Go To Table of Contents


BRL 1961, LEEDS NORTHRUP 3000, start page 0580

LEEDS NORTHRUP 3000

MANUFACTURER Leeds and Northrup Computer 3000 Leeds and Northrup Company Photo by Leeds and Northrup Company APPLICATIONS System is used for industrial process control. PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM Internal number system Binary Binary digits/word 20 + sign bit + parity bit Binary digits/instruction 6 bits Instructions per word 1 or 1/2, if 1 + 1 mode Instructions decoded 16 Basic Up to 64 by use of modifiers Arithmetic system Fixed point at extreme left Instruction type One address or 1 + 1 by means of programming Number range -1 < n < +1 Instruction word format +-----------+----------+--------+---------+------------+ | 1 8 | 9 14 |15 16 | 17 20 | 21 | +-----------+----------+--------+---------+------------+ | Track | Sector |Modi- |Instruc- | Type: | | Address |Address |fier | tion | Single | |(000-25510)|(000-06310)| | | or 1 + 1 | +-----------+----------+--------+---------+------------+ Automatic built-in subroutines include square root. Programing is done in simple pseudo-code with rel- ative addressing facility.
BRL 1961, LEEDS NORTHRUP 3000, start page 0581
ARITHMETIC UNIT Incl. Stor. Access Exclud. Stor. Access Microsec Microsec Add 910 130 mat 3,600 2,730 Div 3,600 2,730 Construction (Arithmetic unit only) Transistors Arithmetic mode Serial Timing Synchronous Operation Sequential STORAGE No. of Access Medium Words No. of Digits Microsec Magnetic Drum 16,260 357,720 bits Min. - 130 max. - 16,64 INPUT Media Speed Paper Tape 10 char ec (Flexowriter) Analog to Dig Con 5 point sec (10,000 count ADC) External counters50/sec (For integrated measure- ments, e.g. KWH Direct binary inputs 400-600/sec (For reading digital dial and On-Off status of external equipment) Being a control computer, the design emphasis is on direct inputs from the process under control or analysis. OUTPUT Media Speed Typewriters 10 char/sec Flexowriter, punch, IBM electric. Digital to Analog Con6/sec Stepping motors are used for DAC On-Off controls 50/sec Control state of external equipment. Annunciator lights 100/sec Stepping motors are used for digital to analog conversion, because they have inherent memory. CIRCUIT ELEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM Type Quantity Diodes 3,000 Transistors1,300 CHECKING FEATURES Parity bit in each word checks all transfers from drum memory. POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE PREPARATION Power, computer 0.60 Kw 0.65 KVA 0.925 Pf Volume, computer 25 cu ft Area, computer 9 sq ft Room size 6 x 12 ft Weight, computer 400 lbs RELIABILITY, OPERATING EXPERIENCE, AND TIME AVAILABILITY System features and construction techniques utilized by the manufacturer to insure required reliability include parity checks, solid state, plug-in components, rugged construction, and extensive checks on input-output equipment. ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS Outstanding features include powerful command structure, rapid access registers, and memory parity check. Unique system advantages include extensive checks on input-output equipment.
BRL 1961, LEPRECHAUN, start page 0582

LEPRECHAUN

TRADIC Second Feasibility Computer, LEPRECHAUN MANUFACTURER Bell Telephone Laboratories, Incorporated
Photo by Bell Telephone Laboratories, Incorporated APPLICATIONS The system was built under a U. S. Air Force contract for programming and logical design research on digital computers for military real-time control applications and as a feasibility model of a directcoupled transistor logic system and a transistor driven magnetic core storage unit. This solid-state computer features low power and small size. The design emphasizes reliability. PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM Internal number system Binary Binary digits/word 17, including sign Binary digits/instruction 17, including two spare bits Instructions/word 1 Instructions decoded 32 Instructions used 28 Arithmetic system Fixed point Instruction type One address Number range -1 < n < 1 ARITHMETIC UNIT Incl Stor Access Microsec Add 40 Mult 375 avg Div 520 Construction Transistors Arithmetic mode Parallel Timing Asynchronous Operation Concurrent
BRL 1961, LEPRECHAUN, start page 0583
STORAGE Medium Words Access Microsec Magnetic Cores 1,024 8 There are 18 bits/word stored, including an "odd" parity bit. The read-write cycle is 20 microseconds. INPUT Media Speed Paper Tape (Photoelectric)200 char/sec Keyboard Manual OUTPUT Media Speed Paper Tape (Punch)60 char/sec Typewriter 10 char/sec CIRCUIT ELEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM Crystal diodes 300 Magnetic cores 18,480 Transistors 5,000 The above figures are for the computer proper, and do not include input- output equipment. CHECKING FEATURES Odd parity checks on storage and input-output operations. POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE PREPARATION Power, computer 0.160 Kw Volume, computer 16 cu ft Weight, computer 450 lbs Figures are for computer proper and do not include input-output equipment. PRODUCTION RECORD Number produced 1 Number in operation 1 This system is a feasibility model and was not designed for production. RELIABILITY, OPERATING EXPERIENCE, AND TIME AVAILABILITY This system has been completed. ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS LEPRECHAUN features flexibility in the logical interconnections in order to make it useful for logical design research. The operation code has been designed to eliminate the need for many "redtape" operations. For example, a special unconditional jump operation simplifies the inclusion of subroutines in a program. Address modification is accomplished by direct substitution. This operation, together with a repeat operation, which operates on sequential addresses, gives operation equivalent to a B-box. The machine contains a manual breakpoint provision, several checking modes of operation and complete marginal checking facilities. INSTALLATIONS Bell Telephone Laboratories, Incorporated Whippany, New Jersey
BRL 1961, LGP 30, start page 0584

