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New Products Editor:Demetrios A. MichalopoulosCalifornia State University, Fullerton

System 4200 family supportsPick operating system

Pertec Computer Corporation has an-nounced a 4200 family of business computersystems based on a 10-MHz, MC68000 systemand supporting Pick operating system soft-ware. A desktop or floor-cabinet system isavailable with one to 35 terminals designed foruse by savings and loan, retail, manufacturingand distribution organizations, and govern-ment agencies. The Pick operating systemsupports applications from general accoun-ting and word processing to sales and pro-duction analysis.The desktop 4220 occupies approximately

as much space as an electric typewriter and is amultitasking, multiuser system that can sup-port from three to 11 terminals/printers link-ed to the host via RS-232-C serial port inter-faces. The basic hardware configuration in-cludes 256K bytes of RAM, three RS-232ports, one 51/4-in. Winchester disk, a l4-in.cartridge tape drive, and a seven-slot chassisfor expansion options. Memory can be ex-panded to I.5M bytes.The 4240 system supports from 11 to 35 ter-

minals/printers linked to the host via stan-dard RS-232-C serial port interfaces. Thebasic hardware configuration includes 256Kbytes of RAM, 11 RS-232 ports, one or twoeight-in. Winchester disks, and a ¼/4-in. car-tridge tape drive. The 15-slot chassis providesroom for expansion options and is housed in adesk-height cabinet. Memory may be ex-panded to 2M bytes, and two optional floor-cabinet mass storage subsystems can beadded, for a total storage capacity of over400M bytes.The virtual-memory-based, multiuser Pick

operating system supports a variety of rela-.tional database management capabilities, in-cluding an English-like query language, an ex-tended version of Dartmouth Basic, a texteditor and word processor, file sizes limitedonly by disk capacity, record sizes up to 32Kbytes, and a procedure processor tool that canbe used in developing and prestoring complexoperations and recalled by simple command.

Prices for the System 4200 line begin at$13,000, including the Pick operating system.

Reader Service Number 31

Self-contained modem combines communications functions

Zoom Telephonics is introducing a modemfor Apple computers that combines the func-tions of a conventional modem, the Applecommunications card, and certain communi-cations software. The unit is also furnishedwith software that permits the screen image tobe captured in the Apple's RAM.Summa 300 is a single-slot, 300-baud direct-

connect modem designed for Apple 11 and lIecomputers. It is self-contained, combiningmodem and Apple communications circuitryon one single-slot card, and provides tele-phone connection to computer databaseswithout requiring additional peripherals or

software. The unit plugs into any Apple I/Oexpansion slot and uses the computer'spower; no separate external power source isneeded.Summa 300 is compatible with any com-

munications software using a standard com-munications interface and is FCC approvedfor direct connection to any modular phonejack. It can operate at 300 or 110 baud. A"carrier detect" LED notifies the user whencontact with the other party has been made.The price for Summa 300 is $119.


All-purpose terminal fits into briefcase

RCA Microcomputer Products has design-ed all-purpose terminals for multi-databasetimesharing and dedicated, direct computer-connected applications. The terminal featuresfirmware control and the ability to providecustom keyboards, as well as user-friendlyfeatures such as menu-controlled operation.Other features include a programmable

"personality" to match specific communica-tion requirements for each database; a built-in, direct-connect, originate/answer/auto-answer 300-baud modem; tone or pulse auto-dialing of up to 26 stored phone numbers; andautomatic logon.A single keypress can dial a stored number,

send the logon sequence to the host computer,and return terminal control to the user.Password protection prevents unauthorizedaccess to designated numbers. The APT ter-minals can also be used as autodialers forvoice communications.The APT terminals are offered with or

without e 12-inch, diagonal, nonglare, green-phosphct display monitor and with a choiceof two k yboards: a full-stroke keyboard or aflexible membrane keyboard.A terminal without monitor measures ap-

proximately 17 x 7 x 2 inches and weighs lessthan four pounds. It will fit easily into a brief-case, includes memory backup, and can beused with any standard TV set or monitor.APT models without displays are $399 and

with monitors are $598. Accessories include

the 12-inch display monitor alone at $229; aprinter interconnect cable at $32; and anacoustical coupler at $59.


RCA's APT VP3801 TD membrane keyboardterminal (shown here with monitor) is port-able without reprogramming through a48-hour, batteryless power backup. Power issupplied to the APT by a calculator-type plug-in power pack. The 80- or 40-character,24-line video output can be displayed on astandard monitor.

September 1983 97

MDB Systems' MDB-DCHIB and MDB-DCHIB-LLO high-speed data channel (DMA) boardsare interface and function compatible with DEC and MDB processors. An edge-mounted,switch-selectable DMA throttle timer gives data transfer rates of 250K, 111K, 30K, 17K, and12K words and adds selected delays for maximum (250K-word) transfer rates. The MDB-CHIBwith drivers and receivers costs $2670 in single quantities. Delivery is 30 days ARO.


Ink jet printer introduced forpersonal computer applications

Diablo systems has introduced US andEuropean models of a plain-paper, color inkjet printer. The Series C printer uses drop-on-demand color ink jet printing to address theimage processing and color graphics require-ments of personal computers, professionalworkstations, and business systems.The printer generates integrated text and

graphics by using special symbols and mosa-

ics, or complementary image (bit-mapped)color printing. It also offers the capability ofprimary or halftoned color background. Thefour- and five-pass, 20-cps ink jet printerfeaturing switch-selectable, uni- and bidirec-tional printing capabilities integrates both textand graphics on cut-sheet or roll paper inseven colors. When printing text, the ink jetprinters use a four-pass mode that generates12 horizontal dots by 16 vertical dots to createeach character. For graphic color applica-tions, the printer is capable of placing 120 dotsper inch and up to 1024 x 1024 dots per pagewithin approximately four minutes, accordingto the company.

