DEC-10-IACB-D DA-10 Sep69

This document describes the DA-10 PDP-8/9 Interface, an optional unit manufactured by Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC).

The DA-10 interface's primary purpose is to facilitate bidirectional data and control information transfer between a PDP-10 processor and either a PDP-8 or PDP-9 processor. It addresses the differences in word length by:

• Assembling 12-bit words (from PDP-8) or 18-bit words (from PDP-9) into 36-bit words for transfer to the PDP-10.
• Dividing a 36-bit word from the PDP-10 into 12-bit or 18-bit words for the connected PDP-8 or PDP-9.

Key features and functionalities include:

• Buffers: It contains two 36-bit buffers: the FM10 Buffer (for data from the PDP-10) and the TO10 Buffer (for data to the PDP-10).
• Operation & Programming: Data transfers are managed using specific I/O instructions (CONO, CONI, DATAO, DATAI for PDP-10; IOT instructions for PDP-8/9) and status flags. Program Interrupt (PI) requests are used for handshaking between the processors.
• Configurability: The interface is highly configurable via jumper networks (pulse mixers, buffer output/input mixers, device selection cards) to adapt to the specific word length and I/O signals of either a PDP-8 or PDP-9.
• Physical Design: Housed in a standard 19-inch cabinet, it includes an indicator panel displaying buffer contents and system status, and a power control panel.
• Maintenance & Self-Check: The document provides detailed procedures for installation, operation, and maintenance, including a self-check diagnostic program that can verify DA-10 functionality without a connected PDP-8 or PDP-9.

This manual serves as a comprehensive guide for the installation, operation, and maintenance of the DA-10 Interface Unit.