The PDP-8 Cookbook

This document, "The PDP-8 Cookbook, Volume 1" (DECUS Program Library 8-602A), dated January 1973 and authored by Floor Anthoni, functions as both a collection of PDP-8 assembly language (PAL) subroutines and a foundational guide for contributing to and utilizing this program library.

The initial sections of the document outline the philosophy and guidelines for the "PDP-8 Cookbook," aiming to accumulate and share programming experience through standardized subroutines. Key aspects covered include:

• Subroutine Standardization: Recommendations for parameter passing (using the Accumulator, Link, and arguments) and warnings against using specific registers to ensure broader machine compatibility.
• Preventing Interference: Conventions for labeling storage locations and symbols to avoid conflicts when integrating different subroutines.
• Documentation Standards: Detailed requirements for program submissions, including a compact functional description, a general description, examples of use, and the necessity of flowcharts for more complex routines. Formatting guidelines for source code and listings are also provided.

Following these guidelines, the document presents a catalog of 39 specific subroutines included in Volume 1, ranging from basic character handling and number conversions (decimal, octal) to more complex operations like high-speed reader routines, logical operators, and disk monitor functions. A list of contributors and their respective contributions is also included. The latter part of the document contains the actual PAL assembly code listings for these subroutines, along with flowchart conventions.

An important "ATTENTION" note clarifies that the DECUS Program Library is merely a "clearing house" for user programs, providing no quality control, warranty, or responsibility for the accuracy or functioning of the programs, and emphasizes the importance of user feedback on errors.