TECHNICAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR PROJECT DART GAME

• Document Type: CREST
• Collection: General CIA Records
• Document Number (FOIA) /ESDN (CREST): CIA-RDP79M00096A000400060001-6
• Release Decision: RIFPUB
• Original Classification: C
• Document Page Count: 46
• Document Creation Date: December 20, 2016
• Document Release Date: August 1, 2005
• Sequence Number: 1
• Publication Date: July 1, 1971
• Content Type: STUDY

Fort George G. Meade, Maryland
TECHNICAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN
for
PROJECT DART GAME
(July 1971)
NSA review completed
Prepared By:
Mr.
McLaren,
5195
Mro
Schuman,
5195
Mr.
Stephan,
5195
Mr.
Waesche,
5195
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I. INTRODUCTION
The purpose of this Technical Development Plan is to
propose a solution to the proliferation of remote terminal
types; to allow multiple host CPU addressing from a single
terminal; and to provide relief to the central C Group
computers of the communications overhead associated with
handling multiple terminals.
The approach offered allows gradual implementation,
minimal initial co,:ct, simplicity in design, and a total
family of remote batch terminals and on-site controller,
systems. This approach will enable us to reach the
desired goal, years ahead of other approaches considered.
U. STATEMENT OF PROBLEM
There are currently some 450 remote terminals on-line
to six major computer systems in C Group. At the present
growth rate this number will be 650 terminals by FY73, with
each terminal capable of addressing only one specific host
computer. If C Group is to effectively support the predominant
trend to remote access stations for batch and interactive
applications with centralized computers, standardization of
terminals, communications methods, and front-end processors
must be accomplished. With this approach a greater. variety
of user functions will be available for problem solution such
as multiple host computer addressing, greater data base
accessibility and enhanced local pre-processing and post-
processing functions. Figure 1 is a sample of the multiple
computer utilization within the Production element.
With the accumulation of additional remote terminals,
there must also come a means of handling the data communi-
cations between the host system and the remote terminal.
Because of the nature of data communications,. and the design
of both computer hardware and software, the handling of data
communications usually takes place at the highest priority.
There are many time critical, communications oriented tasks
that impair processing productivity: error detection and
correction, message formatting, message addressing and routing,
terminal polling, terminal control, message assembly and data
concentration, etc. With each interrupt, several operating
system,commands must be executed and the applications
processing interrupted and stored. As greater communications
requirements are levied against a computer system, less and
less time will be available for data processing.
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it is this proliferation of terminal types and the need
to relieve the computers of communications processing over-
head that DART GAME is addressing.
Today each general purpose computer system in C Group
has its own set of dedicated terminals. Generally, there are
several different types of terminals required, depending
upon the specific application.
Some of the different batch terminals currently in use
at NSA are as follows:
1. IBM 2780 Data Transmission Terminal
A remote batch terminal designed primarily to
enter card data into a central computer, with either punched
card or printer output. The system is comprised of a 240 lpm
printer, 400 CPM card reader/355 CPM punch, a line buffer,
with the requisite communications interfaces.
2. IBM 360/MODEL 25
This system constitutes the upper limit of the
IBM Remote Job Entry (RJE) terminal systems. The 25 series
provides a full line of peripherals that allows the user a
variety of input and output media. With the associated communi-
cations interface (2701) Data Adapter the terminal can receive
or transmit data (in half duplex mode) at speeds up to 50 KBS.
3. CDC 217 Station Entry/Display
This system is capable of displaying data
entered from keyboard or data received from the computer. The
keyboard includes features for display control,. edit functions,
and message transmission.. The 217 is equipped with a Line
Printer which provides printed copy of display data at 300
lines/minute. Also attached is a card reader which reads
punched card data to be displayed or printed, and/or trans-
mitted to the computer at 330 cards/minute.
4. UNIVAC 1004 III System
The UNIVAC 1004 III System consists of a
processor, printer, and card reader in a central unit, and a
separate magnetic tape unit. Optional input/output units
available include: card read/punch, auxiliary card reader,
paper tape reader and paper tape punch. The 1004 is a plug-
board - programmed computer which can function as a communi-
cations terminal.
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The UNIVAC 9300 is a high speed card
and magnetic tape processing system with high speed printer
output. It can produce input of up to 2,000 cards per minute,
up to 1,201 lines per minute output, and constant speed punching
of 200 cards per minute.
