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BRL 1961, TARGET INTERCEPT, start page 0866
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TARGET INTERCEPT
Target Intercept Computer (TIC)
MANUFACTURER
Remington Rand Univac Division
Sperry Rand Corporation
Photo by Remington Rand Univac
APPLICATIONS
System is used for Missile guidance in real time (on-line),
system simulation, data processing, and automatic coding
(Autocode).
PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM
Internal number system Binary
Binary digits/word 24
Binary digits/instruction 24
Instructions/word 1
Instructions decoded 35
Arithmetic system Fixed point
Instruction type One address
Number range -1 <= X <= 1 and, in R Memory
0 <= X <= 214 (integer addresses)
Instruction word format
+---------+----------+--------------+--------+
| Op Code | j Factor | Operand | Parity |
+---------+----------+--------------+--------+
| 0 5 | 6 9 | 10 23 | 24 |
+---------+----------+--------------+--------+
+----------------------------------------------------------------+
| Shift Instruction |
+-----------+----------+-------+---------+------+-------+--------+
| Operation | J | Not | Shift | Not | Shift | Parity |
| Code | Factor | Used | Control | Used | Count | |
+-----------+----------+-------+---------+------+-------+--------+
| 0 5 | 6 9 | 10 11 | 12 17 | 18 | 19 23 | 24 |
+-----------+----------+-------+---------+------+-------+--------+
Automatic built-in subroutines include error checking,
system diagnosis, and program sequence control.
Automatic coding includes special Autocode programs.
Registers includes fifteen 15-bit registers, referenced by j
factor.
ARITHMETIC UNIT
Incl Stor Access Exclud Stor Access
Microsec Microsec
Add 10 5
Mult 25 20
Div 45 40
Construction (Arithmetic unit only)
Transistors 6,200 (approx) includes Arithmetic
Sequence Control
BRL 1961, TARGET INTERCEPT, start page 0867
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Arithmetic mode Parallel
Timing Synchronous
Operation Concurrent
An overlapping instruction repertoire, plus the ability to
simultaneously. execute arithmetic and non-aritbmetic
sequences, causes certain operations in the computer to be
concurrent.
STORAGE
No. of No. of Access
Media Words Digits Microsec
Permanent (Z) Memory 10,240 25 2.8
Variable (0) Memory 2,048 25 2.2
Reference (R) Memory 15 14 0.9
Real-Time (Z) Memory 48 25 2.8
Magnetic Tape
No. of units that can be connected 5 Units
go. of chars/linear inch of tape 200 Chars/inch
Channels or tracks on the tape 7 Tracks/tape
Blank tape separating each record 3/4 Inches
Tape speed 150 Inches/sec
Transfer rate 30,000 Chars/sec
Start time 3.9 Millisec
Stop time 0.7 Millisec
Average time for experienced operator to change reel of
tape 15-30 Seconds
Physical properties of tape
Width 0.5 Inches
Length of reel 2,400 Feet
Composition 1.5 mil mylar, polyester backing
INPUT
Media Speed
Flexowriter, Model F1 8 chars/sec
Automatic Typewriter
Ampex FR 307 30 KC
Magnetic Tape Units
81x alphanumerics is equivalent to 1 character.
Flexowriter and Ampex units are specially adapted.
OUTPUT
Media Speed
Flexowriter, Model F1 8 chars/sec
Automatic Typewriter
Ampex FR 307 30 KC
Magnetic Tape Units
CIRCUIT ELEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM
Type Quantity
Diodes 1,344
1N98
1N2146
Transistors
2N559 20,000
Magnetic Cores
General Ceramics
500-A 37, 584
All words and parity in the Permanent (Z) Memory (256,000
digit locations) are stored in alnico magnets that are imbedded
in Special Program cards.
CHECKING FEATURES
Program indicates and analyzes all detectable errors. Parity
checking on data transfers, address transfers, and word locations.
Also checked on overflows, critical commands, timing, program
sequences, input/output and operator errors. Routines for extensive
exercising and checking can be run at the discretion of the
operator.
POWER. SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE PREPARATION
Power, computer 2.5 Kw 2.5 KVA 1 Pf
Volume, computer 210 cu ft
Area, computer 69.5 sq ft
Room size 36 ft x 10.5 ft minimum
Floor loading 150 lbs/sq ft
Weight, computer 5,200 lbs
Installation must meet all normal requirements of cleanliness; a
normal working environment is satisfactory for the computers;
i.e. its operating range is between 60o and 100oF
(16-38oC). Airconditioning is provided, though not essential;
forced-air cooling is the minimun requirement.