Both the US and European ink jet modelscarry a targeted end-user, quantity-one priceof $1250.


Modem reduces telephone line requirements

Micom's Micro4000 Model 4096/4+multiport modem combines a time-divisionmultiplexer with a small 9600-bps modem inone package to support up to four synchro-nous terminals or channels on one uncondi-tioned telephone line.The Model 4096/4+ can support four

2400-bps synchronous terminals and com-municate with a remote computer over oneleased phone line that carries data at 9600 bps.Up to four input channels-operating at 2400,4800, 7200, or 9600 bps-can be supported aslong as the aggregate composite data rate doesnot exceed 9600 bps.

The modem complies with CCITT recom-mendation V.29 and offers downline loadingof channel and composite link parameters(such as operating speed), front-panel in-dicators that display the status of any selectedchannel, independent local and remote loop-back tests for any selected channel or the com-posite link, and individual channel bufferingand control signal passing for linking othercommunications equipment to the modem.The Micro4000 Model 4096/4+ modem is

priced at $3695.


Microbuffer holds data, frees computer time

Practical Peripherals is manufacturing aprinter buffer, Microbuffer In-Line, that isavailable with a serial or parallel interface formost types of communications systems. Ex-pandable to 256K, the unit provides memorybuffer for a variety of output devices, in-cluding serial or parallel printers, modems,typesetting equipment, word processors, plot-ters, and remote data entry.The Microbuffer accepts and holds data

coming from the computer at high speed andtransmits it to the output device at the correctspeed, leaving the computer free for addi-tional processing. Nine different baud ratesfrom 75 to 19,200 can be specified when usingthe serial system.A copy feature allows printing of up to 255

copies without tying up the computer. A

touch-sensitive button on the Microbuffer'sfront panel lets the user specify the number ofcopies required. This process can be halted atany time and continued as if no interruptionhas occurred. New data can be sent to theMicrobuffer any time during the copy pro-cess.A pass button, included with the serial in-

terface model, allows input data to passaround the Microbuffer for logon or for set-ting up special output device parameters.A 32K-Microbuffer In-Line system, com-

patible with most computers with serial RS-232C output devices, retails for $299; with64K-memory it costs $349. Additional mem-ory expansion is available for $179 per 64K.


TRS-80 micro color computeroffered to first-time buyers

Radio Shack's TRS-80 micro color com-puter, Model MC-10, is aimed primarily atfirst-time computer buyers.The machine features a standard keyboard

with moving keys. Keyword input or genera-tion of low-resolution graphics requires onlytwo keystrokes.The MC-10 provides eight colors and dis-

plays text and graphics in a format of 32 char-acters on 16 lines. Most standard color basicprograms that work on a 4K TRS-80 colorcomputer can be keyed in and run on theMC-10 with minor modifications.According to Radio Shack, software writ-

ten specifically for the MC-10 will be availablesoon, and its 4K-byte capacity will be expand-able to 20K by means of a user-installable,plug-in module.The MC-10 has a serial port to allow use of

modems and printers and a cassette port forloading and saving programs on cassette tape.A built-in RF modulator permits attachmentto any standard color or black-and-whitetelevision, although color television is recom-mended. The computer comes with all hard-ware necessary for attachment. Only a televi-sion and a standard 110-volt AC outlet isneeded for it to become operational.The MC-10, which weighs 29½2 ounces and

measures 2 x 8 x 7 inches, is available for$119.95. An operator's manual with instruc-tions in Microsoft color Basic is included.


COMPUTER98

Pipeline links mainframedatabases with PCs

Intel Corp. has introduced Data Pipelinehardware and software designed to linkpowerful mainframe computer databases withpersonal computers. Data Pipeline is builtaround Intel's iDIS 86/735 Data-base infor-mation system, a microcomputer-based "traf-fic manager" that interprets, stores, anddistributes mainframe data to and from ter-

minals and PCs.The iDIS 86/735, is a key component of the

Data Pipeline, serving as the data gateway be-tween the mainframe database and PCs or ter-minals through RS-232 links. The system isbased on the 16-bit 8086 microprocessor andruns under Microsoft's Xenix operating sys-

tem. It offers the C language plus a System2000 data extract facility, communications,local system query language, local area net-working, and an integrated applications soft-ware package. The system's Seamless Soft-ware includes Microsoft's Multiplan spread-sheet, word processing, menu and forms de-velopment tools, electronic mail, and calen-dar.The System 2000 DBMS serves as the main-

frame component to support Data Pipeline.An entry system model provides basic supportin a mainframe-to-iDIS 86/735 link. An end-user system model handles information analy-sis and on-line query and update activities. Adevelopment system model offers databasemanagement tools to support mainframe ap-plications and the Data Pipeline and includesapplication development support.