Each of the terminals mentioned above are
connected to a specific host computer. If a terminal user
requires access to multiple computers of different makes,
he must acquire a different terminal for each unique host he
wishes to communicate with.(See Figure 2).
III. PROBLEM SOLUTION
Figure 3 depicts the proposed DART GAME solution. The
terminal provided can be tailored to many different requirements
and is not predicated upon the characteristics of any central
computer. (A feasibility study is underway to determine the
best method of providing the communications link between the
terminals and the Interface Control Processor, i.e., multiple,
dedicated lines to the various computers or a single line to
a dial-up Network Controller).
The Interface Control Processor (ICP) is fundamental
to the problem solution since it provides a common communi-
cations interface to a large number and variety of remote
terminals.
An interim solution to network control will be the
inter-connection of ICP's. (See Figure 4). This would
allow all terminals to have access to all the host processors.
The ICP's are assigned one per host processor and the inter-
connection is provided by 50 KB communications lines.
Data received in the controller will be in a common communi-
cation code. The ICP EXEC would examine the common code
header and upon detecting a routing indicator would submit
the data to.a background program. The background routine
would schedule the data to be transmitted to the indicated
ICP in a common code. The indicated controller would receive
the data and process it as though it had received it from the
terminal originally. Output data would take the reverse
course back to the originating terminal.
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A. UNIVERSAL TERMINAL
With acceptance of the Universal Terminal concept,
an immediate benefit will be realized from the savings in
logistic support, training, maintenance, and software support
requirements, as well as, a reduction in the number of
terminals requixed. By deploying a terminal with the hardware
architecture, unique communications interface, and software,
a multi-mat;hive task may be initiated from a single analyst
position.. A significant decrease in problem solution time and
overall improvement in resource utilization would result.
Ideally, DART GAME would provide one terminal
configuration which would be applicable to all terminal
requirements, whether it be conversational or batch or some
combination thereof. In a survey of equipment offered today,
we can find no such terminal. Therefore., for the DART GAME
study, the UNIVERSAL Terminal evaluation is divided into
batch and conversational/batch categories.
1. The UNIVERSAL Batch Terminal being
proposed is a computer based communications oriented system,
with a full complement of peripherals, that provides the full
range of processing capability, from the basic batch terminal
with card reader/punch and a printer (IBM 2780 magnitude)
to a full satellite terminal (360/25 magnitude).
2. UNIVERSAL Conversational/Batch Terminal,
although communications oriented, will most likely not be a
computer based. system. Like the UNIVERSAL Batch Terminal, a
full complement of slow speed peripherals, keyboards, CRT's,
printers, etc., would be available to tailor a system to a
variety of applications.
B. INTERFACE CONTROL PROCESSOR (ICP)
Several approaches were! considered regarding the
communications controller associated with the CPU's, and the
relative advantages and disadvantages of each weighed. Those
considered were:
1. Use of one large ICP (494 magnitude)
interfacing the variety of C Group computers. On the surface,
there are many advantages to using a 494. It is a communications
controller, with proven hardware and some applicable software
and experience in handling multiple terminals. With a system
of this magnitude and capability, it is felt that the network
switching function would be incorporated. The disadvantages
of this approach are:
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a. Cost - a minimal system without mass
storage devices would cost approximately $1.3 million.
b. Geographically it cannot be located
close enough to the various CPU's to replace the existing
'hardwire' communications interfaces, i.e., IBM 2701 or
UNIVAC CTMC. In addition, a system outage would stop the
input/output for the entire network. Therefore, some means of
backup must be pr^v:.ded, further increasing costs.
2. A second approach would be the use of
large UNIVERSAL (programmable remote) terminals. The existing
hardwired communication controllers would be retained, i.e.,
no Interface Control Processor provided.
The following was taken into consideration
in this approach:
a. When communicating with System/360,
only half-duplex operation is possible, prohibiting simultaneous
terminal transmit and receive modes.
b. To perform the tasks of communication
with various types of computers and simultaneously do
background utility work, it would be necessary to have a
fairly sophisticated executive, which would require large
amounts of core and auxiliary disk storage for emulation
packages and translation tables. Each terminal now becomes
a relatively expensive device.
c. Because of the cost, it would not be
feasible to place terminals in individual areas as we do now.
The only practical way of using these large terminals would
be to place them in central locations. The concept of
centralizing the remote outstations adds many additional
problems. The current IBM 360/25's at FANX are a good example.
Personnel must be assigned to operate the machines and.control
the work flow.
d. The major disadvantage of this approach
is that in no way does the large expensive terminal decrease
the amount of. data communications required of the host computer.