PRODUCTION RECORD
Number produced to date 1
Number in current operation 1
Number in current production 1
PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS
Written publications on description, theory, operation, and
maintenance; orientation courses conducted by training
department; staff of Field Service Personnel maintain computer
at site.
RELIABILITY, OPERATING EXPERIENCE,
AND TIME AVAILABILITY
System features and construction techniques utilized by
manufacturer to insure required reliability include: Computer
isolates and indicates its own failures Error routine locates failed
modules Failures indicated visually Non-redundancy of hardware
Module layout by computer function Hardware detection of errors
Program interpretation of and recovery from errors Permanent
storage of critical instructions and constants.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS
Outstanding features include permanent storage of critical
instructions and. constants, overlapped instruction repertoire,
automatic start of next program, interrupt control of scattering
and gathering of data, and non-stop transfer of control an errors.
INSTALLATIONS
Remington Rand Univac
Univac Park
St. Paul 16, Minnesota
BRL 1961, TELEREGISTER MAGNETRONIC BID ASKED, start page 0868
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TELEREGISTER MAGNETRONIC BID ASKED
Teleregister Magnetronic Bid-Asked Stock Quotation System
MANUFACTURER
The Teleregister Corporation
APPLICATIONS
Data processing associated with stock exchange bid-
asked price quotations
PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM
Binary digits per word 24
ARITHMETIC UNIT
Timing Synchronous
Operation Sequential
Five seconds of additional time are required for
a transaction when input/output data are transmitted
over teletype lines.
STORAGE
A single magnetic drum storage unit is utilized.
The drum capacity is 100,000 binary digits.
The system is designed to handle a maximum of 8 million
average transactions/hour.
Relays are used for temporary storage of information.
INPUT
There are 200 special input/output devices located in
Toronto, Canada. These are located near the printing
mechanisms.
For remote locations, special transceivers are utilized to
serialize and check data.
OUTPUT
Visual verification of input/output data (response) is possible
at the originating input point.
Input error or data rejection is immediately signalled
to the originating input device.
Automatic checking and data verification controls are built
into the system.
PRODUCTION RECORD
Number produced to date 1
Number in current operation 1
COST, PRICE AND RENTAL RATES
Cost was dependent upon customeer requirements.
System was installed but is not being maintained by the
manufacturer.
RELIABILITY, OPERATING EXPERIENCE.
AND TIME AVAILABILITY
Operating ratio (Good/Attempted to run time) 0.999
The system is operated on line 7 hours/day, 5 days week.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS
Special purpose system.
System is operated "on line" with current updating features.
Status reporting feature included.
Control is possible from all input transactions recording
locations.
System incorporates remote control of the data
processor from input/output stations.
The following is a technical, operational and historical
description of the system:
The electronic equipment at the Toronto Stock Exchange
represents the first use of electronic digital computer
techniques for the storage and dissemination of stock
quotations.
In 1937 The Teleregister Corporation installed for the Totonto
Exchange an automatic, electro-mechanical system for
displaying, storing and disseminating bid-asked prices on the more
actively traded stocks. Bid-asked prices, generated at the trading
posts on the floor of the Exchange from orders placed on the
outside, were transmitted by reporters over an interphone system
to keyset operators in the basement of the Exchange building.
These keyset operators entered the bid-asked prices into the
automatic system. The prices were displayed on
electromechanical indicator units located at the posts on the floor
for the information of the traders at that location.
Simultaneously, the same prices were posted on indicators in a
"check-board" located in front of the keyset operators.
The system also included a Canadian National Telegraphs
network from the common equipment at the Exchange to
broker' offices in the Toronto area, who were provided with dial-
ticker units. A broker desiring the current bid-asked prices for a
particular stock, looked up the three digit code number for the
stock in a code-assignment register. When he was ready to dial,
he pressed a request button on
BRL 1961, TELEREGISTER MAGNETRONIC BID ASKED, start page 0869
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his dial set. The operation of this button connected his dialing
circuit arid ticker liner through the line connecting equipment,
to one of 24 transmitters which may be idle at the time. When
the connection to the transmitter was completed, a ready lamp
lighted on the broker's dial set, telling him that the equipment
was ready to receive his dialing. The operation thus far is similar
to that of a telephone exchange when the subscriber picks up
the hand set sad receives a dial tone. The dialed code numbers
were stored in the transmitter, which was conditioned to extract
the requested bid-asked price from the system's memory.
