Pdp-8/e Instruction Test 2

Summary

This document describes the PDP-8/E Instruction Test 2, a diagnostic program used to extensively test specific functionality on the PDP-8/E computer. Developed by Digital Equipment Corporation's Diagnostic Group in 1971, this software is intended to validate autoindexing, indirect addressing, the DCA instruction, and various processor IOT instructions, including interrupts.

Key features of the document include:

• Requirements: The program requires a PDP-8/E system equipped with a Teletype and must be run after the successful execution of the MAINDEC-8E-D0A diagnostic.
• Operating Instructions: Users load the program using the standard binary loader and start it at address 200. If the program encounters an error, it will perform a programmed halt.

• Program Structure: The diagnostic is organized into a series of smaller tests covering:

  • DCA tests.
  • Indirect addressing tests (using TAD and AND).
  • Autoindex tests.
  • Processor IOT instruction tests (CAF, SRQ, SPF, KIE, SKON, ION, IOF, GTF, RTF).
  • Interrupt tests.
  • Checks for unauthorized autoindexing.

• Operational Indicators: To confirm the program is running properly, the Teletype bell will ring approximately every 5 seconds.

• Technical Details: The final pages of the document provide the complete assembly listing, including memory locations, instruction codes, and commentary regarding expected outcomes and error conditions.