DECUS 12 BIT SPECIAL INTEREST GROUP NEWSLETTER Number 32 January 1979

This DECUS 12 Bit Special Interest Group Newsletter provides updates and announcements primarily for PDP-8 users. Key contents include the agenda for the upcoming Spring Symposium in New Orleans and a detailed overview of various software and system enhancements.

Major highlights include:

• RTS/8 Version 3: A significant portion details new features, bug fixes, support for KT8A memory management, and modifications to components like MCR, TTY handler, and RX01/RX02 disk drivers. MACREL/LINKER is introduced as a replacement for PAL8-ABSLDR.
• DIBOL Version 8: Announced with substantial improvements, support for new hardware (LA 120 printer, RX02 double density drive, VT-100 terminal), and updated documentation.
• U/W FOCAL Version 4E: The final planned release is detailed, introducing new features and signaling the conclusion of its development.
• COS-310 System: Updates cover new utilities (DFU, FLOW, PATCH, MENU), advice on using SYSGEN, clarification on RX02 "double density," and an editorial discussing internal DEC policy disputes regarding WPS and DP support for RL01 and RX02.
• File Transfer: A comprehensive guide explains how to transfer files between OS/8 and RT-11 systems using RK05 disks, outlining hardware and software considerations.
• VTEDIT: A new display-oriented editor macro for TECO is introduced, aiming to provide an easier text editing experience on PDP-8 and PDP-11 systems.
• An OS/8 based PROM Programmer is presented, offering features for programming various PROM types.
• DECUS Activities in Germany: Announcements include the formation of a new German DECUS group ("DECUS Munchen") and details about their second symposium.
• New Word Processing SIG (TEXT SIG): Information on the formation of a special interest group for text editing.
• DECUS Program Library News: Lists recent software submissions and revisions.
• A patch for the FORTRAN IV error routine (FRTS) to prevent output loss.
• Submission guidelines for the newsletter and contact information for inquiries are also provided.