Sperry (UNIVAC) 1100/60 – 1984
Jacksonville, Arkansas home of Little Rock Air Force Base 354th Supply Squadron. It was the summer of 1984, and as the NCOIC of ADPM/PCAM unit, I was chosen to go to Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota to be trained to operate the Sperry – UNIVAC 1100/60.
BACKGROUND
A contract was awarded in December 1980 to Burroughs and Sperry UNIVAC Corporations to begin testing and therefore demonstrating their capability to implement the Phase IV Program.
Before that time the United States Air Force’s Base Level Automation System (BLAS) was based on the two mainframe systems, the Burroughs 3500/3700/4700, used for Personnel, Finance and the rest of the base, and the 1st Generation UNIVAC 1050-II, used for the Standard Base Supply System (SBSS).
The Sperry UNIVAC 1100/60 won the Implementation Contract in January 1983. It was to replace the Base Level Automation System’s (BLAS) older equipment, the UNIVAC 1050-II and the Burroughs 3500 / Burroughs 3700 / Burroughs 4700 (depending on the setup of BLAS at the particular Air Force Base).
A schedule was made to transition SBSS from the UNIVAC 1050-II to the Sperry UNIVAC 1100/60 in August of 1983. Problems occurred due to workload increases, inefficient transition software and inadequate hardware configurations, and the first implementation-conversion was moved to April 1984.
“The UNIVAC 1050 was an internally programmed computer with up to 32K of 6-bit character memory, which was introduced in 1963. It was a 1-address machine with 30-bit instructions, had a 4K operating system and was programmed in the PAL assembly language. The 1050 was used extensively by the U.S. Air Force supply system for inventory control.” (quoted from Wikipedia))
The 1100/60 is one of the UNIVAC 1100 series, which is a series of compatible 36-bit computer systems, beginning with the UNIVAC 1107 in 1962, initially made by Sperry Rand
(See page 4 of the National Academies Press’ Evolution of Air Force Base Level Automation System, with the various Phases beginning with Phase I in 1963 and the UNIVAC 1050-II.)
Although I attended training for Sperry UNIVAC 1100/60 a mainframe computer, because of GAO constraints on funding, and adjustments made by the Air Force. After further base level functional analysis a decision was made to move away from using a centralized mainframe for Standard Base Supply System (SBSS).
The Sperry UNIVAC 1100/60 would be one centralized computer for the Base Level Automation System (BLAS). It would be the host and communications controller for various organizations within the scope of an Air Force Base. An array of microprocessors and minicomputers would committing the rest of the base organizations to a more decentralized data entry and processing.
SBSS Computer Operations would have a Remote Processing Station, which connected to the host Sperry 1100/60. Each SBSS would still be responsible for the maintenance and integrity of their Data Base, scheduling, and re[port processing. The SBSS data base would be maintained on the Sperry 1100/60 at Base Level. Individual terminals throughout Base Supply Complex would process their transactions and queries directly through the Sperry 1100/60. Although the SBSS Remote Processing Station would also process various online transactions, the major focus would be data base integrity, crossover, and reports processing.
Regardless of where I ended up actually working, the knowledge gained in Minnesota only enhanced my capabilities and interface with BLAS’s Sperry UNIVAC 1100/60.
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Behind the development of the Sperry UNIVAC 1100/60
“While the 1100/80 was being developed, researchers at Sperry Rand’s Corporate Research Center in Sudbury, Massachusetts, established the feasibility of using multiple microprocessors to build a mainframe computer processor. St. Paul started a project under the code name Vanguard to design a new 1100 processor using Motorola 10800 microprocessors.
This design turned out to have a significantly lower cost, and the designers decided to enhance the system’s reliability by totally duplicating each instruction processor—the two halves would check each other. This was actually a return to the concept used in the Binac and the Univac I. The lower cost made it possible to bring out a smaller, less expensive machine in hopes of broadening the user base of the 1100, and this is exactly what happened.
The Vanguard was announced on 5 June 1979, as the 1100/60, which had its first delivery later that year. Its availability also coincided with the first widespread use of the Mapper software, which provided a simple database and reporting capability.”
(Quote from ‘Sperry Rand’s Third-Generation Computers 1964-1980’, by George T. Gray and Ronald Q. Smith.)
The Sperry UNIVAC 1100/60, was the first mainframe computer to use the Sperry Corporation name.