LGP 30

Librascope General Purpose Computer Model 30 MANUFACTURER Royal McBee Corporation Librascope, Incorporated
Photo by Flight Simulation Laboratory, WSMR, N. M. APPLICATIONS Manufacturer System is designed for scientific computations, e.g. statistical analysis, operations research, war gaming, bridge and highway design, aeronautical, chemical, electronic, hydraulic, mechanical, mining, nuclear, optical, biological, physical and mathematical research; and data processing, e.g. payroll; cost accounting, distribution and analysis; inventory control; sales analysis. ADDS Committee, Officers' Dept., USASCS, Ft. Monmouth System is located in Myer Hall, Room G05, Fort Monmouth, New Jersey. System is used for instruction. Materials Research Laboratory, Watertown Arsenal, Watertown, Massachusetts Located at Watertown Arsenal, Watertown, Massachusetts, system is used for numerical integration, least squares curve-fitting, data processing, finite differences, numerical solution of differential equations, algebraic equations (minimization, etc.), and trial and error solution of equations. U. S. A. Watertown Arsenal laboratories Located in Building 39, Watertown Arsenal, computer is used for matrix inversion, numerical integrations of definite integrals and differential equations, diagonalization of matrices, solution of transcendental equations, arising from problems in solid state physics, elasticity, and elastic instability, and thin shell theory. White Sands Missile Range Located at the Flight Simulation Laboratory, Building 1526, White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, the system is used for small problems, mathematical research, and preliminary checkout for problems to be run on large computers. Pitman-Dunn Laboratories, Frank ford Arsenal Located at Building 202, 3rd Floor, Optical Branch, Fire Control Division, system is used for design of optical systems and components for fire control instruments and related activities. U. S. Navy Hydrographic Office Located at FOB No. 3, Room G274B, the system is used for mathematical and statistical studies made of the various parameters of the ocean, primarily in connection with anti-submarine warfare but also in connection with ice forecasting and climatology.
BRL 1961, LGP 30, start page 0585
Photo by Tennessee Valley Authority U. S. Naval Ordnance Test Station, Pasadena Located at 3202 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena, California, system is used for scientific analysis and data reduction. NASA-Goddard Space Flight Center One LGP 30 at the Control Center, Greenbelt, Md. and two LGP 30's at Anacostia Naval Station, Wash., D.C., are used for orbital calculations, trajectory analysis, data reduction, and mathematical studies. The organization is responsible for the provision of equipment and services for tracking satellites and probes in nearby portions of space, for obtaining telemetry data from these satellites and probes, and for computing their orbits and providing station predictions, ephemerides and definitive orbits as required by all participating organizations. Tennessee Valley Authority, Flood Control Branch Located at the TVA, 718 Union Building, Knoxville, Tennessee, system is used for principally hydrologic and hydraulic computations for watersheds, streams, and reservoirs. Limited use in design computations. Aircraft Armaments, Inc. Located at the Systems Engineering Department, Main Engineering Building, system is used for mathematical solutions for research and advanced engineering problems involving differential equations, simultaneous equations (both linear and differential), numerical integrations, nth degree polynomials, exponentials, and trigonometric functions. Some of the applied engineering problems have been concerned with interior and exterior ballistics, trajectories (projectile and rocket sled), probability studies, stress and weight analyses, etc. ACF Electronics Division Located at 11 Park Place, Paramus, New Jersey, system is used for optical design (ray tracing), vibration studies (railroad train coupling), integral transforms (Fourier Analysis), navigation, satellite and missile trajectories, reliability studies, reticle design, and miscellaneous "One Time" problems. Convair-Fort Worth, General Dynamics Corp. Located at Engineering Flight Test, system is used for editing and calibration of flight test data. General Electric-Missile and Space Vehicle Dept. Located at 3198 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia 4, Pa., system is used for solution of equations in flight test data reduction; engineering computations, including aerodynamics, flight mechanics, space science, mechanics problems, and trajectory analysis. The Griscom-Russell Company Located at Massillon, Ohio, two systems are used for functional design of heat exchangers and general engineering calculations.
BRL 1961, LGP 30, start page 0586
Photo by Aircraft Armaments, Inc. Mutual Insurance Advisory Association Located at 111 Fourth Avenue, New York 3, New York, system is used for actuarial and statistical work in connection with casualty insurance ratemaking. This type of work involves relatively small input used for numerous algebraic calculations. Raytheon Company-Missile Systems Division Located in the Aerophysics Design Department, system is used to obtain solutions to scientific problems in the fields of aerodynamics, structures, and system analysis, which would not be economical on larger systems. Research Division, Servomechanisms, Inc. Located in Building 114, Santa Barbara Airport, system is used for the mathematical simulation of proposed engineering designs; calculation of special functions arising in particular engineering tasks; laboratory data reduction; and solution of various linear and non-linear equations, many of which cannot be analized by classical methods. Technical Operations, Inc., Fort Monroe, Virginia Located at Fort Monroe, Virginia, this computer is used to perform scientific computations in support of operations research and war gaming activities. The LGP 30 has been used extensively to process, reduce and statistically analyse data. A variety of applications to war gaming activities also exist. As examples, artillery, close combat and tank antitank assessment .are currently carried out for War Games Division, CD, on the computer on either a precomputed or "on-line" basis. Western Electric Company, Inc. At Winston-Salem, North Carolina, there are two such systems in use by this organization. Both are used to monitor the performance of automated production lines for electrical components. These production lines consist of completely automatic, specially designed manufacturing facilities integrated into a production line by automatic transport feed facilities. At strategic points automatic monitoring devices inspect the product and transmit these data through input equipment into the computer. The computer analyzes these data on a statistical basis and if corrective action is needed at any point on the production, the computer decides both the correction and magnitude and achieves control through the output equipment. Computation Center, Dartmouth College As a separate department closely associated with the Mathematics Department, physically located in a small room on campus, the system is used to train undergraduates in the use of a computer, as a laboratory adjunct to several courses, especially numerical
BRL 1961, LGP 30, start page 0587
Photo by the Raytheon Company analysis, as a research tool for faculty and student use, and as a basis for computer oriented research (compilers). Johns Hopkins University Located in Room 426 of the Computation Center, Homewood Branch, the system is used for research and teaching in fields of Engineering, Science, Social Relations, Economics, Medicine, Biostatistics and Related Studies. Lehigh University Located at the Industrial Engineering Department, Packard Lab, Bethlehem, Pa., the system is used for engineering and scientific analysis and design, statistics and curve fitting, data processing, systems simulation, and classwork in problem-solving. Missouri School of Mines and Metallurgy Located at the Computer Center on the campus of the Missouri School of Mines and Metallurgy at Rolls, Missouri, the system is used for research in Engineering and the Sciences by the faculty and graduate students of the Missouri School of Mines and Metallurgy, regular scheduled courses in Numerical Analysis, programming of digital computers and the design of digital computers for both undergraduate and graduate students. A very small amount of time is available for commercial use. Ohio University Located in Juper Hall, Ohio University, Athens, Ohio, system is used for teaching and research in atomic and nuclear physics and chemistry. University of South Carolina Located at the University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, system is used for instruction and research. PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM Manufacturer Internal number system Binary Binary digits/word 32 Binary digits/instruction 32 Instructions/word 1 Instructions decoded 16 Arithmetic system Fixed point Simulate floating point by programming Instruction type One address Number range 9 decimal digits - 5 alpha Instruction word format +--------------+------------+--------+-----------------+-------+ | | Command | | Address | | +--------------+------------+--------+-----------------+-------+ | 1 10 | 11 15 | 16 17 | 18 29 | 30 31 | +--------------+------------+--------+-----------------+-------+ Automatic coding includes compilers, assemblers, and interpretitive systems. Registers includes an accumulator - double extension, an instruction, a counter, and 4096 memory registers.
BRL 1961, LGP 30, start page 0588
Photo by Servomechanisms, Inc. ARITHMETIC UNIT Manufacturer Incl Stor Access Exclud Stor Access Microsec Microsec Add 2,000 - average 250 constant Mult 17,000 17,000 Div 17,000 17,000 Construction (Arithmetic unit only) Vacuum tubes 113 Diodes 1,450 Arithmetic mode Serial Timing Synchronous Operation Sequential STORAGE Manufacturer No. of No. of Access Medium Words Digits Microsec Magnetic Drum 4,096 32 binary Min. 2,000 Avg. 8,500 A complete instruction can be done in 2200 microseconds, including both accesses when optimum programed. Maximum operation time is 15,000 microseconds (the time for one revolution of the drum which rotates at 4,000 rpm. All user's systems have a 4,096 word drum. INPUT Manufacturer Media Speed Paper Tape (Photo-electric) 200 char/sec Paper Tape (Typewriter) 12 char/sec Cards 20 char/sec The high speed paper tape reader is for input only and makes possible loading the entire drum: 64 tracks of the LGP 30 in a maximum of five minutes. The following organizations have the high speed photoelectric paper tape reader: ADDS Committee, Officers' Dept., USASCS, Ft. Monmouth Materials Research laboratory, Watertown Arsenal U. S. A. Watertown Arsenal Laboratories Ordnance Mission, White Sands Missile Range U. S. Navy Hydrographic Office NASA-Goddard Space Flight Center Tennessee Valley Authority-Flood Control Branch The Griscom-Russell Company Mutual Insurance Advisory Association
BRL 1961, LGP 30, start page 0589
Raytheon Company- Missile Systems Division Technical Operations, Inc., Fort Monroe, Virginia Johns Hopkins University Missouri School of Mines and Metallurgy Ohio University Western Electric Company, Inc. Media Speed Electronic equipment by140,000/sec. meaningful Western Electric impulses Voltage to frequency converter fed into binary frequency counter. Computer scans counter and extracts information. Special data gathering and control equipment designed by Western Electric from on line production equipment. Electric Typewriter10 char/sec OUTPUT Manufacturer Media Speed High Speed Punch 30 char/sec Tape Typewriter Punch 20 char/sec Tape Typewriter Print 20 char/sec X-Y Plotter Servomechanisms Typewriter 10 char/sec Tape Punch 10 char/sec Punch causes typewriter to print Automatic plotting equipment includes a separate tape reader (Friden, a digital analog converter, and a servo plotting board (Mosely Autograph). W. E. Electronic equipment 140,000/sec. meaningful designed by Western Electric impulses Consists of Diode Logic and transistor flip flops actuating binary relays. Electric Typewriter 10 char/sec CIRCUIT ELEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM Manufacturer Tubes 113 (Miniature, computer type) Tube types 7 Primarily 5687, 5965 and 5915 Crystal diodes 1,500 Subminiature Printed circuits are used extensively. POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE PREPARATION Manufacturer Power, computer 1.15 Kw 1.5 KVA 60 cycle single phase line Volume, computer 21.8 cu ft Length, computer 44 in Height, computer 33 in Depth, computer 26 in Area, computer 8.19 sq ft Room size 5 ft x 5 ft min. Floor loading 97.7 lbs/sq ft 800 lbs concen max Weight, computer 800 lbs Normal office power is required. USASCS No special site preparation requirements other than air conditioning. MRL Watertown Arsenal We do have air conditioning, but it is a part of a larger system and was not essential for the operation of computer. However, room temperature should be kept below 97o. USA WAL No special preparation necessary. P-DL FA Required wiring from existing transformer. USN Hydro Essentially the only requirement is access to 115 volt, 60 cycle, single phase, 13 ampere alternating current. US NOTS No requirements. NASA No requirements. TVA No site preparation. AA The LGP 30 computer is located in a separate room (9'x10') on the second floor of the main Engineering Building. The building is of masonry construction and the walls of the computer room are dry-wall (plaster board) construction. An exhaust vent, which includes a blower, supplements the internal blower of the computer. The entire building is air-conditioned. ACF No site requirements but it would be advantageous to have sound absorbing materi al on walls and/or ceiling of computer room. Convair No site requirements. GE No site preparation. 220 VAC power outlet installed. GR Direct power line for 2 computers. 7 Tons of air conditioning. MIAA No site preparation required for LGP 30 installations. Advised to have separate 110 ckt. for ideal operation. Raytheon No site preparation requirements. Suggested minimum 100 sq ft of space. Servomechanisms Acoustic tile on portion of one wall; separately fused (breaker) for computer only. TO, Inc. Since this computer is desk size and requires no supplementary air conditioning, site preparation and/ or modification is minimized. It is necessary to install the computer in an area where sufficient ventilation is provided to exhaust 5,000 BTU/hour dissipated by computer electrical components. In the case of this installation, excess heating of an inside room where the computer was in use made it necessary to install a forced air vent system in the wall. Acoustic tile was also used in the room to reduce the noise level associated with computer operation. WE Isolated 110 volt power circuit. Lehigh University No site preparation requirements. MSMM No site preparation requirements. Ohio U. Installed in a room converted from a machine shopis now a class room. U of S.C. No special preparations.
BRL 1961, LGP 30, start page 0590
PRODUCTION RECORD Manufacturer Number produced to date 462 Number in current operation 450 Number in current production 20 Number on order 38 Anticipated production rates 10 per month Time required for delivery 1 month COST, PRICE AND RENTAL RATES Manufacturer Cost of basic system Computer and tape-typewritercommercial $49,500 government 49,300 educational 29,700 Cost for additional equipment High speed punch and photo-reader $ 6,360 Photoelectric reader alone 4,800 Punched card control unit and X-Y plotter purchased by special arrangement. Rental for basic system $1,100/month, commercial and government, $880 educational. Rental rates for additional equipment Punch and reader $265/mo X-Y plotter 300/mo Card input unit 100/mo Photo-reader 200/mo Maintenance included in rental; service contract available for purchasers. USASCS Cost of basic system is $43,500 for the LGP and Flexowriter, and $4,800 for the tape reader. Maintenance service contract cost $1,750/annum, without parts. USA WAL $1,500 per month for computer, photo-reader and extra tape typewriter. WSMR LGP 30 and Flexowriter rent for $1,100 per month. Paper tape reader rents for $200 per month. Additional Flexowriter rents for $150 per month. GR Two LGP 30s rent for $1,100 each, total $2,200/month. Flexowriter $150/mo Photo-reader 200/mo Punch 65 mo Total 15 mo Servomechanisms LGP 30 with aper tape reader, punch, Friden Typewriter cost 50,000. Tape reader, digital to analog converter, servo plotting board cost $4,000. No contract at present; service labor rate is $12.50 per hour. T0, Inc. LGP 30 Computer with typewriter rents for $1,150/mo. High speed reader-punch and auxiliary typewriter rents for $365/mo. "On-call" servicing from Washington, D. C. ($50 service charge). WE $70 000 total cost (includes special input and outputj. Dartmouth LGP 30 with attached Flexowriter, extra Flexowriter, and photoreader about $37,000, school cost. About $2,500 per year, plus parts, plus travel over fifty miles. Lehigh U. Cost of basic system Computer $49,500 Cost of additional equipment Photo-reader and punch 6,360 Maintenance service contract is $2,500/year. MSMM 1 Royal McBee LGP 30 Computer$29,700 1 Royal McBee Model 342 High Speed Paper Tape Reader and Punch, 1 Off-line tape typewriter (Flexowriter); grant from Royal McBee Corp. None first year. All addition years will be $4,500 per year including all parts and service for entire system. PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS Manufacturer Requirements among users will vary widely. Many existing LGP 30 installations are staffed by one programmer and one tape punch operator; others, by one person performing all functions; others, by one person for each function. No maintenance or other technical personnel are required by the user. Manufacturer trains by programming schools for users (no cost), maintenance schools for users, if desired ($600 per person), and local assistance by applications analysts (no cost). USASCS One 8-Hour Shift Programmers 5-25 Operators 1 Training is at no cost to the government. Any engr, math, or phy can be taught in 2 weeks. Maintenance course, 5 weeks at $500/person. MRL Watertown Arsenal In general the machine runs about 42 hours a week. Six persons from three separate organizations (all. located at Watertown Arsenal) use the machine and do their own programming, operating, and preparation of tapes. The operation of the computer is a part time job for all six persons, most of whom are mathematicians. Operation tends toward open shop. Twelve hour course given on site by Royal McBee personnel. Also programming school (two weeks course) is available through Royal McBee Corporation, free of charge. USA WAL One 8-Hour Shift Supervisors 2 Programmers 5 Operation tends toward closed shop. Courses were given by Royal McBee Corporation. Occasional two or three-shift operation is necessary, but not enough to warrant hiring extra people. P-DL FA The computer is programmed and operated by six individuals engaged in optical design activity with an estimated total time equivalent to that of one full. time employee. The majority of programs covering optical ray trace methods and related activities have been provided by the Royal McBee Corporation. The modifications required to adopt these programs for our particular needs have been completed. Minor modifications to these programs and new programs which are relatively short are developed by optical
BRL 1961, LGP 30, start page 0591
personnel. Any future modifications of a lengthy nature or extensive programs for automatic lens design would be performed by either the mathematics section or by contract. Total cost estimated for this activity would be equivalent to that of using one employee on a half time basis. Operation tends toward closed shop.. Personnel attended a two week training course offered by Royal McBee's New York office. TVA The LGP 30 is used by a staff of approximately 25 engineers as needed. One of the staff engineers acts as supervisor or coordinator of machine activities. This supervision requires approximately 20% of his time. The number of engineers using the LGP 30 is continually increasing. Scheduling and time keeping is on an informal basis. Operation tends toward open shop. Approximately 40 people were trained by a Royal McBee instructor when the computer was installed. Approximately 20 people have been trained by in-ser- vice training and self study. Approximately 35 peo- ple were trained recently in a TVA sponsored after hours training class. Other classes will be held as the need arises. AA One programmer/operator is required normally, but two often are employed under high computer work load conditions. The computer is used on one standard 8-hour shift (40-hour week) and is in operation approximately 60,% of the time. Operation tends toward open shop. No formal methods of training have been introduced as of this time. Lectures on prograamming and opera- tion of the computer have been given to various com- pany personnel and will be continued. Convair Complete open shop, no personnel uniquely assigned. GE One 8-Hour Shift Supervisors 1 Analysts 6 Programmers 6 Coders 5 Operators 1 Engineers 4 Technicians 1 Operation tends toward open shop. On-the-,job training used. Raytheon At the present time, there are ei t (8) mathematicians and engineers from two (2)departments using this system, for which one person is responsible. Servomechanisms One 8-Hour Shift Used Recommended Supervisors .1 .1 Analysts .1 .2 Programmers .4 .7 Clerks .1 .2 Operators .5 .7 Operation tends toward open shop. Company sponsored classes open to all advanced engineering employees,- (usually 2 hours per day for one week, each year). T0, Inc. The simplicity of LGP 30 operation makes it feasible to train most analysts to use computational facilities, whenever a problem is encountered suitable for computer solution. For the most part the analyst will program, code, and "debug" his own particular problem. In those cases where problems will involve more detailed programming or extensive coding and "debugging", programmer-coders are available to assume responsibility for the problem. This open shop operation is tailored to the requirements of this organization and has, thus far, proved to be quite efficient. Operation tends toward open shop. Twoprocedures have been used at this installation. These are 1. attendance at a two week LGP 30 pro- gramming course and 2. on-the-job training super- vised by experienced personnel. Option 2 is generally used in those cases where analysts or programmers have prior computer experience. Dartmouth One machine supervisor is used. All our programming is done by students. About 10 of them keep the machine busy all week one full shift by putting in about 6 hours apiece. Operation tends toward open shop. Training is "sink or swim" with help given as needed. We give the students a simple problem, a machine manual, a few words of advice and let them work on their own. We do not give extensive lectures, but may give one or two hours when computing is part of regular course where the students do not have the time to learn by themselves. Lehigh U. One 8-Hour Shift Two 8-Hour Shifts Used Recomm Used Recomm Supervisors 1 1 1 Analysts 1 2 1 Programmers 2 2 Coders 1 2 1 1 Clerk-Librarian 1 2 1 Operators 1 1 1 Operation tends toward open shop. Methods of training used includes Compiler (short informal course), Interpreter (short, formal course), Basic Language (intensive course with extensive, in- formal practice) and Operation (intensive course with extensive, informal practice). Plan to teach operation with special "Automated Program". NEW 1 supervisor 2/3 time - recommended 1 full time 1 combination programmer and operator - recommended 2 1 combination coder and clerk - recommended 2 Operation tends toward open shop. Regular scheduled university courses in Numerical Analysis, Programming, and operation of the computer. Occasionally short courses in programming and operation are taught. Ohio U. A course (1 semester, 3 hour credit) is offered in the Mathematics Department. Operation tends toward open shop. U of S. C. One 8-Hour Shift Supervisors 1 Analysts 1 Programmers 1 Operation tends toward open shop. Individual instruction to students. RELIABILITY, OPERATING EXPERIENCE, AND TIME AVAILABILITY Manufacturer operating ratio (Good/Attempted to run time) 0.95 Figure based on user performance records.
BRL 1961, LGP 30, start page 0592
MRL Watertown Arsenal Good time 39 Hours/Week Average Attempted to run time 42 Hours/Week Average) Operating ratio (Good/Attempted to run time) 0.93 Above figures based on period from May 59 to May 60 Time is not available for rent to outside organizations. USA WAL Good time 21 Hours/Week (Average) Operating ratio (Good/Attempted to run time) 0.875 Above figures based on period 27 Sep 59 to 12 Dec 59 Passed Customer Acceptance Test 5 May 59 Time is not available for rent to outside organizations. WSMR Good time39.5 Hours/Week (Average) Attempted to run time40 Hours/Week (Average) Operating ratio (Good/Attempted to run time) 0.99 Above figures based on period from Jun 58 to Apr 60 Passed Customer Acceptance Test Jun 58 Time is not available for rent to outside organizations. P-DL FA Good time34.2 Hours/Week Average Attempted to run time 37.4 Hours/Week (Average) Operating ratio (Good/Attempted to run time) 0.932 Above figures based on period from Nov 59 to Apr 60 Passed Customer Acceptance Test Apr 59 Time is not available for rent to outside organizations. USN Hydro Good time 36 Hours/Week (Average) Attempted to run time40 Hours/Week (Average) Operating ratio (Good/Attempted to run time) 0.90 Above figures based on period 1 Apr 59 to 20 Apr 60 Passed Customer Acceptance Test Apr 59 Time is not available for rent to outside organizations. US NOTS Good time 25 Hours/Week (Average) Attempted to run time29 Hours/Week (Average) Operating ratio (Good/Attempted to run time) 0.86 Above figures based on period 1 Dec 59 to 1 May 60 Passed Customer Acceptance Test Nov 59 Time is not available for rent to outside organizations. This is a small computer but it is capable of handling a large number of general engineering and scientific problems. It presently complements an IBM 709 located at the Naval Ordnance Test Station at China Lake, Calif. NASA Good time 23.0; 36.0; 25.7 Hours/Week (Average) Attempted to run time 33.4; 38.9; 34.2 Hours/Week operating ratio 0.689; 0.925; 0.751 Abovefigures based on period from 1 Feb to 10 Apr Time is not available for rent to outside organiza- tions. TVA Good time 36 Hours/Week (Average) Attempted to run time 40 Hours/Week (Average) Operating ratio (Good/Attempted to run time) 0.90 Above figures based on period from Dec 57 to May 60 Passed Customer Acceptance Test Dec 57 Time is not available for rent to outside organizations. Down time varies considerably. There was one six month period of no down time. Service men come from out of town, so down time is largely travel time of the service man. AA Good time 24 Hours/Week (Average) Attempted to run time25 Hours/Week (Average) Operating ratio (Good/Attempted to run time) 0.95 Above figures based on period from Oct 59 to Apr 60 Time is available for rent to outside organizations The LGP 30 has been a very reliable computer with little or no down time except for periodic preventive maintenance checks. The Flexowriter (standard input-output unit) has given only those minor difficulties usually encountered with typewriters. ACF Good time 24 Hours/Week (Average Attempted to run time30 Hours/Week (Average Operating ratio (Good/Attempted to run time) 0.80 Above figures based on period from Jul 59 to Jul 60 Time is available for rent to qualified outside organizations. Convair Good time40 Hours/Week (Average) Attempted to run time44 Hours/Week (Average) Operating ratio (Good/Attempted to run time) 0.91 Above figures based on period 1 Jan 59 to 31 Dec 59 Passed Customer Acceptance Test 1 May 58 Time is available for rent to outside organizations GE Average error-free running period 34 Hours Good time 34 Hours/Week (Average) Attempted to run time35 Hours/Week (Average; Operating ratio (Good/Attempted to run time) 0.97 Above figures based on period from Jan 60 to Aug 60 Passed Customer Acceptance Test Jan 60 Time is not available for rent to outside organizations. GR Average error-free running period 190 Hours Good time37.3 Hours/Week (Average) Attempted to run time41.2 Hours/Week (Average) Operating ratio (Good/Attempted to run time) 0.905 Above figures based on period 1 Jan 60 to 30 Mar 60 Time is not available for rent to outside organizations. lst LGP 30 installed Aug 57 and replaced Mar 59. 2nd LGP 30 installed Mar 59 Raytheon Good time 28 Hours/Week Average) Attempted to run time32 Hours/Week Average) Operating ratio (Good/Attempted to run time) 0.875 Above figures based on period from May 60 to Aug 60 Passed Customer Acceptance Test Aug 58 Time is not available for rent to outside organizations. Since the operating costs of this machine are extremely inexpensive, since this system is open shop not emphasizing programming skills, and since long production runs are left running unattended all night, we do not try to schedule work to obtain 100% utilization during regular working hours; however, it is utilized at least 70,$ of this time with as much all night productions as necessary. It is not uncommon to have the machine running 24 continuous error-free hours. Servomechanisms Average error-free running period 6 - 7 Weeks Good time38 Hours/Week (Average) Attempted to run time40 Hours/Week (Average) Operating ratio (Good/Attempted to run time) 0.95 Above figures based on period Apr 59 to 26 Apr 60 Passed Customer Acceptance Test May 58 Time is available for rent to qualified outside organizations. T0, Inc. Average error-free running period 2 Months Good time34.3 Hours/Week (Average) Attempted to run time35.0 Hours/Week (Average) Operating ratio (Good/Attempted to run time) 0.98
BRL 1961, LGP 30, start page 0593
Above figures based on period 25 Feb 59 to 25 Apr 60 Passed Customer Acceptance Test 24 Feb 59 Time is not available for rent to outside organizations. Excellent reliability since installation. Hours/week running time is approaching full single shift opera tion as computational requirements continue to in- crease. WE Average error-free running period 360 Hours Good time35 Hours/Week (Average) Attempted to run time40 Hours/Week (Average) Operating ratio (Good/Attempted to run time) 0.875 Above figures based on period from Dee 58 to Jul 60 Passed Customer Acceptance Test 18 Dec 57 Time is not available for rent to outside organizations. Dartmouth Good time One week (Average) Operating ratio 0.90 Above figures based on period. 1 Jun 59 to 12 Apr 60 Time is not available for rent to outside organizations. We have about one breakdown every two weeks. We will then remain down for about two days since the repairman must make it a days trip from Boston. JHU Average error-free running period 1 Week Good time 35 Hours/Week (Average Attempted to run time40 Hours/Week (Average; Operating ratio (Good/Attempted to run time) 0.875 Above figures based on period from Feb 60 to Sep 60 Time is not available for rent to outside organiza- tions. General performance of computer has been good. Flexowriter input-output unit has been responsible for most of the computer down time. Lehigh U Good time 36 Hours/Week (Average Attempted to run time37 Hours/Week (Average Operating ratio (Good/Attempted to run time) 0.97 Above figures based on period 1 Jun 59 to 31 May 60 Passed Customer Acceptance Test 1 Dec 57 Time is available for rent to qualified outside organizations. Ohio U Good time 40 Hours/Week (Average Attempted to run time40 Hours/Week (Average; Operating ratio (Good/Attempted to run time) 0.95 Above figures based on period from 58 to 60 Passed Customer Acceptance Test 1957 Time is available for rent to qualified outside organizations. Open shop - we keep no records of who uses it, when, or what for. U of S.C. Good time60 Hours/Week (Average) Attempted to run time60 Hours/Week (Average; Above figures based on period from Jun 59 to Apr 60 Passed Customer Acceptance Test Jun 59 Time is available for rent to outside organizations. ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS Manufacturer Outstanding features include low cost; compactness; ease of programming; large users' organization with well-stocked program library; alphanumeric inputoutput including full format control; large memory; no special installation requirements; nation-wide maintenance and service network. MRL Watertown Arsenal Outstanding features include an internally stored program; large memory; flexibility with input, output; no special site preparation; relatively simple programming. Several compilers are available for the LGP 30, interpretive systems in floating point are extremely useful, and almost all of our work is done in floating point and there are a large number of subroutines available. WSMR Outstanding features include high reliability and simple programming. USN Hydro Outstanding features include compactness, low heat dissipation, and reasonable rental. TVA Outstanding features include simplicity 6f programming and operation and a practical manual input. Good machine for informal, open shop operation. The computer serves present needs very well. However, service from out of town is inconvenient and wasteful of time. AA Compact, desk-sized, completely mobile. Speed equal to many room-sized computers. Plugs into any regular wall outlet (110V). Compared to computers in its class the LGP 30 has the largest capacity (4096 words] for data and program. Paper program tapes and data tapes are labeled on the Flexowriter and stored in circular containers which are likewise labeled. These tape containers are stored in a metal cabinet with other computer literature and programming forms. ACF Outstanding features include ease of programming and large memory for machine of this price. GE outstanding features include ease of programming, small size and sufficient speed. Raytheon Outstanding features include low cost computations, simplicity in programming and operating, and may be used as a desk calculator. Servomechanisms Outstanding features include ease of programming and operating. T0, Inc. Outstanding features: This is a simple computer to program and operate. 4,000 words of fast access storage make this computer competitive with others renting for substantially higher rates. Input is easily accomplished using typewriter or tape input. Specific storage locations can be interrogated. Programming and "debugging" is simplified through the use of a single operation option which allows the coder to step through a program instruction by instruction. System is limited to paper tape inputoutput, 16 basic orders in fixed point operation, 1 logical order, one address, lack of MQ register makes double precision computation difficult, relatively slow, stops on accumulator overflow, and the requirement for "spacer bit" complicates programming. WE Outstanding feature is its simplicity of programming. Dartmouth System is small and. inexpensive, binary, homogeneous memory, able to do logical operations on symbols easily. Ohio U Outstanding feature is its ease of use. U of S. C. This LGP 30 is extremely reliable except for some Flexowriter troubles.
BRL 1961, LGP 30, start page 0594
FUTURE PLANS Manufacturer Production of basic system to continue with electronic improvements as developed. MRL Watertown Arsenal Present plans indicate renting a larger small scale computer to replace the LGP 30. The RPC 4000 is the latest machine developed by Royal Precision Corporation and has double the memory, double the number of instruction of the LGP 30, is fully transistorized and is much faster. Our computing needs demand the larger machine now. USA WAL It is possible that the present system will be replaced by the slightly larger and faster RPC 4000 at an undeterminate future date, but nothing definite has gotten underway on this. P-DL FA Contract with University of Rochester to develop a program for automatic lens design. US HOTS It is proposed to install a Digital Equipment Corporation PDP-3 Computer in the Simulation and Computer Center at NOTS, Pasadena. This would be a medium size (16K) very high speed computer which will be used for real time, physical, and computed simulation problems, in conjunction with the existing analog facility of over 600 amplifiers. Convair The function of the LGP 30 is being absorbed by the IBM 704. The LGP 30 will be eliminated. GE It is anticipated that one additional LGP 30 will be put into service. T0, Inc. The increased computational requirements of this organization during the past year, specifically in support of war gaming activity is indicative of a trend which will continue. A concentrated effort is being made to relieve the war gamer of the computational burden associated with combat assessment and thus improve and accelerate was gaming activity. This gradual automation of war game control functions is currently taxing our computational facilities. It is apparent that in the near future these facilities must be expanded. No specific system has been selected at this time, however, we are currently surveying the computer field in an effort to determine which is the system best tailored to our future needs. Dartmouth We plan to move in about a year to more suitable quarters. The Center will then consist of the machine room 20 by 30, an adjoining work 12 by 16, a store room 6 by 10. This room will be equipped efficiently for student and open shop operation. We have no plans at present for new equipment, though we would naturally want to keep approximate- ly up to date as new developments are made. MSMM Plans for the immediate future include the purchase of an extra tape typewriter, card input-output equipment and high accuracy analog computer equipment. Future plans also include the purchase of another digital computer with considerable more speed and capacity then the present LGP 30 computer system. All of this equipment to be installed in the Campus Computer Center. U of S.C. It is anticipated that a photoreader for the LGP 30 will be added. INSTALLATIONS ADPS Committee, Officers' Department, USASCS Fort Monmouth, New Jersey Materials Research Laboratory Watertown Arsenal Watertown, Massachusetts Watertown Arsenal Laboratories Watertown 72, Massachusetts Ordnance Mission White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico Pitman-Dunn Laboratories, Frank ford Arsenal Philadelphia 37, Pennsylvania U. S. Navy Hydrographic Office Washington 25, D. C. U. S. Naval Ordnance Test Station, Pasadena 3202 E. Foothill Blvd. Pasadena, California NASA - Goddard Space Flight Center c/o Anacostia Naval Station Washington 25, D. C. Tennessee Valley Authority, Flood Control Branch 712 Union Building Knoxville, Tennessee Aircraft Armaments, Inc. Cockeysville, Maryland ACF Electronics Division 11 Park Place Paramus, New Jersey Convair-Fort Worth Division of General Dynamics Corp. Fort Worth, Texas General Electric-Missile and Space Vehicle Dept. 3198 Chestnut Street Philadelphia 4, Pennsylvania The Griscom-Russell Company Massillon, Ohio Mutual Insurance Advisory Association 111 Fourth Avenue New York 3, N. Y.
BRL 1961, LGP 30, start page 0595
Raytheon Company Missile Systems Division Bedford, Massachusetts Research Division, Servomechanisms, Inc. Building 114, Santa Barbara Airport Goleta, California Technical Operations, Inc. Fort Monroe, Virginia Western Electric Company, Inc. 3300 Lexington Road, S. E. Winston-Salem, North Carolina Dartmouth College, Computation Center Hanover, New Hampshire Johns Hopkins University 34th and Charles Streets Baltimore 18, Maryland Lehigh University Bethlehem, Pennsylvania Missouri School of Mines and Metallurgy Rolla, Missouri Ohio University Athens, Ohio University of South Carolina Columbia, South Carolina
BRL 1961, LIBRASCOPE 407, start page 0596