Using this approach we still must use the expensive controllers,
(IBM 270X, UNIVAC CTMC, etc.).
3. The third approach and the one offering
the greatest advantage,provides individual programmable
Interface Control Processors (ICP) for each CPU. The
advantages are:
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a. The ICP's can be gradually implemented
to each type of host processor.
b. Initial implementation costs are kept
at a minimum. The cost rises only as the system grows and
can be utilized.
c. A form of backup is provided with ICP's
front ending each host processor.
d. The ICP will relieve the CPU of some
of the communications burden. To quote an article in
DATAMATION, (September 1, 1970, pp49), "published figures
have indicated that a large scale computer can be impaired
by up to 40% of its throughput capacity if it is required to
handle its own communications 'housekeeping'." "Typically,
a large computer is designed to work best when it can function
continuously, executing a full set of program instructions on
a given application before branching to another." By the
use of a 'hardwired' communications controller (IBM 2703),
total reliance is placed on the central processor, i.e.,
interrupting on a demand basis every time a character or
message segment is received.
The ICP on the other hand is configured and
designed for interrupt responsiveness. Its full capacity
would be directed toward:
signal.
(1) responding to each communication
(2) sensing message conditions
(3) interacting with the host CPU
under a priority scheme which greatly reduces main frame
interrupt requirements.
(4) providing 'fail soft' protection
between the communications network and the CPU. Should the
latter go down, it can complete receipt of 'in-process'
messages up to the limits of its own memory and then interrupt
the terminals with status messages. It can keep going if it
has access to its own mass storage devices.
e. There are disadvantages to this approach.
Mixed equipment at the host computer,
a 'foreign' device interfacing the computer requires mixed
maintenance and the associated problem of diagnosing and
resolving problem areas. But this has been done successfully
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in several of the Agencies' systems, e.g., RYE, HOLDER,
DAYS END, etc.
IV. RECOMME11DED SYSTEMS
From the preceding problem definition and the recommended
solution, criteria was established for the DART GAME system
selection prca_:ess. The selection was based on the following
considerations:
1. Implementabie with the least possible
disturbance to c-.u:rently operating software and applications.
2. Implementable in phases.
3. A high degree of flexibility and expandability.
4. Available with a minimum of hardware or
software development. It should be 'off-the-shelf' proven
equipment.
Inclosure 2 is the detailed evaluation of the UNIVERSAL
BATCH Terminal, including the criteria, vendors, and an
analysis of those evaluated. Inclosure 2 details the evaluation
of the Interface Control Processor (ICP). In both cases,
emphasis was placed on manufacturers whose marketing approach
and hardware architecture were oriented directly to the
communications processing and control functions.
A. SELECTED UNIVERSAL TERMINAL SYSTEM
1. The University Computing Company (UCC)
COPE series of programmable remote terminals was selected
as the DART GAME universal batch terminal. Their primary
function will be for remote transmission of batch jobs to
central host computers and receipt of the processed data for
the terminal printer. Data transmission is synchronous,
ranging in speed from 2KBS to 50KBS in half or full duplex
mode.
2. The COPE terminals range in capability
from a basic 200 CPM reader, 240 LPM printer station to a
full satellite (360/25 class), consisting of dual 1250 LPM
printers 1500 CPM reader, maqnetic tape, paper tape devices, etc.
Inclosure 1 details the full COPE line of terminals. The basic:
low-speed terminal leases for $970 per month including
maintenance up to the full satellite terminal at $7000.
Programs are provided to simulate the terminals referenced
in the criteria. The 360/25 handler program will require
modifications to conform with in-house changes. Simulation
software is included in the price of the terminal. Utilities
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UNJIN are provided to drive all peripherals and a RPG (Report
Program Generator), is available when required for local
background data preparation/editing functions. With the
exception of the printer noise level, UCC met all requirements
for selection. Future terminals will be encased to provide
sufficient (noise) quieting for operating in an office
environment.
3. The COPE terminals are based on a UCC 12
Computer using tAe :3 cycle data break feature, direct memory
access, multilevel interrupt system and a 4K, 12 bit, 1.0
microsecond core memory. Memory can be expanded to 12K to
support additionc~:, peripherals and background processing.
A UCC designed synchronous multiplexor connected to the
UCC-12 I/O bus can handle up to 10 peripheral devices with
their respective interfaces. A program controlled communi-
cations unit (PCCU) permits the COPE terminals to communicate
with the various synchronous adapters on the host CPU's.
