card reader task buffers its data to protect the 1/ 0 against overflow. Input data are loaded into the data register file. When the host accepts the data in response to the controller's data request, that transfer is loaded into the C/ D FIFO buffer
89

022E D9 022F 21 .0C03 02 32 7E 0233 OF 023 4 OF 0235 07 0236 17 0237 7l 0238 CDO A02 0238 3 E9 7 023D D38 3 023F 3EFB 02 41 D3 8 3
0243 3E 4 F
0245 320040 0248 320603 0248 D9 024C FB 024D ED4D

468

***********

469

* INTH *

470

***********

471

472

ENTER ON INTERRU PT FROM NOT HOL D

4'· 7743

,
INTH

EXX

;NOT-HOLD I NTR PT IF GET HE RE

475 INTH1 LD HL,CSTAT

476

LD A,(HL)

;FETCH CSTAT

t.77

RR CA

;DO, D1 = D1

478

RRCA

479

RLCA

480

RLA

481

LD (HL),A

; SAVE NEW CSTAT

t.8 2

CALL LPST A

;LOAD MO ST-RECENT STATU S TO 4X4' S

483

LD A,097H

48 4

OU T CPIOBC),A

;SET UP FOR IN TRPT ON LINE STROBE

485

LO A,OFBH

486

OU T CPIOBC) ,A

487

STRIP PAGE PORTION OF BO F INTRPT HANDLER ADDRE SS

48 8

LD A,INT9-INT9/256*256

489

THE ABOVE MATHEMATICAL TECHNIQUE TAKES ADVANTAGE OF THE

t. 90

FACT THAT ALL IN TR PT ROUTINES ARE LOCATED IN THE SAME

491

MEMO RY PAGE - ONLY THE LOWER ORDER ADDRES S BYTE NE ED S

492

TO BE LOADE D. THIS TECHNIQ UE IS USED THROUGHOUT THE

493

TA SK IN ORDER TO CONS ERVE EXECUTION TIME AND MEMORY

494

SP ACE.

49 5

LD CPIOBV),A

;CHANGE PENTV BACK TO "BOF"- ROU TINE

496

LD CPOLF),A

;SET POLLING FLA G

497

EXX

; EXIT

498

499

RETI

l=ig 5 Typical interrupt routine. Routine monitors controller status change from HOLD to REAOY when operator depresses RUN switch. It reports new status to host, sets PIO to interrupt when next lihe feed occurs, arid loads interrupt dedicated location in executive RAM with address of rouiine which tests for bottom-of-form status. It sets polling flag-if controller is busy, data transfer commences (polling vector will have been set to address data-to-printer routine); if not, service interrupt is generated to notify host that printer is available (polling vector Will address SI-generation routine). Manipulation of DO in internal controller status word (CSTAT) copies enable bit stored in D1 into status that will be read by host if SI is made

as though it were an output. Upon recogmzmg this input transfer, the firinware ignores the FIFO data and proceeds to ready the next transfer.
Data requests may be generat~d by several mechanisms. An interrupt routine servicing a device whose data rate is controlled by the device (eg, a terminal, through a USART) generates a request when it has data for input or when the device requires output. A polling routine emptying an input buffer generates requests as long as there are data in the buffer. Finally, an output data ttansfor interrupt routine filling a buffer generates a request every time it is triggered by the receipt of a transfer, after loading the just-received data into its buffer.
Data are transferred to an output device by writing the data to the half PIO and then writing a one followed by a zero to another output bit assigned as the strobe
90

line. If a handshake is required, the strobe is set true and allowed to remain set until an acceptance is signalled by the device. Data from an input device are read from the half PIO and then accepted, if the device requires a response, by strobing in the same manner as for output. The CTC is used for two functions: cyclic activity and. single-shot timeouts. Most cyclic activity tests and updates stjltus for devices whose status can change during periods of controtler inactivity. Such changes are often due to operator intervention. Single-shot timeouts are required for devices which take long periods to execute some function or functions and do not signal the completion of such functions. A currently supported paper tape punch1 for example, takes a full second to run up to speed when
started; it is left running for 10 s after the completion
of a transfer to avoid repeated up and down cycles
COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

and the consequent startup delays. Several concurrent timeouts may be controlled by a common clock Handler routine, and this activity by no means precludes cyclic functions as well.

Hardware Architecture

The memory bank switching function is the central

capability of the hardware, and is implemented with

a single · 2-bit register called the displacement register

(DREG). Input to DREG is data bus bits Dl and D2
[Fig 4 (a) J. This register is loaded either by an

executive routine or hardware interrupt routine. The

executive routine which fetches the c/ D FIFO contents

loads two of the extra FIFO bits into DREG by a maP,ped

memory write. The register is addressed as though it

were a memory location; hence, any firmware has the

·ability to load it, but tasks normally do not do so.

The two loaded bits are a binary encode of the pdtt

selected by the host's controller address bus, and when

used as AlO and All, they select the specified task's

memory area. Hardware interrupt response loads Dl

and D2 into DREG using the interrupting device's vector

to select the task whose device made the interrupt.

Dedicated interrupt entry locations are allocated to

provide the proper vectors. It is this function whit:h

.precluded use of the SIO. The SIO generates a series

of vectors for a given port, so that bits 1 and 2 cannot

be used for port selection.

bREG outputs are multiplexed with AlO and All

from the micrtlptocessor, and the multiplexer is. steered

by AlS. When Al5 is a zero (relative mode), the

multiplexer gates tlli.EG's oulputs to the controller's

internal addre!!S bus, and any one of the four task

areas can be accessed. When Al5 is a one (absolute

mode ), the microprocessor's actual address is used,

and any area of memory can be addressed. The execu-

tive is always addressed absolutely; certain tasks,

which occupy mote than one port and are always

installed in the :same port location, are also addressed

absolutely to avoid the necessity of constantly reload-

ing DREG when executing different subroutines.

DREG addresses not only memory hut also most other

port oriented hardware in the controller. This scheme

is necessary to speed execution times; if a task were

required to recognize its port address, and compute

and load the addresses of all its devices, most toutines

would become unreasonably long. To avoid this prob-

lseemle~talPi LPAI,Oswhaincdh

the is

GTC are selected by a peripheralsteered hy a combination of ad-

dress bits b to 7 and the DREG outputs. DREG steers

both data and status register files and most of the port

oriented hardware in the front end. This hardware

includes a multiplexer whose inputs are the controller's

option-selection switches, and several registers used

to control interrupt generation to the host.

In addition, DREG supplies a port selection function

in addressing the executive RAM, but in this case DREG's

outputs are multiple:lted with address bits Al and A2.

Vectors are loaded into the various ports' interrupting peripherals, two locations apart, and these two address bits select which port's dedicaU!d location is addressed when the firmware uses relative mode. For example, the firmware addresses location 4000 (hexadecimal), and any one of the four locations-4000 (equivalent to COOO), 4002, 4004, or 4006-is accessed as con-
trolled by DREG [Fig 4 (h) J. The firmware cannot
address these locations directly in relative mode since DREG overlays the programmed address. During a hardware interrupt response, location COxx is addressed with the xx being supplied by the interrupting peripheral
[Fig 4(c) J. Port O's PIO supplies 00 to address COOO,
port l's PIO addresses C002, etc, with Al5 forcing absolute addressing to one of four locations which all appear as 4000 to the firmware. This method (Fig 5) is used for all interrupt vectoring. Extended use of DREG makes it unnecessary for a task ever to know in which port it is installed, thereby significantly increasing the overall throughput of the controller.
Summary
Although the multifunction controller is limited to an aggregate throughput of from 4000 to 8000 bytes/ s, depending upon configuration, this performance exceeds the requirements of the petiplieral devices it is designed to handle. The microprocessor based design offers satisfactory solutions to most problems and objectives of a multipurpose intelligent peripheral controller: it allows reasonably fast response to the host, enables the system designer to mix or match peripherals, and provides an adaptable inttitface for additional peripherals. It can easily be configured for installation into a system, and is relatively inexpensive to manufacture and simple to service.
Bibliography
T. Dollhoff, "µP Software: How to Optimize Timing & Memory Usage,'' Digital Design, Feb 1977, pp 44-51
L. Teschler, "Interface Software for Microcomputers," Machine Design, Aug 10, 1978, pp 105-109
J. G. Wester and W. D. Simpson, Software Design for Micro-
procl!ssors, Texas Instruments, Inb, Dallas, Tex, 1976
Zilog1 ihc, ZBO-CPU Technical Manual, ZBO-PIO Technical Manual, ZBO-CTC Technical Manual, Cupertino, Calif, 1976

~~ ~

Currently a design engineer and mem-
ber of the technical staff with MOD.COMP, Richard Binder has held various positir:Jns in the 110 development group, designing interfaces for an electrostatic printe~/plotter, magnetic tape formatter, card reader, moving head discs, and bulk core memory modules. He attended Rose Pofytechnic Institute, and has worked as a mechanical designer and technical illustrator.
91

COMPUTER I DESIGN APRIL 1979

MEET THE MONOBOARD: THE WORLD'S MOST
POWERFUL SINGLE BOARD COMPUTER.
AMC's Monoboard, theAMC95/4000, is the new boss of microcomputer boards. It performs complex math at twice the speed of any other board. And it can process data at clock rates of 2MHz or more.
The Monoboard really has what it takes to be a leader. It performs both floating-point and fixed-point math operations in the blink of an LED. It can do 16- and 32-bit two's complement arithmetic (add, subtract, multiply and divide), 32-bit floating-point operations, plus transcendental and datamanipulation functions.
But those aren't the only reasons the Monoboard is taking over. It also has four independent DMA channels, 4K bytes of RAM, space for up to 12K bytes of ROM/E-PROM, a serial I/O port, and 48 programmable I/O lines.
And the Monoboard has the same physical configuration as the SBC-80 card family. So anyone now using SBC-80's can pack more power in their systems by simply plugging in the Monoboard.
If you want power, and lots of it, get the Chairman of the Board on your side. Get the Monoboard from AMC.
Advanced Micro Computers
~
3340 Scott Blvd ., Santa Clara , CA 95051. (408) 988-7777 Distributed by Advanced Micro Devices.

CIRCLE 137 ON IN9UIRY CARD

1HE 01HER FOURS AREFORYOU.

Behind the panel of the

5Y,.-inch high Ampex

8MS5 Minicomputer,

there's an 800

nanosecond CPU

and as much as

64K words (128K

bytes) of memory.

All on a single

board.

Leaving four

big slots for your own

cards. 15 x 15 inch boards, with whatever

AMPEX MINICOMPUTERS

you need to realize the goals of your system. In-

COMBINE CPU AND 64K

sert controllers for disk, tape, printers or terminals.

MEMORYON ONE BOARD.

As long as the controller is

compatible with NOVA*, it'll be

compatible with the Ampex 8MS.

That's because Arrtpex designed

this minicomputer to take full advantage of the environment that has grown up around

NOVA computers. But this mini has some extras you never expected to see in a mini.

Like front access to all components. And a program-

mer's console with octal pad input, octal readout and

LED indicators.

Plus a single bus

structure.

Charley Penrose has some suggestions about achieving big system capability in the little 8MS cabinet. Call him at 213/640-0150. Or write to him at Ampex Memory Products Division, 200 North Nash Street, El Segundo, California 90245.
*NOVA is a trademark of Data General Corporation.

AMPEX MAKES IT EASY.

CIRCLE 41 ON IN9UIRY CARD

COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

LOGICAL ENVIRONMEN'T COMPARISON TESTING HAN OLES COMPLEX LSI DEVICES
Evolving from basic comparison methods, conditioned natural environment testing combines the broad capabilities of a large, complex system with the cost advantages of a small LSI tester
Abraham Bluestone Adar Associates, Inc, Burlington, Massachusetts

T he proliferation of large-scale integration microprocessor, peripheral interface, and memory chips has brought with it an urgent need for complex and exacting testing capabilities. While available computer-controlled automatic test systems offer technically competent checkout and diagnostics, the high cost of acquisition and software support hinders widespread implementation. An economical, general purpose, programmable test approach for these complicated devices involves the generation of functional logic sequences and permits electrical testing under worst-case conditions. This type of testing has traditionally been handled in three ways: by inhouse systems costing more than $200,000; by in-system testing, less expensive initially, but also less effective and more costly in rework and system failures; or by outside testing services. The choice of these methods is easier for those who can afford the cost of a large sophisticated test system; others are generally limited to the second or third alternative. · Recently, however, significantly less expensive test systems for these devices have evolved. They use an updated version of the established technique called comparison testing, which compares the operation of the device under test against the responses of a known-good device.

Test System Evaluation Criteria
Evaluation of a low cost large-scale integration (LSI) test system should encompass the following factors:
Cost-In addition to the hardware expense of a large, general purpose test system, programming and operating costs are significant extra burdens. To be widely affordable, a test system should have a base price under $50,000, with programming and operating costs correspondingly low.
General purpose capability-Test systems dedicated to .one LSI device, or to a family of devices, are severely limited in flexibility. To be cost-effective, the test system must be capable of testing a wide variety of microprocessors, memory devices, and microprocessor support chips such as CRT terminal and disc controllers, as well as customized LSI digital devices.
Programming ease-The system should be readily accessible to all design, quality control, and component evaluation engineers, as well as to test equipment programmers. This accessibility can be facilitated if the "natural programming language" of the device under test (DUT) can be incorporated into the test system software, and if functions to be tested can be
95

described directly rather than through a highly conventionalized test system language. Test validity-Most importantly, the system must assure completely valid testing procedures and results. In particular, the system should be able to program logic sequences to simulate any desired in-system operating modes, generate worst-case instruction sequences, and provide all asynchronous and/ or control inputs, or any similar functions. It should also be able to vary all electrical parameters, ie, timing relationships, logic levels, bias voltages, and output loading, to permit full worst-case testing.

Testin9 Techniques
Most LSI test systems fall into one or more of the following categories.
Substitution Testing
This technique is performed by placing the DUT in a known working system, its "natural .environment," and observing its behavior (Fig 1). There are obvious advantages to substitution testing: zero system purchase price, minimum investment in software development, and fast system startup, since test software, if required,

SYS TEI.' PROGRAM co·ITROL

t
INPUTS TO ANO OUTPUTS FROM OTHER ELEMENTS Of SYSTEM

SYSTEM OUTPUT OR
RESULT REG: STER

Fig 1 Substitution testing. If system operates properly with OUT inserted, ie, program is run and correct output or result is obtained, OUT is presumed good

PROGRAM ANO
CONTROL

l
~ ALGOR:TrlM:C GENERATOR

EXPECTED DATA
l.

INPUT _..

OU'

OA'.A -..

OUT _.,, LOGIC OUTPUTS,... COMPARATOR

... ERROR
OUTPUT

Fig 2 Algorithmic generation testing. Logic sequence calculated by algorithmic generator provides inputs to OUT. OUT outputs resulting from these stimuli are compared with calculated (expected) outputs, also provided by algorithmic generator

STORAGE
BUFFER MEMORY

EXPECTED DATA

J
INPUT

.-_-,..

OUT

OATA

OUT OUTPUTS

...__..

LOGIC

COMPARATOR

ERROR _.....
OUTPUT

Fig 3 Stored truth table testing. Logic sequence (truth table) for OUT is stored in buffer memory. As input data are clocked out to OUT, expected output data are routed to comparator

INPUT STIMULI GENERATOR

INPUTS

REFERENCE OUTPUTS DEVICE
OUTPUTS DU'

LOGIC COMPARATORS

ERROR OUTPUTS

Fig 4 Basic comparison testing. Both reference device and OUT receive same input stimuli. Responses of reference devices are used as expected data, against which responses from OUT are compared at each and every clock time

I COMPUI'ER DESIGN APRIL 1979

is written m a language already familiar to the system designer.
There are equally obvious disadvantages. Substitution testing neither provides the capability to classify devices nor easily obtains failure diagnostics. Also, it ties up the final product as a test bed. The most serious objection, however, is that it does not assure completely valid electrical testing, since it has little or no ability to margin or stress the DUT.
Algorithmic Generation Testing
A test system using this technique (Fig 2) requires the construction of a high speed specialized computer that can generate complex logic sequences used as input (drive) and output (expected) data for testing the DUT. The technique has been highly successful in memory testing. It offers the ability to generate complex logic sequences at very high speeds, and can be readily coupled with true electrical testing-varying the test parameters.
On the other hand, the system is difficult to program, requires detailed knowledge of both the algorithmic generator and the DUT, and could require enough auxiliary hardware to bring the final price to well above that of a "low cost" system. Moreover, it is

ALGORITHMIC GENERATOR

REFERENCE DEVICE

(a)

STIMULI
EXPECTED RESPONSES CONTROLS

Fig 5(a) Algorithmic comparison testing. Algorithmic generator computes only input data to reference and OUT. Reference computes expected data routed to logic comparators

STORAGE
BUFFER MEMORY

REFERENCE DEVICE
(b)

STIMULI
EXPECTED RESPONSES
CONTROLS

Fig 5(b) Stored truth table comparison testing. Use of reference device to compute expected data simplifies design of either algorithmic generator or buffer storage memory. Since reference computes expected data, task storage buffer memory system Is considerably simplified

probably impossible to develop, except at great expense, an algorithmic generator that will permit testing the logic state of every pin, for a variety of devices, at every clock time throughout the test. In effect, algorithmic testing is limited to the occasional sampling of outputs on a fairly narrow class of devices, which is not the ideal solution for a general purpose LSI tester.
Stored Truth Table Testing
Stored truth table testing is performed by placing patterns of ls and Os in a high speed storage buffer memory and sequencing through the pattern, presenting device inputs to the DUT, and expected data to the tester (Fig 3). Conceptually, implementation of this test technique is simple. Because the bit pattern can be fully defined, completely random, or arbitrary, and because data can be specified in each and every clock time, stored truth table testing is suitable for many logic devices. It is particularly successful when applied to read-only memory (ROM) and small- and medium-scale integration (SSI and MSI) device testing.
Keeping storage buffer costs to a reasonable level, however, requires either sophisticated software or hardware involving looping, semi-algorithmic subroutines, pattern partitioning, and other techniques. Implementation of such complex systems and processing usually involves considerable expense in terms of computer, disc, and programming. In fact, all large LSI test systems in the $200,000 to $400,000 price range employ some variation of these sophisticated stored truth table processing techniques for logic sequence generation.
Comparison Testing
Here a reference device -is used to predict the behavior of the DUT (Fig 4). Comparison testing is a practical, low cost, but minimal solution to device testing. The key reason fOr this technique's low cost is that data are generated by the reference device itself, eliminating the large amounts of memory needed by other types of testers to store both test stimuli and expected responses. Granted that the basic role of the reference device is to "compute" expected data, virtually any type of input stimuli hardware can be used. Fig 5 (a) shows an algorithmic generator and Fig 5 (b) a stored truth table buffer memory, each employed in reference testing. In both cases, the logic stimuli generator provides inputs to both DUT and reference device, as in the examples of Figs 2 and 3. However, in Fig 5, the reference devices provide expected data, considerably simplifying test system design and programming.
In spite of these attractive attributes, comparison testing has fallen into disfavor for two principal reasons. First, in its basic form it is incapable of performing electrical testing, ie, providing electrical stresses to evaluate DUT performance under worst-case conditions. Second, where the previous objection has been overcome, it has been at the price of also stressing the DUT, raising the question, "What failed-the DUT or the reference?"
97

