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478 Part 5 The PMS level Section 4÷ Network computers and computer networks

Fig. 1. The RW-400 data system.

in this role initiates and monitors actions of the entire system. An alert-interrupt network is provided to allow coordinated system action. Therefore, the system as applied to given information processing problems may change on a short range (microsecond) basis, thus providing, through programming, a self-organizing aspect to the system. In addition, the system may change through the years as the applications change. The most efficient and economical complement of equipment is applied to the problem at all times.

An RW-400 system is built around an expandable Central Exchange (CX) to which a number of primary modules may be attached. These are: Computer Modules (CM); self-instructed Buffer Modules (BM); Magnetic Tape Modules (TM); Magnetic Drum Modules (DM); Peripheral Buffer Modules (PB); and console communication Display Buffer Modules (DB). How many modules are put together in a system is entirely a function of system application. In addition to primary system modules, punched card, punched tape, high speed printing and control console devices are available. These handle nominal system input/output requirements. Additional man-machine communication devices such as interrogation, display and control consoles, may be included in the system as problem requirements dictate. A Tape Adapter (TA) module is available to provide compatibility with magnetic tape of other computers. Information generated at Flexowriter inquiry and recording stations may be directly received by the system via the Peripheral Buffer Module. This latter module also buffers the receipt of TWX and punched tape information.

The way in which a particular RW-400 Data System functions depends on the number and type of each module included. It may initially be composed of the minimum number and variety of modules needed to do a small problem or the initial part of some large but yet-to-be-defined problem. Such a system would work much like a conventional computer. It would probably include a buffer module and thus have a parallel data handling capability not found in the conventional design at a comparable price. The initial system installation may then be augmented by the timely addition of modules.

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