LIBRASCOPE 407

Librascope407 MANUFACTURER General Precision, Inc. Librascope Division APPLICATIONS General purpose, airborne, guidance and navigational computer. PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM Internal number system Binary Number binary digits/word 22 Number binary digits/instruction 44 Number instructions per word 1 Arithmetic system Fixed point Instruction type Four address Instruction word format +--------------------------------------------+ | Current Instruction | +-------+--------+--------+-------+----------+ | as | at | bs | bt | Oper | +-------+--------+--------+-------+----------+ +--------------------------------------------+ | Next Instruction | +-------+--------+--------+-------+----------+ | cs | ct | ds | dt | Oper | +-------+--------+--------+-------+----------+ Operands are a, b, c Next instruction is d System includes 2 accumulators, 1 multiplicand, 1 multiplier register, and 2 instruction registers. ARITHMETIC UNIT Exclud. Stor. Access Microsec Add 100 Malt 2000 Div 4000 Construction(Arithmetic unit only) Transistors 500 Resistor-Diodes 5000 Arithmetic mode Serial Timing Synchronous Operation Sequential STORAGE No. of No. of Binary Medium Words Digits Drum 3000 66,ooo INPUT Media Pulse Analog-Digital Key Punch OUTPUT Medium Digital-Analog POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE PREPARATION Power, computer 0.25 Kw Volume, computer 0.9 cu ft Weight, computer 56 lbs INSTALLATIONS General Precision, Inc. Librascope Division 808 Western Avenue Glendale, California
BRL 1961, LIBRASCOPE 407, start page 0597
Photo by Librascope Division, General Precision Corporation
BRL 1961, LIBRASCOPE AIR TRAFFIC, start page 0598

