Basic JMP-JMS Test

This document is a technical manual for a diagnostic program designed to test the JMP (Jump) and JMS (Jump to Subroutine) instructions on the PDP-8E computer.

Key Information:

• Purpose: To verify that the JMP and JMS instructions function correctly across various addressing modes.
• Requirements: The program requires a PDP-8E with a teletype and sufficient memory to store the diagnostic software and the standard binary loader.
• Operation: The diagnostic runs 82 individual tests. It uses an octal counter at memory location 0136 to track the current test number and confirms that the program flow proceeds to the expected locations after each jump.
• Error Handling: If an error occurs, the program halts. Advanced troubleshooting can be performed by inserting a JMP instruction at the halt location to create a loop, allowing for oscilloscope analysis of the failing condition.
• Execution: The program performs approximately 345 loops per second, with a bell signal from the teletype sounding every 10 seconds to indicate continued execution.

The document also provides detailed assembly source code, including constants and specific instruction sequences used to conduct these tests.