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

I MIC~%~~~SSOR

~~~i~

PE~1::,~~AL ~ CONTEXT

-1- ___ ____ ___ L __ ~_____ __

(LOGICAL OPERATING
ENV'RONME''TJ

EXPECTED DATA

.. INPUTS

OUT

0 1-----u T_Pu_rs_

__,~~

COMP2~~~0RS

ERROR __..

OUTPUTS

Fig 6 Basic CNE testing. Operational environment-or context-contains both stimuli generator and source of expected data

A carefully designed comparison test technique, conditioned natural environment (CNE) , eliminates these problems and meets all other criteria for a low
cost LSI test system. Th~ specific issues addressed are
{a) logic sequence generation capability-adequate for the most complex LSI devices at extremely low cost; (b) general purpose capability-ability to test any device, without restriction to particular families or device types; and {c) full program control over all electrical variables, allowing complete stressing of the DUT while completely isolating the reference device from these stresses.
Conditioned Natural Environment Testing
Any of the described testing techniques may be used in comparison testing to provide either inputs or expected outputs. However, since microprocessors and their peripheral or support devices are designed to work together as elements of electronic assemblies, these assemblies form the logical "environments" for such devices. Because the device is expected to perform logically in such an environment it should, ideally, be tested in it. CNE testing provides a means of simulating such environments-or contexts-for purposes of logic sequence generation, while at the same time permitting full electrical testing of the DUT.
Generating Logic SequencQs
At the core of CNE t~sting is a working microprocessor assembly (Fig 6) which replaces the simple input stimuli generator of Fi~ 4. Truth tables {logic sequences) are generated online, in real time, by having the working microprocessor, and peripheral device if present, execute a program previously stored in the memory.

For microprocessor testing, the context microprocessor is the reference device, the DUT is another microprocessor of the same type, and there is no peripheral device. As the context microprocessor executes its program, its inputs from memory are routed to the DUT as drive data and its outputs are routed to the logic comparators as expected data.
If a periph~ral device is to be tested, the contextor operationa~ environment-is expanded to include a like device, which now becomes the reference. Again, inputs to the reference, which may now come from either the context microprocessor or the context progra:rp. memory, are also routed to the DUT as inputs, while reference outputs serve as expected data.
Any logic sequence that the DUT may see in actual operation can thus be generated. Furthermore, changes in desired logic sequences can be quickly generated by simply changing the program stored in memory. In every case, as the context operates on its stored program, each DUT pin sees the same sequence of input logic states at every clock time as does the corresponding reference device in the context. Co11te~t logic sequences are also used as reference data for output comparison purposes. The instructions that generate logic sequences are written in the language of the microprocessor itself, and can be readily modified to reflect differing operating requirements.
Providing General Purpose Capability
The concept of the context can be modified to permit testing virtually any type of LSI digital device. The CNE test system is configured to test any given peripheral DUT by inserting a known-good device into the context. Similarly, to reconfigure the CNE system to test any given microprocessor DUT such as an 8080A, 6800, or Z80, it is only necessary to change the context microprocessor.

COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

CONTEXT MICflOPROCESSOR
CONTEXT PROGRAM MEMORY
EXTERNAL STIMUL I GENERATOR

DEVICE Pl!OGRAMM ING UNIT
REFERENCE DEVICE

Tip
RETIMING Cl~CU fTRY
Td/

Fig 7 CNE testing. Reference device is isolated from OUT. Signals generated if') context are capturep, buffered, and shifted in time a(ld voltage levels before being pr~sented to D-UT

As actually implemented, reference devices, whether they are microprocessors, programmable interface adapters, or terminal controllers, are physically located in an assembly called a device programming unit (DPU) (Fig 7). There is a DPU for each device type to be tested, anq the act of changing DPUs automatically changes the required reference device and reconfigures the system appropriately to test that device.
C~anging Timing Relation~hips
In its simplest form, comparison testing consists of driving the reference device and the DUT with fixed timing from a common source into fixed comparators. Drivers and comparators, for example, might be simple transistor-transistor logic (TTL) gl;ltes.
At a somewhat higher level, programmable drivers and sensors can be added. While this offers some improvement in testing, it is still less than jdeal, since the reference device and the DUT share the same timing. Consequently, a~y margining applied to the DUT is automatically applied to the reference device. Therefore, the question of how good is the reference device remains unanswered. Best solution to this problem is a test system in which the timing to the reference, except for clock period, is completely separate from that to the DUT. This approach is basic to CNE testing, and is accomplished by the timing and voltage conditioning circuits shown in simplified form for one DUT pin in Fig 7.
As the context program runs, signals on the context bus lines, which are inputs to the reference device, are also routed to capture flip-flops. These signals are then captured by clocking the flip-flops with programmable timing edg~ Tc· This operation captures and preserves the logic state (1 or 0) of the signal. Having captured the logic signal, it is now possible to present

.it to the DUT at any desired time by clocking it out using another programming timing signal T<P·
The manner in which this test system permits changing timing relationships, and hence the stresses seen by the DUT without stressing the context, is shown in simplified form in Fig 8. Two signals, A and B, have
durations, polarities, and edge relationships flS gen-
erated by the context. Both signals are captured, at different times chosen by the test system programmer, by edges Tc1 and Tc.2. Having thus preserved the logic states, the programmer determines whe11 to present signals A' and B' to the DUT by assigning appropriate values to T.p1 and T.p2 . Finally, he determines the duration of the two signals as seen by the DUT by gating them off with edges T.pa and T.p4· As a result, the DUT is stressed in three different ways, all under program control: (1) the relationship between the
leading edges of signals A and B, designated L, can be
varied; (2) the duration of signals can be changed; and (3) the interval between the trailing edges of signals A and B, designated T, can be varied~ Thus, while the DUT sees the same logic sequences as the context, the signals have been shifted in terms of their time relationships and their durations have been altered. If necessary, their formats could also have been changed.
Fig 7 also shows that if the signal is to be treated as an output (data) signal and compared with the output of the DUT, it is routed to one side of an exclusive-OR (XOR) gate and control signal Td turns off tqe driver. Then DUT output is appropriately loaded by programmable supply V1<>od and sent to a threshold detector/ comparator, where it is compared to a programmable threshold voltage V8· The comparator output then joins the captured signal at the XOR gate and is strobed at a time T. selected by the test program. Note that the strobe circuit is turned off by
99

_ ONE OEVICE CYCLE _ _ _ _ _ _ j
I

CONTEXT

AB-v::

{ -+-+-----<~ I

i.- L --1-...i

-I I

I
1.-- 1

{:OUT

I 1------ :· ~

_l
I

~ L' _.J

T, T1

Fig 8 Changing timing relationships (stressing OUT). Capture and reclocking circuits allow timing relationships generated in context to be radically changed, as seen by OUT

CONTEXT PROGRAM
MEMORY

ADDRESS BUS
r1
i.--- ,------.

ESG POINTER
MEMORY 1k x 8

DATABUS1

ESG PATTERN MEMORY
1t x 16

COUNTER } -
....__8_B_IT_S___.
-------- - - - - - - - - - - CONTEXT - - - - - - - - - DEVICE PROG~AMMING UNIT

ASYNCHRONOUS INPUTS (HOLD INT . ETC I

·TO OUT VIA
PIN ELECTRONICS

Fig 9 External stimull generator. Data stored in ESG pattern memory are clocked out under program (pointer) control, to provide asynchronous inputs to reference device and OUT

100

COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

CONTEXT

PIN ELECTRONICS

OUT

TIMING CONDITIONING

DEVICE BOARD

DPU

CIRCUITRY

VOlTAGE CONDITIONING CIRCUITRY

EXTERNAL CONTROL

DC PARAMETRIC MEASUREMENT SYSTEM

HANDLER AND PROBER INTERFACE
LOGIC

VOLTAGE
AND TIMING GENERATION

SYSTEM CONTROLLER

CONTROL PANEL I DISPLAY AND KEYBOARD!

CASSETTE RECORDER

HOST COMPUTER

PRINTER

Fig 10 Simplified bl oc k diagram of MX-17 LSI test system. Design is based on " conditioned natural environment" (C NE) testi ng concept. Key to successful practical im plementation is DPU, which reconfigures system as requi red for any LSI logic device

T ct/ when the DUT pin is treated as an input, and that the driver is turned off by T d when the DUT pin is an output.
Providing Voltage and Loading Stresses
In Fig 7, if the signal is to be treated as an input, it is routed through the retiming circuitry to a 3:state driver whose high (Vn) and low (VL) levels are fully programmable. In this manner the voltage levels seen by the DUT can be completely different from those seen by the reference device, providing the ability to voltage-stress the DUT without affecting the context and the reference.
In a similar manner, when the signal being cap-
tured is to be treated as an output or expected data, provision is made for loading the DUT output without affecting the reference device. Separate loads, fully programmable, are provided for source and sink. Switching from source to sink loads occurs at full test speeds.
Providing External Stimuli
The ability to simulate the various interrupts that the DUT might encounter in actual operation is crucial to thorough testing. CNE testing satisfies this criterion with a subsystem called the external stimuli generator

(ESG) (Fig 9). ESG, essentially a stored truth table sequence generator, consists of a coqtrol or pointer memory and a pattern memory whose contents form part of the test program.
The control memory, addressed by the context microprocessor, initiates, controls, and termin~tes pattern memory output cycles. Data contained in the pattern memory represent patterns of desired combinations of control functions, such as ready, reset, hold, and intequpt. Data out of the pattern memory are routed to the context microprocessor, the DUT, and other system components, where they are translated as the desired external stimuli. Consistent with overall CNE system design, ESG outputs can be specified on a clock,periodby-clock-period basis.
Compariso n Test Issues
One of the important problems related to comparison testing is that of the integrity of the reference device, that is, its ability to operate properly under favorable conditions. Since CNE testing provides stored programs to the reference device, these programs include self. tests which verify the performance of the reference device by reporting results to another processor. While such self-tests are often relatively short, the CNE technique permits virtually exhaustive self-testing, if required.
101

Another problem is that there is a possibility that the comparison tester will show i<pass" results because both reference device and DUT are equally unable to meet the test conditions. CNE resolves this problem by operating the reference device in a totally separate and benign environment in which all timing relationships (except clock period), all drive and sense levels, and all biases are at their most favorable values. Worst-case or stress conditions are apparent only to the DUT.
Two disadvantages associated with comparison testing remain as valid criticisms of the CNE technique. One is the inability to test the DUT at cycle times faster than the reference device will run. As a practical matter, the use of premium reference parts will allow the tester to operate at speeds considerably above nominal specification values. This limitation on comparison testing thus becomes of little real significance in production tes~ing.
Second disadvantage is, that since it is clearly impossible to c9mparison-test the first part of a new design, the engineering designer concerned with advancing device technology does encounter a meaningful restriction. He cannot use the CNE tester unless he provides a reference device emulated by some other technology.
CNE Implementation
The CNE test concept is implemented in actual application as the MX-17 LSI test system. This system comprises the major functional elements shown in Fig 10. The system controller contains a Z80 micro:processor and 16k bytes of memory. The controller processes and routes all program information, data for the con· text program memory and ESG system, system control instructions, and system outputs. System controller bus, (16 addresses, 8 data bits); handles all input/ output and external control, including comm1mication with the printer, host computer, DUT device board, handler/ pr,obers, cassette recorder, and control panel.
Program-stored test values are sent from the controller through a digital-to-analog subsystem to the DPU, then routed either to the context or to the DUT. The signals to the context simply provide clock(s) to specify the test cycle time, and impose no stress. Signals to the DUT are first routed through the timing and voltage conditioning circuitry in the pin electronics section to jmpose the specified stress conditions on the DUT.
The context provides the logic sequences for the DUT. Major elements of the context are a microprocessor, a context program memory, the ESG, and a reference or companion device to the DUT (actually housed in the DPU). DPU configures the test system for the specific device being tested. It houses the reference device which works with the context in generating logic se-
102

quences for the specific DUT. It assigns 14 voltage and 46 timing signals to the appropriate pin electronics lines, and it also processes the timing edges received from the timing generation subsystem to form clocks or to assign them to control functions and route them to the pin electronics.
The pin electronics section includes 40 drive/ sense channels (expandable to 56) . Each channel incorporates its own timing and voltage conditioning circuitry, programmable 3-state driver/ sensor, variable output loading, and error logic. There are also four low-level clocks, identical to the logic drivers except that they have no sensing capability, and two high-level clocks provided for those devices requiring drive signals up to 15 V. The section also contains four bipolar device bias supplies, each with current monitoripg capability.
Summary
Newly developed comparison techniques are proving the effectiveness of a low cost LSI test system. Conditioned natural environment (CNE) testipg, a concept developed for the MX-17 LSI test system, satisfies the fol}owing major criteria: (1) it is a )ow cost system; (2) jt provides general purpose testing, not only of microprocessor family devices, but also of a !:>road range of other devices such as memories, custom LSI devices, and microprocessor support chips; and (3) it provides completely valid electrical testi~g. All electrical variables to which the DUT is exposed are under ;program control, and the logic sequences applied to the DUT are those derived from a "natural use" enviropment. CNE testing, therefore, provides the inherent capability to perform test anq margin testing under realistic operating conditions.
~iblio~raphy
Adar Associates, r.rx-17 Microprocessor Family Test System," Preliminary Data. Adar Assocjates, lnc, Burlington, Mass, 1977
R. L. Alonso, D. W. Madsen, and H. Thaler, "Conditioned Natural Environment Testing (CNE)-A Low Cost Approach to Full Electrical Testing of :Microprocessor and Related Components," Digest of Papers, Semiconductor Test SY'ffiposium, 1977, pp 42-46
Abraham B/uestone, currently MX-17 product manager, has been with Adar A11sociates since 1974. Before that he was associated with Teradyne in safe$, marketing, and product planning ac-
tivities. Mr. Bluestone is an active par-
ticipant in the IEEE Semicondvctor Test Symposiums at Cherry Hill, NJ, having appeared In the last three years as a contributor, panel member, and session chairman.
I COMPUTER DESIGN APRIL 1979

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I [ APPLIC°ATICN NOTE

Number Sorting Algorithm Saves Processing Time
Algorithm for data manipulation accomplishes fast number ~orting with microprocessor. Minimal program eliminates clock cytles since number comparisons and associated decision instructions are unnecessary

Martin Newman

Tadiran Electronics Industries, Petach Tikvah, Israel

A fast operating number sorting
algorithm-a version of the Radix Sorting Methocl1-used within the framework of a traffic analysis procedure with an 8080 microprocessor serves to monitor usage of telephone extensions. Input data to the algorithm consist of a list of telephone exten~ions together with the number of external calls :tnade at each extension. The algorithm processes this data and arranges the list of extensions corresponding to the number of external calls made at each extension. For application purposes, it is assumed that there are 100 extensions and that the maximum number of external calis made at any extension during the period of analysis does not exceed 127.

Al9orithm Details
Input data are listed in two tables -a link-address table and a number table. The former consists of pointers to locations containing the names of the telephone subscribers, while the latter contains the number of calls made by each subscriber in an order corresponding to the link addresses (Table 1).
The algorithm implements two additional tables: an auxiliary table, consisting of 128 locations, that stores the range of call values (0 to 127) , and a results table which, upon conclusion of the algorithm, contains the link addresses arranged in a sequence determined by the corresponding values in the reconstructed number table.

tABLE 1
Data OrganlzaUon In Telephone Traffic Analpl·

Entry
No
0 1 2 3 4 5 6
·

Number Table
28
16
5 32 95
1
80

Link Address - Tab-le
279 280 281 282 283 284 285

-Su-bsc-rib-er Jones Wills Smith
thompson Johnson Weaver Fowler

378

Jackson

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106

COMPUTER DESIGN/ APRIL 1979

I I

Shielded Contact

===:JL~~)-~~__,l~mMD"l..J.LIJ~I~
Fiber Optic Contact

Signal Contact

==tJjij l;'i o._____.D

Power Contact

Some facts worth knowing about AMP Metrimate Connectors Description: Part of AM P's exclusive

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107

TRWtakes another step
in digital signal processing

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Execution requires three passes, as follows:
Pass I-Initially, the number table is scanned, and the numbers are used successively as pointers to locations in the auxiliary table (Table 2). Each time that a number is encountered, it is used to point to an auxiliary table location, whose contents are incremented by one. Upon conclusion of Pass 1, the c~ntents of the auxiliary table represent the frequency of occurrence of the corresponding numbers in the number table. Some locations will contain zero, indicating that the corresponding number does not occur in the number table. The remaining locations will contain values of one or higher, depending on whether the corresponding number occurs once or more frequently. Pass 2-The location of each number in the final or results table is derived by scanning the auxiliary table. The number of entries in the number table-in this application, 100-is inserted into the 8080 ac-

cumulator (A) register. The contents of each auxiliary location are subtracted from the contents of the accumulator register, and the results of the subtraction are stored back into the original auxiliary location. This procedure continues until the contents of the accumulator are equal to zero. Upon completion of Pass 2, the auxiliary table will contain pointers to locations in the results table (Table 3). For purposes of illustration, there are only 11 entries with 13 possible values (0-12) in the Number Table of Table 3. In this application, the auxiliary table is scanned in descending order from the highest address to the lowest address. If the application had required arrangement of the numbers in ascending order, the direction of scan would have been from the lowest address to the highest address.
Pass 3-The values in the auxiliary table are used to construct the results table. Upon completion of this pass, the results table contains the

link addresses arranged in a sequence determined by the number of calls (Table 4). The number table and the link address table are scanned in parallel. Values extracted from the number table are used to point to locations in the auxiliary table. Then, the contents of each auxiliary location are used to point to a location in the results table. Next, the contents of the location currently addressed in the link address table are inserted into the addressed location in the results table. Each time that a location in the auxiliary table is addressed, its contents are decremented by one. Upon completion of Pass 3, the link addresses are arranged in the results table according to the values of their corresponding numbers.
Number Sorting Program
The number sorting program2 comprises four steps (see Program for Number Sorting Algorithm). Step I-Auxiliary table is clea1ed

llO

COMPUTER DESIGN/ APRIL 1979

Program For ,......., 9orllnt Algorltlm

INITIALIZATION:

MVIB,~
LXI0,0000 LXI H,0000 DI
DAD SP LXI SP,ENAUX
RESET: PUSHD
OCR B
JNZRE$ET SPHL El MVIB,84H LXIH,AUX LXI D, TABLE;

;Preaet Regtater B with number of operatlona (40.).
; Load Realeter DE with 0000.
;Load Register HL with 0000; HL le cleared to allow
addftlon of BP.
:Pleable all im. ru~; .inoe SP la used to clear _.,..
lllary table, aervto-
Ing of an Interrupt would dl.,upt pn>Qram.
;Add value of SP to prevlou.iv cl..,_
HL to ...,._SP. ;Preiet 8P with: (nf'al addrtla of
auxlllarY' table +
1); SP COm"'8nC81 at a high adctnt11 and col,Hlts down.·
;R8'91 two locatlona addrenec:I almultaneouely by
SP;adva~SP
bytwoadd.......,
; Decrement regttter a by 1.
: If B equals zero, operation la complete:-otherwlee, return to RESET.
:Restore Yalu· of SP, saved In HI., tQSP.
; A...nable all Interraptt. ;End of STEP 1.
;Prent Bwlth riurpber of table enttlee (84.).
; Load reglater HL with first addreu of auxiliary table.
: Load register DE With first addr811 of number table.

SCAN 1:
LDAXD
MOVL,A
INRM
INXD DQllt
JNZICAN
LXIH,AUX MVIA,MH
&eANI:
8U8M
MOVM,A INXH JNZ8CAN2
LXIH,TABLE

;Load accumulator with contents of memory location addressed by reglater l)E.
: Move accumulator to register L; L now contains number from number t..a>le that acts u pointer to auxlllary table.
: lflCl'Mtent contents of location In auxlllary table addfeued by HL; L equal· number
from number table.
; lnonNMflt register D; advance acitn of numb¥ table.
:DecretJMtnt regl·
ter a by 1.
a : If does not
eaual pro, Scan
1 Is not finished; return to Scan 1. ;End of STEP 2.
;Load addreaa of aux1U11ry table Into realater HL
: Preset A to 1OOia (number of locatlona In number tabl·)·
: Subtract contents of auxiliary table location addreeaed by HL from accumulator.
; Substitute con-
tents of CICCUmulator In locatton addr....d by HL.
: Increment HL by 1.
: If accumulator le not ~ual to zero, continue with SCAN 2. ;End of STEP 3.
:Load HL with first addr8SI of nurnber table.

LXIB,LINK LXIO, FINAL SCAN 3: MOVA,L CPIFIN
JZFINISH
MOVL,M MOVE,M MOVL,A LDAXB
STAXD
INXH INXB
JMPSCAN3 FINISH:
HLT END

; Load BC with first address of link address table.
; Load DE with first address of results table.
;Save value of L In accumulator.
; Compare contents of accumulator with value of least significant byte of final address of number table to check If scan of number table is complete.
; If comparison indlcates that scan of number table is complete, go to end of program.
; Make HL equal to address In auxll· lacy table.
;Load E with pointer to results table. ; Restore value of L from accumulator.
; Load accumulator link address contalned In locations addressed by BC.
; Insert contents of accumulator (link address) in locatlon in results table addressed by DE.
: Increment HL by 1; continue scan of number table.
: Increment BC by 1; continue scan of link address table.
;Resume SCAN 3.
: Halt program.
: End program.

N.ae: Number eortlng program Is organized In four atepa. In SCmn 2, accumulator Is preset with number of entrlee In number table. Values In
euxlllary table are aucceasively 1ubtracted from thl· number untll contents of accumulator are ~ual to zero.

by stack pointer. /ls described above, this technique has the advantage of addressing two locations and automatically lJdvancing t}le addressing by two, all within the framework of a single instruction. Prior to use,

the current value of the stack pointer must b!l saved and all interrupts must be inhibited. Step 2-Number table is scanned and auxiliary table is set up, as described in Pass 1.

Step 3-Auxiliary table is scanned, and pointers to results table are generated. Step 4-Nuµiber table and link address table are both scanned simultaneously, and contents of

112

COMPUTER :PESIGN/APRIL 1979

µP µP and away
GoingµP? Our 8-lane universal expressway to µP development is w ide open.

GetµP to speed with our multistation development network.

traffic jam in your microprocessor development lab. Get off that one-way road to µP-based product design (with just one chipmaker's microprocessor support) and reduce your per-station cost at the same time. How? With our Universal Multistation Development Networka distributed processing system that shares disk and printer with up to eight users simultaneously. Give each user his own AlvIDS station with integral CPU, CRT and keyboard; any one of six supported processors (8086, 8085,

8080, 6800, 6802, Z-80 and more soon); optional in-circuit emulator, logic analyzer and every software aid, including BASIC compilers, relocating macro-assemblers and disassembling symbolic debuggers. It's the first sensible alternative to the high cost of multi-user development support and confining single-chip systems.
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Los Angeles, CA 90045. (213) 641-7700 TWX: 910-328-7202.
(future @~~~)

Futuredate Booth et Electro 1319-1321

CIACLE 41 ON IN9UllY CARD

MULTIBUS comP.atible data acquisition and control systems.
The ADAC 700 Series of data acquisition systems plug d irectly into the MULTIBUS of single board computers from Intel and National. The 710 Series is the first low level analog to dig ital system available that includes such unique features as the capability to withstand common mode voltages of up to 250V while digitizing low level outputs from bridges,thermocouples and other low level transducers. A software programmable gain amplifier with optional cold junction compensation circuit can be programmed on a channel to channel basis. The low level analog to digital card and low level multiplexer expander card can be supplied with either 8 or 16 differential inputs per card . Resolution is 12 bits.
The 735 A/D high level analog to digital series is supp l ied with 16 to 64 single ended or pseudo differential inputs. It also is jumper selectable for 8, 16, or 32 differential analog inputs. The inputs can be either voltage or current loop.The 735 A/D features a 12 bit high speed analog to digital converter with throughput rates of 35 KHz basic and 100 KHz optional. The series include bus interfacing with a software selection of program control/program interrupt and a jumper selection of memory mapped 1/0 or isolated 1/0. Up to 2 channels of 12 bit digital to analog converters can be supplied .
The extensive series of MULTIBUS compatible analog 1/0 boards is further complemented by the 735 DAC Series. They are supplied with up to 4 channels of 12 bit digital to analog converters, MULTIBUS interfacing , 2 scope/recorder pen control circuits , 8 discrete digital outputs with 8 high current sinks, 8 discrete digital inputs, and memory mapped or isolated 1/0 interfacing. Optionally available are th ird wire sense for ground noise rejection and 4 to 20 ma current loop outputs.
Send for full technical data:

116

CORPORATION 70 TOWER OFFICE PAR K ·WO BURN , MA 01801 · 617-935-6668
CIRCLE SO ON IN9UIRY CARD

auxiliary table point to locations in
results table.
Memory Allocation
The auxiliary table requires 128 bytes of random-access memory (RAM) , equal to the range of possible values (0-127). The number table requires 100 bytes of RAM, equal to the number of telephone extensions. The results table and the link address table also require 100 bytes of RAM each. Hence, the minimum RAM requirements of this program are 428 bytes. In the 8080, a data memory is addressed by 2byte registers (HL, DE, BC ) . It is convenient, for purposes of speeding up the program, to allocate the addresses of the number table and the auxiliary table such that their most significant bytes are identical. Also, the least significant byte of the address of the auxiliary table is made equal to 0 to 127, while the least significant byte of the number table ranges from 128 to 227. No further constraints are necessary. The program requires 70 bytes of read-only memory (ROM). Time of program operation, assuming a clock cycle duration of 500 ns, is slightly less than 8.8 ms (worst case ) .
Summary
A number sorting algorithm using the 8080 microprocessor is applicable in cases where the number of entries to be sorted is on the same order of magnitude as the range of values. In the described application, the number of entries in the auxiliary table equals the possible range of number values. If the range of values significantly exceeds the number of entries, the auxiliary table will be disproportionately large and use of another algorithm is preferable. 3
References
1. D. E. Knuth, The Art of Computer Progrumming, Vol 3, Addison-Wesley, 1973 2. Intel Corp, 8080 Assembly Language Programming Manual, Publication No 98-004, 1976 3. D. E. Knuth, "Algorithms," S cientific American, April 1977
COMPUTER DESIGN/ APRIL 1979

Buying intelligent terminals? Then you should be thinking about Ontel! It's the intelligent thing to do.

First of all, we know that extensive software is vital to our OEM users and new Ontel software is con ti nually being introduced. Because of this our users are able to reduce their development costs in a multitude of application areas.

ThinkOntel

High level languages, forms generation, word processing, text editing and complete utilities and diagnostics, all running under Ontel's disk or diskette operating systems, complete the comprehensive set of sophisticated software packages now available for the OEM market.
Our hardware is truly outstanding. The OP-1 user programmable intelligent terrnir)al series has been carefully planned and engineered as a complete systems f~mily able to fulfill and

cornplement your design

specifications. All OP-1 terminals have

b~en des.igned to make possible
ltS on-site'feature enhancements. A full range of p~ripheral controllers is availpble providing c;ommunications, mass storage and printer interfaces.

Intelligent Master proc~ssors, coupled with secondary processors, provide unique distributed computing capabilities.
c 'ontact us today for the intelligent answer.

Edward J. Heinze Vice President Domestic Sales

Ontel Corporation 250 Crossways Park Drive Woodbury, NY 11797
(516) 364-2121

CIRCLE 51 ON IN9UIRY CARD

117

Savings.
We've priced these memories to be the best values ever, consistent with full spec. memory elements and our rigid quality assurance programs. Listed prices are single quantity, U.S. only. Substantial OEM discounts available.
48 hour delivery
We'll ship all single quantity orders within 24 hours of receiving your written purchase order. And we'll ship airfreight. With many models, OEM quantity orders (25 or more) can be filled just as fast. Check with us for details.

FOB you.
We'll pay the airfreight on any of these memories, anywhere in the U.S.
But hurry!
These offers apply only to the specific models shown and may be withdrawn without notice.

LSl-11
For high density LSl-11 memory expansion the dual height MSC 4601 gives you 32K to 64K bytes, with on-board distributed refresh , in a single option slot. Provision for battery backup. Addressable in 2K byte increments. Only $935 for the 64K byte version .

Satisfaction.
Field proven reliability and our full year warranty on parts and labor will keep you satisfied .

MSC4601

The MSC 4501 gives you up to 32K bytes in 8K increments in a single quad slot. Distributed or burst refresh modes are on-board switch selectable. $450 for 32K bytes is our best price ever.

MSC4501

~S THE BEST TIME TO

&PDP-8 MEMO IES.
HERE'S WHY:

PDP-11
For expanding PDP-11 / 04 to 55 memory, the MSC 3302, with built in power supply, provides 32K to 248K bytes, with or without parity. Can operate with two CPU's, either singly or simultaneously. $7,370 for 248K bytes with parity.

Our "intelligent memory" for PDP-11 / ?O's has up to 4MB in 64KB increments, with ECC. Nonvolatile with battery backup . Built in microcomputer monitors and locates single bit and parity errors. At $35,210 for 2MB it's cost per byte is less than $0.018.

PDP-8/A, E,
F, or M
Get 8K words in a single OMNIBUS® slot for only $553. And our special price of $2,146 for four MSC 3102's gives many PDP-8 users full memory capacity.

Call us now.
800-525-7498
is our toll free sales hot line. In Colorado call 303-770-7400 collect.

MSC 3302
Tbe MSC 3303 fits 24K bytes into any, single DD-11 small peripheral slot. Works with PDP-11 / 04 to 55 . A special version provides clearance for use with PDP-11 /15's and 20's. Lower power and low price of $995.
MSC 3303

MSC 3602
PDP-11 /04/34 users can have 32K to 128K bytes , with or without parity, in a single, modified SPC slot. Provision for battery backup. On-board DIP switch assigns address start position on bus . $1 ,945 for 128K bytes with parity.
MSC 3603

MSC 3102

If you need a nonvolatile, low power memory, the MSC 3201 gives you 8K words with on-board batteries for $761 . Our four board price is just $2,972. Has 30 day data retention and requires only 3.3 watts per board .

DEC compatible memories ... from the first.

MSC 3201

*Monolit~ic
f8ftem1 coro
14 Inverness Drive East Englewood, CO 80112 303/ 770- 7400
DEC, PDP and OMNIBUS are registered trademarks ol Digital Equipment Corporation.
© 1979, Monolithic Systems Corp .
CIRCLE 52 ON IN9UIRY CARD

I [ TECH BRIEF

Individual Control of Relays in a Matrix
IC control logic approach for individual relays m a crossbar matrix

A suggested control logic approach
for a crossbar matrix of relays controls individual relays and displays their status, ldentical modular control units ' are used for each intersection of the matrix; their design is independent of the size or form of the relays. The system is expandable, employs general purpose multiple pole relays, and could be equipped with program control. Readily available ICs ~re used, along with spst pushbutton switches for program-

ming. Status indicators are LEDs, and reed relays are employed for isolation.
Programming and display with a light-indicating pushbutton at each X·Y matrix intersection are provided by the same panel. As the system is designed, only one button in a given column and one in a given row can be on at a particular time. A separate reset button for each row and each column clears the entire row or
column. In addition, a common reset

+
N

s
+

In control circuit of

matrix-intersection con-

figuration, output of

latching 4-input open-

collector NANO gate

is connected to iso-

lating reed relay and

intersection pushbut-

ton. In matrix assem-

E bly, edge and corner

· circuits will require

fewer gates, since they

originate control lines.

Collective row or col-

umn reset buttons

operate on respective

control line originating

points, and control

board disable switch

operates on line con-

necting ground side of

all intersection push-

buttons

button clears the entire board; a single key switch could he used to disable all pushbuttons once the board is programmed.
Because logical control of the coil current through relay contacts can result in an oscillating system, the control system is segregated from the relay contacts. It is also isolated from the coils through an intermediate relay, to allow the coils to operate at a different voltage and from a less filtered and regulated supply. The status indicators are controlled by a relay contact (in a dual-purpose configuration).
The control logic (see Figure ) is inspired by functionally similar relay coil and contact designs in which positive and negative coil voltages are fed to the intersection from opposite directions over the contacts of neighboring relays. If a latch circuit at a matrix intersection is set, all identical latches to the N, s, E, and w shall be released (N, s, E, and w representing four arbitrary directions on the control board). This arrangement requires four each of outbound and inbound control lines on each circuit. These -lines originate at each matrix-edge circuit.
The illustrated control circuit is shown as one matrix-intersection unit; when a particular latch is set, it will provide release lines to all
others with the same x or same Y
coordinate. The feed-through control lines will enable the latch just set to remain set. This allows the latch to be implemented simply by a single 4-input gate at the intersection. If more than one of the latches are set momentarily, they will all be released sequentially and will provide hold signals to the last latch set.
Note
This work was done by Tage 0.
Anderson of Caltech/ JPL. For further information, write to: John C. Drane, .NASA Resident Legal Offi.ceJPL, 4800 Oak Grove Dr, Pasadena, CA 91103. (NP0-14095).
This document was prepared under the sponsorship of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Neither the United States Government nor any person acting on 'behalf of the United States Gov· ernment assumes any liability resulting from the use of the information contained in this document, or warrants that such use will be free from priyately owned rights.

120

COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

If youre in the market for intelligent terminals, you could waste a lot of time wandering from A to Z.

Specifying the optimum terminal for your data or word processing system used to be a real problem. Should it be dumb? Smart? Or intelligent? Clustered or stand alone? And which of the 88 plus terminal manufacturers can best fulfill your system requirements?
We've just solved the problem for you. With the introduction of our new ZMS family of intelligent terminals, we can offer you three intelligent solutions: the ZMS-50, ZMS-70 and ZMS-90. They're all 8080A microprocessor-based. All user programmable. And their fundamental microcomputer bus architecture and modular design offer you considerable system flexibility.
The l.Q. test: how much native intelligence do you need?
Zentec ZMS intelligent terminals are designed as building blocks, each one offering you a wide

range of application possibilities. Need a large 12" video display, synchronous or asynchronous interface and up to 12KB of downloading capability ... all at a "smart" price? The ZMS-SO's your answer. Want powerful text editing capability, 143,000 bytes of on-line mass storage and a sophisticated set of preprogrammed software routines? Specify the ZMS-70. Or if you need a large video display, detachable keyboard, synchronous interface and 16K bytes of RAM that's expandable to 64K bytes, consider the ZMS-90. Whichever one you start with, its fundamental microcomputer bus architecture, list driven structure and choice of software and firmware modules offer you an almost endless array of system possibilities.

122

COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

Or you could start with Zentec
...the last word in intelligent terminals.

Flexible & functional, by design

All Zentec ZMS terminals are user programmable and include easily modified software, making them simple to use, simple to re- program . Sophisticated, pre- programmed software routines can also be built-in, easily. And list driven architecture provides superior video flexibility, enabling you to change video fonts, select video enhancements and format data to suit your application
requirem ents. So you can blink. Blank. Reverse video. Underscore. Double character width. Even re-structure characters called up from the standard 128 character set. And Zentec's unique video circuitry enables you to di s pla y noncontiguous data, contiguously. There's even a 25th line added to the standard 24 x 80 character line format, reserved for the operator messages and status information, enabling the operator to bypass the video display to communicate with a host computer.
Have it your way

application engineers will help you analyze your data or word processing system. Help you select the right combination of hardware, firmware and software. And, where practical, even suggest custom configurations like special keyboards, enclosure modifications, customized firmware and specialized interfaces and protocols. The only thing we won't change is our commitment to quality. From materials to manufacture to MTBF tests, each Zentec intelligent terminal is design ed and produced to meet a prescribed set of rigid performance standards.
Addressing the problem
So if you're in the market for intelligent terminals, don't spend your valuable time sorting through a myriad of manufacturers. Call us at (408) 246-7662. Or write to us: Zentec Corporation, 2400 Walsh Avenue, Santa Clara, CA 95050. If you need even more immediate response, call one of our sales offices listed below. We'd like to tell you more about how Zentec can be your most intelligent choice for intelligent terminals .

Equally important .. . at Zentec, our philosophy is to be as flexible as our products. So we don't just stop with our standard configurations. Our

... the last word in intelligent terminals.

Sales Offices- San ta Clara . Califo rnia : Santa Clara, CA (408) 246-7662; Los Angeles, CA, (714) 661 -2583; Pala tin e, IL, (312) 991-0105; Whi te Plains, NY, (914) 428-2801, Boston, MA , (617) 935-4511 ; Washing to n , DC, (703) 941 -9270; Austria : Tonko, 425-451 ; England: Zygal Dynamics, 02405-75681 ; Finland: Videodata , 90-578-877; France: Tekelec, (1) 027-7535; Switzerland: l\tek . 041 -831043; Au<tralia : Pacific Communications Ptv . Ltd ., (02) 638-6400 .

CIRCLE 54 ON I NQUIRY CARD

123

H rou've never had a chance
to do your best work, here's y,, our chance.
At Storage Technology Corporation, we continually strive to make our already advanced technology even better. We've built a olid reputation for q ~Hty with reliable, well-engineered prod1!cts.
STC is only t n ye?rs old an<l we are already thew rld's largest manufacturer f high density tape data storage products and the leading independent supplier of fixed media disks for the IBM compatible market. And we can be very proud of that accomplishment.
Our people have made us what _ we are today and they are working hard to make us even better tomorrow. We recognize them and appreciate the creative, aggressive contributions made by each of our employees. That's the STC phil wphy. And that's one reason we'v heen able to establish such a rap 'd, st~hle growth pattern.
Living in t1'e Denver-Houl<ler area is just the beginning of an exciting career at STC. We 0ffer challenging projects where you can be in control, where doing your best work means gr~ater opportunity for advancemt>n t.
We offer ex:cPptional opportunities at every level and we have some exciting career alternative1-1 that we think you'd like to know about.
Write or send your r s11me in complete confidence to the Professional Employment Department at the address listed below. Your correspondence will be answered promptly and courteously, and we'll tell you what it's like to be part of our company, and why we can say with pride at STC, people count and technology truly is our middle name.
An equal opportunity employer,

STORAGE TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION

R379

2270 South 88th Street, CD / 4-79, Louisville, Colorado 80027

124

CIRCLE 135 ON IN9UIRY CARD

COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

JOIN THE CLASS OF '79
National Computer Conferenee JUne 4-7

A unique and extraordinary learning

the needs of commercial and industrial

And there's more. At the NCC '79

experience will be available to you

users through sessions on manage-

Personal Computing Festival you'll

at the 1979 National Computer Confer-

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learn about the latest developments in

ence, June 4-7 in New York City. The combination of more than 150 technical

impact of computers on society. Special " mini-conferences" will cover such

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sessions, noncommercial applications

16 Professional Development Seminars, in health care , as well as privacy

demonstrations, and commercial

a comprehensive Personal Computing

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exhibits by more than 100 participating

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Emphasis at the Professional Devel -

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events will make NCC '79 an excep-

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Join the NCC class of '79. To pre-

tional educational offering.

base I data communications, mini I

For $60 you can register in advance

micro technology, the automated office, and ex hibits ... or to obtain additional

for the technical and professional

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topics range from database machines,

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Personal Computing Festival - a

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attend as a guest of a partici pating

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Florida Data has the printer for the next 5 years

Are you worried about system throughput growing faster than your printer capability? Then talk to Florida Data Corporation about the printer for the next five years!
FDC's Model PB600A can keep the pace with total system growth - it is the fastest character matrix printer on the market. Its print speed is 600 characters per second - that means 230 lpm at full 132 column width or more than 1000 lpm in shorter lines.
Model PB-600A is the fastest character matrix printer on the market.

Print-heads for FDC printers are manufactured in-house with proprietary technology.
The secret of the PB-600A's outstanding performance is the proprietary print-head technology developed by FDC. We manufacture our own print heads. Print head life exceeds any other character matrix printer; FDC heads are warranted for one full year.
Our head technology was a long time coming - the engineers who developed it brought a total of more

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The PB-600A has all the other features you'd expect in a high-quality printer designed especially for OEM customers.
There are no duty cycle or page density restrictions on the print head; this means continuous printing, hour after hour. Standard PB-600A features include microprocessor controller, forward/reverse printing, an 894-character buffer, internal test capability and switch selection of four different type fonts. A two-channel paper tape reader provides vertical forms control. Paper tractors may be
Distributor inquiries invited.

Volume production capability means economy, reliability for OEM customers.
Enjoy the economy and reliability that come from high-volume output. Enjoy the OEM customer support that comes from a dedicated, experienced technical staff.
Get the details from: Florida Data Corporation, 3308 New Haven Avenue, West Melbourne, FL. Telephone 305/724-6088.

126

CIRCLE 128 ON INQUIRY CARD

COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

When it comes to computers,

SAMS PUBLISHES THE BOOKS
!J. Introducing... THE ~Li;IL~5Wi\G,:~:::N.~:::.·:::::::.N.~:::s~:

