FR80 Manual

Atlas Computer Laboratory

May 1974

ACL

CONTENTS

• Contents
• Chapter 1 Introduction
  • The FR 80 System
  • Input Section
  • Processor
  • Data Translator
  • Recording Unit
• Chapter 2 FR80 Features
  • Magnetic Tape Transport
  • Teletype
  • Display Monitor
  • Frame Rotation
  • Disk
  • Forms Overlay Capability
  • Raster Image Size
  • Frame Butting
  • Vector Generator
  • Color Recording
  • Characters
  • Gray Level Recording
  • High-Speed Page Print System
• Chapter 3 Applications Software
  • Host Computer Software
  • Standard FR 80 Software
  • Forms Compiler
  • FR 80 Data Format
• Chapter 4 FR 80 Output
  • Cameras
  • Film Formats
  • Types of Output
• Chapter 5 Applications
  • Business Applications
  • Scientific
  • Engineering
  • Publishing
• Chapter 6 Carriage Controls
  • Fiche Titling Format
• Chapter 7 Character Codes
• Chapter 8 Form Design Language
  • General Description
  • Tape Format
  • Command Format
  • Coordinate Commands
  • Variable Length Commands - Checkpoint Delimiters
  • Variable Length Commands - Not Checkpoint Delimiters
  • Error Messages
  • Summary of FR 80 Data Format
  • COMp 80 Supplement to FR 80 Data Format
• Chapter 9 FR 80 Standard data Format

1. Introduction

1.1 The FR 80 User's Manual is designed to be of assistance to the open shop user of the FR 80 Computer Output Microfilm (COM) Recorder. Chapters 1 and 2 contain a brief introduction to COM recording and a description of the FR 80 system. Chapter 3 describes the applications software available to the FR 80 user. Chapter 4 explains the FR 80's cameras and film outputs. Chapter 5 discusses typical applications currently run on the FR 80. Chapters 6 through 9 present detailed information concerning the FR 80's carriage controls, character codes, form design language, and standard data format.

THE FR 80 SYSTEM

1.2 The FR 80 is designed and manufactured by Information International, Inc. (hereinafter called III). The configuration of the FR 80 system is shown in figure 1-1. The system normally operates off-line. While reading digital data from magnetic tape, the system processes the information and records characters and vectors on a high-precision, cathode-ray tube. A special camera system photographs the face of the tube. The resulting film must be processed in an off-line unit. The method of processing will determine the polarity of the photographic image as positive or negative. Film duplicates, enlarged paper reproductions, or printing masters can be made from the original film.

1.3 The FR 80 is organized into four functional sections:

1. Input section
2. Processor
3. Data translator
4. Recording unit

Input Section

1.4 Standard FR 80 input consists of 7- or 9-track magnetic tape units, a master tape controller, Teletype, and paper tape reader. The master tape controller may be expanded to four magnetic tape units and provides switch selection of the desired input. The input section controls the flow of data to the processor at a nominal transfer rate of 30,000 18-bit words per second. The Teletype and paper tape units serve as a 10-character-per-second auxiliary communications link with the processor unit.

Figure 1: FR 80 System

Processor

1.5 The basic binary processor utilizes an 18-bit word and a 4096-word expandable core memory. Serving as the central control unit of the system, the processor combines operating data and plotting instructions for routing to the data translator. Under program control, the processor instructs the data translator to generate the alphanumerics, vectors, and special forms required.

Data Translator

1.6 The high precision and versatility of the FR 80 is determined by the function generators and control circuitry contained in the data translator, which is subdivided into a vector generator, character generator, point plot circuitry, and control circuits for the monitor and recording section. Upon command from the processor, the digital data received by the translator is converted to analog signals that control the precision light source deflection beam. The deflection drive signals are corrected for linearity and appropriate focus. Astigmatism signals are generated and routed to the light source deflection coils. Control signals from the data translator maintain control of the camera and monitor functions.

Recording Unit

1.7 Electrical signals are converted into a recorded film image in the recording unit, which comprises a precision light source, optics, and microfilm camera. Electromagnetic deflection is used to position the light source beam and achieve the best possible image quality. The created image is focused by the optical system and recorded by the microfilm camera. The recording cameras are available with incremental pulldown. The flexibility of the FR 80 permits the addition of Miracode and other retrieval codes to the microfilm record. A display monitor provides the operator with a window into the system. A 10" × 13" cathode-ray display tube is driven in parallel with the precision light source to provide an accurate view of the recorded image.