Parameters such as byte size, sync pattern, minimum sync char-
acter count, data inversion and byte time interrupts are sent
to the PCCU under program control for the adapter being addressed.
4. A COPE.34 interfaced to the 360/85 has been
in successful operation in C95 since September 1970. The
terminal was in operation within two days of delivery.
The COPE Controller is a programmable
computer capable of accommodating up to 30 high speed
terminals. The controller will support local high performance
unit record and other peripherals such as, magnetic tape,
paper/mylar tape and plotter devices.
All of the mundane communications tasks
such as (1) multiplexing high and low speed devices, (2)
error detection and correction, (3) code conversion for
foreign devices/terminals, and (4) most of the buffering
necessary to maintain maximum I/O speeds, are accomplished
in the controller.
COPE mode terminals communicate with the
controller in a manner which utilizes the capabilities of
the full-duplex lines. Input and output operate independently
of each other whenever there are commands, data, or acknowledge-
ments to be sent.
The processor is a 12 bit word, fixed
address, parallel computer using 2's compliment arithmetic.
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The basic system consists of a magnetic core memory of 4096
words expandable in 4096 word increments to 65K words, and
has a 1.0 microsecond cycle time per word. Standard features
include indirect addressing, instruction skipping, program
interrupt for 1/3 conditions and a cycle stealing direct
memory access method fc.r transferring information to and from
peripheral equipment. The COPE processor also contains a
.character cc,nverter that is designed to perform packing and
unpacking, :.ntermediate buffering and code conversion, all
via hardware.
3. COPE Full Duplex
The full duplex communications scheme
used by COPE is a combination of software and hardware and
is a major factor in obtaining high input/output speeds.
Full duplex means the ability to perform
input and output of data simultaneously. In the COPE system,
a completely asynchronous scheme is used allowing both sides
of the line to operate at their own rate. The COPE system
uses a combination of long and short buffers. The long buffer
contains data and a command portion which may also contain
status replies. The short buffer contains only command or
status information. Thus, when there is no data to be sent
the short buffer is used and communications in an idle
condition consists entirely of short buffers.
Figure 5 is a diagram of COPE's full
duplex transmission scheme.
Additional communications efficiency is
obtained by employing a code compression technique for deleting
redundant characters in the text prior to transmission. Each
character is masked against the next consecutive character;
when five or more repeats are found (including blanks) a
"ditto" word is generated indicating where the repeats begin
and how many. When compressed data is received, decompression
occurs based on the "ditto" word contents.
Further increase in peripheral speeds is
obtained by reducing the printer data stream from eight bit
,characters to six bit characters.
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Initially UCC is supporting three unique
executive systems. Although all three systems employ the
same basic architecture, each is tailored to a specific host
computer. Controller executives are available for the CDC
6600, UNIVAC 1108, and the IBM 360/370.
In the executive there are, in general,
two levels of code; input/output code, which is generally
interrupt level to provide maximum speed and response time
for the devices, and what is called processor level code,
which may be performed somewhat at leisure. In addition to
the various processors, there are common input and output
formatting routines which take the data from the processors
one word at a time and format central computer buffers from
this data.
In the fall of 1971 UCC will release
EXECM, or the Multicomputer EXEC. A major objective of EXECM
is to allow central computers of different types to be
combined in a single communications network. Instead of using
individual controller EXEC's tailored for a specific host
computer, it will only be necessary to use one executive for
all controllers.
The interface between the UNIVAC 1108
and the COPE Controller uses one I/O channel of the 1108 and
plugs into the standard I/O cable output. Either.a normal or
compatible channel can be used with no change to the interface.
The interface handles 36-bit parallel
transfers of data between the Controller and the UNIVAC 1108.
The data buffers are 256 words in size (36 bits) and in format
are identical to the buffers placed on the intermediate
storage drums. Since the Controller's data word is 12 bits in
length, three Controller words are required to make up one
UNIVAC 1108 word. This would normally require the buffers in
the Controller to be 768 words long however, special scheme
has been devised, which interrupts the Controller after 256
12-bit Controller words are transferred. This facilitates
software handling of buffers in the Controller by allowing use
of a 556 word buffer from the buffer pool. A UCC designed
1108 resident symbiont is provided to handle the Controller.