Up until several years ago the display indicators in the check
board served a dual purpose in that they were also used as storage
devices or memory units. These indicators were pulse actuated
mechanisms which display the digits 1 through 0 and blank, on a
11-position rotatable drum. An indicator was set to display the
desired digit by transmitting counted pulses to its winding after it
has first been pulsed to its blank display position. In order to
respond to a broker's dialed request, the indicators displaying the
selected stock prices were actuated by exactly 11 pulses. This
would leave the indicators in the same display position as before,
but since it was possible to determine the number of pulses
required to move each unit from its display position to its blank
position, a coded readout of the stored prices was accomplished.
These prices were then automatically sent by one of the 24
transmitters to a ticker at the calling broker's office.
After careful engineering analysis of the problem, it was
decided to use electronic techniques and a non-volatile magnetic
drum storage to process the 50,000 daily requests which were
being received from broker's offices. Since the existing display
posting system represented a major capital investment, it was
necessary to integrate much of the old electro-mechanical
system with the new electronic data processing equipment. This
integration presented the major engineering problem, since the
electronic components had already been developed and proven
in service in an American Airlines reservation system, which
processes an inventory of airlines seats in place of stock bid-
asked prices. It was also decided to use the old price storage
circuitry as a fall-back, so that a manual switch-over system had
to be provided.
The magnetic drum storage equipment is time shared between
the 24 transmitters and the 6 operators positions by the seeker
equipment. The purpose of the operators' positions is to keep
the prices displayed at the Exchange and stored on the magnetic
drum up to date with the trading. The seeker is a relay switching
device which connects the next transmitter or operator's
position awaiting access to the drum storage, which is time-
shared to all positions. When a transmitter gets access to the
storage, the 3-digit code number, dialed by a subscriber and stored
in the transmitter, is translated by the selector into the
energization of one of 600 single-wire selection leads which were
previously used to connect the transmitters to a specific section
of the check-board display when that unit was used as the
system's memory. In the new system these 600 leads are coded
by use of a diode matrix with the position code of the same
information on the magnetic drum storage. The output of the
diode matrix is connected through drum selection coding relays
to the drum connecting relays which, in turn,
select one of 40 channels on the drum. If one of the six
operators' positions has been given access to the storage
drum, the electronic equipment is used to write the new
price information stored on the operators' keyset in the
section of the drum selected by one of 100 keys on the.
operators' keyset.
The magnetic storage unit consists of a solid aluminum billet,
eight inches in diameter and fifteen inches high, coated with an
iron oxide film about 0.003 inches thick. The drum has capacity
for storing approximately two thousand sets of prices, six
hundred being the initial usage. Prices are stared in permutation
code on the drum coating as positively or negatively magnetized
spots,.the coding being changed as the prices alter. The drum is
divided into circumferential tracks, or channels, each channel
providing price storage for twenty-five! stocks. The packing
factor for this a ication is approximately 40 bits (or code
elements) per inch along the track. A read-record head is
mounted over each channel with a clearance of .001 inch from
the drum surface. In recording, these beads polarize the magnetic
coating as the drum rotates at a speed of 1,450 RPM beneath
them, under control of electronic writing and gating circuits
which are triggered off as the operators send in new prices. In a
reading operation resulting from a broker's dialed request, the
selected magnetized spots passing under the read-record head
induce positive and negative pulses which are amplified and
shaped into usable dynamic pulses.
The electronic equipment is under control of a program unit
which is basically divided into seven circuits; starting, function
determination, counting, 1 of 25 stock selection, 1 of 6 stock digit
selection, read gating and write gating. Counting is in binary code
and under control of three permanently magnetized tracks on the
drum which are called synchronizing or "clock" tracks. These
tracks deliver 1,256 and 600 pulses, respectively, for each
revolution of the drum. The clock pulses to the electronic
counters of the program unit open electronic gates at the precise
instant that the desired storage area on the drum is passing beneath
the selected read-record head. There is a reference pulse from the
drum which assures that the electronic counting will always start in
synchronism with the drum rotation. There are pulses which are
used to select one or a combination of the six digits representing a
bid-asked price. Since each price digit has a 4 element permutation
code, there are 25 x 6 x 4, or a total of 600 storage bits in use on
each drum track. The function of the shift registers is to read the
amplified serial bid-asked price pulses from the drum and send the
price in parallel to the transmitters, 24 elements at a time. In the
case of a write operation, the shift registers control serial writing
into the drum from parallel price code inputs from the operators'
keysets. The electronic equipment contains approximately 400
tubes envelopes, of which about half are Western Electric 396-A
twin triodes and the remainder Western Electric 415-A pentodes. A
few 6Y6 tubes are used in the drum record circuits. All electronic
components are mounted on functional plug-in sub-assemblies,
using printed wiring techniques. An open construction is employed
for better heat dissipation and lower operating temperature.