Intel's iDIS 86/735 sells for $34,995, in-cluding an 8086-based iSBC 86/30 centralprocessor, floppy and Winchester disk drives,Xenix operating system, C, data extract fa-cilities, SQL, communications, and Intel'sSeamless software. The System 2000 DBMS ispriced from $40,000 for an entry systemmodel to $165,000 for a development system.

iDis 86/735 Reader Service Number 39System 2000 Reader Service Number 40

Expansion module has206-word vocabulary

High-resolution CAD/CAM terminal added to desktop line

Megatek Corporation has introduced amonochrome, desktop engineering terminalas the second in its 1600 series of multifunc-tion terminals. The 1645 terminal offers amenu-selected pixel resolution of 1024x960or 1280 x 960. It is compatible with 1600 colorterminals and the larger 6000 and 7000 sys-tems from Megatek.The 1600 combines 2-D interactive graphics

with an alphanumeric capability. DigitalVT-100/52 compatibility allows users to per-form graphic design functions, softwaredevelopment, documentation, and report gen-eration. According to the company, Tektron-ix 4014 emulation will soon be available as anoption.The 1645 terminal uses an eight-MHz 8086

microprocessor as the graphics processor andemploys display-list processing techniques.An 8085 microprocessor is used as a key-board/peripheral processor.The display-list architecture allows an

engineer or designer to execute such functionsas real zoom or scale, translate, clip, rotate,pick, or polygon fill on the screen without ex-tensive host interaction.The 1645 can tilt and swivel. The keyboard

with palm rest and sculpted keys includes astandard VT-100 alpha keypad, a 10-key dataentry keypad, 16 programmable function keysfor directly calling high-level graphics func-tions, and optional joystick and valuatordials.

The high-resolution raster display of MegatekCorporation's new monochrome 1645 desk-top engineering terminal is designed to meetthe graphics requirements found in CAD/CAM, finite element modeling, schematicdata entry, architectural design, and otherengineering applications.

The 1645 terminal is priced at $13,900 withdiscounts available for volume purchasers.Deliveries are 120 days ARO.


Z80A single-board computer has STD-bus compatibility

Micro-Link Corporation has introduced aZ80A single-board computer with STD-buscompatibility. The STD-147 is designed toeliminate the need for separate memory, I/O,and time functions.The on-board 64K dynamic RAM can be re-

conditioned for use with off-card memory-mapped boards. A 28-pin, byte-wide socketpermits up to 16K EPROM for use with on-board monitors or the use of boot PROMs inthe phantom configuration.A console, a modem, or general-purpose

I/O is handled through an on-board serialport, which is complete with programmable

baud rate generators. Four programmabletimers are also provided, two of which arenormally used for baud rate control of theserial port. A time-of-day feature provides a0.1-sec. resolution of minutes, hours, day,and month. Leap year adjustment is automa-tic. The computer's eight programmable linescan be used to monitor modem control linesand control ROM or RAM disable and tri-state command.

Single-unit price for the STD-147 with 64Kdynamic RAM is $395.


General Digital Corporation has added aspeech synthesizer expansion module to itsline of GDX modules compatible with IntelSBC and National Semiconductor BLC boardexpansion sockets. The module permits thegeneration of speech from on-board ROMvocabularies or unlimited vocabulary capa-bility via CPU-provided data.The GDX-Speech-TI uses the TI-5220 chip

and employs LPC 10 techniques. Included inthe module is a standard industrial vocabularyof 206 words, with additional vocabularyROMs available. The module provides anatural-sounding voice, the company says,and includes an on-board LPF, a 2W audioamplifier, and volume control capability.The GDX speech synthesizer expansion

module costs $285 in single quantities.


Disk controller employs "burst mode" DMA interface

Compupro's intelligent 5l/4-inch Win-chester disk controller uses "burst mode"DMA technology to access a full 16M-byte ad-dress space. According to Compupro, thehigh-speed DMA approach minimizes hostprocessor overhead associated with diskoperations, while providing a table-orientedcommand structure for implementation witha variety of processors.

The Disk 3 controller, compatible with theIEEE 696/S-100 bus standard, incorporates alocal processor that enables Compupro Sys-tem 816 users to request transfers of large datablocks between disk and memory with a singlecommand that specifies source, destination,and length. The channel selector can then per-

form all required seeking, reading, andwriting, without external intervention.The controller interfaces to as many as four

ST-506 series-compatible drives or fourShugart SAl100 series drives, any of whichmay have different capacities, formats, andseeking characteristics. Full compatibility isoffered for all Compupro MP/M 8-16-basedmultiuser, multitasking systems, with supportfor multiple DMA devices conforming to theIEEE 696/S-100 bus standard.

Available for volume shipments, Disk 3 islisted at $795. A certified-system-componentversion is available for $895, with OEM dis-counts provided.


September 1983 99

Multiuser computer has remote customer support via telephone CPIM-based softwarehelps beginning users

Solvation has designed a 16-bit, multiusercomputer system to satisfy the needs of smallbusinesses. The series 7000 includes uniqueelectronics for diagnostics and remote custo-mer support by telephone, up to IM of mainmemory, a 20M-byte Winchester disk, and atape cartridge system for backup and archiv-ing. The series 7000 is designed to be extreme-ly tolerant of wide swings in voltage, noisypower lines, and rooms without air condition-ing.The 7000's operating system is a transac-

tion-oriented, menu-driven system supportingcache memory and spooling. The system hostsword processing, the Virtual Planner spread-sheet, database management, graphics, smallbusiness accounting packages, and a series of

vertical market segment packages for publicaccounting firms, advertising agencies,florists, merchants, and soon, constructionand manufacturing firms.The system's keyboard input is buffered so

that no keyed characters are lost. A user-friendly menu system guides the user throughthe correct procedures and provides errormessages. The tape storage system, integratedinto the operating system and applicationsoftware, is designed for first-time computerusers who have neither the time nor the in-clination to learn the general backup and ar-chiving techniques for multiuser systems.The three-workstation series sells for

$18,900.


Computing has introduced a softwarepackage designed to help beginning users runthe CP/M operating system. It's a menu-driven utility disk called Menu/power thatcan be loaded into most CPM machines (IBMPC versions are available). According to thecompany, it turns complciated CP/M com-mands into plain English commands.Menu/power numbers all the disk files. The

user picks the file number, and CP/M is fedthe file names. Glitched files and major por-tions of destroyed data or text files can berecovered automatically. Erase, space, test,recover, copy, sort, rename, run, compare,type, size, protect, and unprotect are some ofthe more than 20 commands on the menu.Menu/power retails at $149. Qualified

dealer and OEM inquiries are welcome.