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The quiescient state of this symbiont and
the I/O channel is to be prepared to receive input from the
Controller. To perform input to the UNIVAC 1108 the Controller
sends a command to the interface after first conditioning
the access control words. The interface then obtains 3
12-bit data words from the Controller memory and assembles
them into a 36-bit word which is then transferred to the 1108.
After each group of 256 12-bit words have
been handled the Controller is interrupted to set up the
control words for the next third of the buffer. Meanwhile,
the UNIVAC 1108 is awaiting more data. This process
continues until 256 36-bit words have been transferred. At
this time the UNIVAC 1108 expires its word count and sends
an EF to the Interface. The Interface then interrupts the
Controller and sends an output data request to the UNIVAC
1108 at which point the data transfer control is complete.
6. CDC 6600 Interface
The COPE Controller interface attaches
directly to the 6600 channel; no converter or additional
controller is required. Standard CDC cables and logics are
used to simplify the interface with the CDC logic providing
the complete electrical isolation at the controller.
the peripheral processor the interface looks just like any
other standard peripheral. In operation, the interface
looks at the commands from either the controller or a
peripheral processor. 1/O operations being when the controller
sends a command to the interface to initiate either input or
output. No data transfer takes place at.this time, however,
the interface simply records the appropriate status. When
the peripheral processor queries the interface for this
status, it can determine what the controller is prepared to do
next. The peripheral processor then has. the option of
initiating input or output whenever it is ready and only at
this point does the actual data transfer begin. This puts
the I/O operation completely under the control of the peripheral
processor. Data is transferred across the channel in blocks
of up to 256 12-bit words. This means that the peripheral
processor simply hangs, during the transfer, waiting for all
the data to cross. Error conditions, a difference between
the length of message sent and expected, are detected in the
peripheral processor by an early disconnect from the channel
or in the controller by an error status interrupt which also
indicates an early disconnect of the channel from the other
end. To provide protection against possible hang-ups, the
interface includes an automatic timeout function which disconnects
the channel in case of error.
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The interface attaches directly to the
IBM 360 multiplexor channel and no converter or additional
controller is required. The hardware interface is capable
of being switched between off-line and on-line modes both
manually and by software. In the off-line mode, all channel
actions will be passed on to the next device down the channel,
thus allowing the COPE Controller to be powered up or down
without affecting gather devices attached to the 360 channel.
From the System 360 the interface looks
just like any other standard peripheral. In operation, the
interface takes commands from either the System 360 or the
COPE Controller. Operations begin when the Controller sends
a command to the interface to initiate either input or output.
There is no actual transfer of data at this time, however,
the interface records the appropriate status. When the 360
queries the interface, it can determine what the Controller
is prepared to co next by interpreting the status. This allows
the System 360 tae option of initiating input or output
whenever it is ready and at this point data transfer takes
place. This technique puts the I/O operation under control
of the System 360.
The interface handlesa 24-bit parallel
transfer of data between the Controller and the 360. The
data buffers can be up to 1224 bytes. This means the 360 simply
waits for the entire transfer to complete. The interface
passes the data at high speeds in order to minimize the amount
of time required for I/O.
Error conditions, a difference between the
length of messages sent and expected,?are detected in the
System 360 by an early disconnect from the channel or in the
controller by an error status interrupt which also indicates
an early disconnect of the channel from the other end. To
provide protection against possible hang-ups, the interface
includes an automatic time out function which disconnects
the channel in case of error.
C. MAINTENANCE
Since the equipment will be leased, University
Computing Co. will perform all maintenance. During the prime
shift a field service engineer will be cleared and in residence.
Maintenance during "non-prime" hours'will be on an "on-call"
basis. C8 will monitor the maintenance contract and provide
space for the UCC engineer.
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V. IMPLEMENTATION
DART GAME implementation is planned for three phases
to allow the System to evolve with a minimal interruption to
current activities, to permit adequate testing, and to allow
for next phase planning.
Phase I is prcjec,.ed for the first six months, with
Phases II and III scheduled for six month periods thereafter.
1. Implementation Schedule
a. The initial COPE configuration as
shown in Figure 6 will be installed on one of the IBM
360/85's. Only COPE terminals will be connected to the COPE
Controller. The IBM RJE software system will be replaced with
UCC's RJES. It will be possible to operate both RJE and RJES
simultaneously in the same processor if desired. Initially
EXEC 5 will be used in the COPE Controller.
b. Resolve any software differences if
any, between NSA's 1108 EXEC 8 software system and UCC's
required modifications. The same coordination will be performed
between NSA's CDC 6600 Scope System andUCC's required
modifications.
c. Design and implement a line status
monitor package which will provide a historical log of the
communications activity. The on-going monitor records would
be used for evaluating such factors as line outage, error
rate, traffic utilization, etc., such historical records are
vital for continued improvement of network configurations.
d. C96 will continue the replacement of
remote batch terminals with COPES.
e. Evaluate UCC's EXECM for implementation.
