OS/8, Version 3D, Operating System

OS/8 is a comprehensive executive operating system for PDP-8 computer systems. It provides an extensive collection of application software development tools and an efficient runtime environment for production use of these programs. The system allows programs stored on disk to be accessed for loading, modification, or execution via simple keyboard commands. OS/8 supports program chaining, enabling large programs to be divided into smaller segments that can be overlaid during execution to conserve memory. Programs can be written as device-independent code, with I/O handled by standard system calls to device handlers and user service routines. This allows programs to be used with various I/O devices without rewriting, provided the user specifies the desired I/O devices at runtime. The system is easily extensible to include additional peripheral devices, and device independence can be maintained even for nonstandard devices through the addition of custom device handlers.

The OS/8 Monitor System Programs include:

• CCL (Concise Command Language): A set of easy-to-use terminal commands similar to TOPS-10, including commands like COPY, DIRECTORY, HELP, RENAME, LIST, and DELETE.
• EDIT: Incorporates all features of the stand-alone editor with I/O device independence under OS/8.
• PAL8: An extended assembler that runs under OS/8, offering features like conditional assembly, an expanded symbol table, and paginated listings.
• ABSLDR: An absolute loader that reads binary programs into memory and creates a resident memory image.
• ODT (Octal Debugging Technique): Allows users to run and debug programs under controlled conditions, modify them during execution, and monitor memory and registers.
• PIP (Peripheral Interchange Program): A routine for file manipulation, capable of transferring ASCII, memory image, or binary files between devices, merging or deleting files, and managing directories.
• FOTP (File-oriented Transfer Program): Allows for transferring groups of files between OS/8 file-structured devices with minimal interaction.
• OS/8 FORTRAN II: A complete FORTRAN II programming system including a compiler (FORT), a symbolic assembler (SABR), and a linking loader (LOADER).

The document also details the system generation program BUILD, the CREF cross-reference utility, and the SRCCOM source compare utility. It lists the minimum and optional hardware required, prerequisites, and optional software.

The UPDATE POLICY states that software updates released within one year of installation will be provided for a media charge. After the first year, updates will be made available according to prevailing DIGITAL policies.

The ORDERING INFORMATION specifies that binary licensed software is furnished under DIGITAL's Standard Terms and Conditions of Sale, which restrict usage to a single CPU and permit copying only for use on that CPU. Source licensed software is furnished under a separate agreement. Source and/or listing options are available only after purchasing at least one binary license and having a source license agreement in effect. Various media types (Linc Tape, Paper Tape, DECtape, RK05 Disk Cartridge, TU60 Cassette, RL01 Disk Cartridge, Microfiche, RX01 Floppy Diskette) are available, specified by a letter code at the end of the order number.

Standard options include single-use licenses for OS/8 binaries and documentation, and combined OS/8, OS/8 Extension Kit, and OS/8 FORTRAN IV. An upgrade option is available from OS/78.

Source/Listing Options and Source/Listing Update Options are also detailed, allowing users to purchase source code or listings. Miscellaneous Options include a pre-delivery kit, and Additional Services include consulting services.

The ADDENDUM outlines the SOFTWARE SUPPORT CATEGORIES. For Category A and B software, DIGITAL provides services without additional charge for defects detected within a specified warranty period (90 days for installation, 1 year for general problems). Category C software is provided on an "as is" basis. DIGITAL reserves the right to make additional charges for efforts required to provide services resulting from customer use outside of the current unaltered release of the software.