INSTALLATIONS
Toronto Stock Exchange
Toronto, Canada
BRL 1961, TELEREGISTER MAGNETRONIC INVENTORY CONTROL, start page 0870
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TELEREGISTER MAGNETRONIC INVENTORY CONTROL
Magnetronic Inventory Control System
MANUFACTURER
The Teleregister Corporation
APPLICATIONS
Industrial inventory control
B. F. Goodrich Company, Footwear and Flooring
Division
Finished goods inventory control
PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM
Binary digits per word 37
ARITHMETIC UNIT
Construction Vacuum tubes
Arithmetic mode Serial
Timing Synchronous
Operation Sequential
The time required for the completion of an average
transaction from the completion of the input to the
answer is 600 milliseconds. The system has a de-
signed maximum capability of handling 6,000,000
average transactions per hour.
The operator has one master control panel for his
use. A sub-supervisory control position is located
at the data processor.
STORAGE
A single 1,500,000 binary digit capacity magnetic
drum is utilized. The number of bits per standard
item stored is 37 (comparable to a "word" in general
purpose systems). Random access to the drum is
possible.
The temporary storage medium is relays.
INPUT
One input/output device is located at the data
processor.
One input/output device is located at the print-
ing mechanism.
Paper tape is utilized as an input/output medium.
Electric office machines are controlled and driven
by the system.
Punched cards are utilized.
B. F. Goodrich Company, Flltwear and Flooring
Division
Tape reader speed is 10 char/sec and tape punch
speed is 20 char/sec. A digital display unit is
utilized.
OUTPUT
Visual verication of input/output data (response)
is possible at the supervisory station.
Input error data rejection is signalled immediate-
ly at the supervisory station.
Automatic checking and data verification controls
are built into the system.
PRODUCTION RECORD
Number produced to date 1
Number in current operation 1
COST, PRICE AND RENTAL RATES
Prices of this special purpose system are based
on customer requirements and are established by
negotiation.
System is installed and is maintained by the
manufacturer on a service contract basis.
B. F. Goodrich Company, Footwear and Flooring
Division
Approximate cost of basic system was $300,000.
PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS
B. F. Goodrich Company, Footwear and Flooring
Division
Daily Operation One 8-Hour Shift
Engineers 1
Technicians & Operators 3
RELIABILITY, OPERATING EXPERIENCE,
AND TIME AVAILABILITY
System is installed, operating, and in use. It
is operated for 8 hours/day on line and 2 hours/day
off line, on a 5 day/week basis.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS
Special purpose system.
System is operated partially on an on-line basis.
System has combined on-line and off-line operating
features.
The supervisory station permits stock status re-
ports to be obtained, utilizing "tailored" function-
al input/output devices for completing transactions.
BRL 1961, TELEREGISTER MAGNETRONIC INVENTORY CONTROL, start page 0871
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B. F. Goodrich Company, Footwear and Flooring Division
This piece of equipment is of a special purpose nature designed
specifically in answer to our finished goods footwear problem. Its
outstanding feature is random access to any one of many thousands of
separate items of either inventory or sales. An additional feature is the
display of inventory or orders on a digital display console, one item at a
time.
FUTURE PLANS
B. F. Goodrich Company, Footwear and Flooring Division
The future expansion of this system depends largely upon its current
performance on the ,job for which it was built. Integration of our branch
warehouse will be the next possible application.
INSTALLATIONS
B. F. Goodrich Footwear and Flooring Company Division of the
B. F. Goodrich Company Watertown 72, Massachusetts
BRL 1961, TELEREGISTER TELEFILE, start page 0872
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TELEREGISTER TELEFILE
Teleregister Telefile Data Processing System
MANUFACTURER
The Teleregister Corporation
Control Console of Telefile Data Processor
Photo by The Teleregister Corporation
APPLICATIONS
Manufacturer
System is performing the following applications: Ranking
Systems - On line - Real Time Airlines Reservations -
On line - Real Time Communications switching On-line
Real Time Off-line General Purpose Data Processing
Passenger Record Retrieval - Real Time
These systems are constructed to operate on-line
with nation-wide data communications networks con-
sisting of high speed (1000 bit/sec) and low speed
(75 bit/sec) facilities. The switching, terminating
and transceiver apparatus to equip these networks
are provided by the manufacturer.
