Software Package And Services

This document serves as an introduction to the PDP-12 Software Package and Services, providing guidance for new users on how to utilize their computer system. It recommends reading the manual upon receipt of the PDP-12 and creating copies of LINCtapes. The publication is dated June 1971 and notes that the information is subject to change.

The PDP-12 Software Package comprises six LINCtapes, approximately 30 paper tapes, and four documentation notebooks. Software is broadly categorized into "user" (for technical problems and general applications), "demo" (for demonstration or amusement, some useful but unsupported), and "maintenance" (hardware diagnostics). Three LINCtapes contain user programs, one contains demo programs, and two contain maintenance programs, all running under LAP6-DIAL, Version 2. DIAL can be configured for 4K systems (DIAL-V2) or 8K+ systems (DIAL-MS) using the GENASYS program. User and demo program tapes are 1600 blocks long, with DIAL typically recognizing the first 1000 (octal) blocks.

Software Services offered include a two-week PDP-12 Programming Course, local Software Support Specialists, a Program Library for new/revised software and manuals, and a Software Information Service (Digital Software News newsletters) for updates and problem solutions. The Digital Equipment Computer User's Society (DECUS) also provides a user's library and newsletter.

The document lists available PDP-12 DEC Supplies, such as paper tapes, Teletype paper, and LINCtapes, with their prices. A comprehensive price list for various software components is also included, covering LAP6-DIAL, AIPOS, FPP, and numerous user, demo, and maintenance programs.

Appendix E details an update to LAP6-DIAL, introducing support for RK8 disks, LP08 line printers, and program chaining, along with new applications programs. It provides brief descriptions of various user programs, outlining their functionalities (e.g., data acquisition, signal averaging, file management, Fourier transforms, interpretive languages, assemblers, simulators) and their specific hardware/software requirements in a summarized matrix. Instructions for obtaining software information and reporting issues are also provided.