It has long been the objective of the " Blacksburg Group" to develop timely and effective educational materials and aids that will permit students, engineers, scientists and others to quickly learn how to apply new technologies to their particular needs. The members of the group have long been involved in digital electronics, minicomputers, and microcomputers.
The Blacksburg Continuing Education SeriesTM is an easy to read format consisting of 16 titles. Subjects range from basic electronics through microcomputers, operational amplifiers and active filters . Each title in the series includes detailed experiments, " hands-on" learning experiences, and examples to reinforce basic concepts. Book Size 5V2 " x 8V2 ",softbound.
Howard W. Sams & Co., Inc.
4300 West 62nd Street P.O. Box 558
Indianapolis, Indiana 46206

Programming by Peter R. Rony, David G. Larsen, and Jonathan A. Titus.

Provides a thorough description of 8080A-based microcomputer systems, including the ha rdware required for a typica l 8080A mi crocomputer, the operation of the status latch, and the interface circuitry required for external input, output, and interrupting di gital device s. Over 150 pages are devoted to a detailed description of the 8080A instruct ion set. More than 30 programming examples, whic h cover topics such as timing loops, stack operation s, clearing memory, input and output, and interrupt servicing, are provided . 416 pages. BUGBOOK® is a re gi stered trademark of E & L In struments, Inc., Derby, Connecticut 06418.

No. 21447

$10 . 50

Introductory Experiments in Digital Electronics and 8080A Microcomputer Programming and Interfacing. Book 1. by Peter R. Rony, David G. Larsen , and Jonathan A. Titus.

A nove l introductory approach to the field of digital electron ics that starts with the programming of an 8080Aba sed microcomputer and then proceeds to a treatment of the key concepts required to interface a microcomputer to external digital devices. Gate s, flip-flops, latche s, decoders, counters, monostable multivibrators, and gating are all described in detail as a prelude to the mi cro computer interfacing experiments provided in Book 2. Seventeen programming experiments and forty-four digital electronics experiments are provided . 496 pages.

No . 21550

$12.95

Introductory Experiments in Digital Electronics and 8080A Microcomputer Programming and Interfacing. Book 2.
by Dav id G. Larsen, Peter R. Rony, and Jonathan A. Titus

Book 1 provides the background necessary for this laboratory-based approach to the important principles of microcomputer interfacing: device select and address select pul se generation , accumulator 1/ 0, memory-mapped 1/ 0, and interrupting device servicing. The principles are discussed in the context of a small laboratory 8080A-based microcomputer, which is described in the Appendix. The entire 8080A in struction set is described in detail. Three programming experiments and forty-one interfacing experiments are provided. 416 pages.

No. 21551

$10.95

0 RD ER F0 RM

PLUS ... there's 13 more timely computer titles. Order Today! See the complete selection on the order form below.

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DBUG: An 8080 Interpretive Debu gger No . 21536 $4.95
Design of Active Fi lters, with Experiments No . 21539 $7.95
De sign of Op-Amp Circuit s, with Experiments No . 21537 $7 .95
Design of Phase-Locked Loop Circuits, with Experiments No . 21545 $8 .95
Interfacin g and Scientific Data Communication s Experiments No. 21546 (March 1979 Publication Date) $5.95 (Tentative)
Introductory Experiments in Digital Electronics and 8080A Microcomputer Programming and Interfacing
Book 1 No. 21550 $12.95
Book 2 No. 21551 $10.95
Two Volumes No. 21552 $20.95 Log ic and Memory Experiments Usin g TTL Inte grated Circuits
Book 1 No . 21542 $9.95 Book 2 No. 21543 (January 1979 Publ ication Date ) $9.95
Two Volume s No . 21544 $1 7.95
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CIRCLE 55 ON INQUIRY CARD

127

-
MICRO DATA STACK

INTERFACING FUNOAMEr..TALS: MULTIPLEXEb LEb DISPLAYS-PART 1
Christopher A. Titus and Jonathan A. Titus
Tychon, Inc
David G. Larsen and Peter R. Rony
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Regardless of their application most microcom-
puters require peripheral input/ output devices . More common output devices include 7-segment displays, 5 x 7 dot matrix displays, teletypewriters, and cathode-ray tube displays. Various methods can be used to interface 7-segment displays to. microcomputers, and several different programs typically drive such displays.
One of the . simplest interface methods consists of latching the appropriate data values from the data bus under software control. (Fig 1) . The latch's inputs (7475) are wired to the microcomputer's bidirectional data bus and the latch's outputs are. wired to a 7-segment decoder/ driver (7447). The decoder's outputs (current sinking) are wired to the 7-segment display with 220-n current-limitiilg resistors. When an OUT 125 instruction is executed, the content of the 8080 microprocessor's A register is latched by ·the display interface; the two binary coded decimal (BcD) numbers represented by 07 to D4 and D3 to DO are illuminated on the two displays. The instructions listed in Fig 1 cause a 39 to be displayed.
To display a 10-digit number using this method, 10 latches, 10 decoder/drivers, 70 resistors, and 10 7segment displays are required. One method of reducing the parts count for this interface would be to use a device such as the 8255 programmable peripheral interface (PPI) integrated circuit (IC). 0 This device can be used as three independent 8-bit output ports, so that it is equivalent to six 7475 latches. Therefore, two 8255 PPI chips would replace the 10 latches in the above
1!28

interface. One obvious disadvantage of this method is the large number of 1cs required. However, one advantage is that relatively simple software drives this interface. Also, due to the latches or 8255 chips, the microcomputer only has to output numeric information once to the interface for it to be continuously displayed, and then can go on to pedorm any other required operations.
Another interfacing method is diglt multiplexing, which reduces the display interface electronics (numb er of parts) to a minimum, but at the eitpense of longer and more complex display driver software. Multiplexing a display consists of enabling or turning on one particular digit with a digit enable code and providing the BCD numeric information for that digit to a multidigit display interface. In this way, each digit is turned on, one at a time, as the actual BCD data for each digit is provided.
Multiplexing is usually used only with multidigit · displays. As an example, to display the number 237 on a 3-digit multiplexed display, the BCD value for the digit seven would be output to the interface, along with the digit enable code for the righthand display. After a short period ( 1 to 10 ms) , the BCD value fo r the three would be output, along with the digit enable
0 J. A. Titus, et al "Microcomputer Interfacing: Accumulator
1/ 0 Versus Memory 1/0," Computer Design, June 1976, pp 114, 116
COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

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1'441'

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· /PROGRAM

Fl(I 1 Simple 2-dlglt LEb ctt,play Interface. 7475 latch lnputa are wired to data bus, latch
outputs to 7..,.7 decoc:ler/drWer', and decoder
outputa to 1·egment dlepl~ wtttt 22CM> real1tors. e<ecutlon of OUT 125 cau... dlaplay
lnter'face to latoh content of register A: two 8CD numbers then thow on two displays.
Program fisting displays 39 on 2-dlglt display

7441

741'1

D2 DI

· ?

OuT I

· · IO II 14 ·· .. 2 IH

iii"

7402

081857

NIA 5140
II II I I? I II 11

Fig 2 10-Dlglt mulrlplexed LED dlsplsy Interface. Digit multiplexing turns on one digit with digit enable code and provides BCD numeric data to multldlglt display

1ntelfece; thus, each dlgl la turned on, one

·
?

I
c
0

. 74TI

II II 10
·

at a time. Performance of sequence 60 times/a makes display appear to be on continuously

code for the middle digit. Again, after a short delay, the BCD value for the two and the digit enable code for the lefthand display would be output to the interface. By performing this sequence 50 or more times every second, each digit in the display appears to be on, all of the time, because the digits are turned on and off too fast for the eye to see. This method is used in handheld calculators. The interface for a 10digit multiplexed display is shown in Fig 2.
When an OUT 125 instruction is execut'"d, bits D3 through DO of the A register will determine which one of the 10 digits in the display will be enabled (turned on). Therefore, these four bits constitute the digit
132

enable code. Bits D3 through DO are latched (7475) and are decoded with a 1 of 10 decoder (7442) . The decoded outputs of the 7442 are wired to the common cathodes of the individual digits in the display. Bits D7 through D4 will provide the BCD code of the value to be displayed (0 through 9) . These bits are also latched (7475) and are decoded by a 7-segment decoder/ driver (ns8857 from National Semiconductor Corp) . The ns8857 supplies the current required to tum on the various segments (A to G) within the enabled digit, selected by the 7442 decoder chip.
A simple program can be written in which five packed BCD words (two BCD digits per word) are output to the di~play so that a 10-digit number is displayed
COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

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Cl,RCLE 58 ON IN9UIRY CARD

i33

True. For many of the Fortune 500, custom LSI is a way of life. Weve been making circuits for Whirlpool since 1968. And putting companies like IBM, Singer and Hewlett-Packard in the chips almost that long.
More recently, Ford, Burroughs, Northern Telecom and ITT have swelled our blue-chip customer list.
But suppose you don't have their resources for developing new products. How can you afford to compete with their dazzling new sewing machines, computers, hand-held calculators, communication systems, appliances and instrumentation?
You do it the way hundreds of smaller companies have done it: with an imaginative product and custom circuits from AMI.
A little LSI goes a long way.
We have scores of case histories showing how emerging, innovative companies have forged to the front with the help of our custom microcircuits. Without going into hock to do it.
A case in point. A manufacturer of low-speed modems wanted to enter the 9600 bps modem market. So the firm came to AMI for a custom solution. The result: a modem with an order of magnitude fewer components, superior performance and at less than half the going price. It catapulted the company to the forefront of this market.
Two custom AMI chips have made another customer's DTMF (dual-tone-multiple-frequency) receiver the most popular circuit of its kind in modem telephone systems. Another firm has stolen a march on everyone with its high-security cryptographic communication system. (Our chips, again.) And our circuits are helping another company open more garage doors than anyone else.
As different as these companies are, they have one thing in common. None of them sat back and relaxed after getting their first custom circuit. Because they all know this:
You're only as good as your next product.
A custom LSI circuit could put you a year ahead of your competition. That can be the difference between success and failure. And, while your competitors are figuring out how you did it, you move on
134

COMPUTER DESIGN/ APRIL 1979

to the next generation product. We've helped our customers stay ahead this .
way in a number of fields- EDP terminals, TVgames, PABXs, facsimile transceivers, burglar alarms and avionics navigation equipment, to name a few.
The beauty of upgrading your product is that it's usually much easier once you have the first custom circuit. And a rapport is built between us. We understand your application and requirements, and you understand what we need to know to make the design changes. Often you work with the same engineers on every project, exploring ways to pack more performance onto the chip. And that again reduces development time and cost.
Which brings us back to that concern.
Doesn't it cost an arm and a leg?
It really doesn't. Although there are initial design and engineering costs, a custom circuit often turns out to be more economical than using standard parts. That's because a custom circuit is a completely integrated system, usually on a single chip. And it comes ready to drop right into your product.
If you build with standard parts, you may be dealing with more expensive components or a larger number of circuits, perhaps providing more capability than your application requires. And remember, components aren't the only costs involved. Assembly and board overhead can run you as much as 50% of your parts price, not to mention the time and money spent on testing and, for microprocessor systems, software development.
We also fabricate a great number of custom circuits along with our catalog products. This increase in volume leads to even more competitive prices, making custom a very attractive way to go. But it's by no means the only way.
Some other alternatives to consider.
As we also build the S2000 (4-bit), S6800 (8-bit) and S9900 (16-bit) microprocessor circuits, we obviously have no axe to grind with the standard approach. We'll steer you that way if it really makes more sense. Or maybe we'll work out a system based on a standard microprocessor with custom peripherals. A lot of our customers have found this the best solution, because many functions,

such as AID conversion, special display drives and high-speed calculations, can't be handled by standard circuits.
While we're talking about alternatives, remember that AMI gives you more custom choices than anyone else. We offer 25 variations of four MOS processes to get you the right speed and power dissipation you need. And we're happy to work with you in any of three basic roles. First, as a complete design and manufacturing service. Second, as a manufacturer only, with you supplying designs created by your company or an independent design house. Third, we could get involved in a joint development program where our circuit designers and your systems engineers work together on a family of circuits for you.
Our new books show you what steps to take.
We've just published two new brochures titled "MOS Systems Solutions: A Dozen Case Histories" and "Six Steps to Success with Custom LSI'.' They cover the most important factors to consider in choosing a custom LSI supplier. When you see what AMI offers compared with other custom houses, you'll see why we're the leader in this complex field.
So write or call AMI Custom II Marketing, 3800 Homestead Road, Santa Clara, CA 95051. Phone (408) 246-0330. Or one of these regional sales offices: California, (213) 595-4768; Florida, (305) 830-8889; Illinois (312) 437-6496; Indiana, (317) 773-6330; Massachusetts, (617) 762-0726; Michigan, (313) 478-9339; New York, (914) 352-5333; Pennsylvania, (215) 643-0217; Texas, (214) 231-5721; Washington, (206) 687-3101.
We'll send you our brochures. Or, if you prefer, give you a 30minute presentation right in your office. With the help of custom LSI, you could be right up there with the big companies.
AIMii®
AMERICAN MICROSYSTEM S, INC.

/Thia program drives a 1G-dlglt, multfpb)X4Pd, ~ f. .....,... /dllPlay. In addition, Instructions hrfe bMn added IO
/the Intensity of each display Is equal.

DfSPLA. LXIH
120

/Load register pair H with memory
/address where BCD dlglta are ltOrld

004

/004 120 = hex 0450

MVID /Load D with first digit

000

/that will be enabled

Dl8PL1, CALL /Display first two packed

DIGIT /BCD digits

INXH /Increment memory address

MOVAD /Get digit enable word Into A

CPI

iCompare It to

012

/eleventh digit enable count

JNZ

/Haven't displayed all 10

DISPL1 I digits yet, so do two more

JMP

/Have displayed all 10 digits,

DISPLA /so display them all again

OIGlt, MOVAM /Get packed BCD word Into A

RLC

/Rotate four LSBs Into

RLC

/four MSBs

RLC

CALL /Then display this digit

OUTIT

MOVAM /Get the same word again

OUTIT, ANI

/Save only four MSBs

380
M>bD

I (380 = hex FO) I Add digit etlable

OUT

/Output 8-blt value

125

INRD /lncrtment digit enable

INTEN8, MVIE /Load E with a number

100

/100 =hex 40

tNTEN1, DCAE JNZ

/Decrement the number
/If It Is nonzero, execute

lNTEN1 I JNZ Instruction back to INTEN1

RET

/When E = 0, return

(see Program Listing). This program has to unpack the BCD words stored in memory, combine the BCD digits with a unique digit enable code and then output these eight bits of information to the interface. For instance, the value 01010011 will cause a five to be displayed in the fourth digit from the right on the display. The digit enable code in this example is 0011, and the digit enable code for the righthand display is 0000.
To display the number 3,163,908,332, register pair H is first loaded with the memory address where the two least significant digits (32) are stored. In the Program, this address is 004 120. Only five memory locations are required to store the 10-digit number, because the number is stored in a packed BCD format. The D register, which stores the digit enable code,
136

.is then set to 0. The content of register D, which will eventually be latched by the interface hardware, is used to turn on only one digit at a time. At DISPLl, the DIGIT subroutine is called, so that the content of memory addressed by register pair H is moved to the A register. Since the data values are stored in memory as packed BCD digits, this subroutine unpacks them. The digit in the four least significant bits (LSBS) of register A is rotated to the left four times, bit by bit The first digit to be displayed is now in bits D7 through D4 of register A when the OUTIT subroutine is called.
At OUTIT, the four LSBs of the A register are set to zero by the ANI instruction (the digit to be displayed is in bits D7 through D4). The digit enable code contained in the D register is then added to the BCD number in the A register and the result is output to the interface (OUT 125). When this word is output, the four LSBS determine which digit is enabled and the four most significant bits (MSBS) represent the value to be displayed. The first time the OUTIT subroutine is executed, the A register will contain 00100000, because a two must be displayed on the right-hand digit.
At the end of the OUTIT subroutine, the content of the D register (the digit enable code) is incremented from zero to one preparing it for the next digit enable code. To "intensify" the digit that has just been turned on, the computer executes a time delay at INTENS. Thus, the digit is kept on for a period that allows it to be clearly seen. When the 8080 finishes the OUTIT subroutine, it returns to the MOVAM instruction just before the OUTIT subroutine. The A register is loaded with the content of the same memory location addressed by register pair H, only this time the BCD digit contained in bits D7 through D4 must be displayed. This is the second digit from the right in the number 3,163,908,332. The ANI instruction at OUTIT sets bits D4 through DO to zero, the digit enable code (one) is added to the number, and the result is output. After incrementing the digit enable code to two, the microprocessor again executes the INTENS delay loop, so that the three on the second digit from the right is displayed for a reasonab'e amount of time. When the RET instruction is executed, the microprocessor returns to the INXH instruction just after DISPLl.
The microprocessor increments the memory address in register pair H and then examines the digit enable code contained in the D register. If this code is less than 012 (decimal 10), the microprocessor jumps back to DISPLl so that the two BCD digits now addressed by register pair H are displayed. If the digit enable code is equal to 012, then all 10 digits in the number have been displayed. If this is the case, the microprocessor jumps back to DISPLA, so that the memory address in register pair H and the digit enable code in the D register are reinitialized.
From this program, it is evident that the microprocessor constantly updates the display (writes new information out to the interface) . New digit enable codes and data values are output to the display every millisecond. Software techniques-converting the program to a subroutine or using an interrupt-can prevent the program from tying up the microcomputer. These methods, together with additional means of hardware interfacing of multiplexed displays, will be concluded next month in Part 2.

1·J This article is based, with permission, on a column

appearing in American Laboratory magazine.

· ·

COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

Comp

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140

CIRCLE 63 ON IN9UIRY CARD

COMPUTER DESIGN/ APRIL 1979

MICRO DATA STACK
COMPUTERS, ELEMENTS, ANO SYSTEMS

Monoboard Microcomputer Adds Programmable Timer For Process Control Adaptations

INTERRUPT DATA/CONTROL

LINES

TIMER OUTPUTS
P2

RESET
DATA BUS ADDRESS BUS CONTROL BUS
cs

POWER-ON RESET MC1455

RAM ENABLE
Vee
STDBY

5 Vdc

RESET IRQ

Fig 1 Basic microcomputer. Monoboard micromodule M68MM01 B from Motorola Semiconductor Products features programmable timer module for counting , measuring , and generation tasks. Incorporated are necessary crystal clock circuits, reset timer for power-on initialization, and address bus decoding to establish address of each part

Two monoboard microcomputers for the Micromodule line introduced by Motorola Semiconductor Product~ Inc, PO Box 20912, Phoenix, AZ 85036 feature a programmable timer function for process controls. The basiC standalone microcomputer is the M68MM01B that has the processing and control power of an Mc6802 MPU with its self-contained clock circuit and 128 bytes of static RAM. As shown in Fig 1, the module contains sockets for up to 4k of EPROM or ROM for programming, a peripheral interface adapter (PIA) with !20 programmable 1/0 lines for parallel data transfers, and a programmable timer module (PTM) .
The Mc6840 triple 16-bit timer/ clock provides for such tasks as frequency measurements, event counting, interval measuring, square wave generation, gated delay signals, single pulses of controlled duration, pulse width modulation, and timed system interrupts. A buffered 4-MHz crystal oscillator circuit provides clock input to the MPU. The MPu's divide-by-4 circuit generates the required 2-phase MPU clock and 1-MHz

/ ,.,~,~·~~,;'''''

INTERFACE

MC6B2 l

P3I
RS-232-C BUFFERS
-----
ACIA SER IAL 1/ 0
MC6B50

1RESET SWITCH

PROGRAMMABLE COUNTER(TIMER
MC6B40

TIMING

POWER -ON

AND

RESET CONTROL

CONTROL

ADDRESS

DATA

......

......
l

REFRESH LOGIC

CRYSTAL
CLOCK r---i
CIRCUIT

MPU MC6802

BUS BUFFER

TWO EPROM SOCKETS

256BYTE RAM

1
REFRESH GRANT

-qa-~
4 MH z
REFRESH REQUEST

14 16

DATA

ADDRESS

CONTROL

Fig 2 Expanded version. Additions of 256 bytes of static RAM, offboard dynamic memory refresh, ACIA with RS-232-C interface circuits, audio tape cassette interface circuit, and bus drivers increase microcomputer's capability. M68MM01B1A is compatible with M6800 EXORcisor, and is expandable with more memory and 1/0

MICRO DATA STACK
COMPUTERS, ELEMENTS, AND BYBTEMB

phase 2 external clock for the rest of the system.
The data bus transfers data between the MPU and onboard devices. The address bus selects memory locations within the board. A partially decoded addressing scheme uniquely addresses each onboard EPROM/ ROM, PIA, and PTM; these devices are selected by an address decoder circuit which consists of prepatterned P/ ROM and PC board interconnections. Both addressing of and data transfers to the onchip MPU RAM are handled within the chin.
Measuring 9.75 x 6.00 x 0.062" (24.77 x 15.24 x 0.157 cm), the module also has a reset· timer for power-on initialization. Timer input frequency is 1-MHz internal or asynchronous external gate/ trigger inputs. Timer operating modes are continuous (square wave), single shot, frequency comparison, and pulse/ width comparison. Power requirements are 5 Vdc at 350 mA; with EPROMs, 5 Vde at 450 mA. Full compatibility with Mc6800 software is supplied.
The second module, M68MM01BlA, is a more fully populated version of the first (see Fig 2) with an additional 256 bytes of static RAM, provisions for offboard dynamic memory refresh, an asynchronous communications interface adapter with Rs-232-C interface circuits, audio tape cassette interface circuit, and bus drivers for the ·address, data, and control bus signals. For greater memory and 1/ 0 capacity, other external devices can be added, unlike the M68MM01B which does not have address, data, or control signals available for interfacing with other modules.
Bus compatibility with the M6800 EXORciserT" allows hardware and software development and debugging, and production hardware troubleshooting. Power requirements are 5 Vde at 550 mA, 12 Vde at 20 mA, and -12 Vde at 25 mA; and with EPROMS, they are 5 Vdc at 650 mA, 12 Vdc at 260 mA, -12 Vdc at 180 mA.
Circle 410 on Inquiry Card
System Accepts TV Input Signal And Displays Digital TV Picture
A general puroose microcomputer system with digital image process-

Z80 based Beck-1 /System microcomputer with TV input and digital TV display digitizes and displays up to 256 x 240 4-bit pixels, has 512 x 480 1-bit pixel interlaced graphics, and programmable character densities to 40 x 120 characters
ing, Beck-I/ System serves as a standalone system or interfaces to host mainframes as a digital TV display and TV acquisition subsystem. The terminal type enclosure houses a Z80 CPU, up to 64k bytes of CPU RAM and 32k bytes of CPU ROM, serial and parallel 1/ 0 ports, floppy disc storage with mini and standard floppy drives, a keyboard, and CRT display. A DMA controller, realtime clock, an'd floating point arithmetic unit also are available.
Capable of digitizing a TV input signal and displaying a digital TV picture, the programmable display processor contains up to 32k bytes of image RAM, displayed as characters, graphics, or a digital TV (gray scale) picture. Programmable parameters include character and pixel size and count, character blink, reverse, underline, and half intensity. Also featured are nondestructive zoom, and horizontal and vertical panning in all three display modes.
Pixel density of the TV input A-D and gray scale display is up to 256 x 240 4-bit pixels (16 levels). Graphic densities are up to 512 x 480 1-bit pixels. Unit can supply an Rs-170 compatible signal, interlaced or noninterlaced, or run off camera supplied sync-Rs-170, Rs-330, or random interlace.
Configurations prepackaged by Beck Corp, 303 Slocum Ave, Neptune, NJ 07753 span a range of OEM and small business needs . Applications using TV input and display capabilities include industrial noncontact measurement, surveillance, broadcast effects, QC inspection, and robotics, as well as others combining TV and computer technologies, Models with-

out the video facilities suit more traditional small business application areas. Software security features for OEM and systems houses prevent interchange of firmware or software between systems; with a diagnostic capability, one system can test another without disassembly. Range of systems are from $2900 for the Beck-l/ 30A basic svstem with no disc storage to $6800 for the -l/ 50C which includes TV input, graphics and digital TV display, 32kbyte CPU RAM, and dual standard floppy discs.
Firmware consists of the BECKMON-1 system monitor and BECKPLOT-1. The monitor contains basic console functions, disc bootstrap, and 1/ 0 driver routines for all system devices. Display processor 1/ 0 driver and plotting routines give the user display control from high level macro calls.
System software consists of the CP/ M operating system, BASIC, and program development package, with PASCAL and 3D graphics to be added soon. Users may also use other companies' software that is compatible with the Z80 CPU and CP/ M operating system.
Circle 411 on Inquiry Card
Board Fills Computer's ROM Expansion Needs Using Reduced Power
The iSBC 464nr EPROM/ ROM expansion board accommodates both the 16-bit iSBC 86TM or 8-bit iSBC 80TM single-board computers. Containing 2732 EPROMS, the memory can use 8k-bit 2758, 16k-bit 2716, and 32kbit 2732 EPROMS or 2316E ROMS to meet system needs. It takes advantage of these components' standby power mode and 5-V only features, thereby reducing power consumption by up to 40%; it operates from a single 5-V power supply. Price is $495 in single quantity.
To achieve compatibility with the 86/ 12 computer, the expansion memory must be ab~e to place a 16-bit word (or one byte) on the MultibusTM data lines, and must respond to a 20-bit address code so that it may be located anywhere within a lMbyte address space. Multibus compatibility allows the memory to be designed into a multiprocessor en-

142

I COMPUTER DESIGN APRIL 1979

"Ef~ictency
1s1n.
Extravagance
is out:·
-vector oraphic

·That's why when you look for top-quality, low-cost, add-on-

memory you should always look for Vector Graphic on your

memory boards. It means they stand behind every product

through over 200 Vector Graphic dealers.

Vector Graphic is the only one who designs in so much

quality for so little cost.

The 48K Dynamic RAM memory board is used in the Vector

MZ microcomputer, although any Z-80/S-100 computer system

can take advantage of the problem-free transparent refresh

offered in this high-quality, low-cost add-on-memory.

It's no secret, Vector Graphic is

carefully assembling

state-of-the-art 16K-bit dynamic

RAMs into

boards. And each board is

thermally cycled, aged and continuously read-write

------------

tested over 400 million error-free cycles.
The new 48K board consumes less than 4 watts total power and provides the

48KRAM
Dynamic MemOrV
$695 (suggested U.S . retail price)
D Send me the name of the nearest dealer
D Send more information
Nam e _ _ _ _ _ __ __

same superior design and I

reliability found in all

Add ress_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

products from Vector

City/ State/ Zi p _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

Graphic. Remember, it's memory that works.

I I I

\ti:Ci:O=t C:=tA?l-iC inc.

I 31364 Via Colinas, Westlake Village, CA 91361 , (213) 991-2302
- Dealer inquiries invited - ·----------------------------

CIRCLE 64 ON IN9UIRY CARD

143

MICRO DATA STACK
COIVIPUTEAB. ELEMENTS, AND SYSTEMS

ADDRESS

SELECTION

LOGIC

SOCKETS FOR 16~/32~/64~ BYTES
ot EPROM/ROM

MULTIBUS INTERFACE LOGIC

CO NTR OL LOGIC

ADDRESS LINES 20

CO NTROL LINES

EVEN ADDRESS
,- DATA BYTES
1
I I

ODD ADDRESS
DATA BYTES
---1
I I I I I I I I I I
_JI
DAT8 _
DATF

MULTIBUSTM

Memory expansion board for Intel's iSBC 86/12, as well as iSBC 80, family of single-board computers interfaces with Multibus system bus. iSBC 464 is characterized by 20-bit address and 16bit data buses

vironment including both 80 and 86 CPU boards. ·
Devel~ped by Intel Corp, 3065 Bowers Ave, Santa Clara, CA 95051, the board contains 16 sockets for a maximum' of 64k bytes of nonvolatile memory. Actual capacity is determined by the type and quantity of EPROM/ROM components installed. Although only one device size may be used, EPROMS and ROMS may be mixed on one board.
The board operates with 1 of 15 switch selectable memory access times ranging from 35 to 1550 ns. Mode of operati o~ is se!ected by placing two option jumper blocks in the appropriate sockets. The 8-bit only mode provides an efficient memory configuration for systems limited to 8-bit data. The 16/8-bit mode all ows 16-bit processors to access 16-bit words; in addition, 8- or 16bit microprocessors can access either the high or low order byte of a 16-bit word.

Memory space is organized into four banks. Consisting of one-fourth the total board capacity, each bank can contain a maximum of 4k, 8k, or 16k bytes of ROM. Unused memory sockets can be deselected to free memory addresses for use elsewhere in the system. Thus, configurations with fewer than 16 memory components do not fill memory address space with unaddressable blocks.
C ircle 412 on Inquiry Card
Word Processing System Also Supports Data Processing Applications
A video based system with data processing capability, Memorite 2 contains the MZ microcomputer with disc storage, the Mindless Terminal, and Qume Sprint 5, a 55-char/ s printer. The S-100 bus compatible

mainframe has 18 slots and requires a power supply of 8 V at 22 A and ±16 V at 4 A. Two Micropolis MODII disc drives store 630k bytes. The processor is the Mostek Z80A with a 158-instruction set.
For word processing uses, the system handles advanced text preparation, edit, and delete capabilities. It offers automatic letter printing from memory with full formatting techniques. P/ ROM resident memory has a capacity of 12k bytes and a lkbyte static RAM. Speed of the static RAM is 450 ns; the P/ Rm.r's is user selected (450 ns typ).
One serial and two parallel 1/ 0 ports have been included by Vector Graphic Inc, 31364 Via Colinas, W estlake Village, CA 91361. Features of the serial port are EIA Rs-232, 20-mA current loop, and TTL signal levels ; an asynchronous data rate from 110 to 9600 bits/ s; and an 8251 programmable USART. With the parallel port, there are TTL sig-

144

I COMPUTER DESIGN APRIL 1979

WD-30-TRI

DISPENSER WITH WIRE

R-30-TRI TRI-COLOR REPLACEMENT SPOOLS

. .

··

The intelligent disk architecture is available in STC

STC's new 2700 winchester disk family combines the intelligence of a microprocessor, 64k bytes of RAM, and a high-speed bus interface to offer you a versatile new disk architecture. An architecture that can help you achieve new dimensions in system speed and performance. Relieve CPU overhead burdens. Slash interfacing costs, and more.
Yet even without its advanced architecture, you'd still choose the 2700 disk family for its attractive price/ performance and reliability values.
The 2700 family features formatted capacities of 39, 93, and 200 Mbytes, 25 msec average seek time, and OEM prices ranging from less than $3,600* (39 Mbyte) to less than $5,000* (200 Mbyte). With an 8000 hr. continuous operation MTBF, the 2700 will not just keep your customers happy, it'll keep your warranty expenses low.
·Domestic USA OEM prices in quantitities of 100.
Powerful bus architecture for faster data rates and greater flexibility.
Gone arc: the speed and configuration constraints of serial, data-line interfacing. The 2700 disk family incorporates a high-speed byte-parallel interface, with internal serial/ parallel conversi~n, to give you transfer rates up to 2 Mbytes/sec. The bidirectional, full handshake protocol permits any 2700 disk to act as master or slave, while built-in dual ports support r~dial, daisy chain or intermixed configurations.

Most important to you, the 2700 architecture offers maximum flexibility for applying these features. For instance, the architecture,coupled with the RAM buffer, permits continuous data transfer on both ports simultaneously. Thus your CPU can communicate with a 2700 on one port while disk-to-disk communication occurs on the other.

you'll need tomorrow Disks today.

The µP can unlock your system's hidden resources.
One way to boost your CPU's performance is to get it out from under system overhead and back to productive computing. The on-board intelligence of the 2700 gives you that capability. Routines such as drivers, data management and utilities can be offloaded to the microprocessor, freeing the CPU and bus for other tasks. But that's just the beginning.
For example, you can use the microprocessor to optimize throughput by means of zero millisecond writes and cacheing algorithms to speed read access.
High-level software, including on-board editor and compiler, simplifies algorithm development for the above and other custom
applications. And you can use the built-in RS-232 port to program right on the disk.

An intelligent controller in each drive. For free.
To help you get to the system level faster and easier, we placed 80% of the traditional controller functions within the 2700. Including all device dependent functions. Since you now only have to build a low-cost interface adapternot a complete controller-your attachment costs are significantly reduced.
Low cost of ownership.
Fewer parts mean fewer failures. So the 2700 contains a minimum number of mechanical parts, only two of which move: spindle and actuator. The microprocessor contributes to this simplicity by replacing all sequencing and servo logic with firmware.
To eliminate scheduled maintenance, the 2700 dispenses with potentiometers. Dynamic adjustments are made internally under microprocessor control. And the 2700's closed loop air system means no filter changes.
If there's ever a failure, internal diagnostics isolate the problem to one of three subassemblies: logic board, head/disk assembly or power system. And these components uncouple quickly for fast repair. All of this translates into high MTBF, low MTTR, to reduce your warranty and field service costs.
To learn more ...
about tomorrow's disk architecture, today, contact OEM Marketing,
Storage Technology Corporation, P.O. Box 6, Louisville, Colorado 80027.
Or phone (800) 525-2940; in Colorado 497-5151. In Canada: Ron Reardon, STC Ltd.,
272 Galaxy Blvd., Rexdale/Toronto, Ontario M9W 5R8. Phone (416) 675-3350.
CIRCLE 66 ON INQUIRY CARD

STORAGE TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION

MICRO DATA STACK
~ ELEM ENTS1 A N D SYSTEMS

Z80

_ __..121ROM

CPU

QUME 55-CHAR/S PRINTER

1.---1--1 SERIAL 110

12" VIDEO MONITOR

DUAL S" FLOPPIES

KEYBOARD

TERMINAL

BUS COMPUTER

Interaction between Vector Graphic's high speed
zso based MZ microcomputer and peripherals-
Qume printer and vi deo mon itor terminal with keyboard-is illust fated . Basic system components are
also diagrammed

nal levels; 16 input, 16 output, and 2 control lines; and data transfer rate of greater than lOOk bytes/ s.
The 12" (30-cm ) diagonal CRT Mindless Terminal has a resolution of 900 lines at center. The keyboan;l has 56 keys, capacitance type with numerical keypad and cursor con-

trol. A 4Bk-byte dynamic ILU-1 is compatible with the ZBO at 4 MHz.
The system also acts as a data processor, performing standard accounting tasks and custom applications in Business BASIC. Scientific calculations also are available.
Circle 413' on Inquiry Card

Modularity of J1Computer loard Series Suits OEM Requirements
Micro Design Series (MD SeriesTM) of OEM microcomputer boards offers the designer two types of ZBO based modules that may be configured in any combination to aid initial production as well as future system upgrading or modification . Mostek Corp, 1215 W Crosby Rd, Carrollton, TX 75006 has designated the standalone microcomputer line as MDT"' and the general purpose B-bit STD-ZBO BUS compatible, expandable board line as MDxT". The latter cards are modularized by function. They include a CPU card; Bk, 16k, and 32k dy-

namic RAM cards; serial 1/ 0 (sm); parallel 1/ 0 (PIO); combination EPROM and UART (EPROM/ UART); and software development/ debug (DEBUG). All measure 4.5 x 6.5" (11.4 x 16.5 cm) and are available in 2.5- or 4-MHz versions. The STD BUS, jointly defined by Mostek and ProLog Corp, allows any combination of cards to be used in any card slot.
MDX-CPul serves as the CPU of a multimodule ZBO based microcomputer system. Features are the ZBO CPU, 4k X B P/ ROM, 256 X B RAM, flexible memory decoding, and four counter/ timer channels; it operates on 5 V only. Three versions of the add-on RAM module-MDX-DRAMB, -16, and -32-are address selectable

on 4k boundaries. The -16 and -32 come in 4-MHz versions. Containing a fully buffered asynchronous 1/ 0 port with teletypewriter reader step control, the add-on P/ ROM module (MDX-EPROM/ UART) has lOk x 8 EPROM/ ROM. Its serial 1/ 0 channel includes Rs-232 and 20-mA interfaces, and baud rate generator for llO to 19.2k baud.
The general purpose MDX-PIO interface, using MK 3BB1 ZBO-Pms, has up to four fully programmable 1/ 0 ports-any combination of two bidirectional plus two input or output ports. Operating from 5-V only, the board features strap selectable port addresses. Full interrupt capability supports Z80 mode 2 interrupts and has two handshake signals for each port. Basis of the MDX-sIO, designed as a multiprotocol asynchronous or synchronous 1/ 0 module, is the MK 3884 Z80-sm. Two full-duplex multiprotocol channels feature asynchronous, bisynchronous, HDLC or IBM 'SDLO, receiver data registers quadruple buffered, and transmitter data registers double buffered. Also included are a dual baud rate generator, data and clock buffered for RS232 and 20-mA current loop, and eight modem control lines buffered for Rs-232.
Replacing external development equipment, MDX-DEBUG allows the designer to generate and debug ZBO programs in conjunction with the -cPul and -DRAM modules. The lOk bytes of firmware include a line or character oriented editor; debugger with memory and register exams, and breakpoints; and assembler featuring relocatable object code with linking loader. Rs-232 and 20-mA interfaces, reader step control for teletypewriters, and llO- to 19.2kbaud rate generator characterize the serial 1/ 0 port .
The MD cards, while ZBO based and the same size as MDX modt1les, are not compatible with the bus. MD-SBCl features Bk x B EPROM, 2k x B RAM, two 8-bit input ports, three 8-bit output ports, two interrupt inputs, 2.5-MHz crystal clock, and operates from a single 5-V power supply. 1/ 0 ports are brought to the 56-pin edge connector.
For evaluation of the MD series, a prototyping kit is availab!e. MDXPROTO consists of an B-slot card cage, MDX-CPUl, MDX-DRAMB, wirewrap, extender, and MDX-DEBUG cards. A-D and D-A conversion modules, floppy disc controllers, high speed math, DMA controllers, and other system and 1/ 0 intensive modules are planned for future announcement.
Circle 41 4 on Inquiry Card

148

COMPUTER DESIGN/ APRIL 1979

ANNOUNCING THE LOW-COST16-BIT ·CROCOMPUTER,
MP/100.

THIS IS HOW FAR YOUR MONEY CAN GO.

Function and economy. Those are the two reasons we packed
more features in our new 16-bit microNOVA®MP/100 than anyone
would have thought possible. And at a price lower than anyone would have thought possible.
Available at chip, board or box level, the MP/100 is based on the new Data General designed and manufactured 16-bit mN602 NMOS microprocessor. This is where the true functionality begins. Our single, 40-pin package includes the full NOVA®16-bit architecture and multifunction instruction set, hardware stack and frame pointer, 16-bit multiply and divide, realtime clock, multiple addressing modes, stand-

ard and high-speed data channels (2M byte/sec), 16-level priority
interrupt and dynamic RAM refresh.
It's capable of supporting up to
64KB of RAM/PROM/EPROM memory in standard application and up to 128KB in special application requiring additional memory.
The MP/100 gives you the mN602 microprocessor, an asynchronous interface with full modem control, automatic program load, power/monitor/auto restart and soft control panel all on a single 7W' x 91/2" board.
All microNOVA computers are available in a compact, modular 51/4'' eight-slot chassis featuring a single board power supply for increased

reliability and maintainability. Plus a low cost four-slot card cage for
product OEMs. Our new 16-bit microNOVA
MP/100. It can take you a long way on a small amount of money. Most important, the MP/100 is not only compatible with other members · of the microNOVA family but also within the entire Data General family of NOVA and ECLIPSE computers. It's a smart way to grow.

150

COMPUTER DESIGN/APRil.. 1979

THIS IS HOW Fi

Speed and performance. These unsigned integer Multiply/Divide General. The right fit for today with

are the two features that give you add to the MP/ 200's power.

the growth for tomorrow. Send the

the power of a mini in a 16-bit micro- The MP/200 is completely com- coupon for complete information.

computer. Our new microNOVA® patible with the MP/100 which

And fast. Or call 800-225-7282 or

MP/200 is the highest performance means that all peripherals and inter- contact your nearest Schweber or

microcomputer in the marketplace. faces are interchangeable. And the Hall-Mark distributor.

Offering the flexibility of product line integration at multiple levels -
board, box or fully packaged system- the MP/200 features fast instruction execution times with an 0.84 microsecond ADD and a full 16-bit hardware multiply in 4. 9 microseconds. Standard and highspeed data channel (DMA) provides input/output data rates of up to

MP/100 and MP/200 feature the r------------- - -------,

industry's broadest range of compat-

I MAIL TO: microNOVA PRODUCT INFORMATION

DATA GENERAL CORPORATION

ible field-proven software for pro- I

WESTBORO, MA 01581

gram development and execution. I Name_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

Including disc and real-time operating systems and high level languages

: Title _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

I Company

Te l No. _ _ _ __

I Address_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

such as Business BASIC, Extended I City

State

Zip_ _

BASIC and FORTRAN IV. Function and economy. Or, high
performance. Whichever your need,

I Data General Corporat ion, Westboro, MA 01581, (617) 366-8911. Data General

I Rica. I

i~~~~~kJ~Si.'fs.t;;O~~ ~~:edr~J ~~~3t~fi~~{~j~g~~.1 ,)a~a~~~~~~t:~:: .PC:i:ta
Laun ~rica. 22-79-42. Data General Middle East. Athens, Greece, 952-0557.

L©~a~C:e~C~_:n: ~9~ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _<J_E ~7_! _J

3. 7M bytes/second. An enhanced you'll find the best, cost-effective NOVA®instruction set featuring answer in the MP/100 or MP/200 byte operations as well signed and 16-bit microNOVAs from Data

-·DataGeneral
We make computers that make sense.

CIRCLE 68 ON IN'f)UIRY CARD

151

MICRO DATA STACK
CDMPUTER.81 ELEMENTS, AND SYSTEMS

Microprocessor 1/0 Module Systems Interface With 5-V Logic Units
Four optically coupled, color coded modules and four PC module boards (4, 8, 16, or 24 positions) comprise an 1/ 0 module system with industry standard pin configuration. Gordos Arkansas, Inc, lOOO N Second St, Rogers, AR 72756 has designed the systems to interface with 5-V CMOS, TTL, NMOS, or PMOS units. Two output modules ( ac or de) drive a 3-A load, while two input modules (ac or de) translate their respective load inputs into standard logic levels.
The 8-, 16-, and 24-position module boards have plug compatible logic contacts, while the 4-position board has screw terminal logic connections. All boards feature a barrier strip with screw terminals for load connections, circuitry for pull-up resistors, 5-A field replaceable fus es, LED status indicators, and color coded position indicators. Since the function is self-contained in each module, the user can determine system board layout.
Circle 415 on Inquiry Card

CLOCK OSCILLATOR

PROCESSOR

VOLTAGE REGULATORS
POWER UP RESET
LOAD INTERRUPT GENERATOR

AUDIO r ~-~ ·"CASSETT~
INTERFACE

SYST EM I IO PORT

SOU ND DISC

KEYBOARD

DISPLAY

System Teaches .uComputer Programming, Interfacing, and Fundamentals
Demonstrating TMS 9900 family applications and advan tages, the TM990/ 189M single-board microcomputer system is a learning aid for instruction of microcomputer fundamentals, interfacing, and assembly and machine language programming. The self-contained board has a TMS 9980A microprocessor, lk bytes of RAM (expandable onboard to 2k), and 4k bytes of ROM (expandable onboard to 6k). The R0!\'1 contains the sys.tern monitor (UNIBUG) which sets the baud rates to 110, 150, or 300, and a symbolic assemb1er. Other features are a 2-MHz crystal controlled clock, 16-bit programmable r/ o port and interrupt monitor, and single-step instruction execution.
Mass memory storage is achieved via the audio cassette interface. T exas Instruments, Inc, Semiconductor Group, PO Box 1443, Houston, TX 77001 has built in a 45-key alphanumeric keyboard and 10-digit, 7-

System architecture along with user options for Texas Instrument TM 990/189M . Learn ing aid gives users hands-on experience of microcomputer basics. Components are TMS 9980A microprocessor, 1k of RAM, 4k of ROM , 2-MHz crystal con.trolled clock, 16-bit 1/0 port, 45-key keyboard, 10-digit alphanumeric display, and visual and acoustic ind icators. Bus, serial communications, and audio cassette interfaces handle system expansion options offered in addition to onboard memory expansion

segment display with 32-character buffer. It displays data, instructions, and error messages, and may be shifted right or left to view any 10 digits of the buffer. A standard EIA terminal or TTY interface may be added externally.