Society for Savings
Savings accounting and mortgage accounting.
BRL 1961, TELEREGISTER TELEFILE, start page 0873
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Special Window Machine for Telefile On-line
Photo by The Teleregister Corporation
Savings Bank Accounting System
PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM
Internal number system Binary Coded Decimal
Decimal digits/word one
Decimal digits/instruction 8
Instructions per word Digit. Addressable
Instructions decoded Over 200, depending on
system
Arithmetic system Fixed point
Variable length fields up to 100 digits.
Instruction type One address
Sequential; first four digits can be considered
an instruction
Number range 100 - 1099
absolute magnitude
Instruction word format
+-------+-----------------+----------------+
| 1 2 | 3 4 | 5 8 |
+-------+-----------------+----------------+
| Order | Length of Field | Memory Address |
+-------+-----------------+----------------+
Automatic built-in subroutines include Automatic Rerun in
the event of certain failures and programmable separation of
dual system.
Registers include the-Accumulator Control (ACR), Memory
Control (NCR), Instruction Control (ICR) and Quotient
Control (QCR) registers.
All orders are performed by defining field lengths in the core
memory. The addressable classification
is digits. Instructions can be performed on from one to a
hundred digits per operand.
ARITHMETIC UNIT
Operation Including Storage Access Time
Time Microseconds
Add 160 + 16 (No. of augend + addend digits)
Mult 80 + 16 (Sum of product digits)(3 x No.
of Multiplier + Multiplicand digits)
Div 80 + 16 (Sum of quotient digits)(No. of
digits in dividend)
Excluding Storage Access Time
Microseconds
Add 80 + 16 (No. of augend + addend digits)
Construction (Arithmetic unit only)
Unit consists of transistors, diodes and modular
packages.
Arithmetic mode Serial by digit, parallel by bit.
Timing Synchronous
Operation Sequential
BRL 1961, TELEREGISTER TELEFILE, start page 0874
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Agent Set is Special Input-Output Device for use
with the Telefile On-line Reservations System
for United Airlines
Photo by The Teleregister Corporation
STORAGE
Access
Media Dec Digits Microsec
Magnetic Cores 15,000 16
Magnetic Drums 1,050,000/drum 17,000
Discs 15,000,000/assembly 100,000
Magnetic Tape
No. of units that can be connected 54 Units
No. of chars/linear inch of tape 200 Chars/inch
Channels or tracks on the tape 6 Tracks/tape
Blank tape separating each record 1/2 Inches
Tape speed 150 Inches/sec
Transfer rate 12,000 Chars/sec
Start time 5 Millisec
Stop time 5 Millisec
Average time for experienced
operator to change reel of tape 15 Seconds
Physical properties of tape
Width 1/2 Inches
Length of reel 2,400 Feet
Composition Mylar sandwich
INPUT OUTPUT
Teleregister systems are primarily on-line rapid
access business computing systems. Up to 29 sub-
systems can be connected to any single main frame.
The system can consist of any number of processors
each acting independently or with any two processors
corss checking each other. The systems have been
designed to accommodate any conventional input-out-
put media.
BRL 1961, TELEREGISTER TELEFILE, start page 0875
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CIRCUIT ELEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM
Type Quantity
Diodes 15,500
Transistors 3,500
Magnetic Cores 50,000 - 75,000
Above applies to a single Central Data Processor
(TELEFILE). Similar proportion of diodes and transistors
applies to other sub-systems.
CHECKING FEATURES
System has parity checking in and out of the core memory and
in and out of any subsystem. Duality corss checks are available
between processors and/or drums. Checks may also be
programmed.
COST, PRICE AND RENTAL RATES
Prices are available on request. Teleregister has a full scale
field-service operation in more than 100 cities in U. S.,
servicing all installations. This service organization has been
in existence for 30 years.
PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS
Personnel requirements vary with the complexity of any
given system application.
Teleregister trains customer personnel at Stamford plant and
provides on-site training as long as required.
