Stage 2 For The PDP-11 Operating Under RT-11

This document describes DECUS Program Library entry 11-307, titled "STAGE 2 For The PDP-11 Operating Under RT-11."

Key Points:

• Purpose: STAGE 2 is a general-purpose macro processor designed to port software written for abstract machines (like "FLUB").

• Origin & Development:

  • The original concept is attributed to William M. Waite.
  • This RT-11 implementation is a modification by D.M. Nessett (Australian National University) of a previous DOS-11 version by Peter H. Heinrich (DECUS No. 11-158).
  • The modifications primarily involved re-writing supporting subroutines for I/O and command dialog to operate under RT-11.

• Platform & Requirements:

  • Designed for PDP-11 computers operating under RT-11/V2B.
  • Requires a minimum of 12K core storage, but 16K is recommended for practical use (assuming the S/J Monitor).
  • Written in MACRO 11.

• Features:

  • Utilizes all available core memory.
  • Features double-buffered I/O.
  • Supports 1-3 output files (on Stage 2 Channels 3, 4, and 5) and 1-6 input files, which are treated as a single concatenated file.
  • Initiated via an RT-11 command, e.g., R STAGE2, with file specifications on the command line.

• Restrictions:

  • The "change I/O channels and copy text" command cannot be used for input channels because they are treated as a single concatenated file.
  • The batch installation (ST2BLD.BAT) may need to be performed manually if the PDP-11 has less than 12K of core.

• Installation: Involves transferring the distribution dectape files and running a batch stream (ST2BLD.BAT) on the system device.

• Date: The document is dated September 21, 1976.
• Disclaimer: As a DECUS user program, it is explicitly stated that no quality control has been imposed by DECUS, and no warranty or responsibility is assumed by the contributor or Digital Equipment Computer Users Society regarding its accuracy or functioning.