The use of a small computer as a terminal controller for a large computing system

In the spring of 1967 Washington State University began investigating the possibility of replacing or supplementing its IBM 2702 terminal control unit with a small computer. We hoped to realize four significant advantages from such a move: 1. A small computer---being programmable---offered the opportunity of increased flexibility in the control of remote terminals. 2. The prices of small computers had decreased to the point that it seemed reasonable to expect such a system to cost less than the IBM 2702. 3. Since IBM required that each TTY line be connected to the 2702 via a 3233 line adapter and a 103A or 103F data set, we felt that significant savings might be obtained through lower incremental costs per line, achieved by providing either direct TTY connection or the use of lower cost data sets on leased private lines. 4. By handling as many communication problems as possible in the small computer, we hoped to reduce substantially the amount and complexity of system modifications in the large computer.