System Module

System Modules (originally known as System Building Blocks; the name was changed around 1961) are a DEC modular digital logic family which preceded the later FLIP CHIPs.[1] They connect to the units they are plugged into via a set of 22 gold-plated discrete pins along one edge.[2]

System Module 1103 hex-inverter card (both sides)

They use transistor inverter circuits, with the transistors operating saturated, to avoid dependence on tight tolerances; they use -3V and 0V as logic levels. Intended for prototyping as well as production, they include design features intended to avoid damage. They are provided with design advice which includes loading rules and wiring instructions.[3]

They were available in several compatible speed lines:

  • 4000-Series: the second series, nominally 500 KHz, but some 1 MHz[4]
  • 1000-Series: the original series, nominally 5 MHz[5]
  • 6000-Series: higher speeds, nominally 10 Mhz[6]
  • 8000-Series: very high speeds, nominally 30MHz[7]

In addition, special modules were available for purposes such as I/O converters (to standard internal voltages), bus drivers, lamp and solenoid drivers, A/D conversion, relays, core memory drivers, etc.[8]

Larger assemblies which are part of the same family provide core memory testing devices. There are also power supplies, mounting panels with slots for the modules, cabinets to hold groups of mounting panels, indicator light panels, etc.[9]

References
Citations
  1. "Digital Logic Handbook", pg. 56
  2. "System Modules", pg. vii
  3. "System Modules", pg. 4.1-4.9
  4. "System Modules", pg. 6.1-6.40
  5. "System Modules", pg. 7.1-7.16
  6. "System Modules", pg. 8.1-8.13
  7. "30 Megacycle Modules"
  8. "System Modules", pg. 9.1-9.60
  9. "System Modules", pg. 10.1-10.35
Sources
  • Bell, C. Gordon; Mudge, J. Craig; McNamara, John E. (1978). Computer Engineering: A DEC View of Hardware Systems Design. Bedford, MA, USA: Digital Press. ISBN 0-932376-00-2.
  • Digital Logic Handbook. Maynard, Massachusetts: Digital Equipment Corporation. 1961.
  • System Modules. Maynard, Massachusetts: Digital Equipment Corporation. 1964.
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