Microcomputer design stresses upgrading capabilities Reader Service Number 48

QDP Computer Systems manufactures aneight-bit, S-100-bus microcomputer designedto be expandable and upgradable as growthand new technical developments occur. Com-patible with various terminals, printers, plot-ters, modems, and other peripheral equip-ment, the QDP-100 can be adapted to controlmachinery and monitor data gathering tasks.A typical system has two serial and twoparallel ports, and a six-slot mother boardwith three slots available for expansion. It canaccommodate IEEE 696/S-100 single-anddouble-height circuit boards.The standard internal memory for the

single-user QDP-100 is 128K bytes; 256K

bytes are standard in all multiuser systems.Two double-sided, double-density floppy diskdrives provide 2.4M bytes of internal diskstorage. The addition of a hard-disk unit canincrease the QDP-100 storage capabilities to30M bytes. The added units can be used toconvert a single-user QDP-100 to a multiusersystem.

The QDP-100 microcomputer is pricedfrom $4695 to $7495, depending on addedfeatures.


Processor supports IBM SNA remote printing/plotting

Versatec has introduced the Graphics Net-work Processor-SNA Model 451. The pro-cessor, operating as a remote job entry sta-tion, sends and receives EBCDIC or binarydata in IBM system network architecture net-works using synchronous data link controlprotocol. Printer/plotter uses Versatec byte-parallel format for operation at high datatransfer rates. Data integrity is ensuredthrough 16-bit CRC-CCIT error detection

US VW

5-37 pin conversion parallel interface cablelinks the Versatec Graphics Network Pro-cessor with Versatec TTL and long-line paral-lel interfaces. The processor can be connecteddirectly to any Versatec printer/plotter by thiscable, or be linked via an active interface.

and recovery. According to the company, theprocessor performs any required translationof host computer data.While logically emulating a configurable set

of IBM I/O devices, the processor providesflexibility in the configuration of localphysical devices and data pathways to logicalIBM devices. It offers operator console sup-port, duplicate character compression, andSNA-standard interleaved communicationsthat allow simultaneous operation of multiplelogical devices.IBM SDLC protocol is used to communi-

cate with the host via synchronous modems orin direct connection to an IBM 3705/6 com-munications controller. The processor and at-tached devices emulate IBM 3776 models 3 or4, or an IBM 3777 model 3 RJE workstation.

Peripheral communications with Versatecdevices are accomplished in binary and EBC-DIC using Versatec byte-parallel formats atspeeds to 350K bps.The processor console provides control

functions, host command input and response(SNA logon and routing), and applicationsignon, inquiry, cancel, and queue control.The graphics network processor is priced at

$8500 and is available in 45 days ARO.


Intelligent graphics terminal isTektronix and DEC compatible

The J-1014 is a monochromatic, micropro-cessor-based terminal intended for graphicsapplications in mechanical design, electricalschematics, architectural and engineeringdrawing, and mapmaking. The 14-in. unitfrom Kanematsu Electronics, features 1024 x780 resolution and draws at a rate of 880ns/dot. This speed rate allows "wireframe"presentations to be displayed at 19,200 bps.The terminal is compatible with Tektronix

4010 and 4014 commands and with the DECVT-100 terminal.An internal microprocessor allows the

J-1014 to perform the circle, scroll, multipleline style, and selective erase functions.The J-1014 intelligent graphics terminal is

priced at $3995; delivery is 60 days ARO. Acolor version of the terminal is available as an

option.


CAD option offered for IBM PC

GTCO Corporation is offering VectorSketch, a CAD software package for the IBMpersonal computer to be used in conjunctionwith a Digi-Pad 5 digitizer.

Vector Sketch enables the operator to inputdrawings via a digitizer. Vectors are displayedon the graphics monitor and can be stored ondisks, plotted in sizes up to 24x36-in., or

printed on a dot matrix printer.The minimum configuration for use of Vec-

tor Sketch is a GTCO digitizer; IBM PC withdual disk drives, graphics monitor and card;256K RAM; and an asynchronous adapter.The software supports Hewlett-Packard 7000series plotters and Epson dot matrix printersfor hard copy of the files.

Vector Sketch is priced at $2995, which in-cludes a 0.001-in.-resolution digitizer. De-livery is 45 to 60 days ARO.


COMPUTER100

. _ _

Ti local multiplexer supportsup to 128 terminals

For larger installations supporting substan-tial terminal clusters in a building, on a cam-

pus, or in a metropolitan area, Micom hasdeveloped the Instatrunk480 TI local multi-plexer. Fully configured, Instatrunk can sup-

port up to 128 full-duplex asynchronous ter-minals, each of which can run at speeds up to

9600 bps. The link carrying multiplexed databetween Instatrunks conforms to Bell's TIformat, which was originally developed to

carrv 24 voice conversations over two twistedpairs at a speed of 1.544M bps. TI links can

use customer-owned wvires, microwaxe trans-

ceixers, or TI land lines provided bv a com-

mon carrier. According to the company, typi-cal transmission range oxer tx isted pairs is6000 feet, or longer if repeaters are used.The basic Instatrunk480 can multiplex 32

terminal channels. Data rate, character code,parity, and number of start and stop bits are

transparent to the Instatrunk as its multiplex-ing technique samples each incoming bitseveral times.The basic 32-channel Instatrunk480 costs

53200. A 5400 option, the extended remote

bay feature, allows the stand-alone Insta-trunk480 to communicate with a local net-work controlled by a Micro600 Data PABXequipped with a plug-in Instatrunk480i.