2.. Planning
a. Initiate study for possible imple-
mentation of a. COPE Controller to Burroughs and RYE Systems.
b. Initiate study on methods of utilizing
the UCC asynchronous multiplexor. Study the. software modifi-
cations required to interface asynchronous devices to IBM,
UNIVAC, and Control Data Computers.
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Network Controller.
Begin preliminary study of the
d. Design software required for Controller
to Controller communications.
B. PHASE II
1. :mplementation
a. Checkout and replace EXEC 5 with
EXECM on the COPE Controller.
b. Test dual IBM 360/85 Interface.
c. Lease A COPE Controller for the
d. Lease A COPE Controller for the CDC 6600.
e. Complete study and begin implementation
of the "non-batch" Universal Terminals.
f. Test interconnection of COPE Controllers/
software and hardware.
g. Begin coding software required for
supporting asynchronous devices.
h. If feasible, (based on study in Phase I),
contract for interfaces to RYE and Burrough systems.
i. Complete the replacement of lease batch
terminals with Universal Terminals.
j. Test single terminal talking to
multiple computers.
2. Planning
a. With C93 and C7, design a 'load-sharing'
system for the dual IBM 360/85 system.
b. Begin design specifications for the
(SEE FIGURE 7)
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C. PHASE III
1. Implementation
a. Add 2nd COPE Controller to IBM 360/85's.
b. Connect all remote batch terminals to
COPE ControllerL on the IBM, UNIVAC and Control Data Computers.
c. Install COPE Controllers on the IBM 360/65's.
d. Release 'Remote Batch' 270X Systems.
e. Implement COPE Controllers on RYE and
Burroughs Computers.
f. Complete specifications on the Network
g. Implement ':Goad Sharing'. software.
h. Connect to the COPE Controller
asynchronous devices attached to the IBM 360, UNIVAC 1108,
and CDC 6600.
i. Continue replacement of remote terminals
with Universal Terminals.
j. Complete design specifications and
contract for the Network Controller.
2. Planning
Continue study of the ICP functions to
determine other means of relieving the CPU's'of more menial
functions. Also, how can the ICP be used in non-prime hours.
(SEE FIGURE 8)
D. PHASE IV.
Implement the Network Controller.
(SEE FIGURE. 9)
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INCLOSURES
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 Approved F
I. TERMINAL
A. CONSIDERATIONS
Primary consideration in the UNIVERSAL Batch
Terminal selection was a device which could satisfy the widest
spectrum of on-line and local processing applications at
reasonable costs while interfaced to any of the major C Group
host compu;te:cs. For this reason, a programmable terminal
(controller) was selected that could initially simulate the
major terminals (IBM 2780, 360/25, 1004, 9300 and UT200),
operate over a wide range of communication line speeds and
offer a complete set of peripherals with support software.
Also considered was the ease of hardware and software expansion
to facilitate a common universal terminal to ICP, full duplex
ANSCII based communications method.
1. Simulation - For those systems not initially
equipped-with the DART GAME ICP, terminal operation would be in
the simulation mode. A.demonstrated simulation capability of
the most commonly used terminals was required. This approach
would require no hardware or software modifications to
existing C Group host CPUs.
requirements.
2. Programmable
a. To accommodate changing terminal
b. Allow conversion to the DART GAME
common universal terminal to ICP full duplex ANSCII based
communications method (DART GAME mode)..
packages.
c. To accommodate non-standard handler
3. General Purpose Handler - Availability of
a basic interrupt handling executive common to all classes
of terminals, and capable of handling the requisite data
communications and other terminal applications.
4. Expansion Capability - Sufficient hardware
channels, memory, and software routines to support a full set
of low to high speed printers, card readers, magnetic tapes,
card punch, etc.
5. Off-Line Support - Availability of basic
data processing routines such as RPG, pre and post processing,
editing, file search, language syntax scan, etc.
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6. Full Duplex - The hardware interface and
software necessary to allow simultaneous on-line transmission
to and from another device.
7. Keyboard Entry - This will permit local
selection of basic utility routines and queries to the host
CPU as to job status,operator messages, and other control
functions.