Other system expansion options are available. A TMS 9902 asynchronous communications controller and accompanying interface circuits for Rs-232-C or 20-mA current loop terminals can be added. Also the bus can be expanded using the bus interface. A suitable power supply is ayailable as an option.

A series of visual addressable LEDS is coupled with a piezoelectric speaker for audio signals. When the microcomputer is powered up, four LEDs Bash, the speaker beeps, an<l the display signals "cpu ready." This not only clears the sysetm , but also serves for self-diagnosis. Other LEDS signal the status of the audio cassette when the CPU is in idle and when the keyboard is in shifted mode. The microcomputer board, punched for insertion in a 3-ring binder, costs $299, with user's guide and applications textbook.
Circle 416 on Inquiry Card

152

I COMPUTER DESIGN APRIL 1979

Introducing the Sp erry Designed exclusively for three

The Sperry Univac V77-800 Miniframe is the newest and most powerful mini we've ever built- a high performance, multi-use, general-purpose minicomputer system designed for both commercial and scientific data processing. It has a memory range from 128K bytes to 2 megabytes (with error correcting memory) and a 150 nanosecond CPU with integrated cache of 1024 bytes. Plus 12K bytes of user programmable writable control store.
There's an optional new high speed 64-bit floating point processor that works in conjunction with a new globally optimized ANS '77 FORTRAN.
No wonder our three most important customers think so highly of it.
OUR OEM CUSTOMERS KNOW WE DESIGNED IT JUST FOR THEM.
The Miniframe is customer microprogrammable. So an OEM can implement his own firmware packages. And with the many software packages we offer, the OEM can add all the bells and whistles he wants.
The Miniframe comes with our largest instruction set ever. So OEM's with their own software have much more flexibility in design.

The Miniframe speaks PASCAL, the powerful new language for scientific, commercial, and system programming that most competitive systems still can't speak. And of course, it also speaks COBOL, FORTRAN and RPGII.
More good news is that the Miniframe is compatible with the rest of the V77 product line.
OUR SYSTEM HOUSE CUSTOMERS KNOW WE DESIGNED IT JUST FOR THEM.
Naturally, system houses want all the features OEM's do. And more.
So we gave them more. More operating systems, for example. Choose from VORTEX or our new SUMMIT - an interactive, multi-terminal system with transaction processing and data base management. It gives you easy editing, screen formatting, and documentation aids. Plus speedy, comprehensive program development. System houses also think PASCAL is important. Because it's more efficient, easier to maintain, expand, and modify. The Miniframe brings systems builders a new query language called QL-77. It features inquire and report facilities. And interfaces

154

COMPUTER DESIGN/ APRIL 1979

Univac V77·800 Miniframe. of our very best customers.

directly to TOTAL; the data base management system. So preprocessing and intermediate handling are a thing of the past. Finally, TOTAL also gives you complete data base access and file access security.
OUR END USER CUSTOMERS KNOW WE DESIGNED IT JUST FOR THEM.
Take all the features we designed in for OEM's and system houses and say ditto for the end user.
But we didn't stop there. We also pressed a few special hot buttons just for end users.
Consider QL-77, for example. End users will love our new query language because it reduces the amount of application programming. By storing query language procedures right in the data base file. Where they can be easily and quickly recalled and executed at any time.
Once again, SUMMIT, our new operating system, helps the end user handle transaction processing. Without any additional, expensive software. It's also the right answer for a multi-tasking, "fully-implemented" distributed processing system.
Finally, the Miniframe supports DCA and conventional protocols. So you can talk to both SPERRY UNIVAC and IBM hosts.
*TOTAL is a registered trademark of Cincom, Inc.

YOU'LL KNOW WE DESIGNED THE MINIFRAME JUST FOR YOU.
No matter what your application, no matter what your need, the Miniframe may just be the answer.
For more information, write to us at Sperry Univac Mini-Computer Operations, 2722 Michelson Drive, Irvine, California 92713. Or call (714) 833-2400, ext. 536.
In Europe, write Headquarters, MiniComputer Operations, London NWlO 8LS, England.
In Canada, write Headquarters, MiniComputer Operations, 55 City Centre Drive, Mississauga, Ontario, L5B 1M4.
We're Sperry Univac. And our new Miniframe is going to solve some very big problems.
s1=e~y_.J,Lr UNIVAC SPERRY UNIVAC IS A DIVlSION OF SPERRY RAND CORPORATION

CIRCLE 70 ON INQUIRY CARD

155

MICRO CATA STACK
COMPUTERS. ELEM ENTS, ANO SYSTEMS

Floppy Disc System With 4-Drive Controller Speeds Data Storage
The MD-x floppy minidisc subsystem is available from Imsai Manufacturing Corp, 14860 Wicks Blvd, San Leandro, CA 94577. Featuring a mo-D disc controller, two or four single/ double-density 5.25" ( 13.3-cm) floppy minidisc drives, power supplies, fans, and cables, MD-2 stores 800k bytes and MD-4 stores 1560k bytes. System configurations are based on 40-track MPI or 77-track Micropolis minidisc drives. Each controller supports up to four drives of the same type on the company's 8080 and 8085 based computers. Models Mo-2E and -4E are dual drive expansion units for MD-2 and -4, as well as for the company's minidisc based computers.
These two systems contain the IMDOS multidisc operating system, which simultaneously supports minidisc drives and standard 8" (20.3cm) drives. On systems with the company's hard disc unit, a version of the operating system supports mini and standard floppy disc drives as well as hard disc. Utilities are an 8080/ 8085 assembler, video/context editor, dynamic software debugging program, and diagnostic program.
Model Mn-2 and -2E dual drives provide 180k bytes of online storage in single density. In double density, the user may specify 17 sectors/ track at 256 bytes/ sector for 344k bytes or 5 sectors/ track at 1024 bytes/ sector for 400k bytes. Dualdrive models MD-4 and -4E provide 354k bytes in single density. In double density, either 17 sectors/ track at 256 bytes/ sector for 660k bytes or 5 sectors/ track at 1024 bytes/ sector for 780k bytes of online storage may be specified.
Transfer rates for all models are 125k bits/ s single density and 250k bits/ s double density. Recording techniques for these respective densities are FM and MFM. Each unit includes two power supplies, 5 Vdc rated at 3 A and 12 Vdc rated at 3.4 A.
All models utilize two minidisc drives in a desktop cabinet. Prices are $1395 for model MD-2, $1995 for MD-4, $995 for MD-2E, and $1495 for Mn-4E.
Circle 417 on Inquiry Card

Converter Functions As Interface for Bus/ Controller Interaction
The RTP family of 16-bit analog and digital 1/ 0 measurement and control subsystems connect to Motorola 6800 Micromodules and EXORciser deve!opment systems via the plug-in RTP 7410/ 73 1/ 0 bus converter that performs the necessary interface function. Up to eight controllers, attached to one converter in chain fashion using RTP 1/ 0 cables, are operated in either programmed 1/ 0 or interrupt-driven modes by the 6800 CPU.
The bus converter and attached controller registers are addressed as memory locations. Each converter uses a block of 64 memory addresses which provides a minimum of 4 memory addresses for each attached RTP device and 4 addresses for the bus converter itself. The converter is transparent to CPU instructions addressing the subsystems.
Computer Products, Inc, 1400 NW 70th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33307 developed the bus converter with logic to perform byte to word and word to byte conversions, and to inhibit RTP interrupts between the transfers of the two bytes. Price of the converter and termination card is $350.
Circle 4 18 on Inquiry Card
Course Gives Hands-On Training With Take-Home Microcomputer Board
Systems designers attending a 4-day F3870 and F8 training course are offered the sing~e-board 387X PEP microcomputer system, which serves as a prototyping, emulating, and programming design aid for systems based on standard F3870, F3872, F3874, or F3876 devices. A built-in option allows programming of operating codes either into the F38E70 or into 2716 EPROMS.
Course objective is to familiarize users with the 3870 architecture and instruction set. Attendees practice program development on a disc based F8 system, editing, assembling, and debugging programs. The F3870 is emulated with the Formulator design aid through an umbilical cord; the

PEP system for prototyping, emulating, and programming F387X single-chip microcom puter family is featured in handson t rai ning course with laboratory sessions, sponsored by Fairchild
PEP system performs emulation by downloading a program that is developed with a cross assembler or development system.
Fairchild Camera and Instrument Corp, 464 Ellis St, Mountain View, CA 94042 has priced the course, offered in Mountain Vie~, Calif, at $500 ( $400 without the PEP board). Other courses cover the F6800, 9400 Macrologic and 2900 bit-slice families, and 9440 Microflame 16-bit microprocessor family.
Circle 419 on Inquiry Card
Computer Couples With Controller Interface For Industrial Uses
Operating on the S-100 bus , the Z80 based sBc-100 board contains lk bytes of onboard RAM, Bk bytes of P/ ROM (using 2716 ), serial 1/ 0 with asynchronous and synchronous operation, 8-bit parallel 1/ 0 plus handshaking, 4-channel counter/ timer, and software programmable baud rate generator. This saves on complicated system modifications and adds flexibility. Coupling with a controller interface creates a control unit for industrial applications. Vectored interrupts are optional, using the Z80-cTc if needed to prioritize interrupts. The counter/ timer circuit contains four independent 16-bit counters for use as "divide by" blocks for time delays or as event counters. External interrupts may be prioritized with CTC interrupts, creating an interrupt daisy chain between boards in the system.

156

(Continued on p 158)

···is to full cycle holdup.
The 500 watt MG5- 100 28 mill isecond holdup

Switching power supplies offer substantial holdup. Li nears don 't.
A Gould switcher will give you full regulated output at - 20% line. Or during complete loss of power you 'll get full output power for more than a missing line cycle.
Switchers offer other benefits too . They're 1/ 3 the size and 1/4 the weight of Ii nears.
And they save energy with efficiencies of up to 85 %. Gould offers single and multiple output switchers with power levels from 8 to 2,250 watts. Custom designs can be provided to meet your exact specifications. You 'll be backed by a high volume production capability and worldwide service network that only a $1 .6 billion company like Gould could offer. For more information or to arrange for an evaluation unit, contact Gould Inc , Electronic Power Supply Division , P.O . Box 6050, El Monte, CA 91731 . Phone (213) 575-4777
Gould. The power in switching power supplies.
·} GOULD

CIRCLE 71 ON IN9UIRY CARD

157

MICRO DATA STACK
COllllPUTE"'8- ELEMENTS, AND BVBTeMB
J2

OS<H.UTOI

...=» WlllT

.0 ,

%'.

llUS . ACKNOWLEDGE

...
Cotntol IUffll

ADOIESS IUfHI

DAU. OUT IUffll

-!...
~
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e
Ml-Y DfCODll 'CIJllTllOl
;=;;
DATA IN IUffH

16 n - s-100 IUS
Opera.ting on S-100 bus, SBC-100 single-board microcomputer is designed around ZSO microprocessor. Features illustrated in diagram enable board's use in industrial, machine, and process control applications

SD Systems, a div of sn Sales Co, PO Box 28810, Dallas, TX 75228 has designed the single-board microcomputer to operate without a front panel. It costs $229 in kit form and $369 assembled. Other functional components are the crystal controlled oscillator, status and control buffer to drive S-100 bus signals, a 16-bit latch/ address buffer, and data out and in buffers. The 1/0 address decode block decodes the low order eight bits of address to determine ports accessed during 1/0 instructions. Memory decode and control decodes the high order address bits and selects the addressed RAM or ROM-P/ROM: this block also gen-
erates the offboard signal used in controlling the data in buffer. Sockets
hold up to four ROMS or p /ROMS each containing lk, 2k, 4k, or 8k
bytes, and can be strapped for any

area of memory, as can the lk-byte RAM.
Combinations with the Versafloppy disc drive controller, VDB-8024 video display board, and ExpandoRAM (up to 64k) are possible to build a data processing system. An Rs-232 · serial
interface connects serial peripherals for online operation. .
The Versafloppy, · teaturing S-100 bus compatibility, is designed for Z80, 8080, and 8085 CPUS. Highlights are IBM 3740 single-density softsectored format providing 256k bytes of storage on a single side of an 8" (20-cm) diskette and over 80k bytes/side of a 5" (13-cm) minidiskette, double-sided operation, control of up to four drives, optional interrupt operation, and control and diagnostic software in P/ROM. It operates with modified CP/ MT" disc operating systems.
Circle 420 on Inquiry Card

Multilevel Microcomputer Systems Provide Range of Color Graphics
Four microcomputer systems provide different levels of capability ranging from small business systems to deluxe systems with color graphics and lightpen. Two Series I business systems are equipped with an 8080A microprocessor, 19" (48-cm) CRT with eight colors foreground and background, 48 lines x 80 characters, a 60-character/ s impact matrix printer, and capabilities of upper/ lower case, insert/ delete-character/ line, and page roll. A separate keyboard with standard ASCII characters contains cursor, color, and numeric cluster pads.
The two differ in their mass storage devices. Intecolor 8070 has a

158

I COMPUTER DESIGN APRIL 1979

EVERYONE WHO STILL USES APLASTIC

POSITIONER DESERVESAMETAL.

At Micropolis, we've always done things the best way

is large enough to contact both lead screw side walls. So ball

we know how. Even though it may be harder, and cost a

and screw wear don't lead to loss of positioning accuracy.

little more.

A 7.5° 4 phase permanent magnet stepper motor

For instance, we offer as much storage capacity in our

activates the lead screw so that each step command causes

51/4-inch MegaFloppy'" disk drives as others offer in larger

the motor to increment 4 "mini steps· equal to one track

8-inch models.

movement. This reduces stepper motor inaccuracies and

We do it by increasing the track density of our

friction effects by the ratio 4:1.

MegaFloppy drives to 100 tracks per inch. That lets us

Then there's our disk hub design and single point

record 77 tracks-as many as on 8-inch 48 TPI drives.

referencing of lead screw to disk hub. Which ensures that,

MICD'QPOLJSTM This configuration gives us a capacity of

up to 946K bytes per drive.

Here's how our double track

over the full temperature and humidity range, reliable interchange of diskettes between drives is a routine affair.

density works. While most floppy drives use a

Where the 5Y4-lnch drive grew up. (Patents applied for).
Maybe all this is why people are

cheap, less accurate plastic cam or cam

beginning to realize just how good our

follower to position the read/write head,

drives really are. Because they've made

we use a stainless steel, precision-

us Number 2 in the marketplace, with

ground lead screw. Because it helps

over 20,000 units shipped.

us achieve high-track storage capacity

So remember our MegaFloppy

with lower cost per thousand bytes.

disk drives the next time you're thinking

And significantly increases reliability.

about floppies. And forget about the

The lead screw is coupled to the

ones you're using now.

head carriage using a zero backlash,

After all, why settle for plastic

leaf-spring loaded ball. Whose diameter

when you can have Micropolis?

For o descriptive brochure, in the U.S. call or write Micropolis Corporation, 7959 Deering Avenue, Canoga Park, California 91304. Phone (213) 703-1121. Or, better yet, see your local representative.

CIRCLE 72 ON IN(j)UIRY CARD

159

MICRO CATA STACK
CON'IPUTER S, ELEM ENTS, A N O S Y STEM S

590k-byte dual 8" (20-cm) floppy disc drive, while the 8071 has an 1180k-byte dual double-headed 8" (20-cm) floppy disc drive. Both use the company's Sof-Disk media and include 5k ROM operating system software (FCS) and disc 1/ 0 controller.
Memory consists of 16k of RAM and l 7k of ROM. The screen uses 8k of RAM for refresh and 8k for user workspace. Memory expands to 24k of RAM workspace and 15k bytes of EPROM: software. Business BASIC, a more powerful ROM BASIC Interpreter, is standard. Options are lightpen, ·text editor, assembler, graphics plot hardware, and extended graphics software. Prices begin at $7000 for the 8070 and $7800 for the 8071 in quantities of 1 to 24.
Inteiligent Systems Corp, 5965 Peachtree Corners E, Norcross, GA 30071 has also introduced the Intecolor 8080 and 8090 standalone systems. Common to both are an Intel 8080 CPU, 8-color 19" (48-cm) data display, 48-line x 80-character/ line format, an Rs~232-C serial 1/ 0 port, and editing features such as page roll and insert/ delete-character/ lihe. Also standard are a 110-character/ s bidirectional impact matrix printer and a 2708/ 2716 EPROM programmer. The separate ASCII keyboa rds contain eight color keys and 16-key numeric cluster, along with function/ control keys.
Both come with a ROM assembler and SCROLLing Editor. The editor facilitates generation and correction of user source programs and documents. Featuring a backwards search command, SCROLL allows the user to move from one end of a text file to another. Positioning of the window display of 20 lines is handled by both direct cursor commands and "command mode" commands.
The 8080 development system has external dual minidisc drive with 160k bytes of data storage, and memory consisting of 16k bytes of RAllf (8k screen refresh and scratchpad; 8k user workspace) and l 7k bytes of ROM; 16k bytes of RAM workspace and 15k bytes of special EPROM software can be added. Options include a lightpen, graphics plot hardware, eX'panded graphics software, and Microsoft FORTRAN 1v compiler. Price is $6500 in 1 to 9 ouantities.
Variations of the 8090 deluxe system include 32k bytes of RAM (8k

for refresh and scratchpad, 24k for workspace) and l 7k bytes of ROM; a dual 8" (20-cm) double-headed disc drive supplies media storage up to 1182k bytes; and graphics plot hardware and expanded graphics software. A lightpen detects cursor coordinates, transmits x-Y coordinates, and positions the cursor to that point. The system costs $12,000 in quantities of 1 to 9.
C ircl e 421 on Inquiry Card
Bus Controller Allows Addition of Mag Tape for Storage and Transfer
The 3000 series provides users of Intel SBC 80 or MDS 800 MultibusTM systems with a means of adding an IBM, ANSI compatible 0.5" ( 1.3-cm) magnetic tape system. Electrically, physically, and logically matched to the Intel family of single-board computers, the system's asynchronous parallel 1/ 0 processor (GPIB controller) plugs into any Intel Multibus. Systems can be configured using up to two formatters and up to four tape transports, providing 7 or 9 tracks . with densities up to 1600 bytes/ in (630/ cm).
High level interface commands and data from the intelligent controller are transferred via the CPIB. From this bus, a dedicated microprocessor performs all programming, formatting, and error detection functions . The inclusion of a GPIB controller to a Multibus system permits other peripherals and instruments to be added. Included in the rackmount or standalone system by Dylon Corp, 3670 Ruffin Rd, San Diego, CA 92123 are dual 2048-byte buffers, readafter-write error checking with automatic correction, and over 30M bytes of data storage with a single drive.
C ircle 422 on Inquiry Card
Single Board Combines Analog Input and Output Functions
RTI-1250 series covers 12-bit input, input/ output, and output boards that plug into the LSI-11/ 2 card cage. All feature a de-de converter and selection of input ranges and

operating modes by wirewrap methods.
Manufactured by Analog Devices, Inc, PO Box 280, Norwood, MA 02062, RTI-1250 is the input-only board with 32 single-ended ( 16 differential) protected input channels. The software programmable gain amplifier (RTI-1250-S) can provide gains of 1, 2, 4, or 8 under program control, or the resistor programmable gain model ( 1250-R ) can give full-s cale input ranges from 10 mV to 10 V. Also included are a sample/ hold amplifier for acquisition of fast slewing signals in real time, and autoincrement of the multiplexer to the next channel following a convert command. Other software commands allow mixing of sequential scanning and random channel addressing. External trigger, interrupt, and polled status modes are available.
RTI-1251 has 16 single-ended (8 differential) input channels and two analog outputs which are 12-bit 4quadrant multiplying DACs for selection of a variable reference. External load-sensing capability prevents IR voltage losses in long output lines from degrading overall accuracy and calibration.
With two to four D-A output channels plus four high current dig:ital logic drivers and an onboard de-de converter, RTI-1252 output-only board is user expandable. A 2-channel board can be purchased to expand to three or four channels by p)ugging in standard DAc-80 D-A converters. Also offered are optional 4- to 20-mA current loop outputs.
Ci rcle 423 on In quiry Card
Serial Communications Board Features Eight Independent Channels
Designed for EIA Rs-232-C voltage levels as well as current loop interfacing, the 8-channel serial 1/ 0 communications board is compatible with Series/ 80 MultibusT" boards with up to eight asynchronous/ synchronous serial data ports. Software defined standard baud rates range from 50 to 9600 with individually programmable USARTs for user defined formats and protocols.
Eight independent channels conform to EIA Rs-232-C standards, with

160

COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

er 10,000 North Systems In Uael
lrl'J~r.vu the maturity and reliability to meet of demanding, high-volume applica-
ion pfriOrmance and reliability are
through the use of the proven ZBOA roprocessor and industry standard 5y4· 180K
bJte disk drives. Our professional approach
to ~ealgn (for example, a memory parity
option) has been proven in thousands of
lnitllUations.
Morth h r Horizon Specifications: CPU: 4 mhz ZIOA RAM: 200n· (parity check optional) .llu: 12 slot, S-100
DIR: 1IOK bytes per diskette
Controller: Up to 4 drlvH (720K bytH),
250 KB tranater rate ~ver: Natural Wood or
Blue Metal, no charge

Complete Softwere ~rt:
DOS, BASIC, end MONITOR!
We provide you with the tools (system software) for writing the application programs that will make
your system work! Our BASIC is a full extended
disk BASIC! Hundreds of commercial software application packages have been developed using North Star BASIC. AdditlonaUy, a wide selection of application software for the Horizon Is available from independent vendors.
Expand Your HorlZonl
The Horizon can be exS:1anded to 58K bytes or more of RAM, four disk drives (720K bytes), and
three built-in VO lnterface8' Performance can be
enhanced by the addition of the North Star hard· ware floating point board. Also, S-100 bus prod-
ucts from other manufacturers may be used to expand the Horizon.
Thinking Sub-System· Only?
Think about North Star's memories, Z80A processor boards, floating point arithmetic boards, and disk drive systems. These are available for the OEM system designer. For complete information call
Bernard Silverman at (415) 549-0858. North Star Computers, 2547 Ninth Street,
Berkeley, California 94710.

·
CIRCLE 73 ON IN9UIRY CAID

MICRO CATA STACK
PRO C ESSORS A N O ELEM E N TS

optional onboard optically isolated current loop interfacing available. The 6.75 x 12 x 0.6" ( 17.15 x 30 x 1.5-cm ) board from Syscom, Inc, 2996 Scott Blvd, Santa Clara, CA 95050 is address selectable and has a hardware timer with interrupt capability.
Standard Series/80 instructions effect channel control. Two channels are general purpose with data set controls to and from modems. Timer
Interface Board Provides Opto-lsolated 1/ 0 and Dual Stepper Control
The CTLR-216 process controller card from NANCO Diversified Design, 8380 Vickers St, Suite E, San Diego, CA 92111 installs on Commodore PET computers to handle medium duty applications for stepper motor operated devices. Two 4-phase stepper logic outputs have eight opto-isolated sense input lines and eight opto-iso.lated output control lines. Occupying 400 bytes, a software driver module runs on any 8k or larger computer. It contains eight commands for control of two steppers, eight heavy duty relays or triacs, and eight input sense lines. All commands-including rate select, stepper move, limit switch inputs, relay control, position index, and execution command-are

interrupt an d modem control signals are jumper selected for connection to any of the eight Multibus interrupt levels. Other features are 5-, 6-, 7-, or 8-bit character formats; 1,
rn, or 2 stop-bit selection; and
false start-bit d etection. Singlequan tity price is $695; optional current loop interface modules are $49/ output channel and $29/ input c h a n n el.
Circle 424 on Inquiry Card
passed by the user function in PET BASIC.
A computer transformer supplies power to the onboard 5-V regulator. The 4 x 8" (10 x 20-cm) board, retail priced at $199, contains mounting hardware, parallel user port, con trol cables, and three IC p ositions for custom additions. Options include power control unit con tai ning stepper power supplies, heavy duty relays, and 1/ 0 termination p anel.
Circle 425 on Inquiry Card
FCC Approved Modem Serves As Multifunction Data Equlpment
MM-103 data modem and interface adapter ( Rs-232 not required) gives S-100 bus computers complete com-

munications using direct connection -without a DAA-to the public switch ed telephone network as the transmission system. It automatically originates and answers call s under software control, automatically dials the telephone, and serves as a clock, using software. Potomac Micro-Magic, Inc, PO Box 11149, Alexandria, VA 22312 has priced the unit at $319.95.
Both the modem and telephone system interface are FCC approved. In place of a DAA, the modem uses a miniaturized proprietary protective coupler to keep high voltages from the computer, and onboard circuitry to accomplish billing delay and level con trol. In addition, the interface handles control and sensing of auxiliary equipment, and provisions are made for the telephone ringing signal to power-up the computer system.
Characteristics are - 50-dBm sensitivity, auto answer, auto originate, auto dial er with computer controlled dial rate, precision dial tone detector, and crystal controlled modem and dialer. Also featured are single-chip transmit and receive filters, software controlled maskabl e interrupt system, and PC boards with plated through holes, gold-overnickel edge connector, and solder mask on both sides. Rate selection under computer control ranges from 61 to 300 baud ; 600 baud is possible over local telephone systems.
Circle 42 6 o n Inquiry Card

·Solves all your reader and program input problems. '· /j r:..._ ,,, _

· Completely solid-state for long-Ille and extra

,,,, 1

mm>

" " · mmi-

reliability.

· Models for all standard punched hole badge

styles ... up to 22 columns.

· Reads complete Alpha- Numeric Hollerith code

and others.

· Provides absolute column count regardless of

punched data.

' '·
11397 mm )

· Complete validity check ... no false data readouts. · Extra compact ... fits anywhere in your system. · Low cost ... the maxim um

capability for less$$$. · Automatic badge return. · Extremely fast insertion and read cycle. · Self-clocking. · Tamper proofsensing.

· Full 12 by 22 format .

~ PROCR·MM INC oEvlCEs 01v1s10N

SEALECTRO

CORPORATION

LIVE " HANDS-ON" DEMONSTRATION AT SEALECTRO BOOTHS 2225-2233 ELECTRO '79

M A MARONECK, N .V. 101543 PHONE 9M S98 ·S600 TWX 7I0·566 ·t110
su 1utr1 Wut 1Hl 1 Weftl·· ·l h f S. ot·1 1i 5'Hllltft001 Cl 110) ,( 21l i UOlll 1 1101 Olf lil ·ftl r hr lf 1111 So ·tr 11 lil n·t11ft V·r · C1 UOO (· IJI H! 1111
Suln\Jtl1t '"""'nt·. M··ll l· &l·af Sol·ctr· s 1 Ztu t··~·lf··ll e fulu ht. UOIJ h~I·" C.tu . f11f!c1
C IRC UIT COMPON ENT S · A F COMPONENTS · PROCAAMMINC DEVICES

CIRCLE 76 ON IN9UIRY CARD

165

. MICRO DATA STACK
COMPUTERS, ELEMENTS, AND BYBTEllllB
lsoFTWAREI
Seven Users Can Run BASIC Pro9rams Independently
Memory bank select feature of the memory boards and high performance floppy disc drives are the basis of the multiuser software system's efficiency and speed capabilities. Up to seven users can run separate BASIC programs. The system is composed of BASIC, and a timesharing operating system, which finds an empty bank of memory and puts the user into active queue.
Console I/ os are serviced by interrupts. Another function of the operating system is to coordinate requests for I/ o from the discs (requests in the disc queue are ordered by disc and track). Bank select organizes memory space into eight banks of 64k bytes each. In a multiuser system, each user is confined to one memory bank; the active bank is selected with only one I/ o instruction.
The BASIC portion is similar to the 16k Extended BASIC, also produced by Cromemco, Inc, 280 Bernardo Ave, Mountain View, CA 94043, with the addition of such features as deadlock prevention and mutual exclusion; an inline BASIC text editor; long variable, label, and subroutine names up to 31 characters; and a protect statement. It is supplied as software only or a combination hardware/ software packa~e to upgrade the System Two or Three to a 2-user system.
Circle 427 on Inquiry Card
Disc Operatinq System and BASIC Software Increase Execution Speed
Users of 6800 microcomputers now have available an advanced disc operating and file management system, and Super BASIC. Both have been annom1ced by PerCom D ata Co, Inc, 4021 Windsor, Garland, TX 75042.
Speed of IndexT" (interrupt driven executive) is increased because the console and other I/ o devices are serviced by interrupt requests instead

of by polling. Supporting unlimited DOS commands, the system treats I/ o devices and peripherals as disc files. System is expanded by adding utility commands and driver routines that reside on diskette and are loaded into memory only when needed.
ASCII and binary files are handled ; disc files are automatically created, allocated, and deallocated. Files, referenced by names of up to eight characters, can be copied onto a diskette by a backup routine.
The console interface segment supports any standard serial ASCII terminal. File management software provides more than 60 system entry points for program linkage, and accommodates up to 16 simultaneous active data control blocks. Versions operate with the company's LFD-400, SWTP MF-68, Smoke Signal Broadcasting BFD-68 disc systems, and Motorola EXORciser development system.
Circle 428 on Inquiry Card
BASIC Software
The extended disc BASIC supports 42 commands and 31 functions. The program requires 12k bytes of memory. It is designed for 6800 computers using the LFD-400 or LFD-1000 disc systems. Upgrade kits allow its use with SWTP or Smoke Signal Broadcasting disc systems.
Compatible with programs written in SWTP Bk BASIC (versions 2.0, 2.2, and 2.3), the system includes other enhancements such as direct random access to disc file data, 9-digit BCD arithmetic, and named disc file and batch processing capability when used with the company's miniDosTM. Also included is line and character position error reporting with mnemonics used in place of numeric error codes.
C ircle 429 on Inquiry Card
Information Mana9ement Software Handles Small System Functions
BPS is a BASIC information management system featuring relational data base, report writer, and query, edit, update, display, and format functions for small business aoolications. The system runs on an Ohio Scientific Challenger II or III micro-

computer with dual-sided floppy disc drives, Hazeltine CRT with numeric pad, and Okidata 125-line/ min, upper/lower case printer. It can be adapted to COBOL and FORTRAN. Mass storage can be increased to 300M bytes.
Interactive programs facilitate rapid inquiry and retrieval; information can be displayed on the screen b efore being printed. Format and print establish screen displays and special printouts. Up to eight files can be used concurrently to create a report or screen map. All file, record, and field selection, plus hardcopy or screen layouts can be saved as formats for later recall.
Update adds or alters records in a file. If no formats have been defined, a standard field listing appears. Data are searched for and displayed with the display function. The software, priced at $500, is available through Better Programming Systems Inc. 275 Fort Washington Ave, New York, NY 10032.
Circle 430 on Inquiry Card

Software Packa9e Provides Alternative to Current Lan9ua9e

A FORTRAN and . assembly language

software package for Radio Shack's

TRS-80 microcomputer includes FOR-

TRAN-80 compiler, macro assembler,

text editor, and linking loader. The

package, representing an alternative

to BASIC programming for TRs-80 disc

users, is available from Microsoft,

10800 NE Eighth, Suite 819, Belle-

vue, WA 98004. The editor, which

allows creation of assembler source,

data, and FORTRAN files , expands the

utilization of the computer disc hard-

ware.

The Z80 macro assembler has a

complete macro facility, full set of

conditionals, and relocation pseudo-

operations. A text editor gives fast

random-access editing capabilities.

FORTRAN-80 includes all ANSI 1966

FORTRAN (except the COMPLEX data

type), and such enhancements as

mixed mode arithmetic, logical op-

erations on integer data, ENCODE/

DECODE for format operations to mem-

ory, and end-of-file and error-condi-

tion trapping for read and write

operations. Compatible with Tnsoos,

it is supplied on two minidiskettes

and requires a minimum 32k system.

Package price is $350.

Circle 431 on Inquiry Card

166

COMPUTER DESIGN/ APRIL 1979

Here is absolutely the best PC connector catalog you can get your hands on.
There's no point in being modest about the thing.This is the clearest, most straight forward, easy-to-use PC connector catalog in the business.
It helps that it is also your guide to one of the broadest lines of PC connectors off~red by a single manufacturer. We have more basic designs in more depth, with more options than anyone.
But our line is only as good as your ability to get to it. And so we've spent time ana effort to make sure our catalog lets you do just that.
It's logically organized - first by contact centers and then by type of terminations.
Everything on each connector series is shown on q single spread. No flipping back and forth.
You spend your time solving your design problem Instead of trying to solve our catalog.
Use the coupon and get your free copy.
Quick delivery of connectors Our qistributors keep a
large inventory of standard V!k!ng cqnnectors. If you need connectors in a hurry, chances are they're only a phone call away.

- 1 ~------
I1~yo~~ I "°" P:onoeck>cofalog
I D the oame of Mae~ ·e<>.I dl'1ribut0<

I NAME: COMPANY: _

TITLE:_ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ PHONE:_ _ _ _ EXT:_ _

ADDRESS : CITY: _ _ _ _ _ _ STATE:_ _ _ _ _ ZIP;_ __

-t!-!-~-~~-~-~-,,~--~"~-"m'·:

CIRCLE 77 ON INQUIRY CARD

167

I I AROUND THE IC LOOP

OPERATION OF A BLOCK REPLICATE BUBBLE MEMORY SYSTEM
Gerald Cox
Texas Instruments Incorporated Dallas, Texas

Feasibility of magnetic bubble devices for use as mass storage systems has been proven. Research done at Bell Telephone Laboratories in 1967 indicated that bits of data could be stored in a thin magnetic film formed on a crystalline substrate. Companies such as Rockwell (see Computer Design, Nov 1978, pp 27, 30), IBM Corp, Hewlett-Packard, and several Japanese firms are developing or producing magnetic bubble memory devices. Storage

capabilities have been increasing, and in early 1977, Texas Instruments began marketing a 92k-bit device (see Computer Design, May 1977, p 150 and E. R. Garen, "Magnetic Bubble Memory Devices and Applications," Feb 1978, pp 164-168).
In today's devices, small cylindrical magnetic domains called "magnetic bubbles" are formed in single crystal thin films of synthetic ferrites or garnets when an external

INTERCONNECT
FUNCTION
TIMING-~"-- "
GENERATOR SENSE
AMPLIFIER
168

BUBBLE CHIP CHEVRON PROPAGATION LEMENTS
GGG NONMAGNETIC SUBSTRATE
PERMANENT MAGNET

Fig Elements of bubble memory system . Bubble device is located within system of orthogonal coils, which create rotating magnetic field to advance bubbles. Permanent magnets maintain bubbles as local domains in epitaxial magnetic film

I COMPUTER DESIGN APRIL 1979

ADD-

MINI-MEMORY. FROM DATARAM.

Either way, you get more memory, more throughput,

more performance. Everything but more cost.

If you're looking for a way to get more from your

Whether you're adding it on or in, Dataram will meet

minicomputer without putting too much more into it, our

your mini-memory requirements with new, reliable 16K

family of ADD-ON / ADD-IN mini-memories adds up to the

single-board design that delivers the performance you want,

right answer for you.

and saves you money while doing it. Find out more -

Including our new, expanded family of

return this coupon at once, or call 609-799-0071.

ADD-ON / ADD-IN systems that's ready to go to work for your minicomputer:

Data General

DEC®

Nova® 830

LSI-ti®

PDP-11/20

Varian
620/f

r-------------------1 DEC. LSI-I I and PDP are registered trademarks of Digital Equipment Corporation.
Nova and Eclipse are registered trademarks of Data General Corporation.
I I'd like more answers about mini-memories for my

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ minicomputer.

Nova 1200
Nova 1210 Nova 1220 Nova 1230

PDP®-8/A
PDP-8/E PDP-8/F PDP-8/M

PDP-11/34
PDP-11/35 PDP-11/40 PDP-11/45

620/i
620/L 620/L-100
622/i

I D Please send information. II D Please have a salesman contact me.

I I I

Nova 2/4 Nova 2/10 Nova 3/4 Nova 3/12

PDP-11/04
PDP-11/05 PDP-11/10 PDP-11/15

PDP-11/50
PDl>-11/55 PDP-11/70 DECSYSTEM-2020

V-71
V-72 V-73 V-74

I ~~ II Title

Phone

I I I

Eclipse®

V-75 V-77

I ~m~~

Interdata

Data 100

I Address

Model50 Model 55 Model 70
Model 74
6/16

7/16 8/16 8/16E 7/32 8/32

CDP 135
DCC
116 116E

I I Cit y

tate ___.Zip

L-------------------~

~~l;M!M.~I

PRINCETON-HIGHTSTOWN ROAD CRANBURY, NEW JERSEY 08512 TEL ,609·799-0071 TWX , 510·685·2542

CIRCLE 78 ON IN9UIRY CARD

,- - - - TRANSFER
'
rt i( : +')

.,l _~ 1~VCl s

0 :

REPLICATE/ ANNIHILATE - - - - - -
DETECT-- - --,
I

!( g9
1 - -
~ I
I '(

: ~~"' ~
:~

Fig 2 Major/minor loops. Bubbles are stored in minor loops and transferred in parallel to major loop, from which they are read out. Storing information follows reverse procedure

magnetic field is applied perpendicularly to the surface of the film (Fig 1). A rotating magnetic field is used to move the bubbles through the film in a shift register fashion with the presence of a magnetic bubble representing a digital "l," and the absence a digital "0."
Magnetic bubble memories are similar to magnetic tape storage in that they are nonvolatile. Furthermore, they have the high reliability of solid-state products and do not require preventive maintenance. This technology is filling the gap between RAM and hard disc or tape storage and is competitive with floppy disc memories in many applications, especially in systems where initial cost outlay is the primary criterion. Bubble memories are expected

to become an integral part of disc systems in the near future, in an enhancement role, by providing access times of less than 8 ms. Their small size and light weight adapts them to use in compact designs or portable applications.
Many diHerent bubble memory organizations have been
employed (see J. E. Juliussen, "Magnetic Bubble Memory
Systems Approach Practical Use," Computer Design, Oct 1976, pp 81-91). The simplest and most straightforward is "single-loop" architecture, in which data circulate in a closed path in shift register fashion.
Single-loop devices correspond to magnetic tape drives and are subject to the same limitation involving serial access to data. A major/ minor loop architecture, on the other hand, is analogous to disc storage, in which each minor loop is like one track on the disc (Fig 2). During a write operation in this architecture, data generation occurs one bit at a time in the major loop. Data in the form of magnetic bubbles are then transferred in parallel to the minor loops where they circulate until the next readout.
Block Replication Memory
A 250k-bit bubble memory, the Trn0303, introduced by Texas Instruments in mid-1978, represents a major advance in nonvolatile memory technology (see Computer Design, Oct 1978, p 208). This device, which replicates data in parallel blocks instead of serially, is housed in a 20-pin dual-inline package and will be supported by a set of microprocessor based interface 1cs. An important feature of the memory is that information regarding redundancy of loops and address synchronization is stored in the bubble chip. The device also has separate input and output data tracks with data storage divided into two blocks for each page of data (Figs 3 and 4) .
Data are stored in two banks of minor loops. If there were only one bank of loops, data would be generated only in every other bit position due to physical space limitations of minor loop construction. The result would be a data rate half that of the field frequency.

?
REPLICATE CONDUCTOR

InWnn MINOR coo..
~-··

MINOR
~ LOOPS
~-··

v:REDUNDANCY lDOP

SWAP

CONDUCTOR

;::;---...c:._,,.__ _

2 4
__

I 3S __

~REDUNDANCY
___,~ INPUT

TWRRACIKTE-=--~~-+r---"""';AJf

~WRITTRE ACK

TO GUARD RAIL

GENERATOR CONDUCTOR

Fig 3 Separate 1/0 tracks and minor loop architecture. Bubbles are generated and moved serially along write tracks. Electronic pulsing of swap conductor trades bubbles on write track with adjacent bubble of minor loop. At end of write track, bubbles received in trades from loops are annihilated . Swaps are made in parallel blocks, all minor loops entering trade essentially simultaneously. Minor loop bits are replicated (via replicate conductor) onto detector tracks, again in parallel fashion. Even bits in block are stored in one set of minor loops, odd bits in another. Merging of even and odd 'bits in sequence provides detector with compressed data, bits spaced at twice density allowed by geometric width of minor loops

170

COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

For 21 years we've
quietly built Switchers.

Now it's time to let the World in on it.

Back in 1958, Pioneer Magnetics built its first switching power supply. We've been quietly pioneering the design of switching supplies ever since.

Today we offer the system designer a complete fam -

ily of standard models providing output voltages

voe ranging from 2 to 48

with output power to

2000 Watts. Single and multiple output configura-

tions with a wide range of options are avciilable.

FEATURES:
A.C. Input: 92 to 138 or 184 to 250V single phase 47 to 63 Hz. D.C. Input: 24, 48, 120 or 240 VDC standard . Brownoutproof: Supplies ignore most line variations and con tinue to supply specified regulated outputs at full load if input voltage drops as low as 80 or 140 VAC . Total Error Band: Output deviations will not exceed .±2% due to line changes, static and dynamic load changes, ripple and noise spikes, temperature variations and drift. Power Loss Holdup: Output will remain within regulation 30 msec after loss of AC input at full load and nominal line. ~afety Standards: Standard models are recognized to U L478.

SINGLE OUTPUT SUPPLIES

AC INPUT MOOE L DC INPUT MODEL

PM2496A PM2497A PM2498B PM2·99

OUTPUT VOLTAGE

TYPE NUMBERS {Add Amps in Bl·nk1!
AC MODELS OC MODELS

OUTPUT

CURRENT CURRENT

CURRENT

OUTPUT CURRENT

SIZE !INCHES) !CENTIMETERS)
WllGHT (POUNDS) llCILOGRAMSI

..
"

D
"'

'""

l I I MULTIPLE OUTPUT SUPPLIES

AC INPUT MOOE L

PM2675A

PM2676A

PM2677A

PM2178A

DC INPUT MODEL

PM277!i

PM2778

MAX. TOTAL OUTPUT POWER IN WATTS

l I I 376W

llOOW

750W

850W

MAIN CHANNEL

OUTPUT VOLTAGES AVAILABLE
MAX. POWER IN WATTS

2. 3. 11, 11. 111, 1·, 21 , 24. 21, 0
l 1 ""'1

CHANNEL

OUTPUT VOLTAGE
OUTPUT CURRENT MAX. hHnot· 1l

THIRD

OUTPUT VOLTAGE
OUTPUT CURRENT MAX. ('"no"ll

FOURTH

OUTPUT VOLTAGE

OUTPUT CURRENT MAX.

SIZE !INCHES! ICENTIMETf:FIS )
WEIGHT !POUNDS) {KILOGRAMS)

."'

The Pioneers in Switching Supplies

Dlonaar ma-ana tic)

Pioneer Magnetics, Inc. · 1745 f:$erkeley Street, Santa Monica, California 90404 · Telephone: 213/829-6751 · TWX 910-343-6249 CIRCLE 79 ON IN9UIRY CARD

REP. Al-I IO

REP. {·) COMMON A & II
'

RED. REP . {-)

RED. REP & SWAP{·)

RED. SWAP{-)

SWAP{-)
s

GEN {·)

GEN{-)

SWAP{·)

REP. SH

ODD GENERATOR

--------------

~ ..

i
~
II!

~
i
~

;g
i
~ ------- ----

~
i
~

i
~

REPLICATE GATES

ODD READ TRACK

----- -------

ft !

si i

i i

------------- B ~

REPLICATE GATE

8 c!J

COIL X 121

COIL X { IJ

~
c!J 0

COIL Y {2)

COIL Y {I)

LIVE DETECTOR

DUMMY DETECTOR

V· DETECTOR

Fig 4 Block replicate architecture. Serial string of up to 224 bits, organized according to user's requirements, is input to bubble memory. String is stored in corresponding bit positions in minor loops. Total of 1137 bits per loop allows storage of 1137 such strings. Memory controller locates corresponding bits upon readout

This memory, however, is divided into two halves so that the even bits of a page of data are stored in the right bank of minor loops and the odd bits in the left bank. Two serially connected generators are used to create identical data in both write tracks. The distance from the odd generator to the first minor loop is one less bubble position than the even generator is from its closest minor loop. Thus data in the odd write track are skewed one bit position from data in the even write track. When data in the two write tracks are in position to be placed in minor loops, a current pulse to the swap gate removes old data from the minor loops and replaces them with new data. Since data stored in minor loops are separated into even and odd bits, data in the write tracks are generated in every bit position, making the data rate equal to the field frequency or twice that of a bubble memory with a single set of minor loops.
The read track is at the opposite end of the minor loops from the write track. Aluminum-copper replicategate elements are located at each junction of a minor loop with respect to the read track. When replicate gates receive a current oulse, bubbles that are in position under the gate are duplicated (replicated) in the output track. Thus, a block of data is duplicated in the read track while data resident in minor loops are left intact.
Data replicated in the read tracks remain two bit positions apart until the two tracks reach a common point called the merge gate. Data in the odd read track are skewed one bit position from data in the even read track, allowing even and odd bits from the two halves of memory to interleave and form the original page of data.

Bubbles are propagated along this merged track to the detector, where they are elongated. These stretched magnetic domains then pass under a permalloy pattern detector. Two identical detector elements are deposited on each chip and these are placed in two legs of a precision bridge. The bubble passing under the first detector causes a change in resistance, which is seen as a 5- to 10-mV variation in the signal on the output of the bridge. Bubbles then propagate to a guard rail located between the detectors, preventing passage of bubbles under the second (dummy) detector, which acts as a balance resistance in the bridge.
Loop Redundancy
One of the most important features of the bubble memory is the manner in which redundancy of minor loops is handled. The chip has 252 minor loops of which 28 are allowed to be defective. leaving 224 minor loops for actual use. There are 1137 bits/ loop, giving a net storage of 254,688 bits of information. This redundancy provision eliminates the need for perfect chips and reduces costs significantly by increasing yields. A map of unused loops is stored in a dedicated minor loop on the bubble chip. Separate 1/ 0 control lines are provided so that reading the redundancy loop does not disturb the other minor loops.
