TC59 (9 Track) Data Reliability Test

This document describes the TC59 (9 Track) Data Reliability Test program, designed for PDP-9 computers with TC59 Magnetic Tape Controls and 1-8 TU20 or similar magnetic tape transports. The program serves multiple purposes: collecting statistical data on tape drive reliability, assisting in hardware debugging and maintenance of the TC59 control and drives, and performing extended data reliability acceptance tests.

The program's operation involves loading the binary tape, setting initial address and I/O reset, and then configuring various test parameters via teletype or AC switches. These parameters include drive selection (1 to 8 drives), data pattern selection (16 unique patterns for even/odd parity, including high frequency, sliding bit, incrementing character, and random data), record length sequences (24 characters, 4008 characters, or variable min-to-max/max-to-min), and write/read stop modes (non-stop, start/stop, or random start/stop with delays).

Nine distinct test sequences (Test 0 to Test 8, and Test 9 which is read-only) are detailed, ranging from simple write-to-end-of-tape tests to complex write-then-read sequences with backspacing, drive changes, and statistical error reporting. The document also outlines error recovery procedures, including options for deleting write with extended inter-record gaps, selecting statistical recovery, or deleting read retries. Error typeouts, including specific write and read error formats, are provided for debugging and analysis. The program utilizes specific memory locations for buffers and requires preliminary running of .C59 Control Test and Drive Function Timer programs.