Database tool offers security/access/storage solutions

LAN: Datacore, a database developmentsoftware tool offered by Software Connec-tions, offers concurrent access, business-sizestorage capability, and multiuser security topersonal computer users on a local area net-work. Datacore handles the problem of simul-taneous access by providing automatic passiverecord locking and by allowing sexeral peopleto modify the same database simultaneously.The software package defines user-access

by records or fields within records, allowing a

single database to contain information forsexeral applications without jeopardizing se-

curity or prixacy requirements. Programmerscan write a single applications program thatcan be used bv a single user or upgraded to a

local area network enxironment.Keys are stored in a dynamic B + tree struc-

ture, allowing Datacore to retriexe records in

a fraction of a second. This system, accordingto Software Connections, minimizes disk traf-fic and maximizes network performance. Upto 16 key fields can be defined to allow fastretriexal in direct or keyed sequential order.These features eliminate the need for resortingand reindexing the database.

Software Connection's LAN: Datacore can

handle up to 16I1 bytes of information andsells for S1950.


September 1983

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General Motors Research LaboratoriesCOMPUTER SCIENCE DEPARTMENT

has current openings forRESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

in)FFLINE ROBOT PROGRAMMING - Investigate the use of computergraphics and solid modeling for generating and simulating robot programs.

'OMPUTER VISION AND ROBOTICS - Conduct research in machine,ision and the integration of sensors into computer-controlled industrialobots.

'XPERT SYSTEMS - Conduct research in expert systems and their applicaion to real world problems.

'ROCESS PLANNING - Develop automatic systems for generating pro-:esses for the manufacture of mechanical parts defined in a sophisticated;olid modeling system.

'OMPUTER SYSTEMS ANDNPPLICATIONS - Conduct applied research and advanced development in

;ystem and application software for IBM (VM/CMS, MVS/TSO) and Cray,omputer systems.

ENGINEERING AND SCIENTIFIC3OFTWARE - Investigate and coordinate the application of advanced inter-ictive techniques and computational methods for large 2-D and 3-D engi-ieering problems.candidates with a PhD or MS in applied mathematics, computer science,rtrical engineering or equivalent; a broad background in computer science,an interest in industrial research.

rested candidates should contact: Dr. George G. Dodd, Head, ComputerLnce Department, General Motors Research Laboratories, Warren, Michi-48090, (31 3) 575-3012ididates must have citizenship or visa status which permits them legally to

ept permanent employment under U.S. Immigration Laws.An Equal Opportunity Employer

Uq~

Communications Professionals

START MAKING HEADLINES NOWAs a computer professional, you know our newest

desktop computer series is making the headlines. It'sbeing featured in all your professional journals. As usualthe new Data General DESKTOP GENERATION''' isdifferent than the conventional PC. It offers unmatchedcapability with industry standard software, full systemcompatability with our own 16-bit and 32-bit superminisand the largest communications capabilities in theindustry. including IEEE 802 LAN, IBM standard andX.25 based networking products. It's a real dazzler andwe're pretty proud of it at Data General.

Contribute to networking, distributed systLemshardware communicationsr diagnostics developmenL orproduct planning and your project could put you ageneration ahead,

Look for more details in our next issue or get ahead start and send your resume with salary history toEmily Atkinson. MS-A237. Data General Corporationr4400 Computer Drive. Westboro. MA 01580 We are arequal opportunity employer m f.

,Data Generalcareers a generation ahead.

=OF

Cross-compilers designed formicroprocessor software

IBMIANSI-compatible magnetic Lisp-based system executes 1Mtapes offered instructions per second

Inter-C and Inter-Pas are two cross-compil-ers for 8086 and 68000 units that run on VAXand PDP-1 I minicomputers. The C and Pas-cal products are designed for the embeddedmicroprocessor systems builder. The cross-compilers are the first co-funded products ofIntermetrics' Software Products Division andGould's Design and Test Systems Division;the companies expect to add assemblers alongwith extensions of Inter-C and Inter-Pas toother microprocessor targets.A full set of development tools is provided

with both compiler systems. These include alibrarian, a linker, a locator, and formattersthat support popular data protocols for down-loading software to emulation equipment orresident monitors. Inter-C and Inter-Pas pro-duce object code through use of a suppliedROM processor.The compilers, including support tools, are

available for $3995, and with assembler for$4995.


Innovative Data Technology's IBM/ANSI-compatible family of ½/2-in., nine-trackmagnetic tape systems use tension-arm tapebuffering to achieve speeds up to 75 ips.The series 1750 features a nine-track, PE

(1600 cpi) and/or NRZI (800 cpi) read-after-write; embedded formatter; 75-ips start/stopand 250-ips rewind; 8000 hours MTBF;microprocessor control; diagnostics on-board; support for up to 102-in. reels; andstandard industry-compatible I/O.The series 1750 consists of the TD-1751, an

unformatted, master stand-alone tape trans-port; the TD-1752, an unformatted, slavedaisy-chainable tape transport; the TD1753, aformatted, master daisy-chainable tape trans-port; and the TD-1754, a formatted, slavestand-alone tape transport.

Prices are from $5995 for the TD-1751 to$8450 for the TD-1753. OEM and quantitydiscounts are available.


Desktop computers can expand to multiuser system

Codex Corporation has added two models tothe CDX-268 line of communicating desktopbusiness computers for distributed office users.Models 25 and 45 can be used in a single-userconfiguration or expanded to a full multiuser,shared logic system. According to Codex, thecommunications capabilities built into thedesktop computers permit users with one modelto perform not only office applications likefinancial spreadsheets and word processing, butalso 3270 interactive communication with amainframe, 2780/3780 batch processing, andTTY emulation.