Upon initialization of the system, this redundancy map is read to an internal RAM in the bubble memory controller. During a write or read operation, each bit position in a page of data is then compared with the map stored in the controller. This permits parts to be

172

COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

Simply
Better.

Our MPI 52 two-headed micro floppy drive has speed, accuracy, capacity, and simplicity. It's better than any other drive. Better because it's faster. Five times faster than the next best. Our exclusive band-positioning design ensures track to track access time of 5 milliseconds. Better because it's bigger. 437.5K bytes per double density disk, unformatted. And simply better because it's reliable. The MPI 52 has l1/i% speed control, no mechanical switches, and comes fully burned in. There are only 10 moving parts, including our front door diskette ejector mechanism. Order your industry-compatible MPI floppy disc drive. It's the drive for success.
MICRO PERIPHERALS INC.
21201 Oxnard Street Woodland Hills, California 91367 (213) 999-1353

CIRCLE 80 ON IN9UIRY CARD

173

!'UNCTION i--~~~~--''' DllYEI

l'UNCTION TIMING
GIN~RATOI
MBM CELL BUS

COIL CllVE
x
COIL OllVI
y

Tlt0303
MauOulluTIC
MIMOIY

Fig 5 Family of interface and control circuits for 0.25M-bit bubble memory will include controllers, function timing generator, function driver, two coil drivers, and sense amplifier

directly interchanged even though different units contain different sets of defective minor loops.
The loop used to store the redundancy map is also used to store an address synchronization pattern. Since there is no direct means of addressing the minor loops, a method must be established to locate a data reference position when power is first turned on. The address synchronization pattern is a unique leading-code located in the redundancy loop which is used to determine the page zero location in the memory. Using this code, the controller is able to initialize its page counter, allowing data in minor loops to be halted in any bit position within a maximum of 22.5 µS. This is perhaps the most impmtant function of the dedicated minor loop in that it eliminates . any special power supply requirements that would otherwise be needed for power-down sequencing to preserve data. Memory Interface Circuits A variety of circuits are required to complete the bubble memory system. These include a controller to serve as interface to a CPU and generate enable pulses to a function timing generator, coil and function drivers, and a sense amplifier to amplify the bubble detector's signal (see Fig 5).
High level interface between the microprocessor and the bubble memory is provided by the controller, which performs parallel to serial conversion from the microprocessor to the bubble memory and serial to parallel conversion from the memory to the microprocessor. It also contains a 28-byte buffer for temporary data storage, a microsequencer ROM for control, internal status registers,

I/ o buffer latches, and a RAM for temporary redundancy loop storage. It has the capability of operating in either a single-page mode or a multipage mode which ranges from 1 to 1137 pages. In addition, the MOS controller operates in full DMA capacity when used with the TMS 9911. Its main functions are to start and stop bubble movement, maintain page position, and raise or lower flags for bubble memory functions such as generate, swap, block replicate, and redundancy replicate.
Control signals from the memory controller are sent to the function timing generator. This monolithic IC provides the precise timing signals necessary to operate the function driver, coil drivers, and sense amplifier during each field cycle. Function driver circuit converts TTL level signals from the function timing circuit into current pulses required by the bubble memory control elements. Temperature compensation for the bubble module is performed on this chip in conjunction with a thermistor in contact with the case.
The coil driver circuit and diode array are used to generate currents with triangular waveforms in the bubble module coils. TTL inputs from the function timing generator are received by the coil driver, which produces a higher level driving voltage. The coils integrate the voltage into a current which ramps up and then down, producing the desired triangular waveforms.
Voltages from the detector that are too small to be directly useful in the system are received by the sense amplifier. The bubble signal is amplified, level detected, and latched by signals provided by the function timing circuit. Then data output is coupled to the MOS controller.

174

COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

Control Data offers you a family of module drives because OEM storage requirements vary. One application may demand the high capacity and removable media offered by our Storage Module Drive (SMD). Another application may demand the exceptional reliability and fixed media of our Mini Module Drive (MMD). Or maybe our Cartridge Module Drive (CMD) with both fixed and removable media best fits your application.
But there's one thing that our SMD, MMD and CMD all have in common. All feature the widely accepted 9.67 MHz transfer rate. All use compatible interface software and firmware. That means you don't have to change your basic design every time your storage requirements change. That means easier system integration and simple field upgrades. And one source for all your storage requirements.
One Source and One Standard of Excellence
These module drives share something else that's important to an OEM. Quality. We design and manufacture all critical components in-house. We can build reliability into our drives because we built it into our heads, servos and media. Control Data has earned a reputation for building equipment that lasts.

Value to Match Performance
We feel that our cost of ownership is the best in the industry. And we'd like to help you compare our lower cost~per-bit and lower entry costs with others.
Put quality behind your nameplate. Call us at 612/853-5020. Or if in Europe, contact one of our European representatives. Or return coupon to:

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

! R. G. Crowder, Manager I OEM Product Sales, Storage Peripherals
CONTROL DATA CORPORATION
PO. Box 0, Minneapolis, MN 55440

CD-49

Please send information on your D SMD D MMD D CMD

Namc _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _Titk _ _ _ _ __

Compan y_ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ Phone_ _ _ _ __

Address_ __ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

City_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Siate_ _ _ _ Zip._ _ __

~ c:\ CONT~OL DATA \!:I r:::J COR['OR{\TION

More than a computer company

CIRCLE 81 ON INQUIRY CARD

175

I I AROUND THE IC LDDP

4112-Digit Microprocessor Counter/ Decoder Drives LEDs or LCDs

A high speed counter utilizing CMOS technology provides a typical counting rate from 0 to 25 MHz, for a wide variety of applications. The manufacturer, Intersil Inc, 10710 N Tantau Ave, Cupertino, CA 95014, states that this 41~-digit microprocessor device is the first monolithic counter/ decoder on the market to offer direct LED or LCD drive.
Having a 7-segment display driving capability, the chips come in two models-the ICM7224 for LCDS and the ICM7225 for LED displays. For each of these, typical power requirements range from 1 µA at 10 kHz to 2 mA at 20 MHz. Less than 100 /J.W is dissipated in the quiescent state. The devices will operate as decade counters to 19999 or as timers to 15959.
In the LCD driver version, there are 29 segment outputs and a backplane driver output, generating the zero de component signals necessary to drive a conventional 4J~-digit LCD. These devices also include a

complete RC oscillator and ·divider chain to generate the backplane frequency, and a backplane driver disable control, which allows the segments to be slaved to a master backplane signal. No external driver components are needed. Devices may be ganged or cascaded for 8-, 12-, or 16-digit displays.
A direct nonmultiplexed commonanode drive is featured in the LED driver version, eliminating the generation of RF interference. This version provides 28 segment and 1 halfdigit open-drain n-channel transistor outputs, suitable for directly driving common-anode LED displays at greater than 5 mA/ segment. A brightness input is provided, which may be used digitally as a display enable, or with a potentiometer as a continuous display brightness control.
The counter section of both versions provides direct static counting from de to 15 MHz, guaranteed, with a 5-V ±10% supply over the operating temperature range. At

normal ambient temperatures, the devices will typically count up to 25 MHz. The count input is provided with a Schmitt trigger to allow operation in noisy environments 'and correct counting with slowly changing inputs. These devices also provide count inhibit, store and reset circuitry that allows a direct interface with ICM7207/A ADCS to implement a low power frequency counter with a minimum component count.
Also included are several features intended to simplify cascading 4-digit blocks. The carry output allows the counter to be cascaded, while the leading zero blanking input and output allows correct leading zero blanking between 4-decade blocks.
Minimum operating voltages are 3 V (LCD) and 4 V (LED) for use in portable battery operated counting systems. Low operating current of 1 mA at 2.8 V and a 10-MHz count rate allow a single 1500-mAH lithium battery to drive tlw system for as long as two months.

v+ -
-v
STORE

01 SEGMENT OUTPUTS

02 SEGMENT OUTPUTS

,.. - - --BRIGHTNESS

I SEGMENT OUTPUTS

04 SEGMENT OUTPUTS

1/ 2·01GIT OUTPUT

LEADING ZERO OUTPUT

COUNT

INHIBIT

-s

COUNT INPUT

SCHMITT

TRIGGER

LEADING ZERO INPUT
R

AES ET
r-- - - - - - - - - - - - -

I IOSCILLATOR

_ -

- --

- - -- -

- -- - -

CARRY

OUTPUT

L------- --- -- - ------- ----,

INPUT

I I I
I I I IL _ _ _

ENABLE DETECTOR

OSCILLATOR

+ 128

BACKPLANE

BACKPLANE I

DRIVER

INPUT/ OUTPUT I

ENABLE

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -I

Microprocessor counter/decoder/display driver from lntersll. Elements within dashed line relate only to LCD driver version, ICM7224. Dotted line indicating brightness control line relates only to LED driver version, ICM7225

176

(Continued on p 178)

In Data Display. ..
RD means
high~perfo1·mance
remote operation

BALL RD Series composite input displays set remote performance standards

BALL RD Series High Performance Data Display
In data display, .
BALL means
experience, quality
and service.

· Ideal for remote data display · Designed for standard EJA composite signals · Horizontal line rates up to 24 KHz

Choose BALL RD Series composite input displays for high-performance applications

where data display signals must be distributed over long distances. RD Series 12

and 15-inch models offer wide bandwidth, high brightness, and horizontal resolution of

1000 lV lines. Specifications or mechanical designs can be modified ' to meet your needs exactly.

--.!!'!-'-----i..,..,~,...~i

nputSdeilsepcltayBsAfLoLr

RD Series composite your high-performance

remote applications, anCI be sure of precise

adjustment and alignment. BALL displays will

meet or exceed your performance specifications

dependably over the long haul. It's a

matter of design.

If you haven't looked at life cycle costs, you haven't found the real bargain in high

performance remote data display. Specify the RD Series for a decision you can live with.

P.O. Box 43376 St. Paul , MN 55164 (612) 786-8900 . TWX ; 910-563-3552

Sales Ottlces:

Downers Grove, IL (312) 960-4434 Santa Clara. CA (408) 244-1474

Ocean, NJ (201) 922-2800

Upland , CA (714) 985-7110

Lewisville , TX (214) 436-2383

Burlington, MA (617) 273-0608

I I AROUND THE IC LCCP
Applications include portable battery powered tachometers, a variety of mobile and marine instrumentation, and a wide range of unit counting and display functions. The devices are available in 40-pin epoxy DIPS.
Absolute maximum ratings include a 0.5-W power dissipation (at 70 cc), a maximum supply voltage (V+ to V-) of 6.5 V, while inout voltage at any terminal must lie be-
tween v- -0.3 v and v+ + 0.3 v.
Allowable temperature range is - 20 to 70 cc in operation and -55 to 125 °C during storage.
Circle 350 o n Inq uiry Ca rd
Advanced Schottky TTL Series Provides Fast and Low Power Versions
Improved speed-power products are realized in third generation TTL developments from Texas Instruments, Inc, PO Box 225012, D allas, TX 75265. The circuits include the high speed advanced Schottky TTL series sN74As (twice as fast as the earlier sN74S' series at approximately the same power consumption) and the general purpose advanced low power Schottky TTL series SN74ALS {more than twice as fast as the sN74Ls series, at half the power consumption) . Devices will be available in both military and commercial t emperature ranges. These new 'tTL series are fully compatible with Series 54/ 74, 54Ls/ 74Ls, and 54S/ 74S TTL families.
The advanced high speed series features a typical 1.5-ns gate delay and 22-mW gate power dissipation. Internal gate delay for MSI functions is 1 ns {typ) and power consumption per gale function is 12 mW. Other characteristics include a Vcc of 5 V, a fanout of 10, and a density increase beyond earlier family levels, with gates implemented in 20-pin DIPS and· MSI functions in a 300-mil 24-pin DIP.
A 4-pJ speed-power product characterizes the advanced lower power series, typically providing a 4-ns gate delay and 1-mW gate power ,dissipation. This is achieved through the use of oxide sidewall isolation processing, shallower active junctions using ion-implantation, and smaller chip geometries achieved through use of composed masking. The fanout is
178

100

50 LOW POWER TTL

...J
w Cl

4~54 /7 4 L 30

"'<(
Q.

STANDARD TTL 54/7 4

Cl a:

-.-LP SC HOTT KY

w >-

54/74LS

"w ' "'<(
a:

AD V AN CED LP SC HOTT KY
..ij~ 54 / 74A LS

SCH OTT KY TTL _.al 54 / 74S

w >

- 1ADV AN CED

SCHOTT KY

. ./74AS

AVER A GE GATE POWE R DI SS IPATION (mW)

Delay time is plotted against power dissipation for three generations of TTL circuits from Texas Instruments for both low power and high speed versions. Data points marked with triangles indicate most recent series. Continuing trend toward lower speed-power prod uct is most pronounced for advanced low power Schottky with 4-pJ value

,/- ~------------------------

CO NST ANTS

!!R OM

I I

INSTRUCTI ON MAPPIN G
IFPLA OR r)R OMI

I I

: I
r -- Ll -- .,

: CON TROLLrn :
L--- rr--...J
I I I I I

REGISTE R

FI (16

LxE41

'AS870

I '- - --------=-~:;.,...,,-="""="="':::w:::_ _- - ( I--- - " '" ' -- - -
'
Diagram indicates architecture of typical high speed arithmetic processo r utilizing advanced Schottky TTL elements. Mix of faster (AS) and lower power (ALS) elements in design depends on property to be optimized . Optimum selection would be 100% AS for max throughput rate, approximately 50% AS/ ALS for cost-effectiveness, and 100% ALS for min power and mobile applications
I COMPUTER DESIGN APRIL 1979

Denisco High Resolution Displays. Let us make your computer graphics 'crystal-clear'· fastl

Your future in graphics and image process ing can't help being bright with all the Genisco Raster Display "good-omen" benefits going for you. Like ultra-high resolution, nanosecond processing, reliable performance, synergistic software, and modular architecture - that lets you quickly go "on-line" at minimal cost and expand as your needs dictate. Yet, with all this sophistication they're thin-pocket-book priced.
16K MOS/RAM Refresh Memories that go up to 1280 pixels/ line X 1024 lines, in 16 gray scales, and 10242 full color versions. And, they're all directly addressable.
16-Bit User Programmable Graphics Processor lets you realize optimum operation with 150 ns cycle time manipulation , a set of 55 mnemonic instructions, automatic OMA access, selective erase, user selection from 4096 colors or 256 gray shades, and over 32 refresh memory planes control - using a unique "group select" method. We even offer a scroll and zoom , and a character/vector generator.

Versatile Output. Up to 12 monitors can be operated from a single system. TV/video mixing. Remote monitoring. RS232 ports. Automatic "Circumfill". These are but a smattering of the many advanced monitor control benefits offered by Genisco.
Full Complement of Interfaces for most popular minicomputers are available as standards, and we can economically fabricate a specific configuration where a stock unit won't do.
Flexible FORTRAN Software puts you "on-line" quickly, economically. Present offerings include a comprehensive set of Basic Graphics instructions, an efficient Cross Assembler, and our special GRASP package of FORTRAN callable subroutines - to simplify programming of your particular display configurations. With all this to back your display developments, a bright and 'crystalclear' future is assured.
Contact Genisco, a name that has been synonymous with technological advances
for more than 30 years, for all the particulars and get a fast start on the P_?th to good fortune.

GENISCO COMPUTERS
A DIVISION OF GENISCO TECHNOLOGY CORP. 17805 Sky Park Circle Dr., Irvine, CA 92714· (714) 556-4916
CIRCLE 83 FOR SALES INFORMATION t!lllt!LS: R4 S:OR LITE,RATURE

I I ARDUND THE IC LDDP

10 for the military (54) and 20 for the commercial (74) version. For this series, too, Vee is 5 V. Packaging is provided in 14-, 16-, 20-, and 24-pin DIPS.
Circle 351 on Inquiry Card
Mode Programmable Interface Controls Keyboard and Display
A keyboard controller produced by Advanced Micro Devices Inc, 901 Thompson Pl, Sunnyvale, CA 94086 allows simultaneous keyboard and display operations. Am8279, designed to work in 8080 and 8085 8-bit microprocessor systems, is mode programmable from the CPU, allowing selection of 2-key lockout, n-key

rollover, or scanned sensor mode. It also has a programmable clock so that keyboard scan timing can be adjusted to CPU cycle time.
There is provision for a scanned interface to a 64-contact key matrix, which can be expanded to 128. The keyboard portion will also interface to an array of sensors or a strobed interface keyboard. Keyboard entries are debounced and stored in an 8character FIFO. If more than eight characters are entered, overrun status is set. Key entries set the interrupt output line to the CPU.
The display portion provides a scanned display interface for LED, incandescent, and other display technologies. Both numeric and alphanumeric segment displays may be used, as well as simple indicators. Included in the device is a 16 x 8 display RAM, which can be organized into a dual 16 x 4. The RAM can

be loaded or interrogated by the CPU. Users can select the option of displaying either one set of 16 alphanumeric characters or two sets of 16 numeric characters. Both right entry (calculator) and left entry (typewriter) display formats are possib~e. Read and write of the display RAM can be done with auto-increment of the display RAM address.
Maximum ratings require that the temperature remain between -65
and 150 °C during storage and between -55 and 125 °C under bias. With respect to Vss, all signal voltages and Vee are restricted to the -0.5 to 7.0-V range. Power dissipation must not exceed 1.0 W. The device is a plug-in compatible replacement for the like-numbered circuit from Intel Corp, is provided in a 40-pin plastic or ceramic package, and undergoes 100% processing to the requirements of MIL-STD 883.

CLK RESET

DBD-7

RD WR CS C/D

IRQ

DATA BUFFERS

1/0 CONTROL

FIFO/SENSOR RAM
STATUS

INTERNAL - DATA BUS (8)

DISPLAY ADDRESS REGISTERS

16 x 8
DISPLAY RAM

CONTROL AND TIMING
REGISTERS

8X8 FIFO/SENSOR
RAM

KEYBOARD DEBOUNCE
AND CONTROL

TIMING AND
CONTROL
t - - - - - - - - < SCAN COUNTER

OUT Ao-3 OUT Bo-3

SLo-3

e
SHIFT RLo-7 CNTUSTB

Programmable 1/0 interface, AM8279, from Advanced Micro Devices. Capabilities include simultaneous keyboard and display operation

Circle 352 on Inquiry Card
180

COMPUTER DESIGN/ APRIL 1979

Other people make them, of course. But you can't

get them in volume. Unless you're willing to wait a very long

time. And in this business a printer you can't get is ab0ut as

useful as all those wonderful products that haven't been

invented yet.

Even if you did have a wide variety to choose from,

you'd probably choose our Matrix printer anyway. Micro-

processor control makes it efficient, fast and reliable. And

it's programmable from your computer or optional keyboard.

Bidirectional printing and paper feed gives you true

graphics capabilities. Special character sets, including foreign

language alphabets, provide incredible flexibility. And when

you add the optional keyboard, it becomes a remote

communications terminal.

Matrix is compatible with all industry standard RS-232-C

or parallel interfaces, so you can plug it in just

about anywhere.

SALES OFFICES

If you need a good matrix printer in volume Boston 617/890-2020

and you can't wait forever, contact one of our local sales offices or the Director of OEM Sales, Microdata Corporation, 17481 Red Hill Avenue, P.O. Box 19501 , Irvine, CA 92713. Telephone: 714/540-6730. TWX: 910-595-1764.

Chicago 312/364-5820 Cocoa Beach 305/783-4933 Los Angeles 714/533-8035 Minneapolis 612/881-0810 San Jose 408/245-5013 Washington, D.C. 703/620-3995

Microdata (Qg~ ~ A significant difference. C·RCLE 85 ON IN(j)UIRY CARD

I I AROUND THE IC LDDP
16k Dynamic MOS RAM Operates With 5-Y Supply

ACTIV E CLOCK G I N ERA TOR
Cp
Monolithic 2k x 8 dynamic RAM from Mostek is based on n-channel silicon gate process. Latched address and CS and independent OE allow easy interface in microprocessor systems

Organized as 2k x 8 for wide word applications and having an access time of 150 ns and a cycle time of 270 ns, a dynamic random access memory replaces four 2 114 type static RAMS. The device, produced by Mostek Corp, 1215 W Crosby Rd, Carrollton, TX 75006, is claimed to be . one of the first available 5-V only dynamic Mos RAMS and the first wide-word dynamic RAM designed specifically for use in present and future generation microprocessor systems .
This low power device requires 150 mW while active and only 25 mW on standby. A single refresh pin allows flexible control of single cycle refresh, burst mode refresh, or automatic refresh in battery backup mode, maintaining data indefinitely without additional command, and resulting in the RAM appearing totally static to the system. Common data

l/ o and independent chip select and output enable controls per.mit easy interface to either separate or multiplexed addi-ess and data bus systems. The device is fully TTL compatible on all inputs and outputs.
Additional characteristics include 128 refresh cycles over a 2-ms refresh period, automatic precharge for minimum cycle time, and a substrate bias generator included onchip. There are three models: the MK4816-l with a 120-ns access time and a 215ns cycle time; the -2 with a 150-ns access time and a 270-ns cycle time; and the -3 with a 200-ns access time and a 360-ns cxcle time. These memories, available in 28-pin packages, are compatible with industry standard ROM, p / ROM, and EPROM pin configurations.
C ircl e 353 o n ln_quiry Ca rd

CMOS ADCs Guarantee 'Accuracy to 12 Bits
Believed to be the first . tlnalog-todigital converters to offer guaranteed 12-bit accuracy, 8-bit microprocessor compatibility, and TTL or CMOS iogic output, two CMOS hybrid successive approximation devices are available in both commercial and military models. These ADcs, produced by Beckman Instruments, Inc, 2500 Harbor Blvd, Fullerton, CA 92634, provide 3-state outputs, facilitating a variety of busing schemes for the data bit outputs, as well as a serial register output and end-of-conversion output.
Series 7555 provides an A-D building block that includes a successive approximation register, switch and clock chip, thin-film ladder network, and input scaling resistor. It allows the external addition of a comparator and any reference between ± 10 V. Series 7556 is a complete ADC, including the 7555 circuitry, a high speed comparator, and a precision -10-V reference. It provides a full 12-bit conversion in 50 µs while typically consuming only 200 mW.
An output of 12 data bits from qne of these ADCs is separated into a 4-bit MSB and 8-bit LSB byte. Each bit grouping has a separate inhibit line-low byte inhibit for LSBS and high byte inhibit for MSBs-to control when each group drives an 8-bit microprocessor data bus.
One-half LSB linearity ( ±0.012% FSR) is guaranteed for temperatures ranging from 0 to 70 °C (commercial version) and -55 to 125 °C (military version). Worst case limits are specified for initial gain setting error and gain error temperature coefficient. Zero offset and zero offset temperature coefficient are also guaranteed.
Both serial and parallel outputs are available with the serial register output outputting data after each bit decision. The parallel output word is available after the rise of the end-of-conve)'sion output. All digital outputs can drive TTL or CMOS gates depending on the supply voltage levels chosen.
Circle 3'54 o n Inquiry Card
Fully Static 32k CMOS ROM Features Industry Standard Pinouts
Featuring TTL compatible l/ O, a single 5-V power supply, and CMOS technology, this 4k x 8 read-only memory requires no clock input.

182

I COMPUTER DESIGN APRIL 1979

Cut JOUrSelf
It's no surprise that Western Union and other new di to help maintain their edge in the marketplace. ~ versatility and economy unm~tched in the indmtrv.
To learn more about lnfoton data di$Pfay term~ and what they'll do for you, cut out this coupon today. Mail it to Barbara \'\Qrth c/o lnfoton, Second Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803. And see us at Interface 79, Booth 1040.
Name---------Title--------Companv-----------------Address-----------------Citv·-------State_ _ _ _ _ _z.·.,- - - - -
k~phone------------------
CrNted by Chickering/Howell Advertising, Los Angeles
CllCLI 16 ON .....llY CAID

I I AROUND THE IC LDDP

ADDRESS

ADDRESSES VA LI D

ADDRESSE S VA LI D

CHIP SELECT INPUT S

CH IP SE LECT INPUTS AC TI VE

OUTPUTS 0 1-08

- - - - - tAcc------1- ----r-
HIGH IMP EDAN CE

HIGH IMP EDAN CE

Read cycle timing for CM3200 ROM from Supertex. Maximum intervals are: add ress access time, tAco, 450 ns;
chip select time, tcs, 200 ns ; chip deselect time, too, 200 ns. Minimum intervals are: previous output valid
after address change, tou, 50 ns ; cycle time, toy, 450 ns

Maximum access time and mm1mum cycle time both equal 450 ns.
Additional characteristics include two mask programmable chip selects, a typical supply current of 10 mA during operation or 10 µA on standby, and a 3-state capability (allowing multiple devices on a common bus) . The cM3200 from Supertex Inc, 1225 Bordeaux Dr, Sunnyvale, CA 94086 is suited to microprocessor based or battery operated systems. It inter-

faces easily with TTL circuits, with each output able to drive one standard TTL load.
The 12 address inputs are decoded onchip to select 1 of 4096 words of 8-bit data. Chip select inputs are programmable to be either active high or active low level, and when both are active the eight outputs are enabled. However, when either of the inputs is not active, the outputs are in a high impedance state. All

of the eight outputs must be enabled by both chip se!ect controls before the output word can be read. Data will remain valid until the address is changed or the outputs are disabled.
This device is designed for high density asynchronous fixed memory applications such as lookup logic tables and microprogramming. It is pin compatible with the Intel 2708, TMS 2708, and TMS 4732.
Circle 355 on Inquiry Card

Sample/Hold Provides Signal Processing At Video Speeds
Having a 25-ns acquisition time for a full-scale 5-V input change to 0.2'.f;, a sample/ hold is specifically designed for ultrafast sampling applications such as in video data conversion. This thin-film hybrid device has a 50-MHz bandwidth in sample or track mode, functions with up to 8-bit accuracy, and has an output slew rate of 200 V/ µ.s. The SHM-HU from Datel Systems, Inc, 11 Cabot Blvd, Mansfield, MA 02048 was designed for use with the ADCHU3B analog-to-digital converter by the same manufacturer, but is compatible with other ultrafast ADCS of similar resolution capability.
Input and output voltage rahge is ±2.5 V with a gain of 0.955; accuracy is 0.1%. The circuit is designed to mate with an LH0033 out-
184

115V

15V

·v

svoc - svoc

22 INPUT

SHM-HU

ECL 10,000 OIFF. LINE DRIVER

-15V -15V -5Y

· 1.8751/ REF

ADC

HUJB

60R14

. 22

25PPM l "C METAL FIL M

LE LE
ECL INPUT

Sample/hold SHM-HU from Daiei Systems is shown in connection with ADCHU3B analog-to-digital converter. Although specifically designed for use with
this ADC, sample/hold can operate with other ultrafast ADCs of up to 8-bit resolution

COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

I I ARCUNC THE IC LDCP

put buffer amplifier, which must be provided externally, and the circuit is zeroed by adjusting the offset of this external device.
Other important specifications include a differential ECL input for sample control, 1-Mn input impedance with 5-µ.A input bias current, and ±10-mA output current. Aperture delay time is 6 ns and aperture uncertainty time is 10 ps. Hold mode droop is 50 µ.V/ µ.s, and hold mode feedthrough is 0.02X. The device contains its own internal hold capacitor.
Four versions, designated as SHMHUGC/ MC/ MR/ MM, are available for different operating temperature
ranges. The cc model with an epoxy
package seal and the MC with a hermetic seal operate over 0 to 70 °C. A -25 to 85 °C range characterizes the MR, while the MM operates over -55 to 125 °C; both of these models have hermetic seals. All of the devices are packaged in 24-pin ceramic cases. Absolute maximum ratings limit power supply inputs to ±6 V, analog input vo.tage to ±5 V, sample inputs to ±5 V (differential), and current input to 50 mA.
Circle 356 on Inquiry Card
Window Comparator Is Implemented Onchip For Manual Aperture Control
Two outputs are provided by a monolithic integrated voltage comparator; one output is energized when the input voltage exceeds an upper window limit, the other when it falls below a lower window limit. Both outputs are abruptly disabled, regardless of input condition, when Vcc falls below a pred~termined level. This feature can be used as a battery tester in battery operated application5.
Available from Cherry Semiconductor Corp, 99 Bald Hill Rd, Cranston, RI 02920, the cs-180 was designed specifically for manual aperture control in cameras, but can be utilized in many other applications when a bi-level voltage comparator is required. Its outputs are current regulated to operate LED indicators directly without limiting resistors, even at Vee values that exceed the LED forward voltage by only 150 mV. The IC will withstand reversal

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

I I

I 8

I
I I I I I

I
l

~- ---0~o_

:
J

CIRCUIT OPERATION :

LED I

ON OFF

LED 2

OFF VALUE OF R~ ·

0.4 RI

RA ·l.,Rl:!:S"I.

l
'=
0.6Rl 0.8RI

RA · 0.71Rl :ts"I. 1.0Rl 1.2R1 1.4Rl

1.6Rl URI

Use of CS-180 window comparator from Cherry Semiconductor is indicated in operating circuit for camera iris control. Graph shows on/off conditions as function of photocell resistance, R>., normalized to value of exposure reference resistor, R1

of the power supply to the maximum rated voltage.
Absolute maximum ratings require that Vee not exceed 6.5 V and that input and output voltages not exceed

Vee. Operating temperature must stay between -20 and 70 °C. The device is provided in a standard 8-pin plastic DIP.
Circle 357 on Inquiry Card

Digital Thermometer and Temperature Controller Are Combined On One Chip
Able to accept inputs directly from a thermistor temperature sensor and to drive LED or LCD devices without interface circuitry, a universal digital thermometer/ controller microcircuit is usable in a wide variety of applications, with different thermistor types. The AY-3-1270, produced by General Instrument Corp Microelectronics, 600 W John St, Hicksville, NY 11802, will measure

the temperatures found in domestic and commercial equipment and present them on display panels. This circuit can be used as the key element in a digital voltmeter with ±399 range and digital autozero.
The chip uses a single ramp conversion technique to measure the imbalance of a thermistor bridge temperature sensor. A digital autozero system, which operates on every other measurement cycle, is employed to compensate for offsets in the comparators.
Capabilities include leading zero blanking, an accuracy of ±1.0 °C

186

I COMPUTER DESIGN APRIL 1979

:s: MENU

R!=AD

I CANCEL

- WfllTE

MULTI-CHARACTER FUNCTION KEYS pennit one key to display or send a string of multiple characters or codes

U.K. Subsidiary: DELTA DATA SYSTEMS LTD. Welwyn Garden 33833
Service in over 150 locations in the U.S. and 14 European countries and Canada.

CIRCLE 88 ON INQUIRY CARD

I I AROUND THE IC LDDP

from 0 to 30 °C (using a thermistor temperature sensor), and a measurement and control range of ±39.9 °C. Power requirements are not critical -a single 9-V, 40-mA voltage supply suffices. The package is a 40-lead dual-inline type, suitable for use in

ambient temperatures from -25 to
10 ·c.
This n-channel MOS IC provides two control outputs, one of which operates when the reading is higher than the set point, the other when the reading is lower. The switching

12 to 60 poles for switching more circuits in less spaceconfidently

w'hether switching testers, Instrumentation, data, thermocouples or strain gauges. T-BAR highly reliable 801/901 multi-pole relays are available with continuous duty or pulse-operated magnetic latch. Call for application help.
SWITCHING COMPONENTS DIVISION 141 Danbury Road Wiiton, CT 06897 Telephone: 2031762-8351 TWX: 710/ 479-3215

hysteresis is presettable as required. In addition, 0.05° display hysteresis has been introduced to prevent control output and LSD jitter. An optional power failure detection circuit is provided. At power-up the chip will read normally for about 10 s actual time determined by an external capacitor-then it will store the last reading and flash the display. In this condition the chip will continue to make measurements and operate the control outputs normally. Operating the reset button will restore the normal display. If there is a short duration power failure the circuit will ignore it, but if it lasts longer than 10 s the alarm condition will occur.
C ircle 358 on Inq uiry Card
Instrumentation Amps Offer 11 Binary Gains
A self-contained, pin-programmable gain instrumentation amplifier provides a full range of gains, from 1 to 1024 V/ V in binary weighted steps. Internal laser-trimmed thinfilm gain setting resistor networks provide longterm temperature stability for the 3607, produced by BurrBrown, PO Box 11400, Tucson, AZ 85734.
Inputs from 10 mV to 10 V can be accommodated while good resolution and accuracy are maintained. For example, the 210 gain range of the device combined with the 210 range of a 10-bit ADC produces a total system resolution of 220 or one million to one.
Among the characteristics of the device are a 10-Gn input impedance, gain errors of 0.02% max, and gain tempco of 10 ppmj° C max. At a gain of 1024 V/ V, gain nonlinearity is 0.01% max, common-mode rejection is 110 dB min, max offset voltage drift is 1 µV / °C, RTI, and max offset voltage is 22 µ.V, RTI ( 2 mV at a gain of unity) .
Change in offset voltage is only ±25 mV max when gain is shifted. This performance is accomplished without external adjustments. With a single offset adjustment, the chang'e is limited to less than 2 mV (1 mV, typ ) over the total gain range.
C ircl e 359 on Inq uiry Card

188

CIRCLE 89 ON IN9UIRY CARD

COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

The
new
Model

830

impact print mechanism

h~ something extra

for 1t. ~01ng
0

?1e new ~odel 830 b~-directional
impact pnnt mechanism may be

just what you've been waiting for. It's a low-cost, 80-column

dot-matrix mechanism with a printing speed of 125 CPS and a

continuous-duty 7-wire head with a life expectancy of 100 mil-

lion characters. Its straightforward, simple design makes it both

highly reliable and cost efficient. In fact, it's just about the perfect

OEM unit for general purpose computers, communication ter-

minals, data loggers and micro computers. Its sprocket paper-

feed mechanism accepts multi-ply pin feed paper in any width

from 4.5" to 9.5 "; paper can be loaded from the bottom or rear;

and print line position is readily adjustable. The Model 830 is also available as a self-contained printer. Furthermore, it's from
' [___ C. ltoh Electronics, Inc. - a name synItS rrom onymous with excellence in printers.
C. Itoh. . Write for detailed specifications today.

Model 820, 1.50 cps and 9.5" paper width , also available.

<a& C. ltoh Electronics, Inc.
5301 Beethoven Street, Los Angeles, CA 90066 Call: (213) 390-7778 · Telex: WU 65-2451 East Coast 280 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10017 Call: (212) 682-0420 · Telex: WU 12-5059

C. ltoh Electronics is part of the 119-year-old C. Itoh & Co. Ltd., world-wide trading organization.

I I ARCUNc THE ·c LCCP

Ac Linear Coupler Gives Electrical Isolation During Conversion
A gallium arsenide infrared emitting diode (IRED), optically coupled to a bipolar monolithic amplifier, converts an input current variation to an output voltage variation, while providing a high degree of electrical isolation between input and output. Said by its manufacturer, Motorola Semiconductor Products Inc, PO Box 20912, Phoenix, AZ 85036, to be the industry's first optically isolated ac linear optocoupler, Moc5010 offers 7500-V peak ac isolation and is UL recognized.
This device replaces a normal coupler, an operational amplifier, and a discrete transistor. It can be biased to maintain a linear output of up to 4 V peak-to-peak with a 12-V supply when current is applied. Other capabilities include 250-kHz (typ) bandwidth, 200 mV/ mA gain, and low impedance, emitter-follower out-
put of less than 200 n. Applications
include telephone line coupling, peripheral equipment isolation, medical electronics, and audio uses.
Maximum ratings for the IRED (at 25 °C) include a 3-V reverse voltage, a 50-mA peak forward current, and a 100-mW power dissipation. The upper allowable limits for the ac amplifier (also at 25 °C) are a 15-V supply voltage, 13-mA supply current at Vee = 12 V, and a 200-mW power dissipation, which is also the absolute maximum dissipation for the device as a whole. Maximum operating temperature is 85 °C and storage temperature must remain between -55 and 100 °C. The unit is provided in a 6-pin plastic DIP.
Circle 360 on Inquiry Card
High Speed Static RAM Uses VMOS Technology
A static random-access memory with a max access time of 70 ns, the S2114H is a high soeed version of the earlier S2114. The faster device is intended for high speed cache and buffer memory applications.
Its characteristics include a lk x 4 organization, TTL compatibility on all inputs and outputs, single 5-V power

AO DRESS DECODER DRIVER
ADDRESS DECODER DRIVER

64 x 64
ARRAY
COLUMN 1/0 CIRCUITS

.......- - - 1101
l-+-+-- - 1102
I-+-+--- 110,
~-+-+-1- 1!0,

Diagram of high speed static VMOS RAM, S2114H, from American Microsystems, indicates address inputs Ao-An, chip select CS, write enable WE, and data input/output 1/01-llO.. Read occurs during overlap of low CS and high WE. During all address transitions, WE must be high. If CS low transition occurs simultaneously with WE low transition, output buffers remain in high impedance state

supply, and common data l/ O with 3-state outputs. The VMOS devic~ from American Microsystems, Inc, 3800 Homestead Rd, Santa Clara, CA 95051 requires no clocks or refresh cycles. This simplifies device operation, since no address setup times are required. The chip select function facilitates memory system expansion by allowing the l/ o pins to be OR-tied to other devices.

Absolute maximum ratings limit ambient temperature under bias to the -10 to 80 °C range and storage temperature to the -65 to 150 °C range. Voltage on any pin with respect to ground must stay between -0.5 and 7 V, and power dissipation must not exceed 1.0 W. The device is provided in 18-pin plastic or ceramic packages.
Circle 361 on Inquiry Card

Op Amps Offer High Slew Rates
A typical slew rate as high as 60 V/ µs and a 3-MHz gain-bandwidth product characterize a family of operational amplifiers, produced by Signetics, 811 E Arques Ave, Sunnyvale, CA 94086. The devices, available in dual as well as single monolithic circuit configurations, and having industry standard pinouts, are internally compensated to allow direct replacement of general purpose amplifiers in system performance upgrading.
These op amps are available in several versions, with 4-digit designations indicating dual configurations, while 3-digit designations indi-

cate single monolithic circuit con-

figurations; versions specified over

the commercial range have NE pre-

fixes, and versions specified over the

military range have SE prefixes.

A 2-mV maximum offset voltage

applied to each of the device types

yields guaranteed slew rates of 25

V/ µs (35 V/ µs typical) for the

NE/ sE530 or NE/ SE5530, 10 V/ µs

( 15 V/ µs typical) for the NE/

SE535 or NE/ SE5535, and 40 V/ µs

(60 V/ µs typical) for the NE/

SE538 or NE/ sE5538. The input bias

current for all device types is 60

nA max. Other features are large

common mode and differential volt-

age ranges, offset null capability,

and short-circuit protection.

Circle 362 on Inquiry Card

190

COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

A Three-Day Advanced Workshop
managi· ng
technical projects & programs
May 15-17, 1979 Colonial Hilton Inn, Wakefield, Massachusetts

Co-Sponsored by
Polytechnic Institute of New York & Institute for Advanced Professional Studies

This workshop for experienced project or departrnent managers w ill enhance your program management skills. Valuable techniques that enable the technical manager to better control cost, schedule and performance are discussed in lectures, case studies and business games. The workshop provides a highly interactive learning experience and will help you to:

· Plan and control projects more effectively · Design a project organi;zation · Interface efficiently with support
departments
MAJOR TOPICS
· Program Management Concepts & Principles
· Organizing the Project Team
· Effective Program Planning & Control
· New Business Development
· Program Management Leadersh ip · Effective Conflict Mangement · Team Building in Project Management · Time Management
INSTITUTE FOR ADVANCED PROFESSIONAL STUDIES One Ga t eway Center Newton, MA 021 58 (617) -964 -1412
For complete details or assistance about co u rses . regist ration o r discussion of in-house presentations. ca ll Donald Fr ench at (6 17 ) 9 64 - 14 12 .

· Motivate team members to increase project performance
· Communicate ideas and negotiate resources · Deal with customers effectively

FACULTY
The workshop is led by two highly successful engineering managers with extensive industrial and teaching experience: · Dr. Hans J. Thamhain, Manager of Program
Management for GTE-Sylvania's telecommunica tion businesses. · Mr. Philip F. Paul , Management Consultant and former Director of Systems Management for Honeywell's small and medium -scale product lines.

~-----------·-····~

INSTITUTE FOR

I ADVANCED PROFESSIONAL STUDIES

I One Gateway Center I Newton, MA 021 58

I I

) Pl ease se nd me detail ed course description

I II Name II Company

Title

Phone

I I

: Address

' City

State

Zip

~-------------------

A Five-Day Seminar
testing microprocessor-based systems
June 11-15, 1979 Colonial Hilton Inn, Wakefield, Massachusetts

Co-Sponsored by Polytechnic Institute of New York & Institute for Advanced Professional Studies

The increasing use of microprocessors and other complex LSI devices is creating significant problems for engineers responsible for testing products incorporating these components. Digital system designers can either contribute to the myriad of testing problems or help eliminate them .
This seminar/ workshop, for design and test engineers, enables participants to coordinate microprocessor-based product design with production testing . Emphasis is placed on product design practices influencing testability, test equipment capabilities and limitations, as well as test programming and diagnostic software development.
A prominent faculty will conduct guest lectures, demonstrations and provide you with assistance on your work-related problems.

TOPICS
· Microcomputer system configuration and support chips
· Design practices influencing testability · Nature of common faults in microcomputer-based
systems

INSTITUTE FOR ADVANCED PROFESSIONAL STUDIES One Gateway Center Newton, MA 02158 (617)-964 -1412
For complete details or assistance about courses . registration or discussion of in -house presentations. call Donald French at (617) 964- 1412.

· Troubleshooting during development · Equipment, applications, capabilities, limitations
· Coordinating design with production test strategies · Test programming and diagnostic software
development · Production testing equipment

#~-INS-TI-TU-TE-F-OR----- ----··~'

ADVANCED PROFESSIONAL STUDIES One Gateway Center

I Newton, MA 02158

;

) Please send me detailed course description

I
III

· Capabilities · Applications · Limitations
· Recurring and non-recurring costs

I I Na m e

Title

I I

· Reducing testing costs

: Company

Phone

· Reducing delays in product introduction and manufacturing
· Field testing implications

: Address

~ City

Sta l e

Zip

~------------- ----·~

193

PRODUCT FEATURE

Tri-Density Recording Applied to Minicomputer Tape Subsystems See at NCC Booth 3614

Writing and reading ANSI compatible 9-track magnetic tapes at three different densities can now be accomplished on a 3-speed tape subl>ystem designed for use with minicomputers. According to Storage Technology Corp, the 1935/ 1950 series formatter-controller/ magnetic tape subsystem not only is the first minicomputer tape subsystem to provide tri-density operation in a single-drive configuration, it also incorporates a number of unique features not fottnd on other minicomputer tape subsystems.
Subsystems can be configured for either tri-density (Nfil':I/PE/GCR), which requires an optional logic card, or dual density (PE/GCR). Densities for reading and writing in the three respective formats (NRZI/ PE/ GCR) are 800, 1600, and 6250 char/ in (315, 630, and 2460 char/ cm). Tape motion, controlled by the magnetic tape unit, is 50, 75, or 125 in (127, 190, or 318 cm) / s.
Features and Capabilities
Each magnetic tape subsystem consists of from one to four magnetic tape units (MTUs) in a radi~l pus

organization, and a single formatter-controller unit (Fcu). Separate MTUs can operate at different speeds and densities under control of a microprogrammed sequencer chip in the FCU.
Standard features of the MTU include single capstan tape drive, dual vacuum columns, automatic tape loading, dual gap read/ write head and full width erase head, head azimuth adjustment, quick release positive action file reel hub, vacuum assisted tape cleaner plate, BOT and EOT marker sense, pneumatic noncontact file protect sensor, microprogram controlled sequencing and diagnostics, and self-contained modular power supplies. Optional features include power window and automatic file hub. All controls are easily accessible on the front panel and status indicators are readily visible.
There are no user adjustments on the FCU. The unit contains 19 logic cards and has 3 spare card slots for the user's channel interface electronics. (An external interface can optionally be used.) For service, the unit slides forward at a 90-deg tilt.

Rewind of a 2400' (730-m) reel requires less than 1 min. During high speed rewind a separator removes the tape from the head to protect the tape and reduce wear on the head.
All key circuits are protected against overvoltage and overcurrent conditions. A microprogram sequence control chip has expanded sense and status capability. Up to 42 sense bytes are available from the tape drive.
MTU checkout and 11dj ustment are controlled by an internal m1crocontroller. Switches and controls .nee<led for maintenance are selfcontained and available to service personnel but not accessible under normal operating conditions.
The extensive software diagnostic program is supplied because of the fail-soft tendency of GCR caused by extensive error correcting capabilities. Subsystem repair is aided by a I.SM-byte softwllre program. The diagnostic progr;nrt runs over 700 tests covering function, reliability, artificial stressing, and fault isolation.