8. :EBCDIC, ANSCII, SBT, etc. - Capability of
conforming to the internal codes of the various host computers
to be addressed.
9. Dial Capability - To allow a single terminal
to address selected CPU's through a central network controller.
10. Multifunction - Existence of a multi-
programming technique to facilitate concurrent local operation
and on-line data communications.
11. Adaptability to Local Environment - That
the terminal noise levels, power and signal, temperature,
humidity and space requirements conform as close as possible
to the local situation.
12. Solvency - That the vendor is in as
stable a financial position as possible to assure continued
Agency support.
Offerings from a large number of vendors were
examined against the selection criteria. Only a few offered
the variety of peripheral speeds, software supported high
speed (50KB) full duplex communications support and operational
terminal simulators.
1. Atron Corporation - The Atron Datamanager
met most of the criterion and was competitively priced. Their
first intelligent terminal was only recently demonstrated and
they did not have the complete emulation capability desired.
The company based in St. Paul, Minnesota, offered no local
support.
2. Data 100 Corporation - The Data 100 78
series terminals were considered quite good but was limited
in communications speed and application. Terminal emulation
capability was limited.
17
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3. IBM 2780 - The 2780 is totally unsuited
for the universal terminal application. The 2780 is hardwired,
has no keyboard entry, is limited to a 400 byte buffer and
does not support mag. tape. Since it is not programmable,
adherence to the future DART GAME mode, ICP to terminal
communications conventions would be impossible. No interface
for other host CPUs is offered.
4. IBNM 360/25 - A wide gap in performance and
cost exists between the 2780 and the 360/25. The 360/25
cost begins, at about 5K per month and offers very limited
capability. The company supplied software in BPS, a card
oriented system. BPS does not support on-line mag tape
input/output, on-line background utility functions or off-line
paper tape utilities. The 360/25 has a limited interrupt
handling system, is code sensitive, and its architecture was
not designed for control functions.
II. ICP SELECTION
A. CONSIDERATIONS
In developing criteria for selecting an Interface
Control Processor, prime consideration was given to the
ultimate role of the ICP as the common denominator between
the UNIVERSAL terminal and the CPU and the ease of implementing
the system without disturbing existing operating systems.
The criteria used are a direct reflection of these considerations.
B. ICP SELECTION CRITERIA
1. 360 Interface - Since the first host
computer to use an ICP would be the IBM 360/85, it was
mandatory that the manufacturers considered, be able to
interface directly with a 360 multiplexor channel.
2. Interface for other hosts (U1108, CDC6600)
In the subsequent phases of DART GAME the ICP front ending
other Agency systems, (i.e., UNIVAC 1108, CDC 6600; Burroughs
6500; etc.), will be considered. Therefore, the companies'
plans and capability of interfacing with other CPUs were
evaluated.
3. Support a throughput of 15,000 CPS - The
ability to support a throughput rate of 15,000 CPS.
4. Support asynchronous devices - The 360/85
supports many and various asynchronous devices (i.e., 2741,
1050) as do other CPU systems (CDC211, UNISCOPE 100).
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5. Vendor to supply line handlers - The
prospective vendor must supply the requisite interrupt
handling executive for the synchronous and asynchronous,
variable speed, communication lines.
6. Expansion. Capabilities - By design, the
ICP will expand, both by the number and speed of the lines
and by the communications handling functions it will perform
for the host CPU.
7. Software supplied - As with any computer
system. operating software is a very necessary item.
Greatest emphasis was placed on the host processors interface
package, executive system, and assembler. Also, various
utility and diagnostic packages were desired.
8. Dual CPU Interface - Controller must be
capable of interfacing more than one host computer either via
a manual switch or dual channel interfaces.
9. Delivery - Although implementation of
DART GAME will not be for a few months, the availability of
the hardware and software provided. an indication as to which
stage of development the system was in.
10.. Solvency - This was a very important
criterion and solvency of the companies investigated
ranged from excellent to out-of-business. Since this project
will take a. few years for full development, the financial
stability and continued support of the manufacturer is vital.
Proposals from the major manufacturers of communi-
cations processing equipment were solicited for evaluation
against the desired criteria. The vendors were briefed on
the technical requirements of the project and invited to
respond.
Several vendors (IBM, UNIVAC, XDS) proposed large and
expensive systems. However, none has an operable system nor
would one be available in the near future. The software to be
supplied was limited and backup would be very expensive.
