LAP6W Handbook

The LAP6W system is an advanced on-line program released in July 1972 by the Laboratory Computer Facility at the University of Wisconsin Medical School. Designed for use with LINC, μ-LINC 100, μ-LINC 300, LINC-8, and PDP-12 computers, it serves as a comprehensive tool for interactive assembly, editing, and filing of programs. Building upon the original LAP6, this enhanced version introduces significant improvements, including support for 8K memory, expanded meta-command capabilities, and rewritten LINC and PDP-8 assemblers for increased speed in assembly and reference table compilation.

Users interact with LAP6W via a LINC or teletype keyboard and display scope, utilizing magnetic tape for program and data storage. The system features robust character editing, context searching, and flexible file management, allowing for the saving and copying of both manuscripts and binary programs. It supports various assembly operations, program loading, and manuscript listing, with debugging aids such as symbol table and error displays. The manual provides detailed instructions on loading procedures for different system configurations, explains display formats, keyboard inputs, and outlines a wide array of meta-commands for file utilities, system assembly, and program preparation, all while adhering to standard ASCII character sets.