LIBRASCOPE AIR TRAFFIC

Librascope Air Traffic Control Central Data Processor (ATC) MANUFACTURER Librascope Division General Precision, Incorporated Maddocks
Photo for Librascope Division, GP, Inc. APPLICATIONS System meets general purpose data processing requirements where high speed, large capacity random inquiry files are required and large numbers of different types of input-output systems are connected. Specifically, it is designed for on-line, real time use in the control of air traffic. Some functions are those of flight plan breakdown, conflict prediction, conflict resolution, flow prediction, flight strip preparation and updating, flight plan updating, etc. PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM Internal number system Binary coded decimal Binary coded decimal digits/word 8 Binary coded decimal digits 8 instruction Instructions per word 1 (includes field specification) Instructions decoded 31 Arithmetic system Fixed point (Magnitude plus sign) Instruction type One address Instruction word format +-------+------------+--------+--------+-------+------+------+------+ | - | C | X | Y | M | M | M | M | +-------+------------+--------+--------+-------+------+------+------+ | Not | Command | Field Specif | Operand Address | | used | | | | +-------+------------+-----------------+----------------------------+ Automatic built-in subroutines include an error mode, entered by detection of an error. It interrupts program, stores instruction address, and R register contents. ARITHMETIC UNIT Incl. Stor. Access Exclud. Stor. Access Microsec Microsec Add 32 22 Max. Mult 366 356 Av. Div 380 370 Av. Construction (Arithmetic unit only) Transistors 3,000 Arithmetic mode Serio-parallel Timing Synchronous Operation Serial by alphanumeric character Parallel by bit
BRL 1961, LIBRASCOPE AIR TRAFFIC, start page 0599
Maddocks Photo for Librascope Division, GP, Inc. STORAGE No. of No. of Access Media Words Digits Microsec Core Memory 4,000 32,000 10 Magnetic drum 256,000 2,032,000 16,000 Magnetic tape Multiple FR 300 units No. of units that can be connected 32 Units No. of characters/linear inch 200 Chars/inch Channels or tracks on the tape 7 Tracks/tape Blank tape separating each record 1/2 Inch Tape speed 75-150 Inches/sec Transfer rate 30,000 Chars/sec Start time 3 Millisec Stop time 3 Millisec Physical properties of tape Width1/2 Inches Length of reel 2,400 Feet Composition Oxide on paper or plastic INPUT No. of Multi- Media Speed plexed Channels Flexowriter 10 char/sec Photo Reader 330 char/sec Teletype via buffer 10 char/sec 12 Keyboard via display console 15,000-20,000 ch/s 30 Data Link 50 char/sec 4 Analog-Digital Conv from Radar 50 char/sec 2 Inter Computer via Buffer 200,000 ch/s 1
BRL 1961, LIBRASCOPE AIR TRAFFIC, start page 0600
Maddocks Photo for Librascope Division, GP, Inc. OUTPUT No. of Multi- Media Speed plexed Channels Flexowriter 10 chars/sec Teletype via Buffer 10 char/sec 7 Charactron via display console 15,000-20,000 ch/s 30 Flight strip via dis- play console 15,000-20,000 ch/s 30 Flight strip punch and printer 10 char/sec 12 Data Link 30 char/sec 7 Analog-Digital conv to radar trackers 30 char/sec 2 Inter Computer via buffer 200,000 char/sec 1 CIRCUIT ELEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM (For a minimum system TypeQuantity Tubes 0 Diodes About 5 types 1,500 Transistors 23,000 2N393 2N599 2N416 2N498 2N404 2N595 and a few others CHECKING FEATURES Checking features include parity on all registers, and all information exchanges between units. A dual adder is used in the arithmetic unit. Complete checking is performed. POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE PREPARATION Power, computer 3 Kw Power, air conditioner 2 Kw Volume, computer 140 cu ft Area, computer 23 sq ft Floor loading 20 lbs/sq ft Air conditioner is internal Weight, computer 3,000 lbs Air conditioner is included in above PRODUCTION RECORD Number produced to date 2 Number in current operation 1 Number in current production 2 Time required for delivery 12 months RELIABILITY, OPERATING EXPERIENCE, AND TIME AVAILABILITY Construction techniques utilized to insure reliability includes "NOR" circuitry, RTL logic, 100,E incoming inspection, rigid testing, "worse, worse" case type of design, extensive field reports on failures plus immediate corrective action, and the use of double rank registers. ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS System is particularly suited to systems requiring random retrieval from large unsorted files and systems with large numbers of input-output devices.
BRL 1961, LIBRASCOPE AIR TRAFFIC, start page 0601
Maddocks Photo for Librascope Division, GP, Inc. FUTURE PLANS It is planned to change to a 6 microsecond memory cycle time and increase the pulse rate, which will reduce the operation times by a factor of 4. Also, index registers will be added and the drum capacity will be increased. INSTALLATIONS Librascope Division of General Precision, Inc. 808 Western Avenue Glendale 1, California
BRL 1961, LIBRASCOPE ASN 24, start page 0602

LIBRASCOPE ASN 24

Librascope ASN 24 Airborne Digital Computer MANUFACTURER Librascope Division General Precision, Incorporated
Photo by Librascope Division, GP, Inc. APPLICATIONS The ASN-24 Computer is a highly versatile generalpurpose electronic digital computer which by virtue of its non-fixed internally-stored program, is easily adaptable to many commercial, scientific and military uses. In addition, its small size and weight and low power requirements make it particularly well suited for application in compact systems. While the ASN-24 Computer can be utilized for extensive on- line general purpose computing applications, it has been designed primarily to satisfy the complex environmental and operational performance requirements of airborne/spaceborne systems realtime applications. The computations may be made fry doppler derived ground speed, manually fed fixes, true heading, celestial position determination, and radio aids. Automatic inputs of the following form may be accepted. (When utilized with appropriate complementing input-output equipment): Compass heading Astro compass heading True air speed Doppler ground speed and drift angle Inertial velocity Radio aids TACAN range and bearing Automatic sextant (Celestial altitude and azimuth) Altitude above terrain or above sea level An internal standard for both sideral and solar time Star tracker New equipment as it is developed Information may also be fed into the computer manually. Manually stored information may be latitude, longitude, range, bearing, wind force or angle, or any direct fix data not available fry the aircraft's instrument. Basic data necessary for navigation may be set manually into the computer before take-off, or in the air.
BRL 1961, LIBRASCOPE ASN 24, start page 0603
The ASN-24 will perform the following basic computations as well as solve other desired navigational problems: Ground position in latitude and longitude with computing errors not to exceed 0.01% of distance traveled. Ground track Polar navigation Great circle course .and distance to alternate destinations Magnetic variation and true heading Wind direction and velocity (and has provision for wind memory) Celestial fixes Position from radar or radio aids (and will check these fixes for credibility) Range and bearing to a moving target Range and bearing to a collision point with a moving target Time to destination Altitude and azimuth of a celestial body Image motion compensation and timing for aerial photography PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM Internal number system Binary Binary digits/word 25 Binary digits/instruction 25 Instructions/word 1 Instructions decoded not applicable Arithmetic system Fixed point Instruction type Two-address (One-plus-one) The "one-plus-one" addresses are of the operand and the next instruction. Number range -1 to +1 - 224 Instruction word format +-------------+-------------+-------------+----------+------+ |P24P23P22P21P20|P19P18P17P16P15|P14P13P12P11P10P9|P8P7P6P5P4P3|P2P1P0| +-------------+-------------+-------------+----------+------+ | Ta | Tb | Sb | Sa | 0 | +-------------+-------------+-------------+----------+------+ Ta (P24 - P20)represents the track address of the next instruction Tb (P19 - P15) represents the track address of the operand (except for transfer and store orders) Sb (P14 - P9) represents the sector address of the operand (except for transfer and store orders) Sa (P8 - P3)represents the sector address of the next instruction 0 (P2 - P0)represents the order to be performed Transfer Orders: (Tb, Sb) represents the track and sector addresses of the next instruction if the contents of the accumulator is positive Store Orders:(Tb, Sb) defines the location into which the contents of the accumulator is stored, or defines the modified store order to be performed Automatic built-in subroutines include Add, Subtract, Multiply, Divide, Extract, Clear and Add, Conditional Transfer on Sign of Accumulator, Store, and Modified Store (Multiple). Registers include 4 recirculating registers. These are the Instruction, Accumulator, Multiplier, and Multiplicand. ARITHMETIC UNIT Incl Stor Access Exclud Stor Access Microsec Microsec Add 625 156 Mutt 4219 3907 Div 4375 4063 Construction (Arithmetic unit only) Transistors 382 Diodes 3553 Capacitors 347 Transformers 87 Resistors 1894 Arithmetic mode Serial Timing Synchronous Operation Sequential STORAGE No. of No. of Access Medium Words Digits Microsec Magnetic Drum 2,560 64,000 10,000 max 156 Min INPUT Media Speed Incremental Pulse 0-6000 pps Train Shaft Position to Sample: 100/sec Binary Coded Discs Slew Rate: 800 bits/sec Speed can be made higher Input/output equipment must be designed for each particular application; however, the particular design and wide applicability of the ASN-24 Computer insures minimum required design effort for input/output equipment. OUTPUT Media Speed Discretes Max 100 pps (voltage pulses) Signals of various time lengths and ampli- tudes are possible.Signals used to excite other equipment, close relays, etc. Encoder Disc Sample: 100 or 200/sec Slew Rate: 800 bits/sec Can be coupled to synchro, potentiometer, or other similar type shaft mechanism. CIRCUIT ELEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM Type Quantity Diodes 3,553 Transistors 382 Only silicon diodes and transistors are used for high temperature operation capability. These units have high back resistance and low leakage characteristics at high temperatures. The higher collector voltage ratings of silicon transistors permit larger logic swings, these reducing the susceptibility of the computer to noise. The resistors are 1/4 watt, carbon composition type, have low dielectric loss, DC resistivity, and high thermal shock resistance. Most of the capacitors are a solid tantalum type which have high dielectric strength and
BRL 1961, LIBRASCOPE ASN 24, start page 0603
have no derating of voltage over a large temperature range. The very small capacitors are the subminiature ceramic type. CHECKING FEATURES Routines programmed to check all instructions or order codes and the contents of the memory. Discrete signals, suitable for driving indicators, generated to indicate successful completion of check routines. The support equipment includes a FillTest Unit, which will.fill and check memory contents in conjunction with a tape reader and control the computer program with one- step or loop operation. It also provides test route and synchronization signals for oscilloscope presentation of computer information and Card Checker will check operation of individual circuit and logic cards. POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE. PREPARATION Power, computer 0.132 Kw0.189 KVA 0.7 Pf Does not include I/0 Volume, computer 0.55 cu ft Area, computer 1.42 sq ft Weight, computer 37 lbs System requires a suitable surface, table, etc., that is fairly steady, can support 31 lbs. etc. System requires only electrical power outlets, 28v DC and 3 phase, 400 cycle AC. PRODUCTION RECORD Number produced to date 4 Number in current operation 3 Number in current production 12 Number on order 16 PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS One 8-Hour Shift Supervisors 4 Analysts 1 Programmers 3 Clerks 4 Engineers 20 Technicians 7 Draftsmen 13 ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS Outstanding features include extremely wide variety of applications, operation under sea-level to space environments, light weight, low power drain, in actual operation in field, programmable high speed (200 times (sec). Integration of inputs and or extrapolation of outputs independent of main authentic section, and data read-out for telemeters. Basic computer unit designed and in field operation, input- output can be designed to meet a multitude of applications with minimum cost and time expenditures. Tie-in with pulse integrating accelerometers. Magnetic Memory Drum Capacity and Tracks: 41 tracks (1600 bits/track) of non-volatile main memory, arranged as follows: 38 tracks with 1 read head each; 2 tracks with 1 read and 1 write head each; 1 track with 1 read head and a 200 bit recirculating register. 1 1600 bit clock track 2 25 bit recirculating registers (2 registers on each of 2 tracks) 1 25 bit recirculating register with 4 additional heads on the same track 1 track with head spacings for either 200 bit or 800 bit recirculation. Speed: 6,000 rpm Clock Frequency: 160 kc Motor: Location: Contained within drum Power: 35 watts from 3 phase, 400 cycle, 208 volt Line-Line (60 watts starting power) Runout: 0.0001 T. I.R. Drum Assembly Dimensions (including shroud, a head mounting surface surrounding the drum proper; cover; and heads): 6 1/2 inch diameter x 5 1116 inches long Drum Assembly Weight (including shroud, cover and heads): 11 1/2 lbs Drum Surface: The entire drum surface is milled, similar to the clock track on many other drums (i.e. slotted), with the slots parallel to the axis of rotation. There are 1600 slots around the drum periphery. After milling, the slots are filled with 3M iron oxide.
BRL 1961, LIBRASCOPE ASN 24, start page 0605
Heads: Separate read and write heads are used with this drum. Minimum readback from read head is 0.4 volts peak to peak. The write head requires a 300 ma peak current of 2 microseconds duration through a halfwinding. Storage tracks with only read heads requires special techniques. Environmental Specifications Ambient Temperature Range: -550 C to +1000 C Humidity: Entire assembly can be hermetically sealed Altitude: Sea-level to space Shock: 20g for 11 milliseconds Vibration: 6g from 15 cps to 2000 cps Constant Acceleration: lOg radially, 3g axially FUTURE PLANS Many possible new applications being investigated and radiation testing of circuitry is being planned.
BRL 1961, LIBRASCOPE CP 209, start page 0606

