IAS MCR

This document serves as an introduction to the Monitor Console Routine (MCR), detailing its functionality as the terminal interface for the IAS (Interactive Applications System) operating system. It is specifically aimed at users familiar with RSX-11D who wish to continue using the MCR interface within IAS.

The guide outlines the different types of IAS systems (real-time, multiuser, timesharing) and distinguishes between privileged and nonprivileged users, each with distinct command sets and system access levels. It covers essential MCR concepts including system access, file structures (Files-11 for disks/DECtapes and ANSI Standard Level 3 for magnetic tapes), user identification codes (UICs), and file/volume protection.

Key aspects of task management are explained, such as task scheduling, memory protection, checkpointing, swapping, device independence, and input/output spooling. The document also addresses MCR mode operation under the Program Development System (PDS), which uses Digital Command Language (DCL) as its primary interface, highlighting how MCR commands can be issued within this mode. It provides comprehensive descriptions of both general and privileged MCR commands, explains how to manage magnetic tape volumes, and summarizes various system utilities for editing, file manipulation, volume maintenance, and program development/maintenance. Appendices include MCR command summaries, error messages, system standard error codes, and details on the node pool status program.