PDP-9 Advanced Software System Operating Guide (Paper Tape Version)

This document serves as an operating guide for the paper tape version of the PDP-9 Advanced Software System. It provides general operating instructions and concise summaries of operating procedures for individual system programs including FORTRAN-4, MACRO-9, PIP-9, Editor, Linking Loader, DDT-9, and the 7-TO-9 Converter.

For each system program, the guide details:

• Loading Instructions: How to load the program from paper tape, including setting address switches and console operations.
• General Command Characters: Common control characters used for editing command lines (e.g., deleting characters or lines, restarting operations).
• Command String Format: The specific syntax for issuing commands to each program, including available options, file naming conventions, and command terminators (Carriage Return or ALT MODE).
• Running Instructions: Step-by-step procedures for executing programs, often involving multiple passes and tape handling.
• Error Conditions and Recovery Procedures: How to identify and recover from various errors, including IOPS errors and program halts, often referring to specific appendices for detailed error codes or restart procedures.
• Examples: Practical illustrations of command strings for common tasks.

Additionally, the guide includes several appendices:

• Device Assignments: A table outlining standard device assignments (.DAT slots) for I/O operations.
• ASCII Character Set: A comprehensive list of ASCII characters interpreted by the PDP-9 Monitor and system programs.
• Error Diagnostics and Lists: Detailed error codes and their causes for MACRO-9 and FORTRAN IV.
• Permanent Symbol Tables: Listings for MACRO-9.
• System Restart Procedures: Instructions for attempting to restart halted system programs (excluding DDT).
• IOPS Error Codes: Explanations of Input/Output Processor error codes.

The guide is designed for convenient use at the computer, providing essential information for effectively operating the PDP-9 software suite using paper tape.