RELIABILITY, OPERATING EXPERIENCE,
AND TIME AVAILABILITY
Teleregister on-line systems have been operating with a
record of 99.8% up-time since 1952. They employ duality and
built-in controls to maintain this high degree of reliability,
coupled with a rigid preventive maintenance program. They
have proven on-line capability for 22 hour per day, 7 day per
week service.
INSTALLATIONS
Society for Savings
31 Pratt Street
Hartford 1, Connecticut
The Howard Savings Institution
Newark 1, New Jersey
BRL 1961, TELEREGISTER UNIFIED AIRLINE, start page 0876
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TELEREGISTER UNIFIED AIRLINE
Teleregister Unified Airline Processor
MANUFACTURER
The Teleregister Corporation
Typical Teleregister Unified Airline Data Process-
ing Center Photo by The Teleregister Corporation
APPLICATIONS
Special purpose, on-line, real-time wired program data
processor, designed for inventory applications with a high
volume of random, undisciplined, ondemand inquiries and
transactions. Approximately 12,000 such transactions can be
processed in one hour.
The term "Unified" stems from the unification Of design
requirements which enabled Teleregister to provide similar
systems now in use by TWA, Western, National and
Northeast Air Lines. These systems permit the airlines to
process requests for reservations very quickly, and have
measurably improved load factors and customer relations. A
Unified system also handles hotel reservations for the
Sheraton Corporation.
Forerunners of the Unified Systems were Teleregister's
Magnetronic Reservisors which have been serving American
Airlines since 1952, and a similar system used by Braniff
International Airways since 1957. Pan American World
Airways and United Air
Lines also use Teleregister systems, and United has ordered a
new one (see TELEREGISTER TELEFIIE) for installation in
the next few months.
PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM
Internal number system Binary
All logic and programs are wired into the processors
by Teleregister. Additional programs and changes in
logic are made by the manufacturer on a charge basis
at the customer's request.
ARITHMETIC UNIT
Incl Stor Access Exclud Stor Access
Microsec Microsec
Add 17,010 10
Construction (Arithmetic unit only)
Vacuum-tubes and relays
Arithmetic mode Parallel
BRL 1961, TELEREGISTER UNIFIED AIRLINE, start page 0877
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Supervisor's console of the TWA Teleregister data processor in the West
Side Airlines Terminal, New York. TWA has three of the Teleregister
Unified systems with data processors at New York, Chicago and Los
Angeles Photo by The Teleregister Corporation
Timing Synchronous
Operation Sequential
STORAGE
No. of Binary Access
Medium Digits/Drum Microsec
Magnetic Drums 1,300,000 17,000
BRL 1961, TELEREGISTER UNIFIED AIRLINE, start page 0878
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Teleregister Distant Central Office Transceiver (DCOT) at West Side
Airlines Terminal. is the automatic data message director through which all
agent set traffic is channeled to and from the TWA Unified data processor at
New York Photo by The Teleregister Corporation
INPUT
Media
Keysets Parallel input
Punched Tape 200 words/min
Teletype 200 words/min
Media OUTPUT
Keysets Parallel output
Punched Tape 200 words/min
Teletype 200 words/min
Printer 100 words/min
The principal input/output device used with the Teleregister Unified Airline
Processor is the special purpose agent's keyset. To make an inquiry or initiate
an inventory transaction, the agent selects and inserts a patented code
plate in a slot in the agent set.
The plate lists a total of 64 flights or segments thereof, but only a single
row listing eight flights is visible at the time. On an availability inquiry the
processor reply causes a display on the agent set by eight lamps associated
with the eight flights listed on the code plate. Four conditions can be shown for
each flight, such as lamp on - "open for sale", lamp out - "flight closed", fast flash
"wait list open", and slow flash - "special, check further". Keys on the agent set
are used to designate month, date, and number of persons in the party, and one of
ten command keys is used to initiate the call.. Besides availability inquiries and
sell and cancel transactions, the command keys include requests for departing a
arriving flight information and the print out at the processor location of wait
list requests.
There are approximately 800 keysets of the unified type, shown in the
photograph, in use. They are compatible with the 600 keysets of the earlier
"Reservisor" type.
Human engineering principles contributed to the design to give accuracy
and speed in use. The code
BRL 1961, TELEREGISTER UNIFIED AIRLINE, start page 0879
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TWA ticket agent using a Teleregister agent set to check availability for
customer. Over 1000 similar agent sets are in operation for 8 major airlines.
Photo by The Teleregister Corporation
plate eliminates the keying in of flight numbers and gives a positive reference
for all replies. The set is rugged and compact.