LIBRASCOPE CP 209

Librascope Model CP 209 MANUFACTURER Librascope Division General Precision, Inc. APPLICATIONS System is used for airborne navigation and bombing ballistics, including loft, and real-time, high speed tracking problems. PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM Internal number system Binary Binary digits/word 14 Binary digits/instruction 6 Instructions/word Variable-One, Two or Three Instructions decoded 30 Arithmetic system Fixed point Incremental or Digital Differential Analyzer Instruction type System can process 8 operands, storing them in 3 parallel positions. Number range +-(227 - 1) Automatic built-in subroutines include integration and sine-cosine. ARITHMETIC UNIT Incl Stor Access Exclud Stor Access Microsec Microsec Add 59 59 Mult 59 59 Div 177 177 (by subroutine) Construction (Arithmetic unit only) Vacuum-Tubes 304 Transistors 100 Condenser-Diodes 4,500 A-D inputs 12 D-A outputs 14 Arithmetic mode Parallel Arithmetic Units operating Serially Timing Synchronous Operation Sequential. STORAGE Medium No. of Words Magnetic Drum 85 Computational Blocks with 4 Integrand Lines INPUT Media Paper Tape Used to fill Memory Analog Digital 200 divisions/sec Converters Manual Inputs OUTPUT Medium Speed Digital-Analog Converters 200 increments/sec CIRCUIT ELEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM Type Quantity Tubes 6021 33 6111 197 5T84-WA 36 5639 36 Diodes 406621 Transistors 2N338 2N657 CHECKING FEATURES Checking features include a diagnostic routine programmed for maintenance. POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE PREPARATION Power, computer 1.76 Kw Volume, computer 3.0 cu ft Area, computer 1.77 sq ft Floor loading 133 lbs concen max Weight, computer 133 lbs PRODUCTION RECORD Number produced to date 48 Number in current operation 21 Number in current production 6 Number on order 5 Anticipated production rates 5/month Time required for delivery 10 months PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS One 8-Hour Shift Operators 1 Technicians 1 Training made available by manufacturer to users includes a factory training course for maintenance men. RELIABILITY, OPERATING EXPERIENCE, AND TIME AVAILABILITY Fleet service records indicate that failure-free operation time averages 90%. ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS Outstanding features include a stored program, retraceable sine- cosine operation, K-Line scaling for flexibility and exact multiplication.
BRL 1961, LIBRASCOPE ASN 24, start page 0607
Photo by Librascope Division, General Precision, Inc.
BRL 1961, LIBRASCOPE MK 38, start page 0608

LIBRASCOPE MK 38

Librascope Attack Console Mk 38 (U. S. Navy) MANUFACTURER Librascope Division General Precision, Inc.
Photo by Librascope Division APPLICATIONS The system consists of a serial, incremental, com- puter consisting of two identical sections working from a common control and input-output section. It is used for real-time fire control problems. PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM Internal number system Binary Number of binary digits/word 18 Number of binary digits/instruction 5 Number of instructions per word 18 Number of instructions decoded 70 Arithmetic system Fixed point Instruction type One-address operation orders Two-address increment orders Four-address distribution orders Operation orders consist of integration, remainder, digital servo, transfer, and sine-cosine generation. Distribution orders take the increment outputs of the operation orders and store them in temporary registers. Increment orders communicate the increment outputs
BRL 1961, LIBRASCOPE MK 38, start page 0608
between the operation orders and make decisions on incremental transfers. Number range +- 215 Instruction word format ARITHMETIC UNIT Operation Time Microseconds Integration 72 Remainder 72 Servo 72 Transfer 72 Sine-Cosine 144 Arithmetic mode Serial Timing Synchronous Operation Sequential STORAGE No. of No. of Access Medium Words Digits Microsec Magnetic Drum 6,874 122,112 4/bit INPUT Media Speed Analog-digital converters Each sampled every 10 32 max, 18 used millisec. Switches 16 used Each sampled every 10 millisec. Paper Tape 20 char/sec Tape reader is used for initial fill only. OUTPUT Media Speed Servo output 32 max, Repositioned every 10 15 used millisec. Rely Lighter 16 used Repositioned every 10 millisec. CIRCUIT ELEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM Type Quantity Tubes None Diodes 1N621 11,087 1N663 4,275 1N914 128 10Z10.7A 4 1212 72 SV128 1 lZ4-7 4 1N647 40 SU122 40 Transistors 2N697 1,686 2N699 29 2N1252 144 2N1253 704 S4048 CHECKING FEATURES Built in Test Program. Marginal Check Power Supplies. Card Tester. POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE PREPARATION Power, computer Volts cps Kw KVA PF 115 400 3 2.74 3.92 0.70 115 400 1 1.109 2.64 0.42 115 60 1 0.032 0.115 0.28 28 60 1 0.29 0.29 1.00 28 DC 0.294 0.294 1.00 Volume, computer 26.67 cu ft Area, computer 4.67 sq ft Room size, computer 8 x 9 ft Power, air conditioner Forced air Weight, computer 3,000 lbs, Total (Includes Analog Section) Refer to OP 2687 for installation requirements. PRODUCTION RECORD Number produced to date 14 Number in current operation 3 Number in current production 6 Number on order 54 Anticipated production rates 3 per month Above data is as of 29 June 60 PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS One 8-Hour Shift Supervisors 1 Operators 2 Technicians 1 Training made available by manufacturer to users includes a 6 month course for Navy personnel at Key West for operation and maintenance of entire system. RELIABILITY, OPERATING EXPERIENCE, AND TIME AVAILABILITY System features and construction techniques utilized by manufacturer to insure required reliability include built in test programs, giving both identical sections the same program for comparison testing, a card tester with fixed pattern for testing all circuit cards, silicon components used for greater heat stability, and pluggable etched circuits cards for quick replacement. ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS Outstanding features include the option to reprogram the fixed program gives the computer the facility of handling a weapons system compatible with the number and range of analog-digital converters. FUTURE PLANS Plans include continued adaptation of computing equipment to any rocket thrown torpedo or similar missile requirement. Incorporation of electric set and wire-guide torpedoes as well as other short range weapons.
BRL 1961, LIBRASCOPE MK 130, start page 0610

LIBRASCOPE MK 130

Librascope Digital Computer Mk 130 Mod 0 (U.S. Navy) MANUFACTURER Librascope Division General Precision, Inc.
Photo by Librascope Division APPLICATIONS Computer performs target motion analysis, target prediction, and data smoothing for Fire Control System Mk 113. PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM Internal number system Binary Number of binary digits/word18 bits plus sign Number of digits per instruc-5 bits for address tion orders 7 bits for non-address orders Arithmetic system Fixed point Floating point is programmed as a subroutine of two consecutive words; 8 bits are used for the exponent and 30 bits are used for sign and numeric value. Instruction type One address Number range 0 to (219 - 1) Instruction word format Addressable order Automatic built-in subroutines The trapping of control is dependent on the over- flow of the delay line (relative clock). When trapped, computer obeys the instruction in loca- tion (00010 of memory. Registers and B-boxes One B Modification register, usually known as
BRL 1961, LIBRASCOPE MK 130, start page 0611
index register. Approximately 3,650 instructions are decoded for a fire control program. There is also an indirect addressing feature available. A bit in the sign position is utilized for this purpose. This differs in that instead of referring to an address 0001 the desired address is found in location 0001. This process may be carried further. ARITHMETIC UNIT Incl.Stor. Access Exclud. Stor. Access Microsec. Microsec. Add 40 16 Mult 40-424 16-400 Div 40-460 16-436 Construction (Arithmetic unit only) Transistors Arithmetic mode Parallel Timing Synchronous Operational Sequential The machine has a microprogram unit which controls its function. The microprogram unit is synchronous, the arithmetic unit is asynchronous. STORAGE No. of No. of Access Medium Words Digits Microsec. Magnetic Core Memory 4,096 Sign digit + 20 18 digits No magnetic tape is associated with the Mk 130 Mod 0. INPUT Media Speed Switch Bank on test panel Instantaneous Information is read. directly into the accumulator. Analog Modules (Digital 157 times per second Data from Shaft encoders) Information is converted from analog voltages to binary via I/0 Buffer, is read into the K Register. From the K Register, the program gets the informa- tion into the Accumulator. Flexowriter or Ferranti Photo reader original tape reader rate 530 chars/sec The speed is dependent on the amount of tape on the reel. Switches in Mk 50, Mk 51, 128 micro sec pulses and Mk 75 of FCS Mk 113 and all Mods, and Sensor opera- tor's Mark Signals Some of these signals are stretched to more than 2.25 seconds. OUTPUT Media Speed AnaloModules (Digital 157 times/sec data from shaft encoder) Program transfers information from Accumulator to K Register, then via I/0 Buffer to analog components Light Banks on test panel Instantaneous The accumulator and the counter register are dis- played. Lights on Mk 51 of FCS Instantaneous Mk 113 all mods For quality of sol'n lights, relative course light, constraint lights, etc. To relays in Mk 50, 51 andInstantaneous 75 of KS Mk 113 all mods To signal that range, course, speed, and bearing for a particular channel has been calculated and are available as analog information. CIRCUIT ELEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM Type Quantity Tubes None Diodes 1N251 97 1N270 76 1N429 38 1N537 11 1N645 97 1N659 11,762 1N663 2,412 1N749 22 Does not include diodes in which less than 10 per type are used. Transistors 2N335 20 2N388 1,317 2N501 3,232 2N597 68 2N599 2,361 2N665 17 Does not include transistors in which less than 10 per type are used. Magnetic Cores 82,000 Used in computer memory and switching. The Mk 130 Mod 0 uses "resistor coupled transistor logic" (Fen) or "nor" logic throughout. CHECKING FEATURES Fixed checking features include a card test panel, capable of checking all circuit boards, a computer test panel, providing manual communication with all portions of computer, and a margin check panel, wherein switch settings determine voltage variation for marginal checking. Optional checking features include a test console, which can duplicate computer test panel and in addition can furnish input/output facilities of flexowriter, high speed punch, switch inputs, camp outputs, digital shaft encoders, and output servo modules. It is used for factory checkout only. Existing computer circuitry can be utilized to activate portable flexowriter or high speed punch without use of test console if desired. Portable input/output devices not available at this time but can be developed with minimum design effort. POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE PREPARATION Power Kw KVA Factor Remarks Power, computer 2.85 3.15 0.9 400 cps, 30, 115V 1.97 1.54 0.8 60 cps, 10, 115V .21 .21 1.0 26v, DC Volume, computer 27.4 cu ft Area, computer 6.7 sq ft Floor loading, computer 244 lbs/sq ft 244 lbs concentrated max. Weight, computerApprox. 1,647 lbs
BRL 1961, LIBRASCOPE MK 130, start page 0612
PRODUCTION RECORD Number produced to date 1 Number in current operation 1 Number in current' production 1 Number on order 8 Anticipated production rates 1 per month Time required for delivery 6-8 months PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS Training made available by manufacturer to users includes a factory maintenance course on the Mk 130 digital computer, which comprises 3 to 4 weeks of instruction. The Mk 130 digital computer is an unmaned piece of equipment in its tactical application. Maintenance will be performed by user personnel (U. S. Navy) aided by Librascope Field Service. RELIABILITY, OPERATING EXPERIENCE, AND TIME AVAILABILITY All circuitry is completely transistorized and mounted in readily accessible modules. Test points have been provided on all circuit modules and chassis assemblies for ease of maintenance. A circuit module tester capable of testing all circuit modules is provided as part of the digital computer. All subassemblies are accessible from the front of the computer. Diagnostic routines are available to the user. Circuitry is conservatively designed and will operate over an ambient temperature range of OoP to 110oF. During prototype evaluation only two failures have occurred in over 1000 hours of operation. ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS Unique system advantages include a micro-program unit which can be modified to create new or variations of existing commands to tailor computer operation to suit individual situations without major redesign. Photo by Librascope Division, General Precision, Inc.
BRL 1961, LIBRASCOPE MK 130, start page 0613
Photos by Librascope Division, General Precision, Inc.
BRL 1961, LIBRATROL 500, start page 0614

