Abstract:
This invention relates broadly to addressing memory systems for the recording and the retrieval of information therein, and more particularly to a new and improved method of and apparatus for addressing a cyclically movable data storage member, such as a rotatable magnetic disk, capable of locating every bit time thereof and of detecting and correcting any nonsynchronous relation between certain operating and timing signals. The more significant digits of the address of the wanted location are compared against an address track of the memory device in which the more significant digits of the addresses of all of the storage locations are recorded in binary form while at the same time the lesser significant digits of the two addresses are compared by means of a binary counter. With the cooperation of the counter, only the more significant digits of the addresses for the storage locations need be recorded on the address track of the memory device. The counter is capable of locating each digit within any address on the sector track, and as a result, any bit time around the memory may be addressed and located. Moreover, with the cooperation of the counter, certain properties of the binary numbers of the recorded sector track addresses are taken advantage of for synchronizing the operation of the system, and means is provided for detecting any out-of-phase relation between counter and timing signals that might develop and for automatically bringing these signals back into synchronization within a limited distance of movement of the memory device.
Abstract:
A data processing system having a central or main data processor and a plurality of remote data terminals each having at least one selectively changeable terminal address. The central processor is coupled in a poll-select environment to the various remote terminal processors via a communication link. The respective remote terminals are able to modify the poll-select sequence as set up by the central processor by selectively changing its terminal address for either the poll or select mode. Additionally, groups of the remote terminals may be assigned a selectively changeable group or broadcast address which may be changed either locally at the remote terminal or remotely by the central processor.
Abstract:
1,237,726. Data processing. BURROUGHS CORP. 15 Oct., 1968 [30 Oct., 1967], No. 48785/68. Heading G4A. Electronic data processing apparatus, e.g. an accounting machine, includes a keyboard for entering programme instructions and data and a memory for storing them, a plurality of variable function key means and indicator means signalling the active status of the key means, both key means and indicator means being programme-responsive, and the key means being operable for controlling the insertion and execution of subroutine instructions intermediate adjacent programme steps. An instruction counter driven by carry from a syllable counter addresses the (core) memory to access successive instruction words, each of which contains four syllables selected in turn by the syllable counter for decoding to control the machine. An instruction may activate any of a plurality of variable function manual keys on the keyboard and light corresponding lamps to indicate their active status. The operator may operate any of the activated keys (being guided by the lamps and a removable instruction strip above them) and if the key he operates is one of the activated ones its identity is decoded and added to the contents of a programme-settable table select register to address subroutine tables (in the core memory or a separate core store) to obtain an instruction to be executed. This instruction may cause a branch to a subroutine proper in the main core memory which is then executed, after which the normal programme proceeds. If the key operated was not one of the activated ones, the machine goes into an error routine and informs the operator of an error. Use of the machine for training operators is described.
Abstract:
An improved digital computer having a limited number of hardware elements which can be used to perform varied logical processes on data under the control of macroinstructions, each macroinstruction being implemented through a series of stored microinstructions forming a stored microprogram, each microinstruction corresponding to a control signal for actuating a hardware element in the computer, a series of said microinstructions being used to implement the hardware elements in varied sequences in order to perform different logical processes.
Abstract:
1,063,141. Digital electric computers. BURROUGHS CORPORATION. Nov. 1, 1963 [Nov. 30, 1962], No. 43258/63. Headings G4A. The execution by a computer of its normal programme is interrupted (after completion of the current programme step) by a signal on any one of a number of interrupt lines, on which the computer starts to operate in a " control mode " appropriate to the nature of the interruption. A priority order is assigned to the possible interrupting signals so that interruptions requiring rapid action (e.g. main power failure, or certain real-time calculation signals) may be acted upon first. A masking number may be written by programme into a register where it controls which of the theoretically possible interruptions are authorized. Block diagrams (not shown) illustrate the circuitry required, and the steps called for by the control mode circuitry in the various types of interruption (e.g. data transfer to peripheral units) are illustrated by flow sheets.
Abstract:
A DATA PROCESSING SYSTEM HAVING A MAIN DATA PROCESSOR AND A PLURALITY OF REMOTE TERMINALS EACH HAVING DATA PROCESSING CAPABILITY. THE MAIN OR CENTRAL PROCESSOR IS COUPLED IN A POLLING ENVIRONMANT TO THE VARIOUS TERMINAL PROCESSORS VIA A COMMUNICATION LINK. COMMUNICATION OR DATA TRANSMISSION OF EACH OF THE VARIOUS PERIPHERAL OR TERMINAL PROCESSORS TO AND FROM THE CENTRAL DATA PROCESSOR IS CONTROLLED BY SEPARATE LINE DISCIPLINE PROCESSORS. A LINE DISCIPLINE PROCESSOR IS COUPLED AND RESPONSIVE TO THE RESPECTIVE DATA PROCESSOR AT EACH REMOTE SITE. THE LINE DISCIPLINE PROCESSOR AT EACH REMOTE TERMINAL EDITS AND ASSEMBLES THE INFORMATION TO BE TRANSMITTED AND IDENTIFIES, EDITS AND ASSEMBLES INFORMATION RECEIVED AND PERFORMS OTHER TASKS RELATED TO THE COMMUNICATION FUNCTION THEREBY PROVIDING MICRO-PROGRAMMED LINE DISCIPLING.
Abstract:
A system for synchronizing the lateral movement of a printing element with an electronic position counter. A pulse generator is operatively connected to a printing element drive motor to generate a pulse at each printing position. The pulses from the pulse generator are supplied via an amplifier to a comparator circuit which is periodically tested for a voltage level change in the amplifier output. When the level has not changed for a predetermined time due to the arrested movement of the printing element, the electronic position counter is set to a predetermined number corresponding to the present position of the printing element.