The processors include a teletype message editor, which scans incoming
messages for data on seats sold or canceled. When the editor finds a
transaction affecting inventory, it bids for the processor and passes on the
data so that inventory is updated.
Similarly, when variable inventory control levels are reached, teletype
status messages are automatically generated and transmitted to the
interested stations.
CIRCUIT ELEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM
Type Quantity
Tubes 4,500
Diodes 3,000
Quantities dual processors and teletype translator at central location.
CHECKING FEATURES
Checking features include checks on magnetic drum recording and checks
input data codes. Read back check on translation is optional. Also two
processors are supplied with each system. They operate in "dual" mode,
meaning that they operate simultaneously on the same problem, and cross
check each other.
POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE. PREPARATION
Volume, System 6,400 cu ft
Area, System 800 sq ft
Room size 1,000 sq ft including
benches and cabinets
Floor loading 75 lbs/sq ft
Figures are for central equipment, including two processors .and typical
communications equipment.
A11 interconnections between processor units are made through
overhead ducts. A false ceiling may be used if desired.
Air conditioner is supplied by customer.
BRL 1961, TELEREGISTER UNIFIED AIRLINE, start page 0880
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PRODUCTION RECORD
Number produced to date 12
Number in current operation 12
Anticipated production rates Two per year
Time required for delivery 18 months
COST, PRICE AND RENTAL RATES
Price varies with the number of modules required by the application.
Attended maintenance for one, two, or three shifts is included in the
service contract.
PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS
One programmer is required.
Training made available by the manufacturer to the user includes
training of an initial group in the operation of the agents key set and in
the entering of basic data into the processor.
The logic and programs are wired in, therefore the only personnel
required for operation, besides the reservation agents, is some one to
assign inventory locations to flights and to enter the data that varies with
schedule changes.
RELIABILITY, OPERATING EXPERIENCE,
AND TIME AVAILABILITY
System up-time has averaged 99.8%. This degree of reliability, necessary for
a on-line, on demand system, is achieved by using dual processors. In the
event of an error detected by cross-checking between processors, a test
routine is initiated, and if one of the processors is faulty, it is cut out and the
other processor carries the load until repair has been accomplished. Many
components, such as seekers and communications terminating equipment, are
furnished in duplicate for fallback.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS
The outstanding feature of the Unified Airline Processor is its ability to
handle inputs from several hundred remote devices on a random demand basis.
Since it is a real-time system, it makes accessible to hundreds of agents current
information on seats available, returning cancelled space to inventory
immediately.
Reports on inventory, seats sold, status of flights, etc. can be printed out.
A Unified Airline Data Processing System almost always includes
communications equipment so that input/output sets may be located at any
distance from the central equipment. Agent sets for Teleregister airline systems
are located in more than 100 cities in the United States and Canada. For the
Unified System, 75 or 100 words per minute telegraph circuits, leased by the
customer, are used. Several drops can be located on one circuit through a
speedy roll-call feature. Vertical parity checking is used to detect
communication errors.
BRL 1961, TELEREGISTER UNIFIED AIRLINE, start page 0881
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BRL 1961, TRICE, start page 0882
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TRICE
Packard Bell Transistorized Real Time Incremental
Computer Expandable
MANUFACTURER
Packard Bell Computer Corporation
Photo by Packard Bell Computer Corporation
APPLICATIONS
The TRICE is a digital differential analyzer capable of solving directly
any equations capable of being expressed in differential form at real time
speeds. The TRICE may operate independently in the solution of these
equations or it may be used with actual hardware or analog computers to
perform real time simulation or test. The standard console can be supplied
with up to 108 computing modules. Connection to additional consoles is
provided for.
The TRICE consists of independent computing modules which, perform the
operation of integration, summation and multiplication. These modules are
interconnected by means of a removable patch panel to solve differential
equations. The TRICE achieves real time speeds by means of a 3 Me clock
frequency and parallel organization. All computing elements operate
simultaneously. The iteration rate of the TRICE is 100 KC. This is 1,000 times
faster than any previous DDA.
PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM
Internal number system Binary
Binary digits per word 26 bits plus sign max.
Arithetic system Fixed point
Incremental, ternary transfer (existence and sign
Programmed interconnection of independent computing modules
The TRICE has the following types of independent
computing modules:
Integrator [delta] Y Super
Constant Multiplier Servo
Variable Multiplier Decision Servo
The TRICE is programmed much the same as an analog computer. The
computing modules are connected directly to perform the operations indicated
in the equations. This provides a "feel" for the problem and permits very rapid
programming. The results of
BRL 1961, TRICE, start page 0883
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a change in a problem parameter by the operator can be
observed immediately in the form of X-Y plots, time history
recordings, or digital readout. Thus the TRICE can be used as a
design tool.
