Pdp-8/E Memory Extension and Time Share Control Test

This document is the technical specification and assembly listing for a diagnostic program designed to test the memory extension and time-share control logic on a PDP-8/E computer.

Key details of the document include:

• Purpose: To verify that the memory extension and time-sharing hardware are operating correctly. It exercises all Input/Output Transfers (IOTs) associated with these features.
• Requirements: Requires a PDP-8/E computer with the KM8-E option installed and at least 4K of extended memory. The program must be loaded into "Field 0" to run.

• Operation:

  • The test can be configured to run with time-sharing enabled or disabled via specific switch register settings.
  • It performs a series of 17 distinct tests (numbered 0 through 16) covering data field transfers, interrupt handling, auto-index registers, and trap behaviors in user mode.

• Error Handling: If an error is encountered, the system will either "halt" or perform a "jump to self." Users are directed to refer to the included program assembly listing to identify the specific nature of the failure.

• Structure: The document contains the operational instructions followed by a comprehensive assembly listing (PAL10) of the source code, ending with a cross-reference symbol table.