ISOS, the models' Unix-like operatingsystem, allows users to perform different tasksconcurrently. Terminals at remote locations canbe connected to a shared database or mainframe

and can recognize a dial-in connection madethrough a modem. Other features of thedesktop computers include a menu processorand high-density storage capability (Model 25has two 650K-byte diskette drives; Model 45 hasone diskette and a 15M-byte Winchester drive).Multiuser software includes electronic spread-sheet, records management, and word process-ing capabilities; programming languages in-clude Cobol and Basic.

Single units of Model 45 cost $8995. TheModel 25 costs $5995. Additional workstationssell for $1900 apiece. Volume discounts andlease plans are available.


The CDX-268 Model 45 desktop computer features desktop-to-mainframe communication,telecommuting, and distributed office applications. Based on the Motorola MC 6809Emicroprocessor, both models offer a multiuser environment with 15M-byte storage.

The 3600 Lisp-based computer system, aninteractive workstation from Symbolics, Inc.,is designed for applications requiring large-scale problem-solving capabilities, such ascomputer-aided design and artificial in-telligence. Other applications are robotics,genetic engineering, training simulation, andresearch.With a 36-bit tagged architecture and 32-bit

data paths, the system executes programs atan average of one million high-level instruc-tions per second. Its virtual memory consistsof 1,048,576 pages of 256 words, 36 bits each.The basic system hardware features 2.3Mbytes of MOS memory with ECC (512K 36-bitwords), one parallel and three standard seriall/O ports, a IOM-bps Ethernet interface, agraphics console, and a 169M-byte SMD-compatible Winchester disk drive. Each mem-ory board has single-bit error correction anddouble-bit error detection. Up to 15 memoryboards can be installed in the standardchassis.The primary language of the 3600 is Zeta-

lisp. Fortran-77, C, Pascal, and Interlisp arealso supported by the system. The 3600'soperating system and software environment iswritten in Lisp.The 3600 display system allows programs

to create windows or rectangular regions thatcan be fully visible, partially visible, or whollyobscured by other windows. Manipulatingwindows like pieces of paper, the user canallocate display space dynamically to fit theapplication at hand and execute various pro-grams at the same time.The single unit price for the 3600 is approx-

imately $85,000.Reader Service Number 56

Protocol converter addsTektronix graphics capability

A protocol converter, developed by Kauf-man Research Manufacturing, allows users ofIBM and Univac computer systems to addTektronix-compatible Color Retro-Graphicsterminal enhancements.When interfaced to IBM and Univac sys-

tems, the protocol converter provides com-plete support of the asynchronous DatamediaColorScan 10 and IOH series terminals up-graded with Retro-graphics PC board assem-blies. Full compatibility is maintained viaemulation of the IBM 327X and Univac UTS40 series terminals.The ASCII-compatible protocol converters

are both polled concentrators and terminalemulators. The 870G, IBM protocol, and871G, Univac protocol, connect up to eightRetro-Graphics terminals to one synchronouscomputer port. All lines can run simulta-neously at speeds up to 19.2K baud. A key-board-controlled side-door feature allowsusers of IBM or Univac systems to com-municate with other host systems from thesame terminal.The Kaufman protocol converters are from

$4500 to $11,000, depending on the model.


102 COMPUTER

Automation system capturesbanking interests

The Honeywell Series 7900 five-tellerbranch automation system uses Omninet inconjunction with a single microprocessor thatcontrols multiple terminals and a variety ofsoftware programs. The system accommo-dates a monochrome or color monitor, a key-board, letter-quality or draft printers, tellerstations, and administrative workstations.The multifunction terminal controller has

128K bytes of memory that can be expandedto IM bytes, dual 320K-byte diskette drives,or one 320 diskette drive and one IOM-byteWinchester disk drive.The MTC can be a single workstation pro-

cessor or operate as a small cluster controllerin a local network. A key feature is its eightpersonality expansion slots, which allow theuser to support a variety of bank systemperipherals, communication facilities, andsoftware products.The Omninet local area network intercon-

nects multifunction terminal controllers withthe shared disk server, which attaches up tofour 20M-byte Winchester disk drives. Thenetwork operates at speeds up to IM bps andcan interconnect up to 64 processors over atwisted pair cable up to 4000 feet in length.The local area network also provides sharedaccess to IBM host communication facilitiesvia the Advanced Communications Subcon-troller.

Software tools can assist customer servicerepresentatives in providing customer service,selling new business, managing accounts, andprocessing loans.Management decision support commodity

software, and other software applicationscurrently available under MS-DOS, such asword processing, spreadsheet capability, andgraphics can also be supported by the 7900.Programs written for CP/M-86 can be ex-ecuted under the MP/M-86 operating system.The user can also develop tailored applica-tions using a variety of commercially availablelanguages.The Benchmark office automation package

offers users four menu-driven, single-keystroke, English-command software prod-ucts. The Benchmark word processor creates,revises, views, and prints text. It also mergesmail lists from the keyboard; provides disk-to-disk copy, imports or exports files; andassigns storage on hard disk. The Benchmarkmail list supports the creation and mainten-ance of lists of names and addresses. Selectedaddresses can be merged with documentscreated by the word processor. The Bench-mark spelling checker comes with a27,000-word dictionary, which can be user-customized by adding and deleting words.The Benchmark telecom transmits filesand/or documents created with any of theBenchmark packages.Honeywell's series 7900 five-teller branch

automation system costs $18,000 to $25,000,depending on the specific configuration se-lected. The system will be available for vol-ume shipments in first quarter 1984.