A hinged deck, which proviqes front and mar access to the MTU, allows all components to be serviced from the front without removal. Initial setup and functional offiine testing and calibratioq can be accompli~hed through use of a resident field engineering panel on one of the logic cards.
General Specificc;iitions
The FCU is 10.5" (26.7 cm) high and the MTU is 29.5" (75 cm) ; both fit a standard 19" (48.3-cm) RETMA rack. Input power can be selected as 100/ 117.5 Vac, 60 Hz or 220 or 240 Vac, qO Hz. Operating altitude ranges are 0 to 2500' (0 to 760 m) or ZSOO to 6000' (760 to 1830 m).
Price and Delivery
OEM quantity prices are $6600 for the model 1935 fQrmatter-controller unit and $7950 for the model 1950 magnetic tape unit. Product quantities will be available in the fourth quarter of 1979. Storage 'fechnology Corp, 2270 S 88th St, Louisville, co 80027. Tel: 303/497-5151.
For additional information circle l 9f) on inquiry 'card

194

COMPUTER pESIGNI APRIL 1979

TRS-SOEs.
SERIAL 1/0
· Can input into basic · Can use LUST and LPRINT to output, or output continuously · RS-232 compatible · Can be used with or without the expansion bus · On board switch selectable baud rates of 11 O. 1 50, 300. 600, 1200, 2400, parity or no parity odd or even, 5 to 8 data bits, and 1 or 2 stop bits. D.T.R. line · Requires +5, -1 2 VOC · Board only $19.95 Part No. 8010, with parts $59.95 Part No. B01 DA, assembled $79.95 Part No. B010 C. No connectors provided, see below.

· Type 103 ·Full or half duplex· Works up
to 300 baud · Originate or Answer · No coils. only low cost
components · TTL input and output-serial
e Connect 8 n speak-
er and crystal mic.
directly to board · Uses XR FSK demod-
ulator · Requires +5 volts · Board only $7.60 Part No. 109, with parts $27.50 Part No. 109A

·EIA/ AS.232 con-
nector Part No . DB25P SS.00, with
9 '. 8 conductor cable 510.95 Part No 0825P9.
3' nbbon

cable

wrth attached con-

nectorstofitTAS-

80 and our serial

board $19.95 Part

No. 3CA840.

-- -MINIDISK
Box of 10 $29.95

APPLE Im
SERIAL 1/0
INTERFACE
Baud rate is continuously adjustable from 0 to 30,000 · Plugs into any peripheral connector· Low current drain. RS-232 input and output· On board switch selectable 5 to 8 data bits, 1 or 2 stop bits, and parity or no parity either odd or even· Jumper selectable address · SOFTWARE · Input and Output routine from monitor or BASIC to teletype or other serial printer · Program for using an Apple II for a video or an intelligent terminal. Also can output in correspondence code to interface with some selectrics. · Also watches OTA · Board only $15.00 Part No. 2. with parts $42.00 Part No. 2A. assembled $62.00 Part No. 2C
SK EPROM PllCEON
Saves programs on PROM permanently!until erased via UV light) up to BK bytes. Programs may be directly run from the program saver such as fixed routines or assemblers. · S100 bus compatible · Room for BK bytes of EPROM non-volatile memory [2708'sl. ·Onboard PROM programming · Address relocation of each 4K of memory to any 4K boundary within 64K · Power on jump and reset jump option for "turnkey" systems and computers without a front panel · Program saver software available ·Solder mask both sides · Full silkscreen for easy assembly. Program saver software in 1 2708 EPROM $25. Bare board $35 including custom coil, board with parts but no EPROMS $139, with 4 EPROMS $179, with 8 EPROMS $219.

RS-232/ TTL{}
INTERFACE
·Converts TTL to RS232, and converts RS232 to TTL· Two separate circuits · Req~res -12 and +12 volts · All connections go to a 10 pin gold plated edge connector · Board only $4.50 Part No. 232. with parts $7.00 Part No. 232A 1 0 Pin edge connector $3.00 Part No. 10P

RS-232/ TTY{lINTERFACE

T.V.
TYPEWRITER
· Stand alone TVT · 32 char/line, 16 lines, modifications for · 64 char /line included
e Parallel ASCII CTTLJ
input · Video output · 1Kon board memory · Output for computer controlled curser · Auto scroll · Nondestructive curser · Curser inputs: up, down, left, right, home, EOL EOS · Scroll up, down · Requires +5 volts at 1.5 amps, and -12 volts at 30 mA · All 7400, TTL chips · Char. gen. 2513 · Upper case only · Board only $39.00 Part No. 1 06, with parts $145.00 Part No. 106A

TAPE:;:
INTERFACE
· Play and record Kansas City Standard tapes · Converts a low cost tape recorder to a digital recorder · Works up to 1200baud ·Digital in and out are TTLserial · Output of board connects to mic. in of recorder · Earphone of recorder connects to input on board · No coils · Requires +5 volts, low power drain · Board only $7.60 Part No. 111, with parts $27.50 Part No. 111A

UART& BAUD RATE GENERATOR·:!·

HEX ENCODED
KEYBOARD
E.S. This HEX keyboard has 19 keys, 16 encoded with 3 user definable. The encoded TTL outputs, 8-4-2-1 and STROBE are cfebounced and available in true and complement form. Four onboard LEDs indicate the HEX code generated for each key depression. The board requires a single +5 volt supply. Board only $15.00 Part No.
HEX-3. with parts $49.95 Part No. HEX3A. 44 pin edge connector $4.00 Part No. 44P.

S-100 BUS{: ACTIVE TERMINATOR

DC POWER SUPPLY·::·
· Board supplies a regulated +5 volts at 3 amps.. +1 2. -1 2. and -5 volts at 1 amp. · Power required is 8 volts AC at 3 amps., and 24 volts AC C.T. at 1.5 amps. · Board only $12.50 Part No. 6085, with parts excluding transformers $42.50 Part No. 6085A

ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS

CIRCLE 91 ON IN9UIRY CARD

195

I I PRODUCTS
Serial Interface Probe Converts Logic State Analyzer Into Testing Tool Plugging into the model 532 intelligent logic state analyzer's A channel input port, the model 70 probe converts the analyzer into a tester for asynchronous RS-232 and 20-mA current loop interfaces. Connection to the B port permits monitoring of 16 channels of related parallel information. The probe simultaneously receives and transmi ts data. These modes operate in full duplex. In receive mode, the user can trigger on any char and store a 250-char sequence along with associated handshaking signals. Data are displayed on the analyzer's readouts in hexadecimal, or on an optional oscilloscope or terminal in hex or binary. For transm it mode, a software (P/ROM) option is required for the probe to send tests to a terminal or other serial device. Software also allows hexadecimal entry of custom messages of up to 256 char directly from the keyboard. Paratronics, Inc, 122 Charcot Ave, San Jose, CA 95131 .
Circle 200 on Inquiry Card
Power Sources Sult ECL Systems Requiring Low Voltages at High Currents Two UL recognized switching regulator supplies for mainframe computer, processor, and data communication applications provide up to 3 de output channels, including a main power channel and EGL channel of 2 Vdc with rat ings to 30 A. Model PM2575A has max power level of 375 W and PM2676A is rated at 600 W. Regulated outputs are supplied at full load over input voltage ranges of 92 to 138 or 184 to 250 V rms. Units operate efficiently for extended periods at inputs as low as 80 or 140 Vac depending on input voltage. During a power outage, output voltage holds for 30 ms for system shutdown. Overload, short-circuit, and reverse voltage protection; automatic overtemp shutdown; and parallel ing capability are std. Pioneer Magnetics, 1745 Berkeley St, Santa Monica, CA 90404.
Circle 201 on Inquiry Card
Laser Devices Increase Data Volumes In Communications and Information Processing TAB-PAC and DI-PAC aluminum-gallium-arsenide laser devices enhance the amount of information used, stored , and communicated. Containing an integrated electronic feedback system for controlling and optimizing the laser's output, the units plug into PC boards in data processing systems or into optical fiber cables for use in communications. Each measures < 1" (2.54 cm) and weighs about 0.2 oz (5.7 g) . The lasers are powered by a flashlight battery or directly by microelectronic circuitry requiring only 0.2 W of electrical power. They are modulated at speeds > 1G bits/s. Laser wavelengths can be selected to match specific application requirements. Optical Information Systems, a div of Exxon Enterprises Inc, Elmsford, NY 10523.
Circle 202 on Inquiry Card
196

I COMPUTER DESIGN APRIL 1979

Have it your way ' '

The only 40 column printer with NCR reliability now available almost any way you want it.

1. DIET SPECIAL-Mechanism only (low cost, field proven, available in quantity) add your own electronics.
2. TO GO-Cabinetized Version - comes in a handsome, well finished, gray case, for only a little extra lettuce.
3. BIG MECti- Mechanism (in a finished case) with its own power supply, with or without NCR electronics, packaged as a complete unit.
4. ON THE SIDE-NCR driven electronics, available with any selection.
For delivery information, prices, or literature, please contact: NCR Engineering and Manufacturing OEM Marketing P.O. Box 627, Ithaca, New York 14850 (607) 273-6066.
"Have it your way " is a reg . tM. of Burger King Corporation, Miami. Florida. and is used with permission.

Compare our ingredients and note the extra value of every unit served. ·Works as printer and/ or plotter
because of unique single wire design ·Multiple copy capability · Prints up to 120 lines per minute · Disposable ribbon cassette is operator changeable · No messy spools or tricky threading
Engineering and Manufacturing - Ithaca

CIRCLE 92 ON IN9UIRY CARD

197

If you haven't checked into our 8-bit

line recently, take a look at what you've

been missing.

Our 8-bit Families

We've got everything you need in 8-bit

µPD8080AF µPD8085A µPD8048 µPD780 processors-plus a full

µPD8080AF µPD8085A µPD8048

µPD 8080AF-2 µPD8085A-2 µPD8049

µPD 8080AF -1

µPD8039

µPD780 assortment of industry µPD780-l standard peripherals and

µPD8041
µPB8212 µPB8214 µPB8216/26 µPB8224 µPB8228/38

µPD8155 µPD8156

µPD 8251/A µPD8253 µPD 8255/A-5 µPD8257 µPD8259 µPD8279-5
µPD8355 µPD765

TM Zilog

µPD8035
:....:..

-- memories. And we've got them all in volume, ready to ship.

_:,
_:

Not only do we support the entire 8080A family; we

also offer the lower-cost

µPD8243

._....::..,..
........

single-chip 8048 family and the higher-performance 8085A series.

.......
- . ...... ~

And for those with applications that require the

~~/-:.. :/
, '

capability of a Z8o:M we have

the fully compatible µ,PD780-supported by

A the full family of 8080 peripherals.

REPS : Action Unlimited, Arlington, TX ; Spring , TX . Burton-Medley Associates, Grandview, MO. Cereo, San Diego, CA. Contact Sales, Inc. Burlington , MA. D/ Z Associates, Inc., Denver, CO. Electronic Innovators, Inc., Minneapolis, MN. Eltron, Phoenix, AZ. HLM Assoc., Northport, NY; Parsippany, NJ. lmtech, Inc., Cleveland , OH ; Dayton , OH . Kaytronics Limited , Ville St. Pierre, Quebec ; Downsview, Ontario ; Surrey, British Columbia.L & M Associates , Pikesville, MD; Montpelier, VA. Harry Nash Associates, Willow Grove, PA. R.C. Nordstrom & Company , Lathrup Village, Ml. Perrott Associates, Inc., Fort Lauderdale , FL ; Clearwater, FL ; Orlando , FL. Santana Sales, Costa Mesa, CA. Stone Component Sales, Waltham, MA. Technology Sales, Inc., Palatine , IL. Trident Associates, Inc., Sunnyvale, CA. Tri-Tronix, Albuquerque , NM . Tri -Tronix, NW., Mercer Island , WA. 20th Century Marketing , Inc., Huntsville, AL; Greenville, TN. Wolff's Sales Service Company, Raleigh, NC .
DISTRIBUTORS: Alme Electronics Corp., Philadelphia, PA, Baltimore , MD. Bell Industries, Bellevue, WA. Century Electronics, Albuquerque, NM; Wheatridge, CO; Salt Lake City , UT. Norman Davis Electronics, South Euclid, OH . Diplomat/ Westland , Inc., Sunnyvale , CA. Diplomat/Southland, Inc., Clearwater, FL. Diplomat/ Lakeland, Inc., Elk Grove Village, IL. Diplomat/ IPC of Mass., Chicopee Falls, MA. Diplomat, Holliston, MA. Diplomat/ Northland, Inc., Farmington , Ml. Diplomat/Electro-Com

198

COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

We can alE?o fill your needs for a wide raJlge
of high-performanc~ peripherals, including our IBM-compatible, double-density, doublesided floppy disc controller, the µ,PD765.
NEC not only means advanced technology and volume delivery; we also offer remarkable product reliability-thanks to experienced designers and meticulous manufacturing techniques, backed up by 100% burn-in and testing with MIL-STD-883 methods.
· What's more, we give you thorough support-including documentation, design assistance, and product development services. And our engineers are always available to help with specific application problems.
Our new catalog will give you a better
idea ofjust how much we can do for you, not just in 8-bit products, but also in 4-bit single-chip processors and lK, 4K and 16K memories.
Foryourfree copy, clip your bu~in~ss card or letterhead stationery to this page and send to: NEC Microcomputers, Inc.,
NEC 173 Worcester Street, Wellesley, MA 02181. If you haven't thought of NEC before, you will.
Next time.
NEC Microcomputers, Inc.

Corp., Minneapolis, MN. Diplomat/St. Louis, Inc. , St. Louis, MO. Diplomat/IPC Corp., Totowa, NJ ; Mt. Laurel, NJ. Diplomat Electronics Corp., Woodbury, NY. Diplomat/Alta-Land , Inc., Salt Lake City. UT. Future Electron ics Corp., Montreal, Quebec ; Rexdale, Ontario ; Ottawa, Ontario. Hughes-Peters, Inc., Cincinnati, OH ;Columbus, OH. lntermark Electronics, Sunnyvale, CA ; Santa Ana, CA; San Diego, CA. Kent Electronics, Houston, TX. G.S. Marshall, Sunnyvale, CA; Irvine, CA; El Monte, CA; San Diego, CA; Phoenix, AZ. Milgray Electronics, Inc., Freeport, NY; Orange, CT. Reptron Electronics, Inc., Livonia, Ml. Resco/ Raleigh, Raleigh , NC. Semiconductor Specialists, Inc., Chicago, IL; Burlington, MA; Farmington, Ml ; Minneapolis, MN; Hazelwood, MO; Pittsburgh , PA ; Dallas, TX ; Milwaukee, WI. Sterling Electronics, Phoenix, AZ; Sun Valley, CA ; San Diego, CA ; Baton Rouge, LA; Waltham, MA; Alb4querque, NM; Dallas, TX ; Houston TX; Seattle, WA. Summit Distributors, Inc. , Buffalo , NY. Summit Elec. of Roch., Inc., Rochester, NY. Technico, Inc. , Columbia, MD; Roanoke , VA. Western Microtechnology Sales, Sunnyvale, CA.

REGIONAL SALES OFFICES: Western Region, NEC Microcomputers, Orange, CA (714) 633-2980. Eastern Region , NEC Microcomputers. Melville, NY

(516) 293-5660.

CD-1-3

199

PRODUCTS
TEMPEST CERTIFIED INTERACTIVE CRT TER'MINALS
Certified to NAGS.EM 5100 Tempest limits and MIL~S.TD-461 ECM requirements, version of Hewlett-Packard 2640 series has ach ieved required shielding level by modifying only the external packaging , while retain ing the same viewing clarity, electrical assemblies, performance characteristics, and specs

of the original unit. Existing terminals can be retrofitted . 'eendix Communications Div, E Joppa Rd , Baltimore, MD 21204. Circle 203 on Inquiry Card

SINGLE-BOARD STORAGE MODULE DISC CONTROLLER
An intelligent single~board controller, SMC12 interfaces Data General compatible minicomputers with up tq 4 storage module drives in any mix of capacities to 1200M bytes. Two qomputers with the controllers can share dual ported drives. Transfer rate is up to 1.2M bytes/ s. Dual full sector RAM buffers allow single-command contiguous sector transfers to 64k words. Hardware error correction detects and corrects data error bursts l!P to 11 bits in one operation. lll!iniComputer Technology, 2470 Embarcaderp 'f"'ay, Palo Alto, CA 94303. Circle 204 on Inquiry Card

BENCHTOP HIGH vo·LTAGE

POWER SUPPLIES

Two supplies are designed for pr(lcision laboratory high voltage applications. Bipolar model 214 outputs O to 1000 V at 15 mA and model 215 features polarity switch with LED indicators and outputs of O to ± 3000 V at 5 mA. Proprietary linear circuit techniques result in 200-mV resolution , 0.001 % regulation and ripple , and 50 ppm/°C tempco . The 5 X: 7.625 x 7.25 (127 x 194 x 184mm) units are arc protected, short-circuit proof, and self-restoring. Bertan Associates, Inc,' 3 Aerial Way, Syosset, NY 11791 . Circle 205 on Inquiry Card

~-Ult~-~·rlp K

;

Sav~: space,

: sa;ye

'& . l'T)oneywltfllhe

l"}.U. J.. U-contro. ller.~/lot··

Saver II · Single 15" boara replaces 3 or more Data ·

General boards · Console terminal and 2ntl serial channel

· Real-time clock · 4-channel MUX · Parallel line.printer

(all brands) · Data General software compatible · One

year warranty · 30 day delivery · Service and support

We 've built our reputation on quality and service. See us for all your Data General controller needs.

NOVA and ECLIPSE
are Registered Trademarks
of Data General Corp.

CUSTOM SYSTEMS INC
2415 ANNAPOLIS LANE MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA 55441 Tel : (612) 553-1112, Telex: 29-0975

200

CIRCLE 98 ON IN9UIRY CARD

INDICATOR LIGHTS FOR ANALO~, DIGITAL DISPLAYS
The Varilite system uses a single ind icator light that changes color, between the red and green portions of the spectrum , in response to variations in electrical input. No moving parts or co lor wheels are used . Either arialog or dig ital information can be displayEld, and the unit cari be used in many applicat ions where a meter or gauge is nprmal-
a: ly required to indicate range of in-
formation. Varilite Corp, 222 Midd le Country Rd, Smithtown, NY 1178'7. Circle 206 on Inquiry Card
COMPUTER D~SIGN/APRIL l979

LARGE CAPACITY EPROM ERASING CABINETS

YOUR NOVA®, ECLIPSE® FLOPPY DOESNT HAVE TO BE SLOW.

Spectroline PC-1000 erases up to 72, and PC-2000 up to 144 EPROM chips at one time in as little as 7 min. Both feature high intensity ozone-free 254-nm UV grid tubes with specular reflectors for uniform UV distribution. Other features include complete shielding, safety interlocks, conductive foam pads for holding chips and preventing electrostatic buildup, and 60-min timer for automatic shutoff. Spectronics Corp, 956 Brush Hollow Rd, Westbury, NY 11590.
Circle 207 on Inquiry Card

MICROPROCESSOR BASED KEYBOARDS

!'") t j t

1::1
)

· 41

,. '" ':I oi;

, 7

'\ 0 W f R T 'r 1

GP ·

; .,-"', ",..

':,::; A '$ 0 f' G Ii J ..: L · · 1

-
...

z.:cvai~v(

_____

.>/

·-

...

.. N_

Microprocessor software controls 2-key and N-key rollover, tease protection, and repeat/ auto repeat features with a min of hardware in the 6000 series , along with polling, scanning, and message transmission. Microprocessor power eliminates the basic failure mode problems associated with mechanical switching . A contact deboun.cing scheme provides clean output without limiting operator input speed. Electronic hysteresis eliminates switch tease and multiple char output problems. MaxiSwitch Co, 9697 E River Rd, Minneapolis, MN 55433 . Circle 208 on Inquiry Card

10-B'IT SYNCHRO-TODIGITAL CONVERTER
Series of converter modules tracks input rates up to 36,000 ° Is with no added error. The 2.6 x 3.1 x 0.42" (66 x 78.7 x 10.7-mm) modu·les, designed to mount on PCBs, convert synchro or resolver inputs of 11.8 or 90 V at 400 Hz, or 90 V at 50 or 60 Hz into 10-bit parallel binary outputs representing angle with an accuracy of ± 30 min of arc. Consuming 500 mW of power, converters provide TTL/CMOS compatible digital outputs and accept bidirectional input data. Computer Conversions Corp, 6 Dunton Ct, East Northport, NY 11731. Circle 209 on Inquiry Card

You can increase your system throughput and have IBM standard double density format with smart floppy systems and controllers from SMS.

Send for our free brochure: MORE MINICOMPUTER

=11= THROUGHPUT.

® Trademark of Data General Corp.

r - - - --

--,

Gentlemen: Please send me the brochure.

NAME

SOENTIRC MICRO SYSTEMS

777 E. Middlefield Road

COMPANY

Mountain View, CA 94043 (415) 964-5700 (nNx) 910-3 79-65 77

ADDRESS
I
CITY

STATE _ _ ZIP _ _

L--

CIRCLE 94 ON INQUIRY CARD

DELTA DASH®GETS YOUR

SMALL PACKAGE THERE

IN ABIG HURRY.

Delta handles more over-thecounter shipments of 50 lbs. or less than any other certificated airline. And DASH (Delta Airlines Special Handling) serves 86 U.S .
cities plus San Juan. Any package up to 90 inches, width + length + height, and up to 50 pounds is acceptable. DASH packages accepted at airport ticket counters up to 30 minutes before flight time, up to 60 minutes at cargo terminals.
Rate between any two of Delta's domestic cities is $30. ($25 between

Dallas/Ft.Worth and Los Angeles or San Diego or San Francisco). Pick-up and delivery available at extra charge. Call 800-638-7333, toll free. (In Baltimore, call 269-6393).
You can also ship via DASH between Delta cities in the U.S. and Montreal, Nassau, Bermuda, Freeport and London, England. For details, call Delta's cargo office.~C>ELTA
The airline run by orolessionals
DELTA IS READY WHEN YOU ARE ~

201

PRODUCTS
DUAL RAM·P/RASTER GENERATOR
Two generators with ramp times of 1 µS to 1000 s within the model 180 can be operated independently or can be synchronized for 1:1, 2:1, or 4:1 interlace. Position and size controls, reverse sweeps, singleshot frames and fields, composite blanking pulses, and 2:1 and 4:1 vertical sweeps for inter-

lace s·implify raster generation. Two independent power amps offer ±10 V of variable de offset, 80-dB step attenuation in 1O~dB steps, and 20 dB continuously variable between steps. Exact Electronics, Inc, 6400 Signal St, Tillamook, OR 97141.
Circle 210 on Inquiry Card

HERMETICALLY SEALED DIGITAL DELAY LINE
Sealed in a metal 14-pin DIP, the -5001 withstands such severe manufacturing processes as wave soldering and freon degreasing . Available with a max delay from 25 to 250 ns (selected at time of order), unit offers 5 taps at 20% increments. Schottky buffered input/outputs pro.vide a delay accuracy of ±2 ns/5%, true waveform reproduction, and standard digital fanouts. Hytek Microsystems, Inc, 16780 Lark Ave, Los Gatos, CA 95030. Circle 211 on Inquiry Card

PROCESS CONTROL INSTRUMENTATION

SPECIFY THE UNFORGETTABLE COMPUTER BATTERY

You can depend on Yuasa sealed lead acid batteries to prqtect your computer's valuable memory during power failures.

Your computer can draw con-

tinuous energy without current

dropoff as a result of Yuasa's

flat discharge rate. And, with

Yuasa's excellent float charge

capabilities you're assured of a

reliable auxiliary power

supply year after

year. Rechargeable Yuasa batteries are pro-

duced in capacities ranging from 1.2Ah

to 24Ah to meet your requirements. So, specify Yuasa batteries and forget
it. Your computer won't.

YuisA

For futher information write:
Yuasa Battery (America) Inc., 8108 Freestone Ave., Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670, or call (213)698-2275 .

202

CIRCLE 95 ON INQUIRY CARD

Conditioning cards plugged into a basic motherboard build UP. units that accept many inputs; the optically coupled output signa·1 may be any std current or voltage process signal. Up to 2 alarm points can be provided. Designed to withstand severe environments, the CATxT series features a transmitting analog alarm in the 0.1 % accuracy class. A 0- to 10-V monitor outlet accepts a DVM or the company's Autocal handheld monitor. The auxiliary power supply may be 24 Vdc or 11 O VI 220 V 60 or SQ Hz. Struthers-l)unn, Inc, PO Box 1237, Bettendorf, IA 52722. Circle 212 on Inquiry Card
'DQUQl-E-POLE ROC~ER SWITCHES
Snap-in panel mounting switches are UL listed and CSA certified for 10 A at 125 Vac, 28 Vdc inductive; 8 A at 250 Vac inductive, 0.5 hp; and 8 A at 14 V tungsten. The 0.25" (0.635-cm) slip-on terminals may also be soldered. Variations of double- and single-pole circuits, color compinatlons, metal bezels, illuminated versions, and hot stamping adapt switches to i>peoific neeqs. Matching panel ligh\s are also offered. Cl'!icago Switch, Inc, 1714 N Darnen Ave, Chicago, IL 60647.
Circle 213' on Inquiry Card
COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

ZERO INSERTION PRESSURE IC SOC~ETS

YOUR 8080 FLOPPY SYSTEM DOESNT HAVE TO BE SLOW.

Econo Zip sockets are available in 16-, 24-, and 40-pin models, and are designed for mounting on std 0.100" (2.54-mm) centers on either axis. Additional device protection features include wide entry holes to accept bent or distorted leads, a screwdriver operated plastic cam for easy operation and prevent ion of accidental unloading, and long life. A device can literally be dropped into the socket ; rotation of the cam to a built-in stop firmly retains the device with good electrical contact. Textool Products, Inc, 1410 W Pioneer Dr, Irving , TX 75061 . Circle 214 on Inqu iry Card
SCIENTIFIC SUBROUTINE PACKAGE
Written for microsoft extended and disc BASIC interpreters, including TASSO level II BASIC, DPFUN is a 16-digit precision subroutine for engineering and scientific applications, with 13 double-precision exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric, and inverse trigoriometric functions. Truncated continued fraction algorithms result in easily entered code , fast execµt ion , and exploit prec ision available in 64-bit binary floating point notation. Complete subroutine set occup ies approximately 2.5k bytes. Miken Optical Co, 53 Abbett Ave, Morristown , NJ 07906. Circle 215 on Inqu iry Card
MODEM/TERMINAL INTERFACE DEVICE
Elastic asynchronous-to-synchronous interface (EASI) unit is an option available with the company 's 7201 C, 7208, and 7296 modems which operate at 2400, 4800, and 9600 bits / s respectively. Device permits asynchronous data tArminals to operate with medium and high speed syrichronous modems without any speed-loss penalty. Usually supplied as standalone unit with standard EIA connectors, device is also available for the 7208 as a PCB to fit an existing card slot. Tele-Dynamics Div, Ambac Industries, Inc, 525 Virginia Dr, Fort Washington , PA 19034. Circle 21 b on Inquiry Card

Increase the perfonnance of your 8080, 6800, Z80 with smart controllers.

IBM single density plus IBM double density.

High perfonnance features add throughput to your system*. Highest data recovery reliability.

Send for our free brochure: MORE MICROPROCESSOR

THROUGHPUT.
=11=
SOENTIFIC MICRO SYSTEMS

r - - - --

Gentlemen: Please send me the brochure.

NAME

777 E. Middlefield Road

COMPANY

Mountain View, CA 94043 (415) 964-5700 (TWx) 910-379-6577

ADDRESS CITY

STATE _ _ ZIP _ _ I

L--

CIRCLE 96 ON IN9UIRY CARD

INTELLIGENT RS-232 STORAGE SYSTEMS

· DATA CARTRIDGES RS-232
Dual RS-232 Interfaces Up to 3Y, Million Characters Data Rates to 19,200 Baud

· SOLID STATE BUFFERS Up to 16,000 Characters
Baud Rate Converter Context Editor Auto Answer

· DATA CARTRIDGES Parallel
Parallel Interfaces Up to 7Y, Million Characters Data Rates to 10,000 Char./Sec. Power Fail Option

· MINI DISKS Up to 358,000 Characters
Data ~fates to 19,200 Baud Powerful Editor File Directory No Program Disk Required

We also quote on customized applications.
9050 Red Branch Road · Columbia, MD 21045 3011992-3400 · TWX : 710-862-1891

CIRCLE 97 ON IN9UIRY CARD

203

PRODUCTS
THUMBWHEEL SWITCH WITH BIDIRECTIONAL PUSHBUTTON
Two fingertip plungers, 1 above and below the legend (readout) area of the T55 series switch, control wheel indexing. Required max operating force is 300 g. A clear window covers the legend opening. Measuring 15 x 7.62 mm, the unit is recommended for logic level circuits not exceeding 50 V, 0.1 A. Black matte finish body has white

.
. ' \, . "" "
. .- r1- ro ~
~
legend on a black wheel (also available in gray). Output codes are BCD, BCD complement only, and sihgle pole, repeating. Cherry Electrical Products Corp, 3600 Sunset Ave, Waukegan , IL 6::1085. Circle 217 on Inquiry Card

RACKMOUNTED LIMITED DISTANCE MODEM
RM 3404 handles full-duplex synchronous operation over unconditioned 4wire voice grade 3002 lines at 4800 bits/s. A dual-channel option enables two 2400-bit/s channels to be carried simultaneously over the same voice grade Hne and is line compatible with the company's LDM 404B freestanding modem. Features are point-to-point or digital multidrop operation using the LOS 3000 rack assembly; local analog and digital loopback plus· remote dig ital loopback; and signal status indicators. Gandalf Data, Inc, 1019 S Noel, Wheeling, IL 60090. Circle 218 on Inquiry Card

The UGLY: Switchers
Their reliability makes them beautiful!

10-MHz OSCILLOSCOPES
Single-trace LB0-513 and dual-trace LB0-514 oscilloscopes feature up to 1-mV sensitivity. Units have 8 x 10-cm displays, Z-axis modulation, 5X magn·ifier, and complete trigger controls. LB0-508 dual-trace scope also has front panel X-Y operation, ch-1 I ch-2 trigger selection, and alternate or chopped display modes. Leader Instruments Corp, 151 Dupont St, Plainview, NY 11803. Circle 219 on Inquiry Card

HIGH DENSITY MOS MEMORY FOR PDP-8/A

Elpac has over % of a million power supplies in the field, with a beautiful record of less than 1% return rate for any reason. That's reliability!
Our standard switchers are offered in 60, 100, 175, 180 or 250 watt series. Open or closed frame. Dual, single or multiple out;'.)ut. All units feature dual input 115/230Vand isolated outputs with ± .1 % line and load regulation. The units are pulse width modulated and feature overload protection, soft start, and very low noise, less than 50 MV peak to peak from DC to 300 MHz. All units are burned in for 72 hours at 40°C, with the

outputs fully loaded. UGLY switchers are designed to meet UL-478.
For a beautifully reliable switcher, specify an Elpac UGLY. Call or write for complete specifications and details today. Ask about our custom capabilities. We've got local, national and international distribution. GET UGLY!
-IE
ELPAC POWER SYSTEMS
A DIVISION OF ELPAC ELECTRONICS. INC. 3131 S. Standard Avenue, Santa Ana, CA 92705 (714) 979-4440 TWX 910-595-1513

204

CIRCLE 93 ON 1NCj)UIRY CARD

A hex card that plugs directly into a sing le CPU slot, the 128k-word x 12-bit PM-SSA is also available in 8 depopulated versions ranging from 112k to 16k words. Features include 'battery backup power provision and switch selectable addressing. The memory replaces DEC's MSS-C while providing in·creased capacity. It is hardware and software compatible with the computer and all DEC peripherals. Plessey Peripheral Systems, 17466 Daimler, Irvine, CA 92714 . Circle 220 on Inquiry Card
COMPUTER DESIGN/ APRIL 1979

MIL-STD RIGHT ANGLE TOGGLE SWITCH

YOUR PDPt 1®, LSI 11 ® FLOPPY
DOESNT HAVE TO BE SLOW.·

With right angle mounting for tight PCB packaging, units feature nonteasable, dry circuit capabilities, weld-breaking action , gold contacts and sealed bushing, and gold-pla'ted silver contacts. Switches meet MIL-S-8834 requirements for high reliability applications in communications equipment, computer mainframe and peripherals, and navigation and guidance equipment test instrumentation . They are rated 5 A at 28 Vdc. Aerospace Controls/Systems piv, Cutler-Hammer, Inc, 4201 N 27 St, Milwaukee, WI 53216. Circle 221 on Inquiry Card
SHAFTLES·S OPTICAL ENCODER
Installing fully assembled and adjusted on an existing shaft, the V-Coder eliminates need for shaft, bearings, and coupling, enabling a 8 x 10-· oz-in (5.6 x 10-· N·m)/s2 moment of inertia. Installation consists of push·ing the encoder on the existing shaft, inserting and tightening mounting screws, and then pushing a thrust pin throu~h an ~perture in the case for several seconds while the shaft 'rotates. The thrust pin automatically aligns the encoder. Outputs include square wave in quadrature, English-metric, and index pulse. Perrine, Inc, Paraiso Hot Springs, Soledad, CA 93960. Circle 222 on Inquiry Card

You can increase your system throughput and have IBM standard double density format with floppy systems and controllers from SMS.

Let us show you why SMS systems provide up to twice the performance of RX02®.

Send for our free brochure: MORE MINICOMPUTER

THROUGHPUT.
111111

® Trademark of Digital Equipment Corp.

r -- - --

--,

Gentlemen: Please send me the brochure.

SOENTIAC MIC.RO SYSTEMS

NAME

777 E. Middlefield Road

COMPANY

Mountain View, CA 94043 (415) 964-5700

ADDRESS

(rWx) 910-3 79-65 77

CITY

L -
CIRCLE 99 ON IN9UIRY CARD

STATE _ _ ZIP _ _

HIGH SPEED PRINTERS
600-, 900-, 1000-, and 1200-line/min 8080A microprocessor controlled ChainTrain printers serve data and word processing applications . CT-1200 series' horizontal moving font provides precisely aligned vertical print. Features include 132 print positions; 64-char ASCII set; built-in, offline test capability; adjustable paper path, and 6-part forms capability. Digital Associates Corp, 1039 E Main St, Stamford, CT 06902 .

Circle 223 on Inquiry Card
CIRCLE 100 ON INtj)UIRY CARD - - +

ADVANCED
TECHNICAL EDUCATION n INTEffiLlTEDCDVlFUrER svsrrM3,lr'C. 1!.!11979 SPRING/SUMMER SCHEDULE

Course 160 - Four Days

Microprocessor Hands-On Workshop

ST. LOUIS
May 1-4
NEW YORK
May8· 11

SEATTLE
May 15- 18

TORONTO
' May 29·June 1

WASHINGTON D.C.
June 4-7

BOSTON
June 11- 14

SAN FRANCISCO

J.une 19-22

SAN DIEGO
July 16- 19

==Course 365 - Four Days

PHILADELPHIA
May 1-4
SAN FRANCISCO
May8· 11
SEATTLE
May 15· 18
$T. LOUIS
June 5·8
TORONTO
June 12·15
SAN DIEGO
July 10· 13-
WASHINGTON D.C.
July 17·20
OTTAWA
July 24-27

Cotjrse 320 - Four Days

Structured Programming

DETROIT
May 1-4
WAStflNGTON D.C.

May 15· 18

CHICAGO
June 5·8

TORONTO
June 12· 15

HARTFORD

June 19·22

SAN FRANCISCO
July 10- 13

~iiilH!I MINNEAPOLIS

July 17· 20

OTTAWA
July 24·27

Course 41 2 - Five Days
Digital Signal Processing

SAN DIEGO
May7 - 11
SAN FRANCISCO
June 11 · 15
TORONTO
June 18·22
MINNEAPOLIS
July 9- 13
OTTAWA
July 16-20

Course 142 - Five Days
Troubleshooting MicroprocessorBased Systems

Course 380 - Four Days
Data Base Management Systems

Course 444 - Four Days
WASHINGTON D.C.
May8- 11
LOS ANGELES
May 15- 18
TORONTO
J uly 10· 13
SAN FRANCISCO
July 31 · Augus13
MINNEAPOLIS
August 7- 10

WASHINGTON D.C.
May8 - 11
LOS ANGELES
Jupe 26-29
OTTAWA
July 17·20
WASHINGTON D.C.
July 24·27

Course 350 - Four Days
Distributed Processing and Computer Networks
.
:
" '11 '
' ,r .

ST. LOUIS
May 1-4
SAN FRANCISCO
May8· 11
CHICAGO
May 15- 18
TORONTO
June 5 -8
HARTFORD
June 12- 15
WASHINGTON D.C.
June 19·22
SAN DIEGO
July 10· 13
OTTAWA
July 17·20

Self-Study
MiCl'OCOf1lputer Training ·

Courae525A Microcomputer Hardware/ Software
Courae536A Microcomputer Interfacing Techniques
Course 565 Developing Microcomputer Software

LOS ANGELES
May2·4
WASHINGTON, D.C.
May9· 11
BOSTON
May 16-18
A TORONTO
June 6-8
SAN DIEGO
July 25-27
OTTAWA
August 1·3

EUROPEAN COUftSE LOCATIONS
These courses, and other advanced technology courses. are also offered throughout the year in Paris, London, Copenhagen, Munich, and other Eu ropean cities. For details, contact:
Course Enrollment Secretary ICSP Inc. - BELGIUM
Avenue Ju... Ciaar 2, Bte 2 1150 Brunel·, Belgium
Telephone: (02) 762-6000 Telex: 846 62473

For FREE BROCHURES and detailed information, please contact : Course Manager:

) 0- 060 Integrated Computer Systems. Inc. (

213 45 2 3304 Pico Blvd./P.O. Box 5339

Santa Monica, CA 90405

(LOS ANGELES)

(703) Integrated Computer Systems, Inc. 548-1333

300 N. Washington St./Su1te 103

Alexandria, VA 22314

(WASHINGTON , D.C.)

206

CIRCLE 101 ON INCj)UIRY CARD

COM P UTER DESIGN/ APRIL 1979

PRODUCTS
SIDE-ACTUATl:D SLIDE AND ROCKER SWITCH

TER·MINAL-HARDCOPY CONVERTER/INTERFACE
A vector to raster converter and electrostatic printer/plotter interface, RasterizerT" produces hardcopy for the Megraphic 7000 vector refresh terminal in 10 to 15 s. The unit performs hardware conversion of vector information requiring no software preparation to order vectors. Both 100- and 200-dot/ in (39.4 and 78. 7I cm) resolution may be jumper selected for 11 or 20" (27.9 or 50 .8 cm) printer/plotters with 100-dot/in resolution on plotters up to 40" (101.6 cm). Megatek Corp, 3931 Sorrento Valley Blvd, San Diego, CA 92121. Circle 227 on Inquiry Card

Featuring a firm, positive detent in an enclosed molded housing, the low profile design is suited to video games and calculators. Its contact-terminal allows the slide switch to carry up to 6 A at 125 Vac; the rocker switch carries up to 10 A 125 Vac, for power switching applications. Single-pole 1 and 2 positions are available for PC mounting . PC standoffs molded on the switch housing and 2 dummy terminals on the rocker version supply stability when wave soldering . Eldorado Components, Inc, Clayton, NC 27520. Circle 224 on Inquiry Card

PRECISION 10-V 'REFERENCES

R675 series 10-, -10-, and ±10-V

models are available in 14-pin hermetic

DIPs that are pin-for-pin equivalent to

AD2700 units. The 10-V reference also

is supplied in hermetic T0-99 packages.

MIL-STD-883 models (-B) offers ±3
· c ppm/ °C tempco for - 55 to 125

operating range. Commercial/ industrial

models (-C) have ±5 and ±8 ppm/ 0 'C

·c tempco for -25 to 70

and -55 to

· c 125

operating ranges, respectively.

Nominal supplies are within ± 5 mV.

Hybrid Systems Corp, Crosby Dr, Bed-

ford, MA 01730.

Circle 228 on Inquiry Card

SQUARE INCANDESCENT INDICATOR LIGHT
D·esigned to eliminate shadows, the SQI series uses Fresnel rings and striated lines for uniform light transmission, elimination of filament hot spots, and 180° viewing angle. The unit provides 20% greater viewing area than round lens devices. Cubelight installs in 6 s with light finger pressure. It snaps into a 0.25" (0.63cm) sq hole or gang mounts as a multiunit in a 0.25" (0.63-cm) wide slot. Lamps insert into rear of lens, locking assembly into position. Visual Communications Co, PO Box 986, El Segundo, CA 90245. Circle 225 on Inquiry Card
FLOPPY DISC CONTROLLER
Single-board model 400 is a OMA controller which operates on S-100 bus and uses IBM 3740 compatible soft sectored formatting. It will handle single-sided, double-sided, single-density, and double-density floppy drives and can manage up to 4 drives with overlapped seek to all. An onboard 1kbyte EPROM stores boot programs or other user defined applications. A proprietary phase locked loop design insures accurate reliable data recovery.. Industrial Micro Systems, 628 N Ecihoff St, Orange, CA 92668. Circle 226 on Inquiry Card

60-CHAR'/s MATRIX PRINTER
A low cost printer with high quality matrix character formation, the 3155 offers reliability in use with 8000 series interactive terminal systems where actual print time and number of displays accessing the printer are relatively low. Print mechanism prints 60 char/s unidirectionally at 10 charlin (3.9/cm), in line lengths up to 132 chars. Housed in desktop unit or on stand, device can be located up to 2000' (609 m) from controller. Harris Corp, Data Communications Div, 16001 Dallas Pkwy, Dallas, TX 75240. Circle 229 on Inquiry Card
SMALL COMPUTER SYSTEM
Key-Edit series 2 intelligent terminal systems offer floppy disc storage, large capacity CRT, and peripherals for offline printing and communications. Basic model 22 features CPU with 64k-byte user memory, 1920-char CRT with keyboard, and dual flo;:ipy disc drives with 486!<-byte capacity. Dual workstation model 24 drives four floppy disc drives with 972k-byte storage capacity; two printers and communications controller are available as options. Software features a high level user programming language. Consolidated Computer International Inc, 1604 S Edwards Dr, Tempe, AZ 85281. Circle 230 on Inquiry Card

207

PRODUCTS

PORTABLE DATALOGGERS WITH 'RS-232 CAPABILITY
Interfacing with any RS-232 device, RS10 converts data from internal digital clock, 10 analog inputs, and 32 bits of digital data to ASCII code at selectable baud rates. The RL-10, used in remote, unattended sites, transmits tape recorded data to a central location automatically, at predetermined time intervals. Front p-anel reads digital and

analog data while scanning; when not scanning, it reads time. Scan control is switch selectable, manual, or by RS-232 control char. A. D. Data Systems, Inc, 200 Commerce Dr, Rochester, NY 14i323. Circle 231 on Inquiry Card

Z·80 $10·

PRINTER INTERFACE CARD
Designed with two interfaces (one using Centronics parallel convention and interfacing with the company's 3779 and 3703 dot matrix printers, the other using daisy wheel parallel convention and interfacing with 3355 daisy wheel printer) , PRI card has an individual cable connection to each. The daisy wheel interface has built-in ribbon lift and lowering circuitry to free software overhead normally required for this function. Cromemco, Inc, 280 Bernardo Ave, Mountain View, CA 94043. Circle 232 on Inquiry Card
UNIVERSAL P/1ROM PROGRAMMING SYSTEM

3880 $10*

EZ·80 $2295
PLUG THE
EZ·80 PROCE§OR EMULl\TOR
INTO YOUR PRODUCT AND SAVE TIME AND MONEY WHEN TESTING YOURZ-800R 3880 SYSTEM.
· Built-in scope loops · Built-in memory tests · User programmed
tests · Real-time
trace memory · Fast& easy
to use

Use of permanently connected slaves eliminates need for changing personality modules and pinout adapters. Max of 15 slaves connects to program and/ or test up to 240 components simultaneously. Smarty SM-100 master unit incorporates 2708/04 programmer; 8-, 16-, 32-, or 64k-bit PI ROM simulator; editor; and EPROM slave programs. Unit has RS-232-C and 20-mA current loop capabilities, 14 switch selectable baud rates from 50 to 9800, and checksum data RAM to insure data integrity. Sunrise Electronics, 307-H S Vermont Ave, Glendora, CA 91740. Circle 233 on Inquiry Card
LOCAL DATA SETS WITH CONTENTION FEATURE

nPPLIED

FOR QUICK INFORMATION OR DEMONSTRATION CALL
(206) 827-9111

l.M!cROSYSTEMS 11064 118th Pl. N.E. · Kirkland, Wa. 98033

·Approximate selling price, March 1979 U.S.A.

208

CIRCLE 102 ON IN9UIRY CARD

DS- 10A local data sets incorporate contention feature Multishare, which monitors transmission line. If line is available, terminal transmits data allowing user to multipoint several terminals within a complex on the same line or port without use of protocol control. Operation is asynchronous, serial, full or half duplex over twisted pair at data rates to 19.2k bits/ s for distances greater than 20 mi. Options include optical isolator module, synchronizer module, and MUX port extender. Telecomm Automation Corp, Box 283, Newtown, CT 06470. Circle 234 on Inquiry Card
I COMPUTER DESIGN APllll.. 1979

RUGGED GRAPHICS TERMINAL
A·SCll sequences enable onboard capabilities of individual dot addressability for color and blink; automatic vector generation and color fill ; realtime (downline loadable) special symbol graphics generation; and independent vector and alphanumeric scrolling with the IDT-100 terminal. Desktop and rackmount configurations are available. Monitor (either the company's ruggedized, permanently converged color monitor or other high resolution monitors) and video generator are mounted on a common chassis. Industrial Data Terminals Corp, 1550 W Henderson Rd , Columbus, OH 43220 . Circle 235 on Inquiry Card
HIGH FREQUENCY MICROPROCESSOR MODEM

IEEE-488 INTERFACE FOR LOGIC ANALYZ'ERS
Available as field installation kits or as a factory installed option, HP-IB capability makes automatic functional testing of digital systems possible with 161 OA and 1615A logic analyzers. When combined with a controller such as a 9825A, data captured by the programmable analyzers can be transferred to the controller for automatic analysis. Ability to program tests offers fast, easy data accumulation, summarization, and documentation in hardcopy across the bus . Hewlett-Packard Co, 1507 Page Mill Rd, Palo Alto, CA 94304. Circle 238 on Inquiry Card
2-SPEED SINGLE-MODULE S-D CONVERTER
Consuming less than 2 W of power, SDC361 converter is accurate to 20 angular seconds. Type II servo loop for output data is always fresh up to the specified
tracking rates of 1000 ° Is for 400 Hz and 250 ° Is for 60 Hz. Fully trimmed
unit features control transformer algorithm for inherently higher accuracy and jitter-free output. Measuring 2.625 x 3.125 x 0.82" (6.668 x 7.938 x 2.082 cm) , unit meets MIL-STD-202E with temp ranges of O to 70 or -55 to 105 °C. ILC Data Device Corp, Airport International Plaza, Bohemia, NY 11716. Circle 239 on Inquiry Card

Employing fast Fourier transform and digital filtering techniques to form multitone audio signals, modem performs arithmetic and digital operations with LSI TTL 4-bit slice arithmetic and logic units that are timeshared under program control. Internal computational accuracy is 16 bits, with double precision and block floating point techniques used for certain functions. Each processor function is program controlled, providing for efficient fault isolation, maintenance, and fail-safe operation. GTE Sylvania, Inc, 100 First Ave, Waltham, MA 02154. Circle 236 on Inquiry Card
LEDS WITH BUILT-IN DRIVERS
Fan-in series panel lamps work directly with TTL or CMOS levels. Available in either logic 1 or logic 0 configurations, LEDs are packaged in cylindrical cartridge configurations, and come in red, amber, or green. Most lenses are Fresnel type in either normal or low profile front panel projection. At 20-mA lamp current, average lifetime is 10 yr. Data Display Products, 303 N Oak St, Inglewood, CA 90301. Circle 237 on Inquiry Card

SINGLE-MODE CW INJECTION LASER
GaAIAs diode incorporates both a double carrier confined, striped laser structure and facet passivation . Typ operating characteristics include stable single transverse mode operation with 7-mW optical power output at < 100-mA drive current at 27 ° C, second harmonic distortion of < -52 dB, and operation to 60 °C. Peak emission wavelength at 27 ° C is 830 nm with a spectral bandwidth of 1 nm. Laser Diode Laboratories, Inc, 205 Forrest St, Metuchen, NJ 08840. Circle 240 on Inquiry Card
MOVABLE POWER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM
The MN 1C series Powermobile, a selfcontained system resembling a computer peripheral, utilizes flexible shielded cables to conduct power to various computer components. These cables eliminate expensive custom electrical work required for installation, expansion, or relocation. Unit incorporates an electrostatically shielded isolation transformer designed to eliminate high frequency voltage spikes and transients that cause computer malfunction. A single point grounding system eliminates ground loop current. Data Processing Power Corp, 12638 Beatrice St, Los Angeles, CA 90066. Circle 241 on Inquiry Card

209

PRDCi.JCTS
CONNECTOR FOR TYPE A LEADLESS SUBSTRATES
A 68-position receptacle accepts leadless ceramic LSI chip carriers and surface mounts to PCBs with pads on 0.050" (1.27-mm) centers. Measuring 1.165 x 1.165 x 0.366" (29.591 x 29.591 x 9.296 mm), the connector fastens to the board with a single hold-down screw that provides > 200-g normal force/·contact for compatibility with tinlead plated PC pads. Spring-loaded hold-down frame secures LSI package and latches to exert > 60-g normal force/contact on metallized pads of ceramic package. AMP Inc, Harrisburg, PA 17105. Circle 242 on Inquiry Card

UNIVERSAL P/'ROM PROGRAMMER
This PC board plugs into a spare controller slot of the Ontel OP-1 terminal, extending out of the card cage to allow access to the P/ROM sockets without terminal power-down or card removal. The programmer uses the internal power supply of the terminal. The UPP device functions under software control. All P/ROM types used on the terminal can be programmed. Up to 8 Intel or Tl 2716 EPHOMs can be programmed at once. Three programmable power supplies are contained onboard. Nelma Electronics Lid, 1707 Sismet Rd, Unit #9, Mississauga, Ontario L4W 2K8, Canada. Circle 243 on Inquiry Card
TRIMMER POTENTIOMET'ERS
The 752 series of high performance industrial trimmers measure 0.375" (0.95 cm) sq for miniaturized circuit board requirements. Cermet resistance elements assure longer life. Case mater·ials are designed to withstand operating temperatures to 125 ° C; power rating is 0.5 W at 70 °C. A selection of terminal patterns and adjustment configurations meet various multiturn applications. VRN St Petersburg, PO Box 44000, St Petersburg, FL 33743. Circle 244 on Inquiry Card

IC 'PRODUCTION SOCKETS
Welcon Lo-RiseT" DIP sockets accept 8- to 40-lead devices on 0.300, 0.400, and 0.600" (0. 762, 1.0·16, and 1.524cm) centers. The 802 series is stackable end-to-end [maintaining a 0.100" (0.254-cm) contact center] and side-toside. Features are dual-wiping contacts, tapered lead-in ramps, and visual polarization. Anti-overstress internal barrier protects against contact breakage, while a closed bottom prevents solder wicking . Wells Electronics, Inc, 1701 S Main St, South Bend , IN 46623. Circle 245 on Inquiry Card
PLUG-IN 10-A TIME DELAY RELAY
Model 166TD is available with fixed knob adjustable or remote (external resistor) adjustable time delay. Repeatability is ± 2% with 45-ms min and 60ms max release time, and 60/100-ms recycling times. Protection against reverse ·polarity and false tripping on timing cycle interruption is provided. Contact ratings are % hp or 10 A at 120 Vac; 1/2 hp at 240 Vac. Electronic circuit provides instant reset if power is removed during the timing cycle without a momentary contact transfer. Deltrol Controls/Div of Deltrol Corp, 2745 S 19th St, Milwaukee, WI 53215. Circle 246 on Inquiry Card

PICKA PITTMAN®

D-CMOTOR

LO-COG® Servo Motors
3 series: 1.2, 1.6 and 2.0" OD Stall torques: about 1 to 128 oz.-in.

FOR YOUR PRODUCT

