Pdp-12 System Exerciser

Summary

This document provides the technical specifications, operating instructions, and source code for the "PDP-12 System Exerciser." This diagnostic program is designed to perform a combined, comprehensive test of the PDP-12 computer and its associated peripheral devices (such as disks, magnetic tapes, and printers).

Key components of the document include:

• Purpose: To verify that the PDP-12 system and its common data break devices communicate correctly and can handle program interrupts without causing unexpected system halts.
• Requirements: Lists the necessary hardware, including a standard PDP-12 computer, 8K of memory, and various optional peripheral devices like the RK08 disk, TC58 magtape, and printers.
• Operating Instructions: Provides detailed procedures for loading and starting the diagnostic, including switch settings for testing specific components.
• Error Handling: Describes how the system identifies, logs, and reports errors.
• Technical Documentation: Contains the full source code and assembly listings for the diagnostic program, including interrupt handlers, device-specific routines (e.g., for RF08/DF32 disks, FPP-12, and TC58 magtape), and symbol tables.
• Change Notice: An addendum at the beginning of the document (Maindec Change Notice 12-D7CD-2) provides critical patches to address issues with magnetic tape handling and API (KF12B) operations.