September 1983

The conference was devoted to thepresentation of new ideas and prelim-inary research results in circuits, sys-tems, and computers, with emphasis oninterfaces with signal processing. Specialsessions included VLSI design methodsand CAD software tools, Ada exper-ience, and software engineering. 550 pp.

Order #442

CONFERENCE RECORD16th Asilomar Conference on

Circuits, Systems & Computers

November 8-10, 1982

Members-S25.00Nonmembers-S50.00

Use order form on p. 144A.

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SIEMENS

Computer AidedDesign Research& DevelopmentResearch & Technology LaboratoriesPrinceton, N.J.We are expanding our research activities in digital-systemCAD tools and in the development of an environment forhigh-level system design. We are seeking a researchscientist to work in a broad spectrum of activities in tooldevelopment.If the opportunity to contribute significantly to this fieldwithin our high-level professional environment is ofinterest, and you have a Ph.D. or an M.S. with substantialexperience in computer science or electrical engineering,please direct your curriculum vita, with salary history to:Personnel Dept. CAD/DC.You will find the compensation and benefits programshere in keeping with one of the world's leading researchorganizations.

Siemens Corporate Research & Support, Inc.Research & Technology LaboratoriesPrinceton Forrestal Center105 College Road EastPrinceton, N.J. 08540An equal opportunity employer, mlifhlv CA1000018 S10a11

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ColsWO

LP/Protran solves linearprogramming problems

IMSL has added a linear programmingpackage to its Protran family.LP/Protran allows continuous variable

linear programming problems to be repre-sented in either symbolic format or in matrix/vector format. According to IMSL, it pro-vides a particularly efficient representationfor large, sparse problems in which mostelements of the constraint matrix are zero.

As with Math/Protran and Stat/Protran,the LP/Protran user needs only a minimalknowledge of programming or computers,IMSL states. The advanced programmer canmix Protran statements with Fortran state-ments for a tailored approach to problemsolving.A $6000 annual subscription includes an

LP/ Protran magnetic tape, user's manual,maintenance, updates, and consultation; re-

newals are $2000 per year. University sub-scriptions placed before January 1, 1984, willbe priced at an introductory offer of $500.

LP/Protran is available for most ControlData, Data General MV, Digital EquipmentVAX, and IBM computers.


System displays 3-D, real-timecolor-shaded graphics

The Poly 2000, from GTI Corporation, is apolygon-based real-time, 3-D color-shadedgraphics system that uses multiple, over-lapped bit-slice processors.

Using a scan-line hidden-surface algorithm,the Poly 2000 allows highly realistic, color pic-tures of complex 3-D objects to be displayedon a standard RGB monitor. The real-timedisplay, interlaced at 30 frames per second,permits the user to dynamically interact withthe displayed database.

Poly 2000 features include 16-bit homoge-neous coordinate representation; generalized4 x 4 matrix transformations, including user-

controllable full perspective; x, y, and z planeclipping; and display of up to 2000 polygonswith as many as 4000 edge intersects per scan

line. The 640 x 480 pixel display has a paletteof over 16 million colors and automatic high-resolution intensity shading of individual col-ored polygon faces based on movable lightsources. The accompanying software sup-ports the system's hierarchical data structureand its interface to the user's host computer.

A console-based Poly 2000 system completewith a color monitor is priced at $125,000.

GTI's Poly 2000 can manage and display dy-namic data structures of the scenes and re-spond interactively in real time to a consoleoperator's actions.

Quantity discounts are available, and deliveryis 90 days ARO.


Software facilitates menu development

I.

Contributions from around the world(with a significant number from the US)explored topics such as numerical errorcontrol, language aspects, and methodsfrom the field of symbolic and algebraiccomputations. 221 pp.

Order #476

PROCEEDINGS-SixthSymposium on Computer

Arithmetic

June 20-22, 1983

Members-515.00Nonmembers-$30.00

Use order form on p. 144A.

Borland International has introduced MenuMaster software for the CP/M user and retaildistribution markets. The package displaysstraightforward instructions in the users' ownlanguage, allowing him to control jobs withbasic keystrokes.The software has one general-purpose set of

menus that enables users to perform any typ-ical operating system function. The packagealso includes a file menu, a word processingmenu, and a development menu that permitsthe user or dealer to create customized menus.Menu Master incorporates a programming

language called the menu definition lan-guage, which is syntactically similar to Pascal

or Basic and which allows the moderately ex-perienced user or programmer to developmenus. Other features of the language includestring and integer variables, procedures withparameters, I/O to files and the console, acomplete mechanism for Help messages,screen-oriented menus via cursor addressing,password protection of any command or pro-gram, and complete file and port I/O.Menu Master, including user's guide and

reference manual, is available in any disk sizeand format and is priced at $195.


Real-time tool analyzes workload problems

IMF/Workload Analyzer, a real-time toolfor the analysis of workload degradation inIBM's information management system, hasbeen introduced by Boole & Babbage. TheWorkload Analyzer provides immediate real-time information to pinpoint the precise causeof poor response time.The real-time tool is part of the company's

integrated IMS performance management ar-chitecture-IMS management facilities. IMFworks in real time and off-line to analyze,monitor, evaluate, and manage current sys-tem activity, as well as to provide long-termperformance and cost analysis.The Workload Analyzer tracks individual

transactions as they pass through the major

events within an IMS. It views 283 states inwhich a transaction can exist, representing283 ways that a unit of work can be stalled.The Workload Analyzer's wait display sectionidentifies critical resource bottlenecks, in-cluding physical resources such as disk drivesand logical resources such as IMS messageformat service buffer pools. The detail trans-action trace capability of the Workload Ana-lyzer shows workload events in an on-linedisplay.