LIBRATROL 500

Libratrol 500 Computing System MANUFACTURER Librascope Division General Precision Equipment Corporation
Photo by Public Service Company of Colorado APPLICATIONS Manufacturer General purpose computing where computing equipment must communicate directly with equipment external to the computer, via digital inputs or via voltage inputs. General purpose computing where computing equipment must send control signals to equipment external to the computer. Examples of applications are quality control for both continuous and batch production processes-real time, process control for both continuous and batch processes, and equipment test stand instrumentation (data acquisition, logging and calculation). Frank ford Arsenal This computer is being incorporated into a bread- board of an automatic checkout system, the purpose of which is to automatically and rapidly test and evaluate the performance of combat vehicles. The above tasks include fault isolation of malfunction- ing components or parts, the preparation of logictics data in the English language, and record keeping of items which pass through the test station. The first item to be so tested will be of the engine and trans- mission system of the M48A1 combat tank. Public Service Co. of Colorado Located on West 3rd Avenue and Lipan Street, Denver, Colorado, the system is used on-line for calculation ofhourly gas loads delivered into company systems by suppliers. Input by telemeter from remote stations through digital converter to computer. It is also used off-line for calculation and printing of orifice meter deliveries to gas customers, input by paper tape, and miscellaneous engineering problems, as they arise. PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM Internal number system Binary Binary digits/word 30 bits plus sign Binary digits/instruction 4 Instructions per word 1
BRL 1961, LIBRATROL 500, start page 0615
Integrated System Photo by Frank ford Arsenal Instructions decoded 16 Arithmetic system Fixed point Floating point is programmable. Instruction type One address +--------+--------+-------------+--------+---------+----------+-----+----------+ | 0 | 1 12 | 13 16 | 17 18 | 19 24 | 25 30 | 31 | Sp | +--------+--------+-------------+--------+---------+----------+-----+----------+ | Sign | |Instruction | | Track | Sector | | Spacer | +--------+--------+-------------+--------+---------+----------+-----+----------+ A complete set of compiler and utility programs are available. Registers include counter register, accumulator, and instruction register. ARITHMETIC UNIT Incl Stor Access Exclud Stor Access Microsec Microsec Add 7,750 (Mean access) 250 23,000 (Mean access) 15,000 23,000 (Mean access) 15,000 Construction (Arithmetic unit only) Vacuum tubes 175 Diodes 1,750 Arithmetic mode Serial Timing Synchronous Operation Sequential Though operation is listed as being sequential, the input system of the LIBRATROL 500, since it is independent of the computing portion of the machine, is capable of inputting information while calculation is proceeding concurrently. STORAGE Manufacturer Media No. of Words No. of Digits Magnetic Drum (Main) 4,096 126 976 Magnetic Drum (Buffer) 64 1,984 Access time is variable between 500 and 15,000 microseconds. Magnetic tape will be developed. Frankford Arsenal No. of No. of Access Medium Words Digits Microsec Magnetic Drum 4,096 31 binary 9,000 (avg) Public Service Magnetic Drum 4,096 32 binary
BRL 1961, LIBRATROL 500, start page 0616
Photo by Librascope Division, General Precision INPUT Manufacturer Media Speed Analog 60 samples/sec Digital 60 char/sec Paper Tape 10 or 60 char/sec Typewriter 10 char/sec Above items are standard. Frankford Arsenal Paper Tape approx 5 char/sec Mechanical tape reader. Flexowriter used and input also available through Flexowriter keyboard. Public Service Electric Typewriter 570 char/min Analog-Digital Converter 75 words/sec Data can be supplied by punched paper tape. OUTPUT Manufacturer Medium Speed Paper Tape 10 char/sec Frank ford Arsenal Flexowriter approx 8 char/sec Public Service Electric Typewriter CIRCUIT ELEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM Manufacturer Type Quantity Tubes 6AN8 5915 5965 2D21 5687 5963 6197 3RPIA Total 175 approx Diodes 1N617 1,450 approx POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE PREPARATION Manufacturer Power, computer 2.5 Kw Volume, computer 49 cu ft Area, computer 13.7 sq ft Room size 24 sq ft Floor loading 78 lbs/sq ft Weight, computer 1,000 lbs (nominal) A separate 115 volt, 20 ampere circuit is recommended. Frankford Arsenal Power, computer 2.3 KVA Volume, computer 30 cu ft Area, computer 10 sq ft Room size 20 ft x 60 ft Weight, computer 1,000 lbs Public Service Power, computer 2 Kw Power, air condi (2 required)7.25 Kw each Volume, computer 47.4 cu ft Volume, air conditioner 89.4 cu ft each Area, computer 13.22 sq ft Area, air conditioner 29.8 sq ft each Floor loading 110 lbs/sq ft Capacity, air conditioner 7.5 Tons, each Weight, computer 1,450 lbs Reinforced floor (wood).
BRL 1961, LIBRATROL 500, start page 0617
PRODUCTION RECORD Manufacturer Number produced to date Over 400 Number in current operation 380 Number in current production 15 Number on order 15 Time required for delivery 3 months COST, PRICE AND RENTAL RATES Manufacturer Cost 1 Libratrol 500 Computer with $84,500 120 input channels and analog to digital converter Frankford Arsenal Basic System Computer and Flexowriter 89,000 Additional Equipment Commutator extender 5,000 Digital inputs & high speed input mode 20,000 300 magnetic latching mercury wetted 20,000 relays Spare parts 5,000 D/A converters (5) 1,000 ------- Total $51,000 [? that is what it says in the book] Public Service Basic System Computer, Digitizer, 1-Flexowriter 90,000 Additional Equipment 1-Flexowriter 4,000 PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS Manufacturer One 8-Hour Two 8-Hour Three 8-Hour Shift Shifts Shifts Supervisors 1 1 1 Programmers 1 1 1 Operators 1 2 3 Engineers 1 1 1 Thirty days of instruction time is included in the sale price for programming and maintenance training of customer personnel. Frankford Arsenal One 8-Hour shift Used Recommended Programmers 1.5 1.5 Method of training is informal. Public Service The department, which is the principal user of this computer has 16 employees. The two engineers in the department, program and maintain the computer. Two girls prepare tapes and, to a large extent, operate the computer, and file tapes and work sheets. While it is planned to train additional department personnel to work with the computer, there is no need for increasing the number of employees doing any one computer job. Methods of training includes on-the-job training. RELIABILITY, OPERATING EXPERIENCE, AND TIME AVAILABILITY Manufacturer The combination of conservatively rated, carefully engineered components, with simplicity of design, conspires to allow the computing elements to function with only 113 vacuum tubes.Reliability should normally exceed 99% up-time over a 6 month period. Public Service Good time 166 Hours/Week (Average) Attempted to run time 168 Hours/Week (Average) Operatubg ratio (Good/Attempted to run time) 0.988 Above figures based on period 1 May 60 to present Time is available for rent to qualified outside organizations. The reliability figures refer only to basic computer operation. We have had difficulty with input of data through the analog- digital system which has been combined with the computer. Reliability figures on the total system would be greatly lower. Because of the input problem the system has not as yet been accepted. ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS Public Service An outstanding feature is that the system permits computer- controlled input of telemetered values. It has two Flexovriters (off-line and on-line) which are controlled by the program. The fact that the system permits working off-line programs and a continuing on-line program is a unique advantage. FUTURE PLANS Frankford Arsenal It should be noted that the Libratrol 500 Computer has been assimilated into the Automatic Checkout equipment. It is now merely a component of the system, and is no longer identifiable as a Libratrol 500 Computer. The questionnaire answers, however, are with respect to the computer portion of the checkout system only, i. e., only the computer memory is discussed although additional memory capability is inherent in the checkout system. Public Service Possible replacement in 5 or 6 years is planned. INSTALLATIONS U. S. Army Ordnance Arsenal, Frankford Bridge and Tacony Streets Philadelphia 3T, Pennsylvania Public Service Company of Colorado 900 15th Street Denver, Colorado
BRL 1961, LIBRATROL 1000, start page 0618

LIBRATROL 1000

Libratrol Computing System Model 1000 MANUFACTURER Librascope Division General Precision Equipment Corporation
Photo by Librascope Division, General Precision, Inc. APPLICATIONS System is intended for general purpose computing, where computing equipment must communicate directly with equipment external to the computer via digital or voltage (analog) inputs and where computing equipment must develop control signals to equipment external to the computer. Examples of applications are quality control for both continuous and batch production processes-real time, process control for both continuous and batch processes, and equipment test stand instrumentation - data acquisition, log- ging, and calculations. PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM Internal number system Binary Binary digits/word 32 Binary digits/instruction 5 Instructions per word 1 Instructions decoded 32 Arithmetic system Fixed point Floating point is programmable. Instruction type Two address Instruction word format +---------+-----------------------------------+---------+ | | operand Address Next Inst Address | | +---------+--------+--------+-------+---------+---------+ | S1 4 | 5 11 | 12 17 | 18 24 | 25 30 | 31 | +---------+--------+--------+-------+---------+---------+ | Command | Track | Sector | Track | Sector | Address | | | | | | | Modify | | | | | | | Flag | +---------+--------+--------+-------+---------+---------+
BRL 1961, LIBRATROL 1000, start page 0619
A complete set of compiler and utility programs are available. Additive index register and double length accumulator. Lower accumulator can be made to operate on eight words at a time. ARITHMETIC UNIT Incl Stor Access Exclud Stor Access Microsec Microsec Add 1,000 250 Mult 17,000 16,250 Div 17,000 16,250 Arithmetic mode Serial Timing Synchronous Operation Sequential Though operation is listed as being sequential, the input system of the L-1000, since it is independent of the computing portion of the machine, is capable of receiving information while calculation is proceeding concurrently. STORAGE No. of No. of Access Media Words Digits Microsec Magnetic Drum (Main) 8,000 256,000 250 Magnetic Drum (Buffer) 64 2,016 250 Magnetic Tape No. of units that can be connected 64 Units Magnetic tape is a future development. INPUT Media Speed Analog 60 samples/sec(2,000 samples sec optional) Digital 60 char/sec (Standard) Paper Tape 1060 char/sec (Standard) Typewriter 10 char/sec (Standard) OUTPUT Media Speed Paper Tape 60 char/sec (Optional Typewriter 10 char/sec Standard Control (analog 120 char/sec (Standard or digital) Line Printer 300 char/sec (Optional) CIRCUIT ELEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM Type Quantity Tubes CRT1 (digital display for monitoring) Diodes 1N617 2,400 Transistors 650 (basic system) 2N1301 2N393 2N404 2N357 2N597 2F1130 POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE PREPARATION Power, computer 2 Kw Volume, computer 48 cu ft Area, computer 12 sq ft Room size 24 sq ft Capacity, air conditioner 1 Ton Weight, computer 1,000-1,200 lbs Air conditioner is included and self-contained PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS One operator required for each shift. Training made available by the manufacturer to the user includes programming and maintenance. FUTURE PLANS Magnetic tape input and a core buffer unit are planned. INSTALLATIONS Librascope Division General Precision Equipment Corporation 808 Western Avenue Glendale, California
BRL 1961, LINCOLN CG 24, start page 0620

LINCOLN CG 24

Lincoln CG 24 MANUFACTURER Massachusetts Institute of Technology Lincoln Laboratory
Photo by Massachusetts Institute of Technology APPLICATIONS CG 24 is a general purpose computer attached to a long-range radar both for receiving detected echoes and for directing the antenna. It is operated in real time primarily for the collection and processing of radar tracking data. Storage of such data is made directly into high-speed memory under program control. The research was supported jointly by the Department of the Army, the Department of the Navy, and the Department of the Air Force under Air Force Contract No. AF 19(122)-458. PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM Internal number system Binary Number of binary digits/word 24 plus sign Number of binary digits/instruction 24 Number of instructions/word 1 Total number of instructions decoded 46 Arithmetic system Fixed point Instruction type (Floating point sub-routines) one address Number range -1 _< n <= 1 - 2-24 Instruction word format +-------+-----------+-----------------+-----------------+ | Bit | 0-3 | 4-9 | 10-24 | +-------+-----------+-----------------+-----------------+ | | Index | Instruction | Address | +-------+-----------+-----------------+-----------------+ Registers and B-boxes include 5 sets of registers of 8 bits each and a real time clock register. Negative numbers are treated in twos complement form. Arithmetic algorithms handle either positive or negative numbers.
BRL 1961, LINCOLN CG 24, start page 0621
CG-24 CHARACTERISTICS GENERAL CONSTRUCTION: SOLID STATE application- GENERAL-PURPOSE PLUS REAL-TIME CONTROL TIMING - - - SYNCHRONOUS, 330 Kcps. OPERATION -- SEQUENTIAL, SUBJECT TO SELF-MODIFICATION NUMERICAL SYSTEM INTERNAL NUMBER SYSTEM . . . 27-BIT BINARY WORDS, INCLUDING TWO PARITY BITS SINGLE-ADDRESS INSTRUCTIONS. FIXED-POINT ARITHMETIC SYSTEM, PROGRAMMED FLOATING POINT SUBROUTINE. ARITHMETIC UNIT ADDITION TIME . . . - . . . . . . . . . 24 us (incl. memory access) MULT-DIV TIME . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 us (" ) SQUARE ROOT TIME . . . . . . . . . . 300,us (" ) STORAGE SYSTEM 8192 WORDS, COINCIDENT CURRENT MAGNETIC CORES, 12 us CYCLE TIME TERMINAL EQUIPMENT FLEXOWRITER CRT DISPLAY WITH NUMERIC GENERATOR PHOTOELECTRIC TAPE READER. ARITHMETIC UNIT Incl. Stor. AccessExclud. Stor. Access Microsec Microsec Add 24 12 Malt 84 74 Div 84 74 Construction, arithmetic unit only Arithmetic unit consists of transistors and diodes. Arithmetic mode Parallel Multiplication and division operations consist of serially adding or subtracting. Addition and subtraction are parallel operations. Timing Synchronous OperationSequential and concurrent STORAGE No. of No. of Access Media Words Digits Microsec Magnetic Core 8,192 27/word 12 Magnetic Tape 5 x 105 24/word 272 binary words/tape No. of units that can be connected 7 Units No. of characters/linear inch 200 Chars/inch Channels or tracks on tape 7 Tracks/tape Blank tape separating each record 0.75 Inches Tape speed 75 Inches/sec Transfer rate 15,000 Chars/sec Start time 5 Millisec Stop time 1.5 Millisec Average time for experienced operator to change reel of tape 90 Seconds Physical properties of tape Width 1/2 Inches Length of reel 1,200 Feet Composition 0.0015 in mylar The 7-channel digital tape units are Ampex FR-300 with packing density of 200 bit inch in each channel. These are operated at 75 in. per second. Two units were installed in August 1960.
BRL 1961, LINCOLN CG 24, start page 0622
INPUT Media Speed Magnetic Tape 15,000 char/sec 6 binary digits/char Paper Tape 200 char/sec 6 binary digits/char Ferranti Photoreader Keyboard Flexowriter Manual Toggle switch OUTPUT Media Speed Magnetic Tape 15,000 char/sec 6 binary digits/char Paper Tape 135 char/sec 6 binary digits/char Soroban Punch Keyboard 570 ltrs/min on line Flexowriter Display with camera 18,000 octal digits/sec Numbers are formed as Lissajou figures from X-Y inputs Two servo units are connected to the lower accumulator in such a fashion as to provide for program control of elevation and azimuth angle synchro data for a radar antenna. In June 1960 an alpha-numeric display (using the 6 bit Flexowriter code) was connected to CG 24. It has added photographic facilities. It includes two CRT's. The speed is 75 microseconds per figure or letter. An input buffer provides for real time input of radar position and range rate data. CIRCUIT ELEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM Type Quantity Tubes K1354P11M 1 K1354P7M 1 5965 6 6o8o 2 6073 7 5651 4 6BL7 1 8013 2 12AX7 2 2,21 2 CRT display circuits Diodes S347G 21,700 SG22 7,900 HD2085 3,6oo Total 33,200 Transistors 4JD2A6 7,950 2N123 6,250 2N385 2,850 M201Z 875 GT34 500 CK750 320 904A 185 GT83 60 Total 18,930 Magnetic Cores S-1 Ferrite 229,376 Component count as of May 1958 CHECKING FEATURES Fixed Core memory: parity check on each half word Magnetic tapes: parity check (IBM mode) Perforated tapes: modulo 25 check sum. Optional Magnetic tapes: Programmer may use error correcting mode. This provides 2 error detection, 1 error correction. The mode gives 3 of the 7 tracks for data. POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE PREPARATION Power, computer 4.6 Kw (May 1960) Power, air conditioner 4.5 Kw (Including Room) Volume, computer 680 cu ft Area, computer 110 sq ft Room size allocated 1,200 sq ft Capacity, air conditioner 5 Tons Weight, computer 5,000 lbs The computer requires 110 sq. feet of floor space. A set of 3 rooms (total area 1200 sq. ft.) is devoted to computer, tapes, maintenance, stock and input buffers. The air conditioner supplies 2500 cu. ft/min. from an 11-inch high plenum underneath the computer proper. The air conditioner services other parts of the building. The 5 ton capacity is an estimated fair proportion. Computer logic power is derived from 400 cycle rotating machinery. PRODUCTION RECORD Number produced to date 1 Number in current operation 1 System is not being produced. COST, PRICE AND RENTAL RATES CG 24 was built as part of an experimental prototype system. It cost approximately $1,000,000. PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS Typical Personnel One 8-Hour Shift Supervisors 1 Programmers 4 Operators 1 Engineers 1 Technicians 1
BRL 1961, LINCOLN CG 24, start page 0623
RELIABILITY, OPERATING EXPERIENCE, AND TIME AVAILABILITY CG 24 has been operating for about 2 years. It has been on power almost constantly, being operated an average of 8 hours per day. Faults have been primarily due to connections (Arkless wiring originally unsoldered has been soldered), other contacts and receptacle pins, memory adjustments (generally not component failures), and photo reader (generally not component failures). Qualitatively, it is difficult to assign many (if any) semiconductor failures to aging. Rather, most are traceable to man-made shorts. ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS Unique system advantages include a very flexible arrangement for receiving and processing long range radar echo data, for directing antenna, and for simulating major parts of receiving and processing equipment. INSTALLATIONS Lincoln Laboratory Massachusetts Institute of Technology Lexington, Massachusetts
BRL 1961, LINCOLN TX 0, start page 0624