ARITHMETIC UNIT
Up to 100,000 iterations per second for all operations,
including addition, multiplication and division.
An integrator uses 110 transistors.
Arithmetic mode Serial Incremental, ternary transfer
Timing Synchronous
Operation Sequential and concurrent
Integration can be performed with respect to any variable.
The TRICE is not limited to integration with respect to
time.
STORAGE
Access
Medium No. of Words No. of Digits Microsec
Delay Line 1 word/module 26 bits + sign 10
(Electromagnetic)
A patch panel is used for "storage" of the program.
INPUT
Media Speed
Keyboard Manual
Either octal or decimal entry is possible.
Paper Tape 60 char/sec
A 108 module machine can be loaded in 30 sec.
A to D Converters Incremental up to 100 KC
Packard Bell Model M-1 standard equipment. Voltage input
is from transducers, etc.
OUTPUT
Media Speed
Registers (Octal or Decimal) Updated at 100 KC rate
Visual readout of digital information in computing
registers
Paper Tape 60 char/sec
Automatic on time basis or at maxima or minima, etc.
D/A ConvertersIncremental up to 100 KC
Voltage output to X -Y plotters, servo inputs, etc. PB Model
DA-3 standard
The TRICE has a Decimal to Binary - Binary to Decimal
converter Scaler which converts to binary and automatically
scales decimal information for entry into the machine. The same
converter also converts the binary information to decimal for
output. An off line automatic typewriter is used to prepare and
read the paper tape. Tape can also be prepared from the control
panel keyboard.
Any number of analog input and outputs may be handled,
through A to D and D to A converters. These inputs and outputs
may be from hardware under test or an analog computer.
CIRCUIT ELEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM
Type Quantity
Tubes l/module
Diodes 400/module
Transistors 110/module
Above figures are approximate.
The tubes are Amperex indicators for overflow indication. These
are the only tubes used in the machine. They are miniature CRT's
used for register and overflow indicators.
The TRICE is constructed entirely of solid-state components.
The TRICE has been in existence for over two years to date, and
has proven to be extremely reliable with very little down time.
Low power consumption and freedom from heating problems
provide a long operating life. All components are derated by at
least 50%.
CHECKING FEATURES
Checking features include automatic halt on overflow. Overflow
indicator provided for each module. Digital operation permits a
digit-by-digit check against previous runs or against check
solutions run of a general purpose computer.
POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE PREPARATION
KVA, computer 1 to 2 KVA
Volume, computer 70 to 108 cu ft
Area, computer 19 to 2'( sq ft
PRODUCTION RECORD
Number produced to date 5
Number in-current operation 4
Number in current production 1
Number on order 1
Anticipated production rates 3/year
Time required for delivery 6 Months
COST, PRICE AND RENTAL RATES
Approximate
Cost of
Component
Console (Control Unit & Patch Bay) $ 23,000
Integrator (Mar. of 65/console) 2,800 ea
Decision Servo (Mar. of 12/console) 2,500 ea
Constant Multipliers (Max. of 30/ 2,000 ea
console)
Variable Multipliers (Mar. of 6/console) 4,000 ea
Delta Y Summers 4 each 2,500 ea
Additional EquipmentCost of Equipment
Paper Tape Input $ 8,000
Paper Tape Output 6,000
Binary Decimal Converter & Scales 10,000
A-D Converters (M-1) 10,000
1 DA-3 in M-1 case 2,500
3 DA-3 in separate case 10,500
PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS
One operator is required for each 8-hour shift.
Formal training is not required. After reading the programming
manual several hours of familiarization with the machine enables
anyone with a knowledge of differential equations to program
and operate the machine.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS
A 3 Mc clack plus parallel organization of independent
computing modules provide computation at real time speeds
formerly ascribed to analog computers but with an order of
magnitude greater accuracy and exact repeatability.
Any number of analog channels in and out may be connected
to operate with hardware or analog computers at an effective
sampling rate of 100 KC/channel.
A Digital/Analog Function Table (DAFT), a digital system for
the generation of arbitrary or analytical functions for analog and
digital computers, is available. The DAFT is incremental and
completely compatible with the TRICE.
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