Other manufacturers (TEMPO, CCI) are gearing their
approach towards 270X emulation which does not require host
computer software modifications. Although this is a desirable
approach, extensive software development would be required by
NSA. This development effort would increase the DART GAME
implementation by at least a year or two. Still others did
not respond (Data General) or went out-of-business (Kettell,
Devonshire).
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1. COMCET 60 - (COMCET CORP.)
COMCET was established for the IBM 360
front end (ICP) replacement market. They proposed a COMCET 60
to meet the ICP requirement. This machine is a programmable
processor designed to perform the entire 360 communications
function.
The COMCET 60 was comparatively expensive
and required re lacement of (BTAM) and modification to the
Remote Job Entry (RJE) software. Software modifications
that would be necessary were on a contract basis. COMCET
was having software problems with this system at other
government agencies. There was also some doubt as to their
financial stability.
2. SANDAC 200 (Sanders Associates, Inc.)
The SANDERS 200 is a programmable processor
designed specifically for message switching, concentrating,
and processing, either as a system component or as a communi-
cation controller. Two of the major problems with the
SANDERS 200 are (1) the 200 does not support peripherials,
and (2) SANDERS does not have and is not planning an IBM
Channel Interface.
3. IBM Programmable Terminal Interchange (2969)
The IBM 2969, a stored program control
unit, performs the function of a communications CPU, using a
subset of the system/360 instruction set. The IBM 2969
operates in full or half-duplex mode. The IBM 29.69 would
interface with other manufacturers computers via the IBM 2701
equipped with a parallel data adapter.
This system is extremely expensive.
However, if we were to use two PTI's (one as backup) for all
the systems in DART GAME (including using the PTI as the
Network Controller) the IBM 2969 may be justifiable. We
do not feel that this is the most efficient or the most
flexible approach.
4. TEMPO I (GTE)
TEMPO proposed a system called the
TEMPO 270T Terminal Control Processor, which is a programmable
front end communications control subsystem. This system is
based on TEMPO's general purpose 16-bit 900-NSEC digital
computer. Combined with an assortment of specialized communi-
cation hardware and software, the 270T acts as a direct,
plug-to-plug compatible replacement for the 2703 transmission
control unit.
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5. PDP-11 - DIGITAL Equipment Corporation
Digital Equipment Corporation is in the
designing stages of a direct interface with S/360. They are
planning to emulate a 270X. We felt that it would be sometime
before this package would be ready.
6. XEROX Data Systems
XDS suggested that we use the Sigma 5
computer in conjunction with their CC50 communication input/
output processor. The system that was outlined by XDS is
extremely powerful; much too powerful. Their interface to
S/360 is only in the design phase. They are plannina on
interfacing with S/360 directly using the software replacement
method, not an emulation of an IBM 2701. They are not,
however, planning on providing the S/360 software replacement
package. The purchase price of the recommended system is
$759,050 or $26,068/month on a 1-year lease. This system cniii(q.
be considered on the same scale or larger than the ISM 2969.
7. CCI - Computer Communications Inc.
Computer Communications proposed a front
end communications system which would emulate the IBM 270X
equipment. The CC-70 Computer Communicator was specifically
designed for front end, communications control applications.
Although the CC-70 system looks promising, the 270X emulation
software package and the hardware package that CCI proposed
is in the very early stages, for example:
(a) The CC70 computer is a new product
line for CCI and the first system was installed in January 1971.
(b) The CC70 Input/Output Processor which
is a high speed byte oriented I/O command processor used for
high speed data transfers is being modified specifically for
binary synchronous communications. This modification is in
the design phase.
INTERDATA submitted a 'talking paper'
defining two possible approaches to solving the ICP problem.
It was INTERDATA's intention that NSA join them in arriving
at the final method of attack for the DART GAME problem. At
no point in their paper was the IBM/360 interface discussed.
INTERDATA states that their primary goal in the design of
their CCU Communication Control Unit software is to relieve
the system/360 of the tasks associated with control of the
communication network. They do not discuss how they intend
to do this.
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It is clear from this paper that INTERDATA
is only examining possible approaches to enter the 'front end'
market.
9. PCC - UNIVAC PROGRAMMED COMMUNICATIONS CONTROL
The Programmed Communications Controller
will be an internally programmed communications concentrator/
multiplexor. The hardware is in the prototype stage. The
software is in the design phase. UNIVAC is estimating
November or December 1971 as a first release date. UNIVAC
declined to submit a proposal using the PCC as an ICP for
the DART GAME project.
Inclosure 2
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