LINCOLN TX 0

Lincoln Test-Experimental Computer Model 0 MANUFACTURER Lincoln Laboratory Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Photo by Lincoln Laboratory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology APPLICATIONS Manufacturer An experimental digital computer used to test ad- vance design techniques, including very large core storage and transistor circuitry. The research reported in this computing system description was sponsored ,jointly by the Army, Navy and Air Force under contract with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM Internal number system Binary Binary digits/word 18 Binary digits/instruction 18 Instructions/word 1 Instructions decoded 25 Arithmetic system Ring-adder Instruction type One address Number range Not appropriate Three instructions are addressable and 1 is micro- programmable. ARITHMETIC UNIT Incl Stor Access Exclud Stor Access Microsec Microsec Add time 6 1 Malt time 1,000 1,000 Div time 1,000 1,000 Construction 1,000 transistors Arithmetic mode Parallel Timing Synchronous Operation Concurrent Computer performs 83,000 additions per second. Mulitply and divide is programmed. STORAGE Media Words Digits Microsec Magnetic Core 65,536 18/word 3 Flip-flop 1 18/word 0.5 Toggle Switch 16 18/word 3 A parity bit is additional. Read-rewrite time is 6 microseconds.
BRL 1961, LINCOLN TX 0, start page 0625
Photo by Lincoln Laboratory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology LINCOLN TX 0 and TX 2 Memory Plane INPUT Media Speed Photo Reader 250 lines/sec Flexowriter Manual Toggle Switch Manual OUTPUT Media Speed Flexowriter 10 char/sec Display (CRT 16 microsec/spot CIRCUIT ELEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM Tubes 440 Tube types 3 Crystal diodes 350 Magnetic cores1,245,773 Transistors 3,500 Separate cabinets 5 Three major tube types, a small number of others. Most tubes are used in the large memory. The transistors are the Philco L-5122 Surface Barrier Transistor. CHECKING FEATURES Parity check on memory systems. Marginal checking is built in. POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE. PREPARATION Power, computer 10 Kw Vole, computer 1,000 cu ft Area, computer 200 sq ft Capacity, air conditioner 40 Tons Weight, computer 4,000 lbs Above figures are approximate. Air conditioner is necessary for memory only. PRODUCTION RECORD Number produced 1 Number in operation 1 ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS One picture shows close-up view of magnetic core memory plane and other picture shows random-access core memory, frame of memory-core selection-switch drivers, computer arithmetic element and control element, and computer operating console. INSTALLATIONS Lincoln Laboratory Massachusetts Institute of Technology Lexington 73, Massachusetts
BRL 1961, LINCOLN TX 2, start page 0626

LINCOLN TX 2

Lincoln Test Experimental Computer 2 MANUFACTURER Lincoln Laboratory Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Photo by Lincoln Laboratory, MIT APPLICATIONS Computing system is used for scientific research and for the simulation, analysis, and control of real time systems. PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM Internal number system Binary Binary digits/word 36 + 1 + 1 Binary digits/instruction 36 + 1 + 1 Instructions per word 1 Instructions decoded 64 Arithmetic system Fixed point (Ones comple- ment binary) Instruction type Indexable; Indirect ad- dressing on all instructio Number range -(1 - 2-35) to (1 - 2-35) Instruction word format +-------+----------+----------+-------+---------+------------+------------+ | 1 | 1 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 1 | 17 | +-------+----------+----------+-------+---------+------------+------------+ | meta | hold | configu- | op | Index | indirect | base | | bit | bit | ration | code | regis | address | address | | | | reg. no. | | ter | bit | | +-------+----------+----------+-------+---------+------------+------------+ All fixed programs are in toggle switch or plug- board storage. Automatic coding includes standard compiler, which provides full symbolic coding facilities. All four arithmetic registers and the exchange register are addressable as part of memory. There are sixty-four 18-bit parity-checked index registers. Indirect addressing can be repeated indefinitely. 33 program (instruction) counters are provided, only one of which is used at a time. Each in-out unit is associated with a program counter. Choice of program counter is determined by in-out unit, by program, and by relative priority of program counters. Any instruction can specify a configuration of the computer during the execution of the-instruction. A 36 bit operand word can be divided into one 36, one 27 and one 9, two 18, or four 9 bit subwords formed from the 9 bit quarters. The 9 bit quarters can be permuted among themselves. Any or all of the sub- words can be used simultaneously. For example, two 18 bit multiplications are done by one multiply in- struction in less time than one 36 bit multiplication.
BRL 1961, LINCOLN TX 2, start page 0627
Photo by Lincoln Laboratory, MIT Memory Stall One bit of each computer memory word is used for parity checking. The other is used as a tag bit for program debugging. ARITHMETIC UNIT Incl. Stor. Access Exclud. Stor. Access Microsec Microsec Add 4.8 1.4 Mult 9.6 - 19.2 5 - 17 (9 bit-36 bit) Div 19.6 - 80.0 17.2 - 75 (9 bit-36 bit) Construction (Arithmetic unit only) Transistors 8,800 Arithmetic mode Parallel Timing Synchronous Operation Concurrent The following table lists the number of thousands of arithmetic operations of a given type which can be executed per sec. Word Length in Bits 36 27 18 9 Arithmetic + 200 200 400 800 Operation x 50 67 17 400 / 13 17 48 200 STORAGE Read- No. of Write No. of Media Words Time Digits/Word Microsec Magnetic Core 65,536 6.4 36 + 1 + 1 3.4 S Memory Magnetic Core 4,096 4.4 36 + 1 + 1 2.2 T Memory Toggle switch, 80 4.8 36 + 1 2.6 plugboard, etc Magnetic Core 64 3.4 18 + 1 0.6 Index Memory Magnetic Film 32 0.8 9 + 1 0.3 Config. Memory Magnetic Tape No. of units that can be connected 512 Units No. of lines /er linear inch 330 Lines/inch Channels or tracks on the tape 10 Tracks/tape Blank tape separating each record 0 Inches Tape speed 30-1000 Inches/sec Transfer rate 3,300-37,500 Chars/sec Start time 250 Millisec Stop time 10,000-250 Millisec physical properties of tape Width 3/4 Inches Length of reel 7,200 Feet Composition Mylar type 189 3M Tape reels are not changed.
BRL 1961, LINCOLN TX 2, start page 0628
Fixed address system (like drum). Variable read speed. 32 tape unit drives can be treated as 1010-bits of internal storage. 14" NARTB reel. Recording channels are paired. One pair is used for timing marks, another for block marks, and the remaining three for information. Three lines of information form the standard unit of information, a 9 bit character. INPUT Media Speed Paper Tape 3000 7 bit lines/sec peak speed Speed is not constant. Accelerates slowly compared to line width. Keyboard 10 6 bit char/sec Lincoln Writer input Analog-Digital Converter 40,000 11 bit samples/sec Epsco Datrac converter Light pen/eye Manual Signals selected by operator Random No. Gen. 18,000 9 bit words/sec Radioactive source Miscellaneous Input 80 KC 9 channel pulse input to computer from miscellaneous devices. OUTPUT Media Speed Paper Tape 180 7 bit lines/sec Soroban punch Xerox printer 20 lines/sec 1300 char/sec 88 characters can be printed in 2 sizes. 6 bit vert. & 9 bit horiz. axes resolution. Typewriter 10 6 bit char/sec Lincoln Writer output CRT point display & Camera 10 KC - 40 KC 10 bit resolution in both axes Miscellaneous output Up to 500 cycles 9 channel switch for computer control of low rate devices Large board plotter 15 in/sec slew speed PACE plotter Several input-output units can operate simultaneously so long as the time required by all the units operating does not saturate the central computer. Each unit has at most a single-line buffer; whenever a line of data needs to be transmitted to or from the central computer the unit causes the central computer to use its associated program counter. The machine can compute while in-out units are operating. At peak rate, about 80,000 computer words/sec can be transferred into or out of the computer. CIRCUIT ELEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM Type Quantity Use Tubes 6888 69 Clock pulse amplifiers 5998 312 S memory Z-2177 296 S memory Misc. Types 88 Diodes CTP592 3,000 Input-output circuitry 1N625 736 Input-output circuitry Misc. Types 1,488 Input-output circuitry Transistors L5122 26,042 L5134 31,928 2N501 320 2N357 1,016 Misc. Types 2,227 Magnetic Cores 2,490,880 S memory 155,648 T memory 2,432 X memory All the vacuum tubes are used in the 65,536 word memory and in the generation of the computer clock pulses. Resistor coupled transistor logic in the central computer operates at a 5 megapulse per second rate. Thin magnetic film memory contains 320 magnetic spots. CHECKING FEATURES Checking features include a single bit odd parity check on all memories, a voltage margin check on all bias voltages, and a manual switching system selects circuits to be checked. A built-in sync system facilitates locating machine errors. A library of test programs are used which check the operation of the computer and which attempt to induce errors. POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE PREPARATION Power, computer 20 Kw 25.6 KVA 0.8 pf Power, air conditioner 17 Kw Area, computer 1,500 sq ft Area, air conditioner 350 sq ft Room size, computer 54 x 29 Room size, air conditioner 17 x 20 Capacity, air conditioner 25 Tons Cables run through overhead wireways. Air conditioning ducts also runoverhead. An 8 ft high false ceiling is hung to cover these. Otherwise building is standard. Most power supplies are solid state. Principally required for memories. PRODUCTION RECORD Number produced to date 1 Number in current operation 1 One-of-a-kind research computer PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS Problem originators are trained to use the computer. Paper-tape preparation facilities and utility programs available to all computer users. Three engineering assistants and one technician are available to do routine maintenance and to make changes in the computer system. RELIABILITY, OPERATING EXPERIENCE, AND TIME AVAILABILITY As a research machine, TX-2 operating experience is good but though data is kept on machine failures, no reliability figures have been computed. Basic circuits and components are similar to MIT's TX-0 machine.
BRL 1961, LINCOLN TX 2, start page 0629
ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS Outstanding features include an operating thin magnetic film memory; 65,536 word magnetic core memory. Fixed address magnetic tape system. Multi- ple-sequence operation of computer and simultaneous operation of input-output units permits considerable flexibility in use of in-out units. Maximum execu- tion time for any one arithmetic instruction can be reduced to one memory cycle time by overlapping in- structions and memories. Unique system advantages include multiple-sequence operation, configuration control over operands, thin magnetic film memory used in control element of com- puter, and 64 index registers stored in random access magnetic core memory. The Lincoln Writer input-output unit permits con- siderable flexibility in communicating with the computer. FUTURE PLANS Another 4096 word magnetic core memory will be installed in order to increase opportunities for overlapping operation of memories. A magnetic tape unit will be installed which will be compatible with units used on many commercial computers. Input-output units will be added as the needs develop. A new control console will replace the present console. INSTALLATIONS Lincoln Laboratory Massachusetts Institute of Technology P. 0. Box 73 Lexington 73, Mass.
BRL 1961, LITTON C 7000, start page 0630

LITTON C 7000

Litton Industries, Model C T000 MANUFACTURER Litton Industries Electronic Equipment Division APPLICATIONS System is designed for real time control systems applications requiring very high computing rates. PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM Internal number system Binary Binary digits/word 21 Binary digits/instruction 21 Instructions per word 1 Instructions decoded 35 Arithmetic system Fixed point Two's complement system of arithmetic is used Instruction type One address Number range - 1 to + 1 - 2-20 Instruction word format +--------+------------+----------+------------+ | 00 | 01 06 | 07 09 | 10 20 | +--------+------------+----------+------------+ | Break- | Operation | Index | Address | | point | Code | Tag | | +--------+------------+----------+------------+ Automatic built-in subroutines include square root and gray code to binary conversion. Three index registers are included. ARITHMETIC UNIT Incl Stor Access Exclud Stor Access Microsec Microsec Add 4 2 Mult 26 (Average) 22 Div 46 42 Arithmetic mode Parallel Timing Synchronous Operation Sequential Special hi speed multiplication technique is used. There is extensive overlapping in the execution of sequential instructions resulting in a very high speed computer. STORAGE No. of No. of Media Words Digits(Binary) Microsec Cores 1,280 28,160 4 Magnetic Drum 12,800 281,600 5,000 (Avg) INPUT Media Speed 128 Word Drum Buffer 250 microsec avg to 1st word 4 microsec thereafter Flexowriter 10 char/sec Paper Tape 200 char/sec OUTPUT Media Speed 512 Word Drum Buffer 1,000 microsec avg to 1st word 4 microsec thereafter Flexowriter 10 char/sec CHECKING FEATURES Parity checks are built in on all core and drum memory transfer and storage. Program is automatically interrupted when error occurs and is detected. POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE. PREPARATION Power, computer 0.950 Kw Volume, computer 9.5 cu ft Area, computer 4 sq ft Weight, computer 320 lbs
BRL 1961, LITTON C 7000, start page 0631

