DEC-10-I8AA-D DC10 Maint Apr68

This document is an "Instruction Manual" for the DEC DC10 Data Line Scanner, published in April 1968. The cover page explicitly labels it as "OBSOLETE" and "USE FOR REFERENCE ONLY," indicating its historical nature.

The DC10 Data Line Scanner is a modular, two-way interface designed to connect a PDP-10 central processor to a maximum of 64 "teletype-like stations." It supports devices using 5-level or 8-level serial teletype codes at speeds up to 100 kilobaud, offering full-duplex, half-duplex, send-only, and receive-only data line modes. Information transfer occurs on a time-sharing basis, under program control, utilizing a priority interrupt system.

Key components and their functions include:

• DC10A Control Unit (Required): Provides the core interface to the PDP-10's I/O bus and houses the scanning logic, power supplies, and cabinet space for other options.
• DC10B 8-Line Group Unit: Performs serial-to-parallel and parallel-to-serial data conversion and interfaces for eight devices, supporting EIA RS-232-B or 20mA local loops.
• DC10C 8-Line Telegraph Relay Assembly: Offers relay buffering for long or "electrically dirty" telegraph lines, supporting half-duplex operations at up to 300 baud.
• DC10D Telegraph Power Supply: Provides power for the DC10C.
• DC10E Expanded Data-Set Control: Enables computer supervision and automatic calling features for data sets.
• DC10F Expander Cabinet: Provides additional mounting space and power for larger systems.

The manual covers:

• Operating Information: Describes controls, indicators, power application, device selection, and I/O instructions (CONO, CONI, DATAO, DATAI) for programming the scanner and its various options.
• Installation: Details physical mounting, cross-wiring procedures, and adjustments for various option cards (e.g., clock divider, device number, half-duplex, teletype modules) to match specific system requirements.
• Theory of Operation: Provides block diagrams and detailed circuit descriptions of all major components and their interactions, referencing DEC's "FLIP CHIP" modules, logic symbols, and signal conventions.
• Maintenance: Outlines preventive maintenance (mechanical checks, power supply checks, clock/delay adjustments, margin checks) and corrective maintenance (troubleshooting using diagnostic programs, signal tracing, repair procedures, and log entries).

The document is intended for maintenance personnel, assuming familiarity with PDP-10 programming and teletype systems, and is meant as a comprehensive guide for understanding, installing, and servicing the DC10 Data Line Scanner.