“In 1979, Sperry Rand changed its name to Sperry Corporation, but the computer division continued to be called Sperry UNIVAC and the computers still used the name UNIVAC.” (see UNIVAC Yahoo Answers )
It was tenth in a line of twelve of the UNIVAC 1100 series computers, which first began in 1962 with the UNIVAC 1107. It used the same type of numbering system as the initial multiple CPU system the 1100/10, where the last number represented the number of CPUs, i.e. a four CPU system is named 1100/64.
The 1100/60 also used semiconductor memory, which had replaced the plated wire memory with semiconductor memory, in the Univac 1100/40, in 1975.
It had enhanced multiprocessing support, with sixteen-way memory access allowed up to six CPUs (CAUs (Command Arithmetic Unit, the new name for CPU)), and four IOC (IOAUs (Input Output Access Units, the new name for IOC)).
The 1100/60 was the first to be booted up by a microcomputer called the “SSP” the “System Support Processor. The CPUs used microcode stored on eight inch floopy disk, which SSP used for the booting process of the SSP, which ran from a eight inch floppy disks. The SSP also performs all routine maintenance and runs diagnostics on the mainframe.
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Architecture of the Sperry 1100/60
Note: There were only a few areas where I was able locate specifics references to the UNIVAC 1100/60. In those areas where I could not, I have included enhancements to architecture and software from the models designed and built, immediate to or prior to the 1100/60. The UNIVAC 1100/60 and 1100/70 have the same memory, configuration, op codes, and performance capabilities. (SEE Table provided by .docstok’s Era to UNISYS Computer History, page 2)
The original Sperry UNIVAC 1100/60 model provided for a maximum of two instruction processors and two input/output processors (2×2), but this was subsequently increased to a maximum of four of each (4×4).
The switch to a denser main memory in 1981 was the occasion for changing the name from 1100/60 to the 1100/70. Between the 1100/60 and the 1100/70, nearly 4,000 processors were delivered by Sperry.
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Data formats
Fixed-point, either integer or fraction
Whole word – 36-bit (ones’ complement)
Half word – two 18-bit fields per word (unsigned or ones’ complement)
Third word – three 12-bit fields per word (ones’ complement)
Quarter word – four 9-bit fields per word (unsigned)
Sixth word – six 6-bit fields per word (unsigned)
Single precision – 36 bits: 1 sign bit, 8-bit characteristic, 27-bit mantissa
Double precision – 72 bits: 1 sign bit, 11-bit characteristic, 60-bit mantissa
Fieldata – 6 bit code (no lower case characters) six characters in each 36-bit word
ASCII – 9 bits per character (right-most 8 used for an ASCII character) four characters in each 36-bit word
Instructions are 36 bits long …
The 128 registers of the high speed “general register stack”, … map to the current data space in main storage starting at memory address zero. These registers include both user and executive copies of the A, X, R, and J registers and many special function executive registers …
… more information http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UNIVAC_1100/2200_series
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Hardware
SSP – System Support Processor (SSP)/Console
Each system includes one or two SSPs. The SSP is a desk-sized minicomputer unit that interfaces with the central complex units (CPU, IOU, MSU, SIU), which is capable of controlling one to four Cathode-Ray Tube (CRT)/keyboard consoles and a communications interface for remote diagnostic operation.
Capabilities of the SSP include: partitioning of central complex units and, optionally, word and byte peripheral subsystems; an initiation of system initial load and automatic recovery; micro control storage loading; error analysis; maintenance operations, both onsite and remote; control of up to four system consoles; retrieval of performance data via the optional performance monitor feature; and control of logic analyzer.
SC – Support Controller
Each central complex cabinet contains a support controller. The support controller provides an interface between the SSP and the individual units in the central complex.
Each support controller may interface with one or two SSPs. System control, maintenance, and diagnostic operations are performed on the central complex cabinet by the SSP via the support controller.
The support controller provides a means for the SSP to access main storage with block reads and writes. The support controller allows interrupts to be transferred to and from the SSP and the CPU.
Capabilities of the support controller include: loading control storage; selecting and controlling clock modes; scanning and setting flip–flops, register, and storage in the central complex units; loading maintenance micro diagnostic programs; testing and verifying control storage; partitioning central complex units; clearing and resetting system components; selecting initial load paths; verifying initial load operations; enabling system functions (quantum timer, day clock, real-time clock, and breakpoint stop); controlling auto recovery; and loading parameters (program address, breakpoint address, stop selects, and jump keys).
CPU – Central Processing Unit.