NEW Rare Earth Field D-C Motors
1x1W' cross-section Stall torques: 12 to 24 oz.-in.

PITMO® Gearmotors
2 series: 1.38 and 2.00" OD gearboxes Torque limits with standard gearing: 100 &175 oz.-in.

PITMO® Motor-Tachs
2 series: 1.2 and 1.6" O.D. Standard tachometer gradient: 2 volts/1,000 rpm

THE PITTMAN CORPORATION

A Subsidiary of Penn Engineering & Manufacturing Corp.

Harleysville, PA 19438 · 215:256-6601

210

CIRCLE 103 ON IN9UIRY CARD

I COMPUTER DESIGN APRIL 1979

THE
"SMART"
PRINTER
BUY. low cost is smart. With Dataroyal's low prices and volume discounts, few printers cost less to buy. With Dataroyal's unique microcomputer design and rugged mechanism, no other printer costs less to own.
It's smart to let one printer do
the job of many. A wide range of
firmware packages allows Dataroyal printers to meet almost every requirement within the 120-200 character-per-second performance range. Upgrade, downgrade or add new functions - interfaces, communicatiorls protocols, buffering, and more-all within seconds. In the factory or in the field .
It's smart to demand reliability, and Dataroyal has years of experience building printers that work because they have to. Many of the Dataroyal printers now in use operate in hostile environments at 100% duty cycle.
It's smart to choose a vendor who can deliver. Dataroyal can, in 45 days or less. Low purchase prices, applications flexibility and reliability add up to low cost of ownership over a long·product life.
IPS®7000 INTELLIGENT PRINTING SYSTEMS

PRODUCTS
PROGRAMMABLE DC POWER SUPPLIES
Constant voltage/constant current supplies offered in 50- and 150-W models are configured as quarter and half rack modules, respectively. 8 P-series units provide voltage/ current output levels of 10 V/3 A, 10 V/10 A, 20 V/2 A, 20 V/6 A, 50 V/1 A, 50 V/3 A, 100
V/0.5 A, and 100 VI 1.5 A. Output volt-
age, current, and voltage limit can be controlled by IEEE-488 interface bus, by external analog signals, or by manual controls. The user selects the means of control for each output parameter. Systron-Oonner Corp, Instrument Div, 10 Systron Dr, Concord, CA 94518. Circle 247 on Inquiry Card
GENERALPURPOSEl/O UNIBUS INTER·FACE BOARD
Dual I/OT" provides the logic for program controlled parallel transfer of 16bit data between 2 external user devices and a Unibus system. A single quad-height unit that installs in any available SPC slot, the board is hardware and software equivalent to 2 DR11C interfaces at one unit load to the bus. 4 Berg connectors serve all user 1/0 signals. Each set of connectors is pin compatible with DR11-C connectors and accepts std flat ribbon 40-conductor cables with 3M-type socket connectors. Able Computer Technology, Inc, 1751 Langley Ave, Irvine, CA 92714. Circle 248 on Inquiry Card

DATAROVAL
INCORPORATED
235 Main Dunstable Raad, Nashua, NH. 03061 (603) 883-4157 2801 Far Hills Avenue, Dayton, Oh. 45419 (513) 294-6426 160 Centennial Woy, Tustin, Calif. 92680 (714) 838-4530
CIRCLE 104 ON INQUIRY CARD

COMPILER/INTERPRETER FOR CP/M OPERATING SYSTEM
A commercially oriented c ompiler/ interpreter BASIC language facility for CP/ MT" operating systems, CBASIC-2 improves on the original by adding integer variables, chaining with common variables, multiple line functions, and a cross reference lister for program variables. Intermediate files are smaller and execution. is faster. Modular design, maintainability, expanded control structures, and source code security are emphasized. Software Systems, PO Box 145, Sierra Madre, CA 91024. Circle 249 on Inquiry Card

CIRCLE 105 ON INQUIRY CARD 211

PRODUCTS
DATA ACQUISITION SYSTEM P·ROCESSOR MODULE
User programming of data acquisition and control functions is possible with the 8085 microprocessor contained in the RIGEL II. In' addition, the module offers 16-bit digital 1/0 port (optional), serial data port (RS-232 and current loop), 32-bit clock with 10-ms resolution, and direct 4-level priority interrupt. Locations hold up to 3k words of ROM for program storage and 750 words of RAM for data storage. The module directly addresses 65k of internal ROM or RAM. Androtek/dmi, PO Box 29098, Columbus, OH 43229. Circle 250 on Inquiry Card

ERROR CORRECTING MEMORY FOR MINICOMPUTER
With storage capacity of 256k bytes on a single board, the 660-ns semiconductor memory for the V77-600 minicomputer detects multiple bit errors and corrects single bit errors. Featuring dual port memory access, the board permits two different processors, operating independently to request access to the memory at the same time. One request will acknowledge when access priority has been resolved by the memory's priority logic. Up to 8 boards may be installed for a max of 2M bytes. Sperry Univac Mini-Computer Operations, PO Box 500, Blue Bell, PA 19424. Circle 251 on Inquiry Card
SMALL DC MOTORS
Series 1616 and 1624 Micromotors, measuring 16 mm in dia and 16 mm and 24 mm in leng1h, have speeds up to 12k r/min . For the -24, torque is up to 0.21 oz-in (0.0015 N·m), and output power is up to 0.9 W. With the -16, torque is up to 0.11 oz-in (0.0008 N·m) and output is up to 0.45 W. Motor voltages are 3, 6, 12, and 24 V. A line of gearheads and optical rate encoders are available for the motors. Micro-Mo Electronics, Inc, 3691 Lee Rd, Cleveland , OH 44120 . Circle 252 on Inquiry Card

70-CONTACT PAIR PC EDGEBOARD CONNECTORS
Connector series JND, JNK, and JNL are dual readout connectors with contact pairs on 0.100" (2.54-mm) centers. Extended connectors are offered with 55, 60, 65, and 70 contact pairs and between contact polarizing. JND devices have wirewrap tails, and both JNK and JNL devices have 0.026" (0.660mm) round tails for wave soldering . All come with either diallyl phthalate or phenolic insulators. Viking Industries, Inc, 9324 Topanga Canyon Blvd, Chatsworth, CA 91311. Circle 253 on Inquiry Card
FIBER OPTIC TRANSMISSION INTERFACE CIRCUITS
A high speed current driver, SPX 3619 can be used with either LED or laser diode to constitute a complete functional transmitter. Companion 3620 circuit transforms low level photocurrent signals from PIN or avalanche photodiode into logic level output. Both networks feature 20M-bit/s biphase data rate capability, TTL compatible interfaces, and single 5-V power supply operation. The transmitter imposes no restrictions on source other than rise and fall times short enough to realize the data rate. Spectronics, 830 E Arapaho Rd, Richardson, TX 75081. Circle 254 on Inquiry Card

If you're developing commercial applications for small business computers...you need

The most comprehensive business development software available. MicroCobol comes complete with its own Interactive Operating System, COBOL Compiler, Full Utilities, Symbolic Debugging System, Report Writer, On-Line Inquiry/DBMS .. . and more.
No worry about obsolescence. MicroCobol eliminates the need to reprogram or recompile for different machines and future generations. MicroCobol-written applications are completely portable to any MicroCobol supported environment. They operate identically on IBM Series 1, DEC PDP-11 and machines based on 8080/85 , ZBO, 6800, 9900 architecture. And soon , the 8086.
Backed by 2,000 programmer years of COBOL experience. You'll receive full support from one of the world 's largest and most experienced software organizations.
Before you choose COBOL- call or write us for more information .. . (or about distributorships).
~~D~~~
1101 State Road , Bldg . 0 ; Princeton, N.J. 08540 ; Tel : (609) 924-2700
299 California Ave .; Palo Alto , CA 94306 ; Tel : (415) 326-1379
See us at lnlerface ' 79. Booth 240 , in Chicago

212

CIRCLE 1Ct6 ON INCj>UIRY CARD

COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

SHORT HAUL MODEM SIMULATOR
Designed as a replacement for inhouse, or for up to 4-km modems, model 2680 operates at speeds to 9600 bits/s , asynchronous, full duplex, over twisted pair <:able. Features include optical isolation, adjustable RTS delay, V24/RS-232C interface, and mult·idrop appli<:ation. Operating power is 6 VA at 220/240 Va:c; 50 ·to 60 Hz. Lion Systems Developments Ltd, Halifax Rd, High Wycombe, Bucks, HP12 3SE, England. Circle 255 on Inquiry Card
UNiVERSAL RELAY
Power output contacts for OIL 08 are rated 1O A continuous at 120 Vac, with an inductive load-making capacity of ~ 50 A max. If a NO contact ·happens to weld, the armature bridge holding the contacts prevents the NC contacts from reclosing when the relay is deenergized, providing a reliable, fail-safe operation. Coil voltages range from 12
to 120 Vap. The 4o x 50-mm relay has
up to 8 NO, 8 NG isolated contacts. Klockner-Moeller Corp, 4 Strathmore Rd, Natick, MA 01760. Circle 256 on Inquiry Card

Wire Wrap Modules · · ·
from r:'l[)EJ

For use in these computers:

· PDP*·11

· Data General

· LSl-11

· Interdata

· PDP·B

· IBM Series/1

When it comes to Wire Wrap Boards, MOB has them, all w1th these features: D Plugs directly into the host com-
puter backplane connecting all bus signals D Two-level wire wrap posts on component side of module D Mounts in a single chassis position D Will accommodate any .300, .400 or .600" center dual in-line packages D Pads for discretes D All holes plated-through, UL approved FR4 material D Multiple external 110 provisions on module D Cable connections can be made to other MOB modules D Optional sockets and wire wrap pins available Quad Module for PDP-11, PDP-8 and LSl-11 Combinations of up to seventy 14 or 16 pin IC's or sockets; four 110 ribbon-cable edge connectors from 16 to 50 conductors. LSl-11 Dual Module Combinations of up to thirty-six 14 or 16 pin IC's or sockets; one continuous row of 90 pins for 110 connectors from 16 to 50 conductors. PDP-11 Hex Module Combinations of up to ninety-six 14 or 16 pin IC's or sockets; two continuous rows of 250 pins (top) and 130 pins (side) tor 110 connectors from 16 to 50 conductors.

Data General Module Up to 198 14 or 16 pin IC's or
sockets; tour 110 connectors from 16 to 50 conductors. Interdata Full-board Module
Up to 197 14 or 16 pin IC's or sockets; two 1/0 connectors from 16 to 50 conductors. Interdata Half-board Module
Up to ninety-one 14or16 pin IC's or sockets; two 110 connectors from 16 to 50 conductors. IBM Series/1 Modules
Up to sixty-four or seventy-two 14, 16, or 20 pin IC's or sockets depending on module selection; two 110 connectors from 16 to ·40 conductors.
MOB interface products always equal or exceed the host computer manufacturer's specifications and performance tor a similar interface. MOB products are competitively priced, delivery is 14 days ARO or sooner.
MOB also supplies for these same computers an extensive repertoire of line printer and peripheral device controllers, GP logic modules, systems modules and communications/terminal modules. Product literature kits are complete with pricing.
r:l IJ B1995N.BataviaStreet Orange,California 92665 714-998-6900 SYSTEMS INC. TWX:910 -593-1339

CHROM~TOG'RAPHIC
FLOW CONTROLLER
Dual channel unit measures gas flows from 4 to 100 std cm·/min in chromatographic systems. The DFC 100 can be factory-calibrated to measure any 3 of these gases: hydrogen, helium , nitrogen , and 5% methane in (!rgon. Flow rate is controlled electronically. Operailng temp is 50 to 140 °F (10 to 60 °C) and tempco of calibration is
<±0.1%I 0 c. Unit measures 2 x 4 x 4"
(5 x 10 x 10 cm) and has accuracy and linearity of ±2% full scale and repeatability of ±0.2%. Tylan Corp, 19220 S Normandie Ave, Torrance, CA 90502. Circle 257 on Inquiry Card
"TM Digital Equ ipment Corp,
Circle 107 for PDP; 108 for LSI; 109 for DG; 110 for Interdata; 111 for IBM

PROCESS or ENHANCE. IMAGES?

MODEL 108PTS EyeCom Picture Digitizer
& Display System.

Using a digital computer? You have a lot in common with many disciplinE!s you might never have suspecte<;I.
Image Processing has come a long way. It may not be necessary to create a new system to accomplish your special project. Chances are, the system you need already exists.
And, since we've beeri in the business since 1966, chances are equally good we can deliver what you need NOW ana at REASONABLE COST.

Fast, accurate analysis for all types of images for: SCIENCE· NOT · RADIOLOGY · BIOLOGY · GEOLOGY · METALLURGY · GEOGRAPHY · PHOTOGRAPHY · ASTRONOMY a11d many others.

For further information, call or write us with your requirements at:

~IC.id I

~.~~F~~~~~~s, Inc.

Tel: (805) 967-2383

CIRCLE 112 ON INQUIRY CARD

TOTAL. GRAPHICS - he 'CAT-100/C .
is the original graphic system with
high-resolution video image digitizer
for the S-100 bus.
When you need input for computer graphics. you no longer have to digitize a picture point by point. The CAT-1bO/C does it for you in 1/60th of asecond with resolutions from 256up to 1.280 points per line. It buffers the data in its own 32K-byte memory (expandable to 256K) and displays the digital image
$ 1,200. on a standard B&W or color TV monitor. Packed with a large variety of
functions , the fully loaded CAT-100/C is priced at

3 auxiliary video outputs
Photographic trlbger Input

Smaller systems start at 1750.
Also. · 32K and 64K extensions with
8-blt DIA and 256 colors · Video monitors and TV cameras

214

PRODUCTS
34M-BYTE CARTRIDG·E DRIVE
Microtapenr drive offers 34M-byte reel to reel capacity on a 0.25" (0.635-cm) cartridge by using 7-track technology on 0.25" (0.635-cm) ANSl/ECMA dig ital cartridge. Group code recording results in 7200-bit/in (2834/cm) density. Recording is serpentine, with adjacent tracks recorded in opposite directions, elimina1ing the previously required rewind time needed to move from one track to the next. Data Electronics, Inc, 370 N Halstead St, Pasadena, CA 91107. Circle 258 on Inquiry Card
TAPE SUBSYSTEM FOR MINICOMPUTER SYSTEMS IBM/ANS I compatible tape subsystem for the Interdata 16- and 32-bit series minicomputers uses NRZI, PE, and GCR data formats, with rates of 800, 16)0, and 6250 bits/in (315, 630 and 2461 / cm), between 72k and 7·81k bytes/s. System components are model 1600 tape controller, Telex models 6840 and / or 6850 mag tape formatters , and models 6240 and/or 6250 tape transports. Uhit operates with std Interdata selector channel and Dynamic OS/32 MT software drivers for 9-channel mag tape .peripherals. Information Products Systems, Inc, 6567 Rookin, Houston, TX 77074.
Circle 259 on Inquiry Card
IEEE-488 BUS FAULT ANALYZER Allowing the user to view or control actual bus data, handshake, and con trol lines, the 4810 can act as a manual driver, using front panel switches or switch programmed memory. Internal memory allows review of up to 100 char of bus transmissions to assist user in fault analysis. A memory loop feature repeats only the programmed memory segment, bypassing the unused portion of memory. Internal operating rates are 300k bytes/s max, 2 bytes/s, and single-step or external clock rate. ICS Electronics Corp, 1450 Koll Circle, Suite 105, San J'ose, CA 95112.
Circle 260 on Inquiry Card
COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

PRINTE·RS AND PLOTIERS WITH INCREASED SPEEDS
200-dot/:ln (79/cm) electrostatic printer turns out 1000 lines/min. Units print a 64-line, 8.5 x 11" (21.6 x 28-cm) page in 3.9 s, and deliver up to 15 cut pages/ min. Model 3200A printer/ploUer and model 3250 printer form 16 x 16 dot matrix char and print 1000 132-col lines/ min with 12.5 char I in (4.9/ cm). All models use 500' (150 m) of 11" (28-cm) wide paper. Options are a scientific/engineering 124-char set and 128-char typesetting set. Versatec, a Xerox Co, 2805 Bowers Ave, Santa Clara, CA 95051. Circle 261 on Inquiry Card
THERMAL CHART RECORDER
Graphic recording as continuous trace from either digital or analog source plus alphanumerics on external command are provided by Omnigraphic 6100 plotter/printer. In addition to alphanumeric thermal elements, the de-

vice provides a special separate element with fast response and long life for writing trace information. Internal memory retains trace data during annotation process. Trace head writes at 75 cm/s; annotation rate is 20 ·char/s max. Houston Instrument, Div of Bausch & Lomb, One Houston Sq, Austin, TX 78753. Circle 262 on Inquiry Card
PROCESSOR ENHANCEMENTS
With online diskette storage totaling 1M char, the 1500 dispersed processor gives users choice of ei·ther 32k or 60k bytes of user memory. In addition, communication using the IBM 2780 line protocol may occur at the same time that data entry or processing operations take place. New releases of the DOS, Databus, and Dataform software take advantage of the expanded user memory. Datapoint Corp, 9725 Datapoint Dr, San Antonio, TX 78284. Circle 263 on Inquiry Card
DIP REPLACEMENT SOCKET /PLUG
Programming or on/off switching is performed by the socket/plug series that replaces DIP switches. Programming switch consists of a white SWP switch plug inserted in an SWS switch socket where a signal is desired through the

circuit. It is changed to another circuit by snapping it out of 1 socket position and placing it in another. For the on/ off switch, the plug is placed wherever the desired on or off function is required. Robinson-Nugent, 800 E Eighth St, New Albany, IN 47150. Circle 264 on Inquiry Card
PRECISION RESISTOR FOR MILITARY SYSTEMS
S-444 precision fixed resistor is said to have resistance, tolerance, and performance capabilities that surpass all requirements of MIL-R-551'82/9. The unit is qualified to the P reliability level of 0.1%/1000 h at 60% confidence level. The resistor has a range from 1 to 100 k fl With toleran·ces from ±0.005% to ±1 .0% . Vishay Resistive Systems Group, 63 Lincoln Hwy, Malvern, PA 19355. Circle 265 on Inquiry Card

tnlTOjl CA designs special '~ SWITCHES
Our engineers will be glad to discuss your needs.

Write or call today.

We have broad, proven experience in switth design for specific applications.

THE CAPITOL MACHINE AND SWITCH CO.
87 Newtown Road, Danbury, Conn 06810

TWX: 710-456-0365

Tel : 203-744-3300

See us at Electro '79 - Booth 2526

CIRCLE 114 ON IN9UIRY CARD

· Bunt-In differential and common mode RFI suppression.
· Input surge and OV protection.
· UL 478 recognized. · Split primary. · Open and closed frame units.
Write for more information on Deltron's high performance switchers.

I RJ11raft1nc.

"""' W1ssah1ckon Avenue . North Wales. PA 19454

Te l 21 5/ 699 -9261 Tw x · 5 10 / 661 -806 1

AC 3 1

CIRCLE 115 ON INCj)UIRY CARD

215

PRODUCTS
ACOUSTIC EMISSION DETECTION UNIT
SC-30 monitors acoustic emissions generated by rotating machinery, pressure, or vacuum leaks, as well as internal leakage, in a contact or noncontact capacity. Adapted for remote online se·nsing, the ultrasonic unit interfaces with alarm mechanisms, relay devices, or computer type recording instruments. When leakage occurs or mechanical failure is imminent, the problem is sensed ultrasonically and the appropriate interfaced unit is signaled. Capacity to test items on a continuous basis is provided. Reject mechanisms, alarms, recording charts, or microprocessors can be Interfaced to recognize and/or ellminate unacceptable products or components. In operation limited range ·of airborne ultrasonic frequencies are converted i·nto electrical impulses. Using various sensitivity selectors, these impulses can be programmed to act as warning signals that activate the appropriate interfaced device. UE Systems Inc, 1995 Broadway, New York, NY 10023. Circle 266 on Inquiry Card
1.5" MODULAR OPTICAL ENCODER

CIRCLE 116 ON IN9UIRY CARD
Com~ct
Cooling Power

Buehler miniature brush less DC fans meet OEM product cooling requirements for optimum performance and compact design (2.443" sq. x 1.791 " deep) . Model 69.11 .2 is a natural for computer peripheral equipment, electronic test systems, power supplies, communications equipment, optical systems and other high packing density products. Long service life. Quiet operation . Permits temperature regulated air flow. Available off-the-shelf. Get all the facts on these cool little performers from Buehler Products. Complete specifications available on request.

FHP pennanent magnet DC motors Miniature brushless DC fans Miniature gear motors
BUEHLER PRODUCTS INC., P.O. BOX A, HIGHWAY 70 EAST, KINSTON, NORTH CAROLINA 28501 , (919) 522·3101

.216

CIRCLE 117 ON IN9UIRY CARD

Designed for mounti ng on a motor or other shaft assembly, this 1.5 dia by 0.75 high (3.8 x 1.9 cm) encoder consists of hub-disc assembly, photohead assembly, and cover. It features 5-V TTL compatible outputs and uses gallium arsenide LEDs. Std units can provide 2 channels of up to 100 cycles per revolution; 400 counts are possible with external 4X multiplication. A zero index third channel as well as 12- or 24-V operation are available as options. Modularity allows the selection of the exact measuring configuration required by the .application. Litton Systems, Inc, Encoder Div, 20745 Nordhoff St, Chatsworth, CA 91311. Circle 267 on Inquiry Card
DC-DC CONVERTERS
30C series modular encapsulated converters have max output noise specs of 5 mV pk-pk for dual output models, 8 mV pk-pk for single output units, and 1 mV rms typ for all units. They are available with overcurrent protected single and dual floating outputs of either 5 Vdc at 6JO mA with line/load regulation of 0.2/0.1%, and ±12 Vdc at ±125 mA or ± 15 Vdc at 100 mA regu lated to within ±0.02%. For all models, input to output isolation is 300 Vdc and 100 MO shunted by 50 pF. Each output rating is available for operation from an input of either 4.5 to 5.5 Vdc, 10.8 to 15.0 Vdc, 21 .6 to 30.0 Vdc, or 42.0 to 56.0 Vdc. Semiconductor Circuits, Inc, 218 River St, Haverhill, MA 01830. Circle 268 on Inquiry Card
COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

DIGITAL PATTERN GENERATOR

Low Profile...

Generating patterns from 8 to 64 bits wide and 1024 bits deep at the 10-MHz data rate, the 710 has hex keypad and display to reduce input errors and cut data ent ry time. Large 16 x 1024 memory allows most microprocessor buses to be simulated. Paralleling up to 4 instruments allows large memories and circuit boards to be tested. In this mode, slave units are controlled by one master unit, elim inat ing entering of redundant frequency, start, and stop data. A variable skew option allows skew between data on channels 0 to 7 to be varied relative to channels 8 to 16, allowing measurement of effects of propagation delays and simulation of other circuit conditions. Read-only nonvolatile memory option consists of a 2716 type UV P/ROM mounted on the read panel, and allows frequently used data patterns to be retrieved and stored by simply pressing a key. Moxon, Inc, 2222 Michelson Dr, Irvine, CA 92715. Circle 269 on Inquiry Card
PDP-11 SOFTWARE COMPATIBLE DISC STORAGE SUBSYSTEMS Designed to offer identical performance characteristics to DEC subsystems and execute all DEC operating systems and diagnostic software without modification , ERP02 and ERM02 add features not found on the DEC systems. The controller incorporates an automatic self-test capabil ity plus extensive subsystem diagnostics in onboard firmware , and added operating functions enhance system performance. Disc controllers use only 2 PC boards that plug into any pair of SPC slots in the CPU , minimizing mounting space requirements. ERP02 emulates the DEC RP11 /RP02 subsystem and ERM02 emulates the RH11 /RM02. Both models incorporate a CDC 9762 SOM-byte storage module drive. Equipment Resources, Inc, 120 Interstate N Pkwy E, Suite 120, Atlanta, GA 30339.
Circle 270 on Inquiry Card
DATA LINE MONITOR Visual indication of prime data communications signals of an RS-232 interface provided by the model 40 allow isolation of modem or terminal problems. When the mon itor is inserted between terminal and transmission equipment, it continuously
monitors and displays 8 lines of the RS-232 data path . Seven LEDs are permanently assigned to display transmitted data, received data, request to send, clear to send , data set ready, data terminal ready, and data carrier detect. The other indicator is programmable, thus allowing visual indication of any of the other 17 signals in the interface. 25 test po ints are supplied in the form of 0.025" (0.635-mm) sq p ins . Test points and LEDs are clearly marked to simpl ify use. Remark International, 4 Sycamore Dr, Woodbury, NY 11797. Circle 271 on Inquiry Card

LED lighted keys give visual indication of status function. Or choose unlighted keyboard.

10. 12. or 16 station. Square or round keys. Attractive color
selection. Clear. sharp key top or decal marking.

ODODDD DOD DDD

BCD and hexidecimal encoding available as optional plug-on "Adder-Boards': Easy front panel mounting.

Design your own keyboard. Single station modules mount on PC or prepunched boards with .100 center holes.

ftl SIA£Q,~~)lt~

. D (·;

1139 BAKER STREET, COSTA MESA , CALIF . 92626

(7 14) 549-3041

TWX , 910/ 595-1507

Other STACO Company products: Custom Transformers, STACO ENERGY PRODUCTS, Richmond , Indiana; Variable Transformers, STACO ENERGY PRODUCTS, Dayton, Ohio.

CIRCLE 118 ON IN9UIRY CARD

217

PRODUCTS

Up to 10 times normal wear
Vikor delivers up to 10 times the wearresistance of standard metal core material. And Vikron's total engineering, critical part manufacturing and every-unit testing assures total satisfaction. Get both small order economy and large order production from a single source. Get in touch and you'll get Vikron ... flawless. Call or write for complete and free information.
@ v1KRON
CIRCLE 119 ON INQUIRY CARD
PRINTER MECHANISMS
and
PRINTER ASSEMBLIES

PL 12 Mechanism

PL 20 Mechanism with interface (PL 20A)

· 20 & 12 Column Thermal Printers
· 2'h lines per second printing speed
· 8 bit parallel interface
· 5 x 8 ASC II character set with underline capability
· Invert mode (printer can be mounted in any position)
· Self test mode
· Paper out provision
· Remote switching provision

· Requires 5 volts at 150 mA and 20 volts at 500 mA
· PL 12 measures3 W' Wx 3"Lx2W'H. PL20measures4%" Wx5 W' Lx2" H
· Single unit prices for the PL 12. PL 20. and PL 20A are
$45.95, $99.95 and
$297.00 respectively *In quantities of 100 units
6550 Tamef . Houston. Texas 77074 (713) 777-2759

218

CIRCLE 120 ON INQUIRY CARD

MICROCOMPUTER CONTROLLED INTERMEDIATE STORAGE DEVICES
Auxiliary storage/retrieval peripherals that can be used to give terminals intelligence, or to increase the number of functions performed by intelligent terminals, series 232 data stations comprise a 16-bit microcomputer with up to 16k
bytes of ROM , 2k to 64k bytes of RAM, 1 or 2 3M DCD-1 transports that accommodate a 100A tape cartridge, and user controls for interfacing with all terminals supporting RS-232 communications ·interface. Terminal users can perform numerous data manipulation operations withou t tying up CPU and communications resources. A proprietary technique enables files to be edited an unlimited number of times. Each of 3 communications ports has its own switch-selectable communications rate, ranging from 11 O to 9600 baud . Digital Datacom, Inc, 17951 Skypark Cir, Suite K, Irvine, CA 92714. Circle 272 on Inquiry Card

P/ROM PROGRAMMER-DEVELOPMENT SYSTEM
An internal 2k x 8 RAM buffer in the model 4 can be used for in-circuit emulation , along with software move routines to give the operator a development system for both hardware and software design. RAM can be programmed from a master P/ROM, RS-232/TTY input, or directly from the hex keypad. A double-ended 24pin cable connects the master socket of the programmer to the system socket. Once connected , the system reads internal RAM as an actual in-circuit P/ROM. This allows the designer to discover program and hardware problems before committing to firmware. When a working instruction format has been developed , the system can program EPROM masters from RAM for prototype or production runs. E-H lnternatlonal, Inc, 515 Eleventh St, Oakland, CA 94607. Circle 273 on Inquiry Card

180-CHAR/s PRINTING TERMINALS

Logic seeking, bidirect ional

~·1.-.'rl

DasherT" TP2 terminal printers use an internal 16-bit microNovaT" microprocessor td control printer functions, such as bidirectional printing, variable character formats, and tabbing . All models can print

~.·...--

... .
.'-···'

at 180 char / s. This combined with a 1000-word RAM buffer allows
efficient operation at 1200 baud
_;;;t;
without data loss. The units perform

plotting and downline loading; downline load permits users to

design character sets or special symbols. RO model 6075

and KSR 6077 p rint in normal and elongated character

widths; RO 6076 and KSR 6078 also print condensed charac-

ters at 16.5/in (6.4/cm) . Models 6077 and 6078 have std

typewriter style keyboard for ·interactive applications and

separate numeric keyboard. All models print full 132-col

lines. Data General Corp, Rt 9, Westboro, MA 01581 .

Circle 274 on Inquiry Card

I COMPUTER DESIGN ~PRIL 1979

CPU/MEMORY COMBINATIONS IMPROVE MINICOMPUTER PRICE/PERFOR·MANCE

Magnetic shielding for better products

Featuring high density 580-ns RAM, LSI 4/10, 4/30, and 4190 are available with 32k-, 64k-, and 128k-byte capacities on a half (7.5 x 1.69", 19 x 42.9-cm) card. 4/10 is a halfcard minicomputer, while the 4/30 and 4/90 are full-card (15 x 16.9", 38 x 42.9-cm) CPUs. Larger memories on half cards permit the use of smaller power supplies and chassis . An LSI 4/ 10 processor with 128k bytes shows a nei price reduction of 61%. By combining a 4/30 with the memories, savings over previously available combinations of comparable capacity range from 9% with 32k bytes to 48% with 128k bytes. 4/90 savings range from 17% with 32k bytes to 47% with 128k bytes. Computer Automlltion, Inc, 2181 Dupont Dr, Irvine, CA 92713. Circle 275 on Inquiry Card
HANDHELD REMOTE ORDER ENTRY TERMINAL
Pocket sized, 8-bit microprocessor based Sprint 100 has a 4k memory in an injection molded case measuring 2.625 W x 6.875 L x 1.156" D (6.67 x 17.46 x 2.937 cm). A color-coded, large keypad assures accurate access to keys. Each entry is confirmed by an audible signal emitted when a key is depressed. The unit's 12-char, alphanumeric LED key-display is designed for accurate reading, reducing eye strain, and misread information. Multiple terminal protocols allow telecommunication With many CPUs and receivers. 4 customer-replaceable, rechargeable, NiCad batteries power the terminal and provide up to 16 h of use between charges. Additional memory protect batteries guard against loss of data. Options include another 4k memory and a case to store terminal and accessories. Norand Corp, 550 Second St SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401. Circle 276 on Inquiry Card
PORTABLE SEND/RECEIVE TERMINAL
Execuport 4080 provides 80-col thermal printout of the complete ASCII or APL char sets at switch selectable speeds of 10 or 30 char/s in a 15-lb (6.75-kg) package. LED printhead
position display eliminates need to use scale or count spaces in formatting input. Self-test routine produces a full sequential printout of the complete u/ le keyboard character set. Horizontal set and clear tab capability can be controlled at the keyboard or by the computer. New line switch enables operator to choose either carriage return or carriage return/line feed as response to carriage return code. The unit operates in half- or fullduplex and with odd, even, or mark parity switch selectable. Computer Transceiver Systems, Inc, East 66 Midland AvP., Paramus, NJ· 07652. Circle 277 on Inquiry Card

Eagle can help improve your product, and lower costs by designing just the right shield for you. Full service includes design, engineering, fabrication, heat treating, finishing, testing. Also standard shields, and wide selection of sheet and foil to form your own shields. Offices worldwide. Brochure on request.
Write for details on our consulting service and shielding seminars.
EAGLE MAGNETIC CO., INC.
P.O . Box 24283 ·Indianapolis IN 46224 Phone (317) 297-1030
CIRCLE 121 ON IN(j)UIRY CARD

Volume Eprom
Erasing in
6.7
Minutes!
Introducing two new members in UVP's growing family of MEMORASE® Eprom Erasing Systems. Both offer speed, reliability and outstanding performance.
For large capacity requirements, the C-90 will erase a 600 chip batch in under 7 minutes. No preoperative adjustments or tuning are needed. Simply load it, set the timer, and forget it. It's that easy.
Model C-91 is geared for small systems users and delivers fast , efficient operation at an affordable price. It provides complete,thorough erasure of up to 96 chips in one cycle in less than 7 minutes.
Like all UVP products, each MEMORASE System is quality built, and backed by nearly 50 years of UV experience and technology.
Why settle for less? Call or write today for more information.
New .. . from the research labs at UVP.
ULTRA-VIOLET PRODUCTS, INC.[] Ciro; 5100 Walnut Grove Avenue . San Gabriel. CA 91778 U . S . A . ~

CIRCLE 122 ON IN(j)UIRY CARD

219

We're looking for Qeople to make our aovanced technology
obsolete.

PRODUCTS
2400-BIT/s CENTRAL SITE MODEM

Storage Technology Corporation is no ordinary company. We've built our reputatio n o n innovation and advanced technology with a commitment to developing better products. W e constantly strive to improve our technology. That 's one reason why we are the world's largest manufacturer of high density tape data storage products and a major manufacturer of disk subsystems.
If you are an engineer who wants a creative, challenging career , one of the following openings ma y be just the oppo rtunity you 've bee n looking for .
MANUFACTURING ENGINEERS
INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERS ELECTRICAL ENGINEERS MANUFACTURING TEST ENGINEERS QUALITY ENGINEERS PRODUCT PERFORMANCE ENGINEERS QUALITY TEST ENGINEERS RELIABILITY ENGINEERS LOGIC DESIGN ENGIN~ERS MEMORY DESIGN ENGINEERS POWER SYSTEMS DESIGN ENGINEERS BLOCK MULTIPLEX 1/0 DESIGN ENGINEERS MICROCODE DIAGNOSTICS ENGIN.EERS ARCHITECTUAL DESIGN (ADVISORY) ENGINEERS TELECOMMUNICATIONS FIELD ENGINEERING SPECIALISTS TELECOMMUNICATIONS ENGINEERS TELECOMMUNICATIONS SOFTWARE ENGINEERS MECHANICAL 'DESIGN ENGINEERS ·(TELECOMMUNICATIONS) SYSTEMS ENGINEERS/DATA COMMUNICATIONS
Livi ng in the D enve r-Bo ulde r a rea is iu st the beginnin g of the outstand 'ng benefits of a caree r a t Storage Te chno logy Corpor ation . We offer an exce llent salar y and benefits p ac kage th at includes health and insurance benefits, stock purch ase p la n a nd re t irement.
Write o r send yo ur resume in co mplete c onfide nce to the P ro fessio na l E mployment De p artment a t the address listed below. Y our co rrespon de nce will be answered pro m ptly a nd co urteo usly an d we 'll tell yo u wh at it's li ke to be part of o ur co mpany, a nd why we can say with pride a t STC, peo ple co unt and technology trul y is o u r middle n am e.
Dept. CD / 4-79
MD-13

STORAGE TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
2270 South 88th Street Louisville, Colorado 80027
An eq ual o pportunit y em p loyer.

220

CIRCLE 136 ON IN(j)UIRY CARD

Compact construction reduces space requirements for modems, permitting plug-in installation of up to 96 in a std 6' (1 .8-m) equipment cabinet. CS 24 LSI Mark II is com patible with Western Electric 201 B and 201 C data sets , plus the company's 24LSI , 24 LSI Mark II , and 2200 / 24. It operates over 4-wire point to point or multipoint lines and is certified for direct connection to the switched telephone network for 2-wire dial-up operation. Each modem in the system provides analog loop, digital loop, and self-test capabilities with individual de power regulators for added reliability. 9 multicolo red LED ind icators provide continuous display of each unit' s status, plus EIA interface signals. Racal-Milgo Information Systems, Inc, 8600 NW 41st St, Miami , FL 33166.
Ci rcl e 278 on Inquiry Ca rd
MODULAR FACTORY TERMINALS
Multifunction 200 series term inal configurations range from simple numeric entry and limited display devices to fu ll alphanumeric, interactive data collection stations with badge and card read ing capabilities. Based on an internal bus structure, the units and their selectable features are designed for 24-h , 7-day operation in hostile locations . Badge and card reading are performed photo-optically to insure rel iabil ity. Completely sealed, micromotion keypads protect the internal electron ics of the system. Terminals may be wa ll or pedestal mounted. A 2-wire data line enables commun ication between terminals and the processor. An interactive display on models 204, 205, and 206 allows verification of keyboard input and error feedback. NCR Corp, Data Pathing Div, Dayton , OH 45479.
Circle 279 on Inquiry Card
150-W OPEN FR.AME SWITCHING POWER SUPPLIES
Open frame single PC board design offers high end switch ing performance in 1-, 3-, or 4-output versions. All outputs are regulated to 0.1% for 92 to 138 V and 184 to 276 Vac line condition , and 0.5% for O to 100% load changes. Effic iencies exceed 70% of full load; ripple and noise are < 50 mV pk-pk from 50 Hz to 10 MHz. LMG units feature foldback current lim iting, provide 28 ms of holdup protecti on for line dropout, 115/ 230 Vac line and full load with a 11 0or 220-V user-selectable input. LMGT 150/12 and /15 supply 5 Vat 20 A on main output, and ± 12 at 3 and ± 15 at 2.5 A, respectively, on each auxiliary output. 150/ 12-5 and / 15-5 quad output units are 5 V at 20 A on main output, and ± 12 at 3 and ± 15 at 2.5, respectively, at each first and second auxiliary output, and 5 at 1 A each at the th ird auxiliary output. Gould, Inc, Electronic Components Div, 4323 Arden Dr, El Monte, CA 91731 .
Circl G 280 on Inquiry Card
I COMPUTER DESIGN APRIL 1979

I I LITERATURE

COS/MOS Digital ICs
Intended to aid in device selection, product guide features functional diagrams, max ratings, recommended operating conditions, and static electrical characteristics. RCA Solid State, Somerville, NJ. Circ:le 300 on Inquiry Card
Crimp-Type Terminals
Booklet explains terminology, describes geometric and metallurgical characteristics of terminals and illustrates manual and automated application tooling. AMP, Inc, Harrisburg, Pa. Circ:le 301 on Inquiry Card
Miniature/Submlnlature Lampholders
Line drawings depicting typ lamps and base configurations, photos, ·and dimensional drawings for each model comprise catalog. Chicago Miniature Lamp Works, General Instrument Corp, Chicago, Ill. Circ:le 302 on Inquiry Card

Programmable Signal Proces..ing Fiiter
Channel response graphs, photos, ·and specs in 4-p data sheet present model 752, a seventh order elliptic dual low pass antialiasing filter with 115 dB/-0ctave roll-off rate in each channel. Rockland Systems Corp, Rockleigh, NJ. Circle 303 on Inquiry Card
MultiplierI Accumulators
Data sheet provides specs, operating characteristics and descriptions, logic and timing diagrams for 8-, 12-, and 16-bit units, and data formats for 2's oomplement fractional notation. TRW LSI Products, Redondo Beach, Calif. Circle 304 on Inquiry Card
Encapsulated Power Sources
Ac-de and de-de regulated, unregulated, and nonisolated power sources are described with specs, photos, and pinouts. Wall Industries, Inc, Bedford, Mass. Circle 305 on Inquiry Card

Power Supplies
Performance charts, dimensional drawings, photos, specs, and selection charts for switching and -linear power supplies and accessories are contained in 148-p catalog. Lambda Electronics, Div of Veeco In· struments Inc, Melville, NY. Circ:le 306 on Inquiry Card
Liquid Crystal Displays
Data sheets supply performance characteristics and environmental specs for displays along with individual dimension drawings and terminal identification. Ladcor, SunnY· vale, Calif. Circle 307 on Inquiry Card
Electronic Test Accessories
Mini- and maxigrabbers, miniature test probes, and triple banana jacks are among the accessories in 100-p catalog that is illustrated with photos and drawings. ITT Pomona Electronics, Pomona, Calif. Circle 308 on Inquiry Card
Data Communications Devices
Catalog lists photos, specs, and descrip. tions for devices including couplets, cables, test sets, switches, and interfaces. Expandor, Inc, Upper St Clair, Pa. Circle 309 on Inquiry Card

Our 32-channel logic state analyzer is a microcomputer. Through software control it gives you 32 channels, data collection up to 12 million words per second, 250 words of data memory, 21 triggering modes, signature analysis and more. Call or write Paratronics, Inc., 122 Charcot Ave., San Jose, Ca, 95131,.(408) 263-2252.
, , N·ATllONIDS MIO.
Outside California-all toll free:
(800) 538-9713
POWERFUL!
CIRCLE 123 ON INfj>UIRY CARD

No Frills Color. Just the basics. Ifyou're a black and white

terminal manufacturer. the lntecolor 813 is all you need to upgrade your terminals to color.
It consists of an 8-color. 13"CRT. plus ci special Analog

tv1odule System with all the circuitry necessary to perform deflec-

tion and video drive functions for the CRT. The completely self-

contained circuitry ison a single printed wiring board which also generates the low 'X>ltage. high -.oltage and CRT bias. mounted

on a sturdy aluminum frame for heat sinking the power transistors needed forthe circuitry.

With our Nine Sector Convergence System. perfect color registration takes only three to five minutes.And this convenient

contiol panel can be located anywhere for easy access.

Available in standdrd 262 Raster line or 400 Raster line high

scan versions. If you're ready to upgrade to a color line. call

404/449-5961 for a demonstration.

colorCOmmunloal99 letler

liD

lntelllgerit Systems COri>.. ~

5965 Peachtree Comers East/Norcross, Georgia 30071 Telephone404/449-5961 TWX: 81~766-1581

CIRCLE 124 ON INQUIRY CA.RD

221

LITERATURE
Modular Laboratory Computer System
Features of p0rtable MINC system are outlined in brochure that depicts graphics oriented CRT with pictorial and alphanumeric output, floppy disc stoI'age drive, and interfacing modules. Digital Equip· ment Corp, Maynard, Mass. Circle 310 on Inquiry Card
Industrial Microcomputers and Interface Modules
Interface modules, microcomputer b<>ards and packaging, development systems, plus CINCHT"' intelligent data acquisition and control systems are covered in summary. Control Logic, Inc, Natick, Mass. Circle 311 on Inquiry Card

Peripherals
Series of 16 data sheets covers data acquisition systems, analog interfaces, digi. tal panel meters, printers, data Joggers, 16-bit DAC, and digital voltage calibrator. Datel Systems Inc, Mansfield, Mass. Circle 313 on Inquiry Card
Graphics Workstations
Brochure discusses impact of data plotted with workstation, necessary peripherals, and advantages of plotting data vs scan· ning computer tabulations. Hewlett. Packard Co, Palo Alto, Calif. Circle 314 on Inquiry Card
Liquid Crystal Displays
Mechanical specs, electrical pin·outs, dimensions, and operating characteri'stics are furnished in separate data sheets for alphanumeric, instrument, and clock applications. Optel Div, Refac Electronics Corp, Winsted, Conn. Circle 315 on Inquiry Card

DIP Switches
Catalog contains dimensional drawings, circuitry, electrical characteristics, and material and finishes for line of switches that includes a bottom seal spst device. Gray. hill, Inc, La Grange, Ill. Circle 317 on Inquiry Card
Add-On Memory Systems
Application note details interface, communications, and limitations of add-on memory systems and add-in cards. Digital Data Systems Inc, Plantation, Fla. Circle 318 on Inquiry Card
Microcomputer Business/ Development Software
Catalog lists commands for and details business BASIC compiler, snos cartridge drive disc operating sYStems, plus assemblers, editors, and debuggers for 6800 computer systems. Software Dynamics, Anaheim, Calif. Circle 319 on Inquiry Card

Synchro Converters, Displays, and Encoders
Catalog provides specs, descriptions, and block and dimensional drawings for synchro/resolver and shaft interfadng solidstate TTL products. Computer Conversions Corp, East Northport, NY. Circle 312 on Inquiry Card

Information Processing
Catalog describes reports on EDP, word processing, office, and data communications · products; reports contain comparison charts, prices, specs, and may include user ratings. Datapro, Delran, NJ. Circle 316 on Inquiry Card

Precision Rotating Components
Dealing comprehensively with synchros, servo motors, and other rotative components; listing specs and applications; and presenting test methods, handbook is available for $9.95 from Muirhead Vactric, 1101 Bristol Rd, Mountainside, NJ 07092.

·Half or Full duplex. ·Printer interface. · Switch selectable baud rate and bit
pattern to 9.6K BPS.
·Requires Phone 1's P1 -5 controller fOr 3271 or 3272 emulation

222

CIRCLE 125 ON IN9UIRY CARD

I COMPUTER DESIGN APRIL 1979

Key Switches, Keyboards, and Touchboards
Product line overviews as well as individual data sheets for keygwitches; touchboards; and word processing, COII!munications, key encoded, nonencoded, and data seal keyboards are offered in catalog. Datanetics, Fountain Valley, Calif. Circle 320 on Inquiry Card
A-D Techniques
Application note examines A·D techniques that are pertinent to high performance data acquisition systems. Dynamic Measurements Corp, Winchester, Mass. Circle 321 on Inquiry Card
Magnetic Peripherals
Large capacity, cartridge, and fixed head discs; diskettes; and magnetic tape subsystems plus company support are sum· marized in brochure. Data General, Westboro, Mass. Circle 322 on Inquiry Card
Frequency Control Devices
Growing family of std oscillators and capability for producing custom crystal filters are outlined in brochure. Dale Elec· troni~s, Inc, Columbus, Neb. Circle 323 on Inquiry Card

Numerical Control Accessories
Products and services including NC tape prep11ration equipment and machine tool control systems are covered in catalog. Numeridex Inc, Wheeling, Ill. Circle 324 on Inquiry Card
Fiber Optic IR LED
Electrical, environmental, and optical rat· ings plus application oriented performance curves for etched-well LED a re cited in data shee t. IAV, Inc, Van Nuys, Calif. Circle 325 on ln.quiry Card
Backpanel Interconnect System
DEC compatible press £1/backpanel interconnect system plus optional mating logic and accessories are listed in brochure. Stanford Applied Engineering, Santa Clara, Calif. Circle 326 on Inquiry Card
M'inicomputer Software
100 bill of materials, order entry, computer-aided education, accounting, engineering, and marketing packages have been added to the original 230 mainly BASIC packages described in 400-p, tab-indexed catalog. To order, send $49.95 plus $5.00 postage and handling to Resource Soft· ware International, Inc, 140 Sylvan Ave, Engle wood ·Cliffs, NJ 07632.

In-Circuit Test System
Illustrated with photos and diagrams, brochure provides basic operating information, features, functions of LSI/ MSI, SSI, and analog component test system. Plantron· ics Zehntel, Walnut Creek, Calif. Circle 327 on Inquiry Card
Display Computer
Hardware and software modularity of model 5216 display computer presented in brochure allows custom-like configu. ration for graphic image application. Aydin Controls, Fort Washington, Pa. Circle 328 on Inquiry Card
Distributed Processing System
Separate brochures detail hardware, software, and peripheral subsystems for Level 66 and Level 68 Series 60 di'stributed processing systems. Honeywell Inc, Phoenix, Ariz. Circle 329 on Inquiry Card
Dictionary of Microcomp1.1ting
More than 900 definitions plus examples, sketches, diagrams, and tables in 190-p dictionary aid in comprehension of microcomputer literature. Availa:ble for $14.50 from Garland Publishing, Inc, 545 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10022.

Feed all your forms to our wide-open printer

With an edge guide sensor on one side and the other three sides open, our alphanumeric DMTP-8 impact form printer ends worries about forms that won't fit. You can easily insert from bank checks to out-size pages, single sets to multi part reports ... any forms where you need to print up to 50 characters per 4" line.
CIRCLE 126 ON IN9UIRY CARD

Consider the advantages! Programmable charactt!r pitch, heavy-duty construction and an extra long-life dot matrix printing head means real durability. Its exceptionally long needle stroke turns out crisp multiple-copy.printings 011 thicknesses from .003" to .015" -without adjustment.
Its easily replaceable Ink rollers and Hlf-reverslng ribbon gives you · 10 mllllon character llfe.
ALL THAT, YET STILL ECONOMICALQNLY $269IN100'1.
ma PRACTICAL AUTOMATIDl!I, INC.
Trap Falls Road Shelton. Conn. 06484 Tel: (203) 929-5381

I I GUIDE TC PRODUCT INFORMATION
NOTE: The number associated with each item in this guide indjcates the pitge on which the item appears-not the re~der service n~er. Please do not circle ~e page number on the reader service card.

PAGE
HARDWARE
CONNECTORS AND INTERCONNECTION SYSTEMS Connectors
AMP ..............................................101, 107, 210 ITT/C·nnon Eleqrlc .··.......·....·................33-31 Viking Connectors ...................·..........117, 212
FANS AND BLOWERS Fans
