8K Basic

This document is the reference manual for 8K BASIC, an interactive programming language developed by Digital Equipment Corporation for the PDP-8 computer system. It is designed for use in scientific, business, and educational environments.

The manual provides comprehensive documentation on:

• Language Fundamentals: Basic concepts including number formats, variables, arithmetic operations, and relational operators.
• Programming Statements: Detailed explanations of commands such as LET, PRINT, INPUT, READ/DATA, RESTORE, GOTO, IF-THEN, FOR/NEXT, and subroutines (GOSUB/RETURN).
• Advanced Features: Information on subscripted variables (arrays), the DIM statement, user-defined functions (DEF), and specialized user-coded functions (UUF) that interface with assembly language routines.
• I/O Control: Management of input/output devices including Teletypes, paper tape readers/punches, and line printers.
• Editing and Operational Commands: Procedures for listing, running, editing, and stopping programs, as well as handling system errors.
• System Loading: Appendices covering step-by-step loading procedures for the RIM and BIN loaders, as well as character code tables for reference.

The manual includes practical example programs to demonstrate language usage, a complete summary of statements and commands, and a cross-referenced index to assist users in navigating the system.