A unit of the 1100/60 System containing circuitry and operating registers which control the interpretation and execution of instructions. A CPU does not contain any main or auxiliary storage. Under the Executive, multiple CPUs may access common main and auxiliary storage. The CPU also includes input/output control registers and circuitry in 1100/60 system.
IOU – Input/Output Unit.
The basic 1100/80 System configuration includes one IOU. The IOU controls all transfers of data between the peripheral devices and main storage. Transfers are initiated by the CPU under program control. The IOU includes independent control paths to the CPU and data transfer paths to main storage. Input/OutpU1t (I/O) transmission is through either byte channels or word channels.
MSU- Main Storage Unit.
The physical cabinet that contains the directly addressable executable storage of the system.
Main storage provides storage for instruction and data words which are accessible to the processors. In systems with an SIU, the main storage is accessed through the SIU.
SIU – Storage Interface Unit.
A high speed buffer (cache) memory is used to accelerate access to main storage on the 1100/80 system. The range of buffer storage configuration is from one to eight logically independent buffer segments. A buffer segment contains 4K words of storage and is set-associative having four words per block and four blocks per set. The basic SIU contains 4K words of storage and can be expanded by adding 4K buffer segments giving a maximum of 16K words in an SIU. Two SIUs are required for all systems having more than two CPUs; this allows the maximum of 32K words of buffer storage in a system.
System Console (UTS 20 / UTS 40)
The console provides the means for communications between the operator and the Executive System. The console connects to an 1100/60 System via the SSP and consists of a display terminal, a printer, and a desk-like stand. System Operator used the Universal Terminal System, UTS 20, which was powered by 8-bit microprocessors (predecessor of chips that run on our computers today).
The terminal screen(s) appeared to be a dark olive color with light green almost florescent prompt/text, and were known as ‘green screen’ terminals. These terminals were the descendants from the Uniscope, trademarked applied for by Sperry in 1969.
Peripheral Subsystems
The 1100/60 and 1100/70 Systems offer a full range of auxiliary storage, paper peripheral, and communications subsystems. The standard SPERRY subsystems include:
- Semiconductor Storage Family
- 8480/8470/8450/8434/8433/8430 Disk Subsystems
- 8407 Diskette Subsystem
- FH-432/FH-1782 Drum Subsystems
- UNISERVO 22/24 Magnetic Tape Subsystems
- UNISERVO 26/28 Magnetic Tape Subsystem
- UNISERVO 30 Group Magnetic Tape Subsystems
- 0777 Printer Subsystem
- 0776 Printer Subsystem
- 0770 Printer Subsystem
- 0604 Card Punch Subsystem
- 0716 Card Reader Subsystem
- Distributed Communications Processors (DCP)/Telcon System
- General Communications Subsystem (GCS)
- Universal Terminal System (UTS) 4000 Series
- UTS 400 Display Terminal
- UTS 400 Text Editor
- Business Computer/7 (BC/7) Remote Job Entry Terminal
- System 80 (remote)
- V77 Series Systems
Many subsystems used on earlier model SPERRY Series 1100 Systems can be configured, but Sperry will not enhance any existing Series 1100 software for these destandardized subsystems.
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SOFTWARE
Operating System The UNIVAC 1100 Series Operating System.
The UNIVAC 1100 Series Operating System was designed to meet the total computing requirements of today’s users, and to allow for the change and growth required for the future.
The 1107 was the first 36-bit, word-oriented machine with an architecture close to that which came to be known as that of the “1100 Series.” It ran the EXEC II operating system, a batch-oriented second-generation operating system, typical of the early to mid-1960s.
The 1108 ran EXEC II and EXEC 8. EXEC 8 allowed simultaneous handling of real-time applications, time-sharing, and background batch work.
TIP, a transaction-processing environment.
Allowed programs to be written in COBOL whereas similar programs on competing systems were written in assembly language.
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The operating system is the outgrowth of Univac’s many years of experience in multiprogramming, multiprocessing, time sharing, communications, and real time oriented systems, and provides a system that contains the facilities required in complex environments, yet it is easy to operate and use.
The entire set of system software available for the UNIVAC 1100 series which is either a part of or operates under the executive system.
The EXEC (executive system), includes the executive system proper, compilers, utility programs, and subroutine libraries. It is responsible for such functions as time and space allocation of system resources; first – level I/O control, and interrupt answering; logging of system accounting data; first-level debugging assistance; and protection against undesired interaction of users with other users or the system. The Exec (also known as the Executive System) is a software supervisor that controls system’s operating environment. Largely resident in memory, the Exec processes user runs, controls files, manages system resources, and performs input/output operations for users.
