A mini-computer network for support of real time research

A star-shaped network of mini-computers provides all remote computers access of commonly used peripherals and the University's CDC 6400. The key hardware feature, independent of computer type, is asynchronous serial communication at 153,000 baud with character rate dictated by the receiving computer. Interconnection hardware and software overhead is minimal. The key software feature is the loose connection of near homogeneous machines. Real-time constraints are satisfied by remote computers with idle machines potentially available as a distributed intelligence resource to support additional computer types. Minimal computers may be supported to run unmodified, paper-tape oriented programs using a transparent monitor. Computers with adequate memory may be supported to run mass memory operating systems using Network Central resources. The cost per computer is less than that for paper-tape equipment, while only under heavy load conditions does performance degrade to paper-tape speeds.