Large Systems Product Summary Jul79

This document is Digital Equipment Corporation's "Large Systems Product Summary" from July 1979, serving as a comprehensive catalog and reference guide for their DECsystem-10 and DECSYSTEM-20 product lines. It provides detailed information on hardware, software, services, and pricing for sales and marketing personnel.

Key aspects summarized include:

1. Updates and Changes (since January 1979): The introduction highlights significant additions and modifications, such as Symmetrical Multi-Processing (SMP) for the DECsystem-1090, the transition to MOS memory for the DECsystem-1091 and DECSYSTEM-2040 (replacing older core memory), the introduction of the TU77 magnetic tape subsystem, new IBM 2780/3780/HASP communication capabilities (DN22) for the DECSYSTEM-2020, a redefined cables policy, and upcoming terminal discount schedules. It also mentions an "AUTO-QUOTE" computer program for pricing and configuration.

2. Policies and Procedures: Details on installation costs (initial support bundled, add-ons separate), cable ordering (60-day lead time), lease rates, availability of refurbished equipment, and procedures for special equipment and foreign attachments. It outlines discount policies (Large Systems Group Discount Agreement) and includes a list of order processing contacts.

3. Hardware Systems and Options: Extensive sections cover the DECsystem-1090, 1091, and DECSYSTEM-2020, 2040, and 2060, each with:

   • System Packages: Basic configurations including CPU, memory, disk, console, asynchronous lines, operating system license, and an initial support package.
   • Components: Central processors, various memory types (Core, MOS) and expansion modules, disk and tape controllers (RH20, TX02) and drives (RP06, RM03, TU45, TU77, TU72 series), line printers (LP05, LP14, LP07 Charaband), card and paper tape equipment.
   • Communications: Front-end communications (DN20, DN87, DN200) with synchronous and asynchronous line interfaces, including various multiplexers and remote station options.
   • Configurators & Rules: Detailed diagrams and guidelines for system configuration and memory expansion.
   • Upgrade Packages: Options for upgrading existing systems (e.g., KL10-A to KL10-B, DECSYSTEM-2020 to 2040/60).

4. Software and Services:

   • How to Order: Explains Q-number format, support/distribution levels (supported vs. unsupported, binaries vs. sources), and media types (7-track, 9-track tape, disk packs).
   • Software Packages: Lists supported language and data management software (FORTRAN, ALGOL, BASIC, COBOL, APL, DBMS, IQL, MCS-10), communication software (2780/3780, DECnet), and miscellaneous unsupported software.
   • Support Services: Details initial software services (Category A, B, C), annual service (monitor code updates, documentation, SPR responses), KA10 support policy, and multi-use licenses offering discounts for additional systems at the same site.
   • Microcode & Diagnostics: Information on microcode source code and diagnostics.

5. Pricing Information: A separate "Price Insert" section provides prices for all listed hardware and software options, notes on discountability, monthly DECservice maintenance charges, add-on installation costs, quantity discounts for memory and communication lines, and trade-in allowances for CPU packages and peripherals.

The document is designed to enable Digital's sales support and marketing teams to configure, price, and provide information on their large computing systems effectively in mid-1979.