A perpetual license for the IMF/WorkloadAnalyzer is priced at $20,000.


COMPUTER

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Digital Electronics' miniature DE/520A module displays characters 5mm high x 2.3mm wideand measures 6.2 x 2.6 x 1.15 in. The module is expected to draw less than 0.3A of power, evenat maximum usage.

Miniature module displays 20 characters

Digital Electronics Corporation has an-nounced a miniature display module, theDE/520A. Part of the company's new Star-brite Visi-link series, the DE/520A has fullalpha capability in a 20-character line that is2.86 inches long. According to the company,the 5 x 7-dot matrix characters are bright andeasy to read because of the vacuum fluores-cent technology used.The module display features an indepen-

dent refresh scheme designed to eliminateflickering and an externally adjustable brightness control that is mounted on the PC board.The display's brightness of more than 175foot-lamberts permits filtering to severalcolors other than the natural blue-green. Highshock and vibration resistance allow thedisplay to be used in mobile and portable ap-plications.

The DE/520A accepts ASCII signals for thefull 96-character set, including upper- andlowercase letters. All character positions areindividually addressable. An on-board micro-processor handles decoding, character genera-tion, display buffering, cursor control, re-fresh and self-test capabilities, auto flashingof any or all characters, and a blinking visibleor invisible cursor. All drive electronics are in-cluded along with necessary power conversioncircuitry. Both 1200-baud serial and bidirec-tional parallel interfaces are standard items;RS-232 voltage levels are optional features.

In quantities of 100, the DE/520A costs$150. Availability is 30 days ARO.


Pascal business programs. Written in UCSD-compatible Pascal, the 28-program collectioncontains Honeycalc, Type-Right, and statis-tical analysis packages. Pascal ProgramsforBusiness, Hayden Book Company, 50 EssexSt., Rochelle Park, NJ 07662; (201) 843-0550;$15.95; 212 pp.

Graphics software. Free 76-page bookletdescribes programs written by independentsoftware firms for Ramtek's 6000 Series ofcolor graphics terminals and 9000 Seriesgraphics and imaging systems. Software Sup-port Group, Ramtek Corp., 2211 LawsonLane, Santa Clara, CA 95050; (408) 988-221 1.

Linear circuits. Reliability tests on all PMIproduct families are described in a 74-pagebrochure from Precision Monolithics, Inc.,Literature Dept., 1500 Space Park Dr., SantaClara, CA 95050; (408) 727-9222.

Logic analysis. The fundamentals of logicanalysis are given along with the Dolch LogicInstruments' design approaches and applica-tions. "The Modern Logic Analyzer: A BasicPrimer," Terry Larson, Dolch Logic Instru-ments, 3052 Orchard Dr., San Jose, CA95134; (408) 945-1881; no cost; 12 pp.

Payroll system runs on IBM 5280 computers

Marion Computing System's payroll ac-counting system is designed to run on the IBM5280 series computer and to provide the neces-sary capabilities to handle multicompany pro-cessing, entry validation, employee recordmaintenance, custom paycheck production,check reconciliation and annuity processing.

Pay periods can be run at the interval theuser selects, with complete current and year-to-date information printed on each checkstub. Up to 13 pay types and 15 deduction

categories are available to accurately classifypayroll data.A number of user reports are available with

the system, including the payroll journal;check register; deduction registers; federal,state, local tax reporting; and employeehistory listings. Employee label printingcapability is also included.The payroll system (source and object) sells

for $1500. Complete documentation andmaintenance are available from the vendor.


Keyboard construction ends keyswitch "teasing"

A 58-key, off-the-shelf DIN profile key-board from Advanced Input Devices is de-signed to offer maximum operator comfortfor a wide variety of medium-volume data en-try applications.The MK158 keyboard features conven-

tional keytop sizes with standard 3/4-inch keycenters and a profile height of 0.50 inches.Contact resistance is a maximum 200 ohmswith a maximum 10 ms of contact bounce.The board's keyswitch construction helpseliminate keyswitch "teasing" problems.

The MK158's all-metal, dome keyswitchesare environmentally sealed to extend key-board life. The keyboard is also designed to beeasily retrofitted to a variety of off-the-shelfenclosures. Optional equipment includesdaughter board assemblies with standardASCII encoding and RS-232, RS-422, orparallel serial interface connectors.

Off-the-shelf prices of the MK158 key-board are from $46.75.


IBM PC bible. Topics range from fundamen-tal system configurations to starting applica-tion programs. Basic language programmingis also covered in this "how to" manual.Using Your IBM Personal Computer, How-ard W. Sams, Inc., 4300 W. 62nd St., PO Box7092, Indianapolis, IN 46206; $16.95; 326 pp.

Local network market. A comparison is givenof real-world local networks and marketingclaims, based on 32 articles from Data Com-munications, The Local Network Handbook,George Davis, ed., McGraw-Hill Book Co.,1221 Ave. of the Americas, New York, NY10020; (212) 997-3493; $26.95; 256 pp.

Accounting and financial software. A direc-tory of 317 general packages from 86 vendors,the survey covers mainframes, minis, CP/M,MP/M, and Unix-based micros. Available asReport 8-CJ from Data Decisions, 20 BraceRd., Cherry Hill, NJ 08034; (800) 257-7732;$49.

Using Visicalc. Starting with how to set up aspreadsheet with labels, values, and formulas,the audio cassette tutorial progresses to ad-vanced concepts such as replicate, choose,lookup, and net present value. How to UseVisiCalc, Fliptrack Learning Systems, 526 N.Main St., Box 711, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137;(312) 790-1117; lesson summary and fourcassettes.

September 1983 105

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