Figure 2: Optional FR 80 Equipment

2. FR 80 FEATURES

MAGNETIC TAPE TRANSPORT

2.1 A standard FR 80 includes either a 7-track (556/800 bits per inch - bpi) or 9-track (800 bpi) magnetic tape transport. These tape drives may be used in any combination up to a total of four, and operate at a speed of 37-1/2 inches per second (ips), providing a maximum transfer rate of 30,000 characters per second (cps) for an 800 bpi drive. Optional tape drives include a 75 ips version of the above two drives, with a maximum data transfer rate of 60,000 cps for an 800 bpi drive.

2.2 A 1600 bpi tape drive is also available for the FR 80. Its speed is 37-1/2 ips, with a maximum data transfer rate of 60,000 cps. It is available as 1600 bpi read/ write or dual read 1600 bpi phase encoded/800 NRZI.

2.3 The forenamed magnetic tape drives are IBM tape-compatible. A write feature is standard and is required for each FR 80.

TELETYPE

2.4 The FR 80 utilizes an ASR-33 Teletype for communication with the controller. An optional ASR-35 Teletype is available. The Teletype includes a 10 cps paper tape reader and paper tape punch. High-speed paper tape readers and punches are optionally available. The paper tape reader is used for the bootstrap loader and various other utility routines. When compiling forms on an 8K tape system, both the reader and punch are required.

DISPLAY MONITOR

2.5 The standard FR 80 contains a 10" x 13" cathode-ray tube display monitor. The monitor is driven by the same deflection system as the recording precision CRT. Therefore, it displays exactly what is being recorded on film. In addition, there is a view-only capability which allows the display to be on the monitor and not on the recording CRT.

2.6 While the system is in the idle status, the current settings of the resident simulator are continuously refreshed on the monitor, which also serves as a display for use in designing forms. The monitor is also very helpful for editing and debugging software, as well as for analyzing magnetic tape records.

FRAME ROTATION

2.7 The FR 80 can generate either cine or comic mode microfilm in all available cameras. The technique of accomplishing this is unique in that it is done completely through a software mode set in the FR 80. The advantage of this capability is that the CRT is not manually rotated, thus eliminating potential CRT alignment and camera focus problems.

DISK

2.8 There is provision in the FR 80 for an optional disk drive and controller. The disk is a fixed-head type (non-removable) with a capacity of 262,144 18-bit words and an average access time of 16 milliseconds. The transfer rate is 3 megabits per second. Uses of the disk include:

1. Storage of programs and forms for rapid loading.
2. Required for the disk operating system versions of the assembler, editor, and debug.
3. Interactive design of forms on-line.

FORMS OVERLAY CAPABILITY

2.9 A forms overlay capability is standard on the FR 80. Forms are created on the FR 80 through the use of a special software package. A form can be designed and verified by an FR 80 operator with a minimum amount of experience. Forms generation is an integral part of the operator training course. A properly trained operator will require approximately one hour to design a typical computer printout form containing both vectors and characters.

RASTER IMAGE SIZE

2.10 The FR 80 utilizes a 5" precision CRT for the recording of print and plot data. The CRT is optically flat and has a programmable raster of 16,384 by 16,384 points, for a total of more than a quarter of a billion addressable locations. As part of the deflection circuitry, there is sophisticated correction logic to compensate for geometric distortion common to CRT display systems.

2.11 The image size is continuously variable for all cameras and film sizes up to the maximum image size (see table 2-1 for FR 80 film formats). Image size scaling is done automatically through the use of standard FR 80 software and requires no special training or lens movement on the part of the operator. Exact image size is selected by the operator, scaled by software (including character size selection), and recorded on film. Following are two examples showing the steps in determining the proper scaling.

Plot

2.12 To find the proper image size, use the following formula:

Image Size  ×  Number of scope  =  Image size in   (2-1)
in inches      points per inch     scope points

Example: A 3/4" grid is to be plotted with the 35mm unsprocketed camera.

0.75 ×  11,442 = 8582

The image size will be set to 8582 scope points.

Print

2.13 To find the proper spacing and line feed values for a given reduction, use the following formulas:

Number of scope   /  Given reduction ×  10  =  Standard character spacing  (2-2 )
points per inch                                      in scope points

Character spacing ×  5 / 3 = Standard line feed in scope points (2-3)

Standard refers to the normal 10 characters per inch and 6 line feeds per inch on a line printer.

Example: A print tape is to be recorded with the 16mm unsprocketed camera at a 15 times reduction.