BRL 1961, LITTON DATA ASSESSOR, start page 0632

LITTON DATA ASSESSOR

Litton Industries Data Assessor System MANUFACTURER Electronic Equipments Division Litton Industries
Photo by Litton Industries Electronic Equipments Division APPLICATIONS System is designed for general purpose computing and for special purpose problems, which take advantage of the internal information transfer in the computer. The useful characteristics are dual half word arith- metic (simultaneous operation on two half words), real time input-output functions, large amounts of data comparison, external control and communication, and computer-computer communication. PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM Internal number system Binary Binary digits/word 32 Binary digits/instruction 32 Instructions per word 1 Instructions decoded 55 Arithmetic systemFixed point 30 bits plus sign or two half words each of 15 bits plus sign Instruction type One address Number range Either +- (230 - 1) or two half words of +- (215 - 1) Input-output functions are automatic. All B-box operations are included within each order. These include choice of B-box and whether the B-box itself should be modified. Each command associated with information transfer contains stencil bits which allow full word, half word, or shifted half word transfer. In addition, it is possible to transfer a word logically multi- plied by a stencil word.
BRL 1961, LITTON DATA ASSESSOR, start page 0633
ARITHMETIC UNIT Incl Stor Access Exclud Stor Access Microsec Microsec Add 12 6 Mult 60-102 48-90 (half or full word) Div 60-102 48-90 (half or till word) A square root order is included. It takes 96 or 186 microseconds. Construction (Arithmetic unit only) Transistors 1,600 Diodes 17,000 Arithmetic modeParallel Timing Synchronous Operation Concurrent STORAGE No. of No. of Access Media Words Digits Microsec Cores 1,024 32 6 Drum 2,560 32 6-17,000 Up to eight independent magnetic tape units could be connected to the computer. INPUT Media Speed Data Link 750 bits/sec Analog/Digital Converter 20 bits/6 microsee Control Panel Link and converter are programmable. OUTPUT Media Speed Cathode Ray Tube 20 bits/6 microsec Control Equipment 30 bits/6 microsec Outputs are programmable. The input-output equipment specified is for a special purpose application. The input-output buffers can accept serial or parallel information up to a total maximum rate of 32 bits each 6 microseconds. The ability of each input buffer is programmable, but the various functions are controlled by the availability of external data. CIRCUIT ELEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM FUTURE PLANS Type Quantity Diodes 23,000 1,000 memory 16,000 logic 6,000 clamps on the out- puts or inputs of flip-flops or boosters or double inverters Transistors 3,100 275 flip-flops at 4 each 200 power boosters at 2 each 800 double inverters at 2 each Magnetic Cores 34,000 The basic building blocks of the system are 4 transistor flip- flops, 2 transistor power boosters, and 2 transistor double inverters. In addition, there are several cards of fast adder carry propogation logic. The major number of cards in the system contain diode logic. There are numerous cards which are required for the mechanization of the core memory. Plans include provision of a separate memory for input -output to avoid interference with computation, additional memory modules, and geranium modules with silicon for wide ambient temperature range. CHECKING FEATURES There exists a parity bit in each word in core storage. If a parity bit failure occurs, or an incorrect order occurs, the error flip-flop turns on. Program can be used to interpret error information. Under operator control, an error will either turn off the computer or cause the program to tally and classify such errors. POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE. PREPARATION Power, computer 1.5 Kw 2.0 KVA 0.75 pf Volume, computer 21 cu ft Area, computer 9 sq ft Room size 7 ft x 7 ft x 7 ft high (Suitable for Helihut use) Floor loading 60 lbs/sq ft Weight, computer 500 lbs The computer will work in an environment from 20oF to 100oF, and as such, no air conditioning was planned for the initial installation. Present system operates at 60 cps. A 400 cps model can be made available. PRODUCTION RECORD Number in current production 1 Number on order 1 Time required for delivery 6-8 months PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS One operator is required for each shift. The present mechanization contains a self checking program and as it works on a real-time problem, it proceeds auto- matically. Because of this, a single operator is all that is required. RELIABILITY, OPERATING EXPERIENCE, AND TIME AVAILABILITY ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS The design of the circuits is based upon very con- servative techniques in order to assure a high degree of reliability.The worst-case method of analysis has been used to insure that the circuits operate satisfactorily while being subjected to the most ad- verse combination of component tolerances and para- meter variations. In addition, all of the components have been derated with respect to allowable dissipa- tion, voltage, etc. Component characteristics, such as current gain, are based upon history-derived esti- mate of the end-of-life value. Provision is made in the Data Assessor for auto- matic checking.If a parity error should occur in the core memory, or if an incorrect order should be read, the appropriate error flip flop will turn on and this information would be entered into the com- puter.A switch on the control panel can be set to either stop the computer after an error, or allow the program to analyze the error.The program can be set to determine and tally the various types of errors. The program can then either correct them if they occur rarely or stop the computer and alert the opera- tor if they occur often. TheData Assessor is mechanized to provide all the error checking information necessary for complete error detection and checking.The amount of error checking performed depends on the type of program used.Outstanding features include self modifying B- box operation,built in stencil in each order, dual half word arithmetic, programmable (serial or parallel) input-outputs,alarm clock, and simplified communica- tion between computer components.The computer opera- tes at the rate of about 75,000 operations per second. Each operation can occur between two sets of independent variables,such as X, Y navigation. Inputs-outputs do not interrupt the program.
BRL 1961, LOGISTICS, start page 0634

LOGISTICS

ONR ERA Logistics Computer MANUFACTURER Engineering Research Associates, Inc.
Photo by George Washington University APPLICATIONS Located at the Staughton Hall, 707 22nd Street, NW, Washington 7, D. C., the system is used for the numerical simulation of naval operations in the area of supply, mathematical studies in the area of matrix games, situations of attrition, and certain kinds of war game studies. System is also used directly as a research instrument in the development of concepts bearing upon data processing operations by the military. PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM Internal number system Binary coded decimal Digits per word 12 Arithmetic system Fixed point Instruction type Three address (approx) Number range -(5.1011 - 1) <= N <= (5.1011 - 1) Instruction word format Normal mode of program storage is by way of wired instructions (many address) on a plugboard. A program may be stored internally and decoded by means of a control program wired on a plugboard. This latter method has been little used because of its low speed. There are 15 registers. ARITHMETIC UNIT Operation Incl. Stor. Access Microsec Add 500 Mult 500 - 1000 Div (Programmed division) Construction (Arithmetic unit only) Vacuum-Tubes 4,500 Condenser-Diodes 5,000 Arithmetic mode Serial Timing Synchronous Operation Sequential System is serial in decimal digits, parallel in bits for each decimal digit. STORAGE No. of No. of Access Media Words Dig/Word Microsec Magnetic Drum var. 14,000-37,000 12-4 16,000 Magnetic Drum 7,000-80,000 60-4 16,000 High speed 15 12 220 Kc registers Shift rate Total digit capacities of drums are about 185,000 and 400,000 respectively.
BRL 1961, LOGISTICS, start page 0635
Second drum has usual read and write. The location or absence of a given word may be determined in one revolution by means of one of a system of SEARCH instructions. INPUT Media Speed Card (collator) 240 cards/min Paper Tape 200 columns/sec Paper tape input are Ferranti readers. Card rate is alternating from each of two pockets. OUTPUT Media Speed Card 50 cards/min Paper Tape 60 char/sec two Two paper tape outputs are teletype perforators. CIRCUIT ELEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM Type Quantity Tubes 4,500 Diodes 5,000 Transistors 10,000 Magnetic Cores 3,240 (bits) CHECKING FEATURES Most commonly used checking feature is that machine will detect presence of non-numeric binary codes and will stop or branch. POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE. PREPARATION KVA, computer 19 KVA, air conditioner 22 Volume, computer 910 cu ft Volume, air conditioner 130 cu ft Area, computer 130 sq ft Area, air conditioner 18 sq ft Room size, computer and 918 sq ft air conditioner Floor loading 7.4 lbs/sq ft 86 lbs concen max Capacity, air conditioner 11 Tons Computer was installed in a gutted area of building with heavy floor. Further ceiling support was provided. Motor generator set was installed in a small addition to main building. Building was an apartment house. PRODUCTION RECORD Number produced to date 1 Number in current operation 1 COST, PRICE AND RENTAL RATES Cost/Price for basic system Computer and one drum $350,000 Ferranti readers and 4,000 tape punches Total $354,000 Cost/Price for additional equipment Input Output buffer $ 95,000 Second drum (see above) 200,000 Computer and equipment cited is owned by Office of Naval Research. Rental rates for additional equipment includes $200 monthly for collator and punch used for Input-Output. PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS One 8-Hour Shift Analysts 3 Programmers 4 Clerks 2 keypunch operators Engineers 2 Technicians 2 Operation tends towards open shop. Method of training used is "write, load and debug." Additional shift operations are filled in by programming staff or by the hiring on temporary basis of "computer Watchers" when tending is all that is required. No increase in engineering staff would probably be required if we ran 2 shifts all the time. Computer is capable of protracted good time. Personnel cited above is approximation of relatively informal organizational setup. The engineers cited are capable of work at all levels of electronic engineering and have extensively modified the original computer (delivery February 1953) both logically and in the matter of capacity of certain elements. RELIABILITY, OPERATING EXPERIENCE, AND TIME AVAILABILITY Good time 37 Hours/Week (Average) Operating ratio (Good/Attempted to run time) 0.9 Above figures based on period 1 Jan 56 to 30 Jun 56 Time is available for rent to outside qualified organizations. Our down time figures would indicate that our "would have run if computer were OK time" would be about 10% of our good time, hence the indicated ratio. During 1958 and 1959 a heavy modification program has reduced good time. Our current (last six months) good time is 16, with a somewhat lower operating ratio, i.e. 0.75. ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND REMARKS The search logic as noted above. Given that a certain register contained the word w, one or another of the search instructions would determine its absence, the address of its location )somewhere), or of its "next" location, or of its "first" location in about 16 milliseconds. FUTURE PLANS A new adder is being built for this machine. The operation is serial and digital addition will occur every two drum (shift) clocks instead of during the 7 now used. Division, 11 decimal digits divided by 11 decimal digits plus signs will be installed. INSTALLATIONS The George Washington University Logistics Research Project 707 22nd Street, N. W. Washington 7, D. C.
BRL 1961, MAGNEFILE B, start page 0636

MAGNEFILE B

Magnefile Electronic Data Processing System B MANUFACTURER Electronics Corporation of America Business Machines Division
Photo by Electronics Corporation of America APPLICATIONS Inventory control for retail sales department store. Special purposes no longer in production. PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM Internal number system Decimal Decimal digits/word 8 Instructions/word Instructions wired in Instructions used 7 Arithmetic system Fixed point Instruction type One address Three addresses are entered simultaneously. ARITHMETIC UNIT Add time (exclud stor access) 150,000 microsec Construction vacuum tubes Basic pulse repetition rate 30 Kc/sec Arithmetic mode Serial Timing Asynchronous Operation Sequential STORAGE Medium Words Access Microsec Magnetic Drum 4,040 300,000 INPUT OUTPUT Media Speed Full Keyboard 4 char/sec Typewriter 7 char/sec CIRCUIT ELEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM Tubes 130 6 Types Crystal diodes 40 Different plug-in units 10 Separate cabinets 1 CHECKING FEATURES Continuous checking total POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE PREPARATION Power, computer 0.6 Kw Area, computer 3.5 ft x 2.5 ft Weight, computer 400 lbs COST, PRICE AND RENTAL RATES Approximate cost of basic system $20,000. PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS One operator required during operation. A service technician is called when needed. RELIABILITY, OPERATING EXPERIENCE, AND TIME AVAILABILITY Passed Customer Acceptance Test15 February 1954. INSTALLATIONS B. Altman and Company Fifth Avenue New York, New York
BRL 1961, MAGNEFILE D, start page 0600

MAGNEFILE D

Magnefile Electronic Data Processing System Model D MANUFACTURER Electronics Corporation of America Business Machines Division
Photo by Electronics Corporation of America APPLICATIONS Inventory control. No longer manufactured. PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM Internal number system Decimal Decimal. digits/word 42 Instructions/word Instructions wired in Instructions used 77 Arithmetic system Fixed point Instruction type One address Three one-address commands are entered simultaneously. ARITHMETIC UNIT Add time (exclud stor access) 100,000 microsec Construction Vacuum tubes Basic pulse repetition rate 40 Kc/sec Arithmetic mode Serial Timing Asynchronous Operation Sequential STORAGE Media Words Access Microsec Magnetic Drum 8,000 50 000 Magnetic Drum 500 50,000 The larger drum stores 8,000 21 dec dig words. The smaller drum stores 500 42 dec dig words. INPUT OUTPUT Media Speed Full Keyboard Manual (4 char/sec) Typewriter 10 char/sec Remote keyboards may be added. CIRCUIT ELEMENTS OF ENTIRE SYSTEM Tubes 140 4 Types Crystal diodes 240 Different plug-in units 12 Separate cabinets 1 POWER, SPACE, WEIGHT, AND SITE PREPARATION Power, computer 1 Kw Area, computer 5 ft x 3 ft Weight, computer 700 lbs PRODUCTION RECORD Number produced 1 No longer in production COST, PRICE AND RENTAL RATES Approximate cost of basic system $50,000. No longer in production. PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS One operator. On call technician. RELIABILITY OPERATING EXPERIENCE. AND TIME AVAILABILITY Passed Customer Acceptance Test 5 August 1953. INSTALLATIONS B. Altman and Company Fifth Avenue New York, New York
BRL 1961, MANIAC I, start page 0638

MANIAC I

Mathematical Analyzer Numerical Integrator and Computer Model I MANUFACTURER University of California Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory
Photo by University of California, Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory APPLICATIONS University of New Mexico Research Center Located at University of New Mexico Research Center, 2206 Lomas Blvd., N.E. (Box 181), albuquerque, New Mexico, the system is used for general purpose scientific computations, providing a computer service to faculty and students of the university. PROGRAMMING AND NUMERICAL SYSTEM Internal number system Binary Binary digits per word 40 Binary digits/instruction 8 Instructions per word 2 Instructions decoded 36 Binary digits/instruction not decoded 2 Instructions used 35 Arithmetic system Fixed point Instruction type One address Number range -1 < n < 1 ARITHMETIC UNIT Exclud Stor Access Microsec Add time 80 Mult time 1,000 Div time 1,000 Construction Vacuum tubes Arithmetic mode Parallel Timing Asynchronous Operation Concurrent STORAGE Access Media Words Microsec Electrostatic (CRT) 1,024 8 - 16 Magnetic Drum 10,000 50 words in 83,000 Cathode Ray Tube is of the Williams type.


Go To Table of Contents