PDP-11 Systems Handbook

This document serves as a comprehensive reference for Digital Equipment Corporation's PDP-11 family of supermicrocomputer systems, specifically detailing the MicroPDP-11/53, MicroPDP-11/73, MicroPDP-11/83, and PDP-11/84. It underscores Digital's dedication to providing high-quality, cost-effective computing solutions, emphasizing software and hardware compatibility, versatility, and scalability within the PDP-11 and VAX architectures.

The handbook provides in-depth information on each system's architecture, features, and configurations, including CPU specifications (e.g., J-11 chipset), memory management (up to 4 Mbytes), cache mechanisms, and bus structures (Q-bus and UNIBUS). Technical descriptions of the Q-bus and UNIBUS cover communication protocols, data transfer cycles, arbitration, and electrical characteristics.

A substantial section is dedicated to the broad software ecosystem, which includes various operating systems (RSX, RSTS, MicroPower/Pascal, ULTRIX-11, RT-11, CTS-300, DSM-11), high-level programming languages, information management tools, and programmer productivity aids. It also outlines Digital's networking strategy, encompassing the Digital Network Architecture (DNA), DECnet, Ethernet, and various communication options for system integration.

The document concludes by detailing Digital's comprehensive customer support, including Field Service options, OEM programs, educational services, and extensive documentation to assist users in maximizing their PDP-11 systems.