“Strengths of the 1100 … EXEC 8 was superior to IBM’s OS and DOS in several areas, including scheduling, the ability to handle a mix of batch and demand runs, time-sharing capabilities, and the simplicity of Executive Control Language (ECL) … advantage in their multiprocessor architecture… permitted easier, incremental hardware upgrades and was the beginning of the road toward today’s fully redundant systems. … combined with the scheduling flexibility of EXEC 8… Another area of advantage for the UNIVAC was remote job entry (RJE) capabilities… DMS 1100 Database System… time sharing programs accessing the DMS-1100 were impressive… “
(this description from : UNIVAC Computers ? Yahoo Answers .)
On later systems, the EXEC 8 was renamed OS 1100 and OS 2200, with modern descendants maintaining backwards compatibility.
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THE SUPPLY CONNECTION
REMOTE PROCESSING STATION (RPS)–
The Remote Processing Station became the replacement for SBSS’s UNIVAC 1050-II. Functions as a location for both input and output and provides some processing capability. In accordance with the requirements of the USAF Phase IV program the SBSS had almost a mirror image of the processing capabilities and functions as we had before.
The RPS allows supply systems personnel to enter data and operating commands to the S1100/60. The RPS consists of the UTS 4020 cluster controller, remote terminals UTS 20W, and the UTS 40 and peripheral devices. Location is within the COS complex. AFM 67-1, Vol II (Ph IV), Part Four, Chap 14 (96:9).
The Workstations/Terminals, UTS 40, located throughout the various branches of Base Supply are allowed to process their inputs and receive their output in a similar manner as before directly to the S1100/60 and SBSS database. Each transmission would cause a single interrupt at the mainframe due to the ability to accept large blocks of data using the high speed proprietary communications interface.
The terminals connect to Terminal Multiplexors (TMUX) which in turn encodes the signals from several devices so the combined information could be sent over one line. The Supply TMUXs were connected to a Modem Nest and TMUX which a Distribution Communications Processor, the DCP 40, and then to the Sperry 1100/60 CPU. The multiplexors prevented the need to have a separate line for each terminal to the mainframe’s CPU .
Note similar dumb terminals UTS 40 were used by users within the Supply Complex to input transactions to the Supply Database located on the 1100/60. Right before I retired in 1989, we began to receive Zenith Z-248, personal computers equipped with the proper programing software known as an emulator, which allowed these computers to communicate with the system.
Gang Concept.
Each Sperry 1100/60 computer contains eight ‘gangs. Each gang is like a separate complete data base. In practice, one gang is used for primary processing and another for secondary processing. Therefore, a single Sperry 1100/60 could in theory be set up to support four Standard Base Supply System (SBSS) data bases.
For Supply use, Gang 1 is used for primary processing and Gang 5 is used for secondary processing. The other six gangs are typically used by base agencies other than supply.
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I will take up this discussion in another Poppadillo Blog Entry.
Thanks for sticking with me through this all, and I hope you enjoyed another trip down memory lane.
Best
Mike
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References
UNIVAC Memories
– http://www.fourmilab.ch/documents/univac/
Univac computers ? Yahoo Answers
UNIVAC 1100/2200 series: Wikis
– http://www.thefullwiki.org/UNIVAC_1100/2200_series
Univac 1100/60 InfoRapid Knowledge Portal
UNISYS
Sperry Rands Third-Generation Computers 1964 – 1980
Sperry and UNISYS Reference Manuals 1977 – 1997
UNIVAC 1100 / 2200 Series – Wikipedia
OS 2200 – Wikipedia
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The Poppadillo Blog, is the blog page for the Texas Tortilla Factory website, and its stories have been written by Mike Vauthier, and Administratively Approved Authors.
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When in the Air Force and trained on Sperry, I was stating at Charleston AFB. The sent me to NJ for several months to learn the products, first AF training class. I did TDY to Riyad, Saudi Arabia to support the Elf Command – satellite out of Germany. When my enlistment was coming up, Sperry offered me a job, and I traveled extensively up and down the eastern US, based out of Andrews AFB, then transferred first to Hanscom, and eventually landing at Pease in NH. Been in NH ever since.
Chris.
Thanks Christopher for commenting on the Article on the Sperry 1100/60. It would be nice if you would add dates (where you can) to the various locations. So when others read your comments they might recognize you or indicate they were at the same location and time that you were.