Buehler Product· .......·...·........··....··......·.·.....~11
INDICATORS; READOUTS ; DIGITAL DISPLAYS; LAMPS Ind icator Lights
Va rilite ................................·.....................··....200 Visua l Communicatio~s ....··.....·...............·..207
PANELS AND BACKPLANES Wlrewrap Boards
MOB Syatema ...............·......··...........·........·. ..213
SHIELDING Sh ielding Components
E·gle M·gnetlc ...........·.......................·........219
SOCKETS
Soc ~ets
Roblnaon-Nugent .....··....·.......·...·130, 131, 215 Textool Products ...........................·...........·.. 203 Well s Electron ics ...............·...............·...·....210
WIRE AND CABLE Power Cords
Belden .......·.....·....··...··..·....·......·.·207, 209, 211 Cab le
Hltemp Wire· ......·....·..··.··...··....····....···....·....205 Wire Dispensers
a C?K Mechlne Tool .....·.....·....·..·...............·145
COMPONENTS AND ASSEMBLIES
CAPACITIVE COMPONENTS Capacitors
Union C·rblde/Electronlca/ Compon·nta ..·.....···......·.......·.....···..·....···...· 13
DELAY LINES Digital Delay Lines
Hytek Microsystems ....................................202
MAGNETIC COMPONENTS Cassette Heads
Vlkron ..............................................................218
MOTORS; ROTATIVE COMPONE!ITS ·Rotating Components
EHtem Air 'DevlcH ....................................218 Motors
TRW/'Globe Motor1 ......................................227 De Motors
Plttm·n ............................................................210 Micro-Mo Elect ronics ................................212
!'HOTODEVICES; PHOTODEVICE ASSEMBLIES Optical Couplers
Motorola Semiconductor Pro<jucts ..........190 LEDs
Data Display Products ..............................209 Laser Devices
Opti cal Information Systems/Exxon Enterprises ................................................196

PAGE
Laser Diodes Laser Diode Laboratories ........................209
Laser Modulators Coherent AHocl·tH .................................. 40
POWER SOURCES, REGULATORS, AND PROTECTORS
Power Supplies Power-One ...................................................... 19
Switch ing Powe r Suppl ies Deltron ............................................................215 Elp·c Power Syateme ................................204 Gould/Electronic Component· ........157, 220 Pioneer' Megnetlca ............................171 , 196
Programmable de Power Supplies Systron-Donner/ lnstrument ........................211
Laboratory Power Supplies Bertan Associates ..............·...·....·.........··...·.200
Power Distribution Systems Data Process!ng Power ......·...·....·.........·..209
De-de Conve rters Semiconductor ((l rcu lts ..............................216
Batter i es YuHe Bettery .................··...··..··....................202
RELAYS Relays
Klockner-Moe l ler ..........................................213 T·B·r ................................................................188
Time Delay Relays Deltrol Contro ls/Deltrol ..............................210
RESISTIVE COMPONENTS
Precision Resistors Vi shay Resistive Systems ..........................215
Trimmer Potentiometers' VAN St Petersburg . ....................................210
S~MICONDUCTOR COMPONENTS
Voltage Aelerences Hybrid Systems ............................................207
SWITCHES
Custom Sw itches
Cepltol Mechlne a Switch ........................215
Control Sw itches Micro Switch/Honeywell ............................121
Thumbwheel Switches Cherry Electrical Products ........................204
Toggle Switches Aerospace Controls/Systems/Cutler-
. Hammer ......................................................205 Sll!le/Rocker Sw itches
Eldorado Components ................................207
Rocker Switches Ch icago Sw itch ............................................202
THERMAL COMPONENTS Temperature Sensor/Controller Chips
General lnstrument/Mlcroelectronlcs ....186
CIRCUITS
ARITHMETIC CIRCUITS Arithmeti c ICs
. TRW/LSI Producta ............................108, 109
DIGITAL AND INTERFACE INTEGRATED CIRCUITS (See also Semiconductor Memories under Memory/Storage Equipment)

PAG E
Single-Ch ip Microcomputers P·~Honlc Electronlc Component· ..........153
Microprocessors Intel ............................................................88, 87 NEC Microcomputer· ....·...................198, 199
Mi croprocessor Fam i lies Adv.need M!cro DevlcH ....................80, 81 Zllog ..........................................................50, 51
Microprocessor Support Circu its Intel ............................................................24, 25
Custom LSI ICs American Mlcroayatema ....................134, 13$
Schottky TTL ICs Texas Instruments ........................................178
16k Dynam ic MOS RAMs Mostek ............................................................182
Static RAMs American Microsystems ............................190
RO Ms Supertex ..........................................................182 Synertek .......................................................... 82
Keyboard/Display Contro lle r Ch ips Advanced Micro Devices ........................180
A· D Converter ICs Beckman Instruments ..................................182
Counter/Decoder/Drivers lntersl l ............................................................176
Temperature Sensor/ Contro lle r Ch ips General lnstrument/'Mlcroe lectron ics ......186
Fiber Opti c Transm ission· Interla ce Circuits Spectronlcs ....................................................212
LINEAR INTEGRATED CIRCUITS
Operational Ampl ifiers Signetlcs ........................................................190
Sample/Hold Ampli fi ers Daiei Systems ..............................................184
Instrumentation Amplifiers Burr-Brown ....................................................188
Voltage Comparators Cherry Sem iconductor ................................186
MEMOFW/STORAGE EQUIPMENT
FLEXIBLE DISC UNITS
Flexible Disc Drives Micro Perlpher·I· ........................................173 MlcropolI· ......................................................159
Flexible Disc Systems D·t· Syatema DHlgn ................................ 7 lmsal Manufacturi ng ................................156
Flexible Disc Systems/Controlle rs Sclenllnc Micro Syatema ........201 , 203, 205
Flexible Oise Controllers Industrial Mi cro Systems ........................207
MAGNETIC CORE MEMORIES
Core Memories
o.t.,·m ........................................................ 5
MAGNETIC OISC AND DRUM UNITS (See also Flexible Disc Units)
Fixed Disc Drives Shugart AHOC(·IH ..............................58, 59
Disc Systems Storege Technology ..........................141, 147

224

COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

PAGE
Disc Subsystems Equ ipment Resources ................................217
Disc Controllers Advanced Electronics Design .... .......... ..192 Minicomputer Technology ... ..................... 200 Quentin Research ................. ... .................... 31
MAGNETIC TAPE UNITS
Tape Transports Kennedy ... .. ....... .. .. .. ... ...................... .. ........ ...
Tape Subsystems Information Products Systems .... .... .. ......214 Storage Technology ... ..... ............... .. ...........194
Tape Control le rs Dylon ... ... .............. ..... .. ..... ............................. .160 Western Perioherals/ WESPERCORP .... ....................... .. .....Cover II
Cartridge Tape Dri ves Data Elect ronics .... ........... .. .. .. ... ................21 4 Qantex/North Atlantic Industries .. ..........149
ROM/RAM PROGRAMMERS AND SIMULATORS
Pf.ROM Programme rs Data 1/0 ........... ...... ..................... .. ................133 Nelma Electron i cs .......... .............. ..............210
P/ROM Programm ing Systems Sunrise Elect roni cs .... .... ............................208
P/ROM Prog ramme r- Deve lo pment Systems E-H Internat ion a l ...................... .. .. ..............21 8
EPROM Erasers Ultra-Violet Products .... .......... .. .. .. ............219
EPROM Erasing Cabin ets Spectron ics .... .......... ...................................201
SEMICONDUCTOR MEMORIES
16k Dynam ic MOS RAMs Mostek ...... .. .. .. .. ....... .. .. ...................................182
Static RAMs Ameri can Mi crosystems .... ..... .................. .190
RO Ms Supertex ................. .......... .......... ...................182 Synertek ................ ............ ............... ............... 82
Semiconductor Memo ry Systems Dataram .................. .. .. .. .......... .. ... ..... .... ..........169 Intel ...... .. .. .. .... ... .. .......................................... .142 Monolithic Systems .... .. .. ... .. ... .. .. .. ......118, 119 Mostek Memory Sysiems ................ ...... ....140 Plessey Periphe ral Systems .... ................204 Sperry-Un ivac Mini-Computer ........ .... .. ....212 Tarbell Electronics ......................................229
CPU/Memo~ M o du ~ s
Computer Automation ................................21 9
INPUT/OUTPUT AND RELATED EQUIPMENT
BAOGE READERS
Badge Readers Sealectro ........... .. .. .. ... .. ............. ..... .... .... ......165
COMPUTER PERIPHERALS
Micro Periphera ls Electronic Systems .. ... ............ .. ... .... .... ........195
DATA TERMINALS (See also Graph ic Equ ipment)
Card Reader/ CRT Display Term inals Phone 1 .... ........................... .... .... .. .... ...........222
CRT Display Terminals Bendix Commun i cations ...... .. ....................200 Delta Data Systems .. ....................................187 lnfoton ........................... .... .... .... .....................183 Lear Siegler ........ .. ....... .. ............................ .....111 Ontel .................... ........................ ......... ..... .. ....117 Teleray/Research .... .. ... .. ... .. ....... .. .. .......... ... 70 Zentec .. .. .. ...... .. .. ....................................122, 123
Printer Terminals Computer Devices ....... ... .. .. ................. ....... 28 Computer Transceiver Systems .............. 219 Data General ................................ ... .... ....... 218
Handheld 'Remote Order Entry Term inals Norand ................ ............................ .. .... .. .. ..... .219
Modular Factory Terminals NCR/ Data Path ing ............ .... ...... .. ..... ..... ....220
Terminals-Hardcopy Converter/ Interfaces Megatek .... .... ... .. ... ... .. .. ... ................................207
DISPLAY EQUIPMENT (See also Data Terminals and Graphic Equipment)
Color CRT Display Monitors Intelligent Syotems .. .... .................. ........... .221
CRT Display Monitors Audlotronics/Vldeo Display ........................ 63 Ball Electronic Display .. ......... .................177

PAGE
C. ltoh Electronics ............. ....................... 20 Soroc Technology ......................................164 Si ng le-Lin e Displ ays Litronix ........................................................8, 9
GRAPHIC EQUIPMENT Graph ic Proce ssors
Megatek ... ... .... .............................................. 44
Image Pro cesso rs Spatial Data Systems ................................214
Mic ro comp uter/Image Processors Bec k ........... ... .. ... ........................ ..... ... .... .........142
Gra ph ic Display Systems Digital Graphic Systems ... ... ...... ..............214 Grinnell Systems .... .... .................................. 41
Color Graph i c Displ ay Term inals Intelligent Systems .............. .. .................... 57
Graphic Di splay T erminals Ramtek ... ... .... ................................ ..... ........... 52
Ruggedized Graphic Terminals industrial Data Terminal s ........................209

PAGE
Te rminal-Hardcopy Converter/Interfaces Megatek ... .................... .... .............................W7
Color Graphic Displays Aydin Controls .......... ............................. .......137
Graphic Displays Genisco ComputersfGenisco Technology ............................ .... .... ... .........179
INTERFACE EQUIPMENT; CONTROLLERS
Disc Controllers Advanced Electronics Design ................192 Minicomputer Technology ........................200 Quentin Research ........................................ 31
Flexi bl e Disc Controllers In d ustrial Mi cro Systems ................ .... .. ..207
Tape Co ntro llers Dy l an ................... ....................... ....................160 Western Peripherals/ WESPERCORP ............ .... .................. Cover II
Interface Bo ards Custom Systems ............................................200

RT-11 * and CTS-300*

TSX

Version 8 now available. Features optional memory swapping module for 1134 systems. Supports RT-11 V02 and V03 . Handles up to ten terminals. Runs on any PDP-11 with 20k words , program swapping disk, and line frequency clock. - Supports FORTRAN , BASIC , DIBOL, LINK , PIP and EDIT. Automatic spooling to line printers. DL11 , DLV11 , and DZ11 support. Command file capability. Virtual time-sharing lines allow one terminal to control multiple jobs. Optional log -on facility . User accounting. Device/file protection.
Immediate Delivery $1275 distributed on floppy disk . $1375 distributed on RK05 cartridge.

RTSO RT ALSO AVAILABLE:
High performance: An Assembly Language Disk sort for RT-11 * and CTS-300*.
Sorts 5,000 records in 1:02 minutes - 20 to 40 times faster than other available sorts.

s & h compute r leasing, inc. suite 222
4004 hillsboro road nas hville. te nnessee 37215

*Trademark of Digital Equipment Corporation.

(615) 385-3875

CIRCLE 127 ON INCj)UIRY CAR.D

GUICE TC PRDCUCT INFDRMATIDN

110 Interface Boards

PAGE

Able Computer T echnology ........................211

Printe r Interface Cards Cromemco ................................................. .....166

Modem/Terminal Interfaces Tele-Dynamics/Ambac Industries ............203

Logi c An alyzer Interfaces Hewlett-Packard .............. ..............................209

PAGE
KEYBOARD EQUIPMENT
Lighted Keyboards Stacoswltch ....................................................217
Keyboards Maxi-Switch ..................................................201
Keyboard/ DIsplay Controller Ch ips Advanced Micro Devices ..........................180

the answer is clear.

Clear Lake, that is. If you'd rather be sailing, fishing, boating, or skiing, then you should be working for Ford Aerospace and Communications Corporation. We're located in the Clear Lake area, situated by Galveston Bay, just 25 miles from the Gulf of Mexico, known for excellent deep sea fishing . Around the lake there are numerous marinas and yacht basins that distinguish the area as the boating mecca of the Gulf Coast. And we're a comfortable distance from the big city-just 30 minutes from downtown Houston. Our career opportunities are equally attr.qctive . As a leader in custom data processing systems for largescale ground-based communications, command and control applications, we have immediate openings for experienced digital design, analog design, and minicomputer systems engineers for long-term assignments in our Space Shuttle and Earth Resources support programs. We can offer highly competitive salaries and an outstanding benefits package, as well as excellent opportunities for advancement. What's more, Texas doesn't have a state income tax. So if you're looking for a career opportunity that won't interfere with your fishing, or if you want to get away from the big city for more than just a weekend, the answer is clear.. .Ford Aerospace & Communications Corporation. For more information CALL COLLECT or send a resume to Mr. John Brown, Space Info rmation Systems Operation, P.O. Box 58487, Houston, Texas, 77058, (713) 488-1270.
Ford Aerospace & Communications Corporation
We are an equal opportunity employer, m/f.

PAGE
PLOTTING EQUIPMENT
Color Graphics Plotters Hewlett-Packard - .·............................. ..........129
Digital Plotters Houston ln1tru111pnt1B1111sch & Lomb .......................,·..·....................Cover 111
PRINTER/PLOTTERS
Electrostatic Printer/ Plotters Gould/ Instruments ......... ....... ...... .... ...... ........ 26
Printers and Plotters Versatec/Xerox ............................................215
Card Printer/Plotters Practical Automation ...... ............................223
PRINTING EQUIPMENT
Printers Centronlc1 Data Computer .. ...................... 11 Data Printer ..................................................103 Dataroyal ....,.,...............................................211 Digi tal Associates ........................................205 Integral Dat11 Systems .. ............ ........... ....... 15 C. ltoh Electrpnlc1 ....................................189 NEC" Information Sy1tem1 ....... ..................... 23 Okldata ............................. .... ........................... 4
Line Printers Tally ................................. ............................... 2
Matrix Printers Hams/ Data Communi cations ....................207 Mlcrodata .. .................. .. ................ ..................181
Impact Printers Prlntronlx ... .....................................................185
Dig it al Printe rs NCR Engineering and Manufacturing ....197
Printer Mechanisms Epson A'!'erlca ......... .............. ..................... 47
Printer lnterf~ ce Cards Cromemco .. ... ........... .. ....................................208
COMPUTERS AND COMPµTiR SYSTEMS
COMPUTER AUXILIARY UNITS
Array Processors Floating Point Systems ................... ............. 49
GRAPHICS PROCESSORS
Color Graph ics Computers Chromatics ..........................................162, 163
Graphics Processors Megatek ·....·....·.......·.... ................................... 44
Image Processors Spatial Data Systems ................................214
MICROCOMPUTERS AND MICROPFjOCESSORS
Single-C~ l p Mi cro c omputers Panasqnlc Electronic Components ........153
Microcpmputers Advanced Micro Computer~ .... ... .........92, 93 Mostel< ... .... .. ... .. ........................... .. ....:.......... ..148 Motorola Semiconductor Products ........141 NorJ~ Siar Computers ........... ................. .. ..161 Pro-L,og ..............,....................... ..........Cover IV SD Systems/ SD Sales ................................158
Rugged ized Microcomputers Electronic Memories & Magnetics/ SESCO ............ .. ... .. ..................................... 68
Color Graph ics Compu ters Chromatics .. .. .... ....................................162, 163
Microcomputer/Image Processors B ee ~ ............................................ .. ..................142
Teach i ng Microcomputers Texas Instruments/Semiconductor ..........152
Microcomputer Data Stations Digital patacom .......... ................................218
Microcomputer Systems lnt~llillent Systemll ....................................158
Microprocessors Intel ..........................................................66, 67 NEC Microcomputers ............ .. ..........198, 199
Microprocessor Fam iljes Advanced Micro Devlce1 ....................80, 81 Zllog ..........................................................50, 51
Microprocessor Emulators Applied Microsystems ................................208
Microprocessor Development Networks Fuluredata ......................................................113
Microprocessor Development Systems Tektronix ..............................................138, 13 9
Micro Development Systems National Semiconductor/Computer Products ........................................ ........42, 43

226

COMPUTER DESIGN/APRIL 1979

PAGE
Microcomputer Software Better Programming Systems ..................166 Cromemco ·...................................................216 Microsoft ........................................................166 PerCom Data .. ..............................................166
MINICOMPUTERS; SM'ALL· AND MEDIUM-SCALE COMPUTERS
Min Icomputers Ampex Memory Product· ......................... . 94 Computer Automation .. .................. ....·....... 60 Modular Computer Sy1tem1 ·... ..........·........· 21
Minicomputer Systems Perkin-Elmer/Computer System1 ....114, 115 Sperry-Univac/Mini-Computer ·........ ...154, 155
Militarized Computer Systems Rolm ..............................................·............·...· 18
Small Computer Systems Consolidated Computer International ....207
CPU/Memory Modules Computer Automation ................................219
TIMESHARING/DISTRIBUTED PROCESSING COMPUTERS AND SYSTEMS
Dispersed Processors Datapoint ................................. .... .. ............ .....215
WORD PROCESSORS Word Processing Systems
Vector Graphic .. ................... .. ............ .........144
DATA COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT
COMMUNICATIONS INTERFACES
Modem/Terminal Interfaces Tele-Dynamics/ Ambac Industries ..........203
Serial Communications 1/0 Boards Syscom ........ ..................................................160
COMMUNICATIONS MONITORS Data line Monitors
'Remark International ..................................217
COMMUNICATIONS TERMINALS Communications Terminals
Columbla Data Products .... ............. ...........203
MODEMS; DATA SETS Data Sets
Telecomm A.utometion ..............................208 Data Modems
Gandalf Data ............ ................. .... ........ .... .. .204 GTE Sylvania ................................................209 Potomac Micro-Magic ... ... ..........................165 Racal-Milgo Information Systems ..........220 Modem Simulators Lion Systems Developments ....................213
DATA ACQUISITION AND CONTROL E9UIPMENT
A-D AND D·A CONVERTERS A-D Converters ICs
Beckman Instruments ................................182
ANGLE AN'D POSITION ENCODERS Optical Encoders
Litton Systems/Encoder ............................216 Shaftless Optical Encoders
Perri ne ........ .................................................. ..205
DATA ACQUISITION SYSTEMS Data Acquisition Systems
ADAC ......................................... .....................116 Data Acquisition System Processor Modules
Androtek/dml ... .. ...........................................212
DATA TRANSFER AND INTERFACE EQUIPMENT Analog 1/0 Systems
Analog Devices ...................... ............. .........160 Data Translatlon ........................................ 61 1/0 Modules Gordos Arkansas ·... .. .. ... .... .........................152 Process-Computer 1/0 Interfaces Computer Products ......................................156 Logic Analyzer Interfaces Hew lett-Packard ... .........................................209
MONITORING ANO CONTROL EQUIPMENT Process Controllers
NANCO Diversified Design ........................165 Process Control Instrumentation
Struthers-Dunn ....·..... ......................... ...........202 Chromatographic Flow Controllers
Tylan ................................................................213

PAGE
S-D AND D-S CONVERTERS S-D Converter Modules
Computer Conversions ....................·.......·...201 ILC Data Devices ........ ................ ........···...209
TEST AND MEASUREMENT EQUIPMENT; INSTRUMENTATION
COUNTERS; TIMERS Time/Calendar Units
Digital Pathways ............... ..... ..............·....... 55
DIGITAL EQUIPMENT TESTERS
Logic Analyzers Gould/Blomatlon ..................... ..... ................ 65 Paratronlcs ............................... .....................221 Tektronix .................. ..............................·...··..105
Bus Fault Analyzers ICS Electronics ...............................·........·.214
Serial Interface Probes Paratronics ... .........................................·...··..196
FUNCTION GENERATORS AND SYNTHESIZERS
Dual .Ramp/Raster Generators Exact Electronics ... .....................................202
INSTRUMENTATION RECORDERS
Portable Dataloggers A . D. Data Systems ....................................208
Thermal Chart Recorders Houston Instrument/Bausch & Lomb .. ..215
OSCILLOSCOPES
Portable Oscilloscopes Tektronix ............................ ......................16, 17
Oscilloscopes Leader Instruments .................. ..................204
Digital Pattern Generators Maxon .......................... ..................................217
OTHER TEST AND MEASUREMENT EQUIPMENT
Acoustic Emission Detection Units UE Systems ....................... ............. ............·...216
OTHER PRODUCTS; SERVIOES
EDUCATION
Seminars Instltute for Advanced Profeeslonal Studies ..... ..........·............................191, 193 Integrated Computer Systems ............··..206
Microcomputer Courses Fairchild Camera and Instrument ........156
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Employment Opportunities l!ently Nevada .. ... ............................. .. ..........229 Ford Aerospace & Communications ....226 Jersey Central Power & Light ·... ............230 Storage Technology .................................·..220
EXHIBITIONS
Conference/Exhibitions Natlonal Computer Conference ................125
MARKET REPORTS
Market Reports Frost & Sullivan .. ......................................228
PUBLICATIONS
Books Blacksburg Continuing Education Serles .. ......................................................127
SERVICES
Transportation Delta Air Lines .. .. ......................... .........·.....201
SOFTWARE
Software CAP-CPP ............... .........................................212 S & H Computer Leasing ........................225
Microcomputer Software Better Programming Systems ................166 Cromemco ................................ ........... .........166 Microsoft .................................. .. ................ ....166 PerCom Data ....... .........................................166
Scientific Subroutine Packages Ml ken Optical ............................................203
CompI fer/ Interpreters Software Systems ........................................211

Low-cost DC PM motor only 11/.i · in diameter Our economy EM-13 motors have many of the features of our quality military motors. Torque constant: 2.6 oz. in./amp for 12 v.d.c. version. Voltage constant: 1.92V /K rpm. Available in 6, 12, or 24 v.d.c . versions. Tooled for high-volume production.
New gearmotors offer 30 speed reduction ratios Our EM-13 and EM-15 gearmotors provide maximum rated torque up to 1250 oz. in. High-performance, compact planetary gears. Power source up to 30 v.d.c. Dimensions 1.25" or 1.50" dia. by 5.15" max. Life-lubed bearings and geartrain.
New 11h" DC servo motor cuts your driving costs The new Econo-M ite 15 motor is designed for economy and high production. At 12 v.d .c., its torque constant is 2.7 oz. in./amp and no load speed is 5200 rpm. Dimensions 1Y2" dia. by less than 2Y2 ·. Ceramic magnets tolerate high pulse currents.
TRWGLOBE MOTORS
Dayton, Ohio. (513) 228-3171 . Distributed by Hall-Mark, Hamilton/Avnet, Jaco, Pioneer.

CIRCLE 129 ON IN9UIRY CARD 227

WEST COAST EDITOR
We need a second West Coast Editor to serve as editorial interface with electronics firms in Northern California, Oregon, and Washington. The "right" person is a highly motivated graduate engineer with experience in semiconductor technology and digital electronics; a flair for editing and writing technical copy; and the ability to work well with both public relations and engineering personnel. Must be able to work from San Francisco "Peninsula" base with minimal direction and be free to travel. Excellent company-paid benefits. For interview, send resume to Sydney F. Shapiro, Managing Editor, or call 617 / 4868944.
COMPUTER DESIGN 11 Goldsmith St
Littleton, MA 01460
An equal opportunity empl oye r
THE DATA COMMUNICATIONS MARKET IN EUROPE
Frost & Sullivan has completed a 2-volume , 703-page report analyzing and forecasting the market through 1986 in sales value , number of units and unit price for modems and associated devices , multiplexers, remote line concentrators , front-end processors , message switching systems, node computers, data network exchange systems and network control systems. The forecasts are by more specific types within these categories and for each of these countries: Belgium , Denmark, France, Germany , Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Spain , Sweden , Switzerland , United Kingdom and others as a group. Dafa communications test equipment requirements are considered .
Price: $875. Send your check or we will bill you . For free descriptive literature, plus a detailed Table of Contents, contact:
FROST & SULLIVAN 106 Fulton Street New York, New York 10038 (212) 233-1080
228

ADVERTISER S 1 IND EX

Adac Corp. ··················--····--·································-··········-··················· 116 Advanced Electronics Design, Inc. ········-···························-···········-· 192
Advanced Micro Computers ·-------···········-····································92, 93 Advanced Micro Devices ········----······················· ............................80, 81 American Microproducts .................................................................. 218 American Microsystems, Inc· .................................................... 134, 135
AMP, Inc. ·-···········---····················································-················· 106, 107 Ampex Memory Products Div. ·-··············································--······-· 94 Applied Microsyst ems ........................................................................ 208 Audiotronics,
Video Display Div. ····--········-·················---·························-············· 63 Aydin Controls .................................................................................... 137

Ball Electronic Display Div·.............................................................. 177 Belden Corp·......................................................................207, 209, 211
Bently Nevada Corp. ------·························································-·········· 229 Blacksburg Continu ing Education Series .......................................... 127
Buehler Products, Inc. ·-·································································-···· 216

CAP-CPP, Inc. ························································-·--························ 212 Capitol Machine & Switch Co. ...................................................... 215 Centronics Data Computer Corp. .................................................. 11 Chromatics .................................................................................... 162, 163
Coherent Associates ···················································-··········--······----·· 40 Columbia Data Products .................................................................... 203 Computer Automation ...................................................................... 60 Computer Design Publishing Corp. ························---···---·--·············· 228 Computer Devices .............................................................................. 28 Control Data Corp............................................................................. 175
Custom Systems, Inc. ····---·-·······························································-· 200
Data General Co rp..................................................................... 150, 151
Data 1/0 Corp. ··-············-·································································· 133 Data Printer Corp. .............................................................................. I03
Dataram Corp. ·····-···········-········································-····················-5, 169 Dataroyal, Inc. ········-·······································-····-··········-·················-· 211 Data Systems Design Corp. ·-----··································-········-····-········· 7 Data Translation, Inc. ........................................................................ 61
Delta Air Lines, Inc. ···-··-············································-··················-··· 201 Delta Data Systems, Inc· .................................................................. 187
Deltron, Inc. ·-····-·-···················-··-············································-···· ······· 215 Digital Graphic Systems ·······-·············-···················--·--····-···········--·-·· 214 Digital Pathways, Inc. ·············································-········-··--············· 55

Eagle Magnetic Corp. ··-·············································-···········-········-·· 219 Eastern Air Devices, Inc. ··············································----·-··········-··· 216 Electronic Memories & Magnetics Corp.,
SES CO Div. ·---··············-····················-··················-·········--·-············ 68 Electronic Systems ··-·········-----··························-········-·····-··················· 195 Elpac Power Supplies ·······-····························-···--·············-·-·······-····---- 204 Epson America, Inc. ···-·····························································-·······-·· 47

Floating Point Syst ems, Inc. ·-······················································--·· 49
Florida Data Corp. ···---···········-·-················----·································-·· 126 Ford Aerospace & Communications ·-·········································-······ 226 Frost & Sullivan, Inc........................................................................... 228 Futuredata Computer Corp. ............................................................ 113

Genisco Computers, A div . of Genisco Tec hnology C o rp ........................................... 179
Gould, Inc.,
Bi omation Div. ·························-···································-······-----······· 65 Electronic Components Div........................................................... 157
Printer/Plotter Div. ··············-·················································-······· 26 Grinnell Systems, Inc. ········-·······························---·······--···················· 41

Hewlett-Packard Co. ·············································-···--------·-·······-···-··· 129 Hitemp Wires, Inc. ............................................................................ 205 Houston Instrument,
Div. of Bausch & Lomb ······-············································--···Cover Ill

lnfoton Corp. ················-······························-----······························ 183

Integral Data Systems ························-··················-························---- 15

Integrated Computer Systems .......................................................... 206

Institute for Advanced Professional Studies .......................... 191, 193

~~:,:~~:i~.~ii~t~~:':

: ,.. ':'·:1::1il

Jersey Central Power & Light Co. ············-·························--······---- 230 Kennedy Co. --·······················-························-··················-··················

I COMPUTER DESIGN APRIL 1979

t~~:n~~e~!~r_. '.~~: I~1 __ _ __:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: 8,
MOB Systems, Inc. --------------------------------------- ------·-·------------------------------ 213 Megatek Corp. ---------------------- -----------·------------··-·--------------------------- ------- 44 Microdata Corp. ------------------------------------··-·-·-···-·--··---·-------------------------- 181 Micro Peripherals, Inc. ----------------------------·-····-···-··-·---··---------------------- 173 Micropolis Corp. --------------------------------------- --------------------------------- ---------- 159 Micro Switch,
a div. of Honeywell --------------------·-··--------·-··-------·------·------------------- 121 Modular Computer Systems, Inc. -------·---·····-------·-----·-------------- -------- 21 Monqlithic Systems Corp. ----------------·--·-------------------------------------- 118, 119 Mostek ----------------------------------------------···-··---·-------------------····-····-·------------ 140
N11tional Computer Conference ----··------- --·-···-·--·--···-------------------------- 125 National Semiconductor Corp.,
Computer Products Group -------··--·····--·---------------------------- ---------42, 43 NCR, Inc. ------··---------------------------·-·--·--··-------------------··----------···------------- 197 NEC Information Systems, Inc. ----------···-···-··-·-·····-·-·-----------------···-·-- 23 NEC Microcomputers, Inc. ------------------------------··-··------·-·------------ 198, 199 North Star Computers -----------··-----···-·-··--··-··---·····-··-·---····------------··--· 161
Okidata Corp. ---------------------------·----·-····-----·------·---··-···-----------···--------- --· 4 OK Machine & Tool Corp. ·--·---------------······-······--------------·-··-------------- 145 Ontel Corp. ------------------------ ----------------------····----·-·-·------------------ ------------- 117
Panasonic Electronic Components Div. ------------··-·----------···-------··---- 153 Paratronics, Inc. -------------- -----·--···---·--··--·-·-··-··-------------------------------------- 221 Perkin-Elmer Corp.,
Computer Systems Div. -----------------·-··--···-··---------------·-··-·-------- 114, 115 Phone I -------------------------------------------------------·-------------·-·--·----------------------- 222 Pioneer Magnetics Corp. --------·-··--------------······--------------···----------------- 171 Pittman Corp. -------------------------------------··--·- -·-··-----·-·------------------ ------------ 210 Power-One, Inc. ------- --- ------------------··--··--····---------···----------··----- ------------- 19 Practical Automation, Inc. --------·-·-----------·-··-···-·-------------------------------- 223 Printronix, Inc. -----------------------------------·---------------···---·---------------------------- 185 Pro-Log Corp. ----------------------------------------··-·----------------------·-----------Cover IV
Qantex, Div. of North Atlantic Industries ------···--··-·-··------------------ -------------- 149
Quentin Research, Inc. ··----------------- -------------------------··-------·--- ------------- 31
Ramtek Corp. -------------------------·-··-··-----------------·-------·--·-··---------------------- 52 Rflsearch, Inc.,
Teleray Div. ---------------------------------------···-·····--··---------------------------------· 70 Robinson-Nugent, Inc. ----------------------··--··------------------------------------ 130, 131 ~olm Corp. ---------------------------··-··---···---·--······-----------·------------------------- -- - 18
Scientific Micro Systems ---------------- ------- ------ ------·--··----------20 I, 203, 205 Sealectro Corp. ·-------------------------------·-··--···-··---·---------------------------------- 165 S&H Computer Leasing Co. -----------·--·-·-·--·-·--··------------------------- ------- 225 Shugart Assoc. ------------------------·--···--··---------------·-·----------------------------58, 59 SQroc Technology -------- -----------··--·····---······-·--------------------------------------· 164 Spatial Data Systems ----------------·-··--------·-··--·-·-··---------·----------- ----------- 214 Sperry-U~ivac Mini-Computer Operations -------·--·-···---------------' 54, 155 Stacoswitch, Inc. -----------·------------------···----·----···-----------------·-··-------------· 217 Storage Technology Corp. --------··-·---···--------------------1 24, 146, 147, 220 Synertek, Inc. ------------------------------------··-··------·-··-------·-····----------------- ----- 82
Tally Corp. -------------------------------------------·-----·-------------·----···-·------------------- 2 Tarbell Electronics -------·-----------------···----·-···----------------·----------- ----------- -- 229 T-Bar, Inc. ----------------------------------------------···------------·-------------···-------------- 188 Tektr$nix, Inc. --------------------------------------------------------16, 17, I05, 13'8, 139 Teleray ------------------------·-··--------------------------------- --------------·---------------------- 70 TRW Globe Motors --------------------------·-··--------··-·········---·---···-··-·----------· 227 TRW LSI Products ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 108, I09
Ultra-Violet Products, Inc. ---------------------------·····----------------'·------·--·------ 219 Union Carbide Corp. -----------------·----··--·-····--------------------···-··---·-·-------· 13
Vector Graphic, Inc. ---------- ------------------····-- --·--···-------------------------------· 143 Viking Connectors ---------------------····--···------·--·-------------------------···-·---------· 167 Vikron ·---------------------------·----- ------·--·--------------- -----··------ ----------·----·------------ 218
Western Peripherals Div., WESPERCO RP ---------------··--··---····----------······--·-···-------·-------····-·Cover 11
Yuasa Battery --------------------------------------------------------------------·····---------- --· 202
Zentec Corp. ---------------------------·----------------- ----------------------------------- 122, 123 Zilog, Inc. ·------------------ -----------------····-- ------ --·-------------···-----------------------50, 51
*Appearing in selected subscribers' copies

*S·1DOBUS * *300ns*

*STATIC MEMORY*

*9 REGULATORS PROVIDE EXCELLENT HEAT DISTRIBUTION*

*EXTENDED ADDRESSING (Bank Switching)*

*LOW POWER REnUIREMENT *

*PHANTOM LINE* *20 PAGE OPERATING M~NUAL *

*FULL 1-YEAR WARRANTY*

FULLY ASSEMBLED AND TESTED . . . . . . . . $625.

SAME BOARD WITH ONLY 16K INSTALLED. . $390.

Please send check or money order . No CODs or credit will be accepted on th is item. Califor nia residents please add 6% sales tax.

~ rJ_ /lo /),./!/) ' 950 Dovlen Pl ace · Suite B · Carson. Calif. 90746

(213) 538-4251

(213) 538-2254

CIRCLE 131 ON INQUIRY CARD

DESIGN ENGINEERS Lake Tahoe Area
We are a major supplier of electronics instruments to the energy industries with a proven track record of growth and stability. We can offer you clean air, low taxes, exceptionally varied recreation opportunities, and a challenging career just 10 miles east of Lake Tahoe.
COMPUTER SYSTEMS ENGINEERS
With a minimum of 2 years experience for definition and design of optimum system and subsystem requirements for computer controlled monitoring systems. Requires solid experience in digital , analog, and computer interface design with understa nding of software requirements. Must be able to assume project responsibility.
DESIGN ENGINEERS
With 1-5 years experience in analog and digital circuit design. Digital filtering, microprocessor, and computer interface design experience desired.
Send your resume including the position title and title number as well as salary requirements to : Bently Nevada Corporation, P.0- Box 157, Minden, Nevada 89423_ Attention: Jim Thornton, Technical and Professional Employment Coordinator, or call (702) 782-3611 collect. An equal opportunity employer m/f.
BENTLY(\ NEVADAV

CIRCLE 132 ON INQUIRY CARD

229

New opportunities for hardware/ software professionals
TAKE A HAND IN THE CHALLENGE OF EXPANDING OUR FACILITIES ... AND HEIGHTENING YOUR OWN FUTURE
Forward-looking expansion now under way on the part of this major electric utility can offer you a $ignificant opportunity for the responsibilities you want.
ENGINEER/COMPUTER SPECIALIST
The candidate we seek will have both hardware and software capability. In this newly created position, you ' ll be responsible for design, installation, and start up of systems for all sizes of in-plant computers and peripheral equipment. Project duties will involve working with analog / digital sub-systems and will include support of systems modification and maintenance functions.
Technical degree a must, coupled with minimum 5 years experience in hardware and / or software design, plus exposure to real-time, computer-based data acquisition and control systems. Knowledge of systems as applied to monitoring and control of nuclear power plant processes desirable.
PROGRAMMER ANALYSTI
Process Control
Wi II be responsible for various software-related duties from design through testing and maintenance, to programming for various plant computer software systems. Must also be able to correct existing program logic and modify programs to reflect new methodologies, and improve program efficiencies using real-time computer methods.
Technical degree required, preferably Math or Computer Science major, and 2-5 years experience in programming including proficiency in FORTRAN, Assembly and machine languages.
We offer competitive salaries, commensurate with experience and potential for growth, plus top benefits which include relocation assistance to our desirable North Jersey headquarters. For immediate consideration, in assured confidence, send resume with salary history and current requirement, to:
DEPT. CD409, ATIENTION: R. McCABE
t'i2:JJ [rj ijJ)
JERSEY CENTRAL POWER &LIGHT COMPANY
Madison Avenue at Punch Bowl Road Morristown, New Jersey 07960
MEMBER COMPANY OF THE GENERAL PUBLIC UTILITIES SYSTEM
In principle and practice-an equal opportunity employer
230

SALES OFFICES
NEW ENGLAND AND UPSTATE NEW YORK
CALDWELL ENTERPRISES, INC. Lindsay H. Caldwell 129 Cedar Hill Rd. East Dennis, MA 02641 (617) 385-2533
LONG ISLAND AND MIDDLE ATLANTIC STATES
CALDWELL ENTERPRISES, INC. Richard V. Busch Princeton, N.J. area (609) 924-6300
SOUTHEASTERN STATES
COLLINSON & CO., INC. Newton B. Collinson, III Anthony C. Marmon 4419 Cowan Rd., Suite 302 Tucker, GA 30084 ( 404) 939-8391
MIDWESTERN STATES
Berry Conner, Jr. 88 West Schiller St. Suite 2208 Chicago, IL 60610 (312) 266-0008
WESTERN STATES
BUCKLEY/ BORIS ASSOC., INC. Terry Buckley Tom Boris John Sabo 912 South Barrington Ave. Suite 202 Los Angeles, CA 90049 ( 213 ) 826-4621
COMPUTER I DESIGN APRIL 1979

&temCPS-11
Digital plotter and
microprocessor based controller
combine tovrovide high performance vlotting
The C¢MPL,¢r® CPS· 11 is a plotter and plotter controller designed to meet your plotting applications... whether on line or remote.
The field proven plotter incorporated in the CPS-11 gives you the highest resolution of any 11" digital plotter on the market today4 switch selectable step sizes (in English or Metric) ranging from 200 to 1000 increments/inch. The pen moves at a remarkable rate of 4000 steps per second (240,000 steps per minute). The flat plotting surface and Z fold paper let you see what you're plotting while it's being plotted.

The plotter controller utilizes a microprocessor to provide automatic detection and correction of transmission errors, local generation of alphanumeric characters, circular buffer memory, and greatly simplified host computer software. The controller can either operate the plotter remotely from a host computer or serve as a sophisticated computer interface · whichever fits your specific application.
For complete information on how the CPS-11 can upgrade your plotting capabilities for only $5 , 390~call or write Houston Instrument, One Houston Square, Austin, Texas 78753. (512) 873-2620. For rush literature requests or sales office information, persons outside Texas call toll free 1-800-531-5205. In Europe contact Houston Instrument, Rochesterlaan 6 8240 Gistel Belgium, phone (059) 27 74 45.
Visit us at Electro '79, booth 1926

I llaust:an
1nsTrumen1'

·DIVISION OF ·AUSCH&LDM· ~

"the graphics - recorder company"

CIRCLE 133 ON IN9UIRY CARD

· U.S. Domestic Price Only <!l Registered Trademark of Houslon lnstrumenl

PRO-LOG makes it easy to board the STD BUS.

Introducing the STD BUS, the simplest bused microprocessor system ever made. STD means Simple To Debug, Simple To Develop, Swift To Deliver.
The new STD BUS-8-bit microprocessor systems built around a standard bused motherboard which allows any card to work in any slot. Thus you can change the function of your system , the memory type, even the
microprocessortype by simply exchanging one card for any other. The STD BUS is 56 lines wide and is compatible with Pro-Log's standard 4Y2-inch by 6Y2-inch edge-connected cards .

It's supported by both Pro-Log and MOSTEK and freely available to the industry.

Awhole new card series available for use with the STD BUS.
Our new 7000 Series 8-bit systems were specifically designed for use with the STD BUS . We have cards in limited quantities now, in production quantities in January.

Buy 250 of any one card , and we give you free the plans for that card and non-exclusive manufacturing rights so you can build it yourself.
In addition to cards , we also make a Y2 or Y4 rack card cage . It includes motherboard , card edge connectors and mounting brackets.
Every part in our systems is or soon will be a secondsourced industry standard which means that if you produce them yourself, you 'll never have to worry about the availability of sole-sourced parts. Through cross licensing arrangements , MOSTEK and Pro-Log both will be supporting and expanding the STD BUS .
Learn about the STD BUS and our 7000 Series Systems.
Send for our Microprocessor User's Information Packet. Pro-Log Corporation , 2411 Garden Road , Monterey, CA 93940. Phone(408)372-4593.

Microprocessors at your fingertips. CIRCLE 134 ON IN9UIRY CARD

Acrobat 11.0.13 Paper Capture Plug-in