24,510 / 150 = 163, and 815 / 3 = 272.

The character spacing and line feed values will be set to 163 and 272 scope points, respectively.

Table 2.1: FR80 Cameras and Film Formats

FRAME BUTTING

2.14 Frame butting accuracy is a function of camera pulldown accuracy. Unperforated cameras operate with roller pulldown, which can produce a slight variation from frame-to-frame. Normally, this is adequate for data recording purposes.

2.15 An optional, sprocketed, pin-registered camera provides accurate frame butting. The camera specification calls for a pulldown accuracy of ±0.0004". This is better than the tolerances for positioning the sprocket holes in the film!

VECTOR GENERATOR

2.16 The standard FR 80 draws vectors through the use of a vector generator rather than by point plotting. Under program control, vectors can be drawn between any two addressable points at anyone of eight line widths and eight levels of intensity.

COLOR RECORDING

2.18 Color recording is available on the FR 80 as an option. The option requires that a special color-recording CRT be substituted for the standard black-and-white CRT. (The color CRT can be used for normal black-and-white recording, but a slight loss in resolution will be evident.) The color CRT phosphor has a spectral light output that will expose all three layers of the color film.

2.18 Physically, the color unit has three color filters: red, green, and blue. Under program control, the proper filter is inserted into the optical path. A standard FR 80 subroutine controls filter movement. Each selective filter allows exposure of only the corresponding layer of the color film. The following paragraphs indicate the number of hits (repeats of the same data) required to produce different colors.

Up to Four Colours

2.19

White  = 1 red hit, 1 green hit, 1 blue hit
Blue   = 1 blue 
Green  = 1 green
Red    = 1 red

Up to Seven Colours

2.20

White      = 1 red hit, 1 green hit, 1 blue hit
Blue       = 1 blue 
Blue/green = 1 blue, 1 green
Green      = 1 green
Yellow     = 1 green, 1 red
Red        = 1 red
Violet     = 1 red, 1 blue

Up to Thirteen Colours

2.21

White            = 2 red hits, 2 blue hits, 2 green hits
Blue             = 2 blue
Blue/blue-green  = 2 blue, 1 green 
Blue/green       = 2 blue, 2 green
Blue/green-green = 1 blue, 2 green 
Green            = 2 green
Yellow/green     = 2 green, 1 red
Yellow           = 2 green, 2 red
Orange           = 1 green, 2 red
Red              = 2 red
Violet           = 2 red, 2 blue
Red/violet       = 2 red, 1 blue
Blue/violet      = 1 red, 2 blue

2.22 The data tape need only specify the color required; standard FR 80 software keeps track of the filters and the number of hits. Throughput is increased by organizing the input data so that all of each color is recorded at the same time.

CHARACTERS

2.23 The FR 80 has extreme flexibility in hardware character generation. Rather than use a hard-wired character set, which limits recording to a single fixed font, the FR 80 stores the character set in core. Consecutive jobs can use different character sets and even different fonts without any alteration to the FR 80.

2.24 By using a very compact notation, the FR 80 standard 128-character set requires approximately 800 words of core. The core required for each FR 80 program includes space for the character set.

2.25 The standard character generator cycle steals the compacted character representation from core, interprets and records the character, and spaces in preparation for the next character. The high-speed character generator, part of the optional high-speed page composition system, incorporates the bookkeeping functions into the hardware. That is, a pointer to the beginning of a print line is handed to the character generator, and the entire print line is recorded before interrupting the program. The program can be doing other work while the print line is being recorded.

Character Fonts

2.26 The FR 80 has three standard fonts: III, OCR-B, and NMA Microfont, and an optional directory font (see Chapter 7 for character codes). III has designed over 200 basic characters and symbols. A reasonable number of special characters can be incorporated into FR 80 programs for special applications, e.g., logic diagrams from line printer output.

Character Size

2.27 The FR 80 character generator records 64 character sizes. Table 2-2 shows the character height for each size. Since the three standard fonts have an aspect ratio of 10 x× 14, the normal character spacing is equal to the character height. In fact, when size is not specified, the FR 80 software will automatically choose the proper character size based on the character spacing.

TABLE 2-2. NOMINAL FR 80 CHARACTER HEIGHT IN SCOPE POINTS.^*

[The term "scope points" 16,384 scope points refers to the addressable raster i.e. there are 16,384 scope points across the full CRT image in each direction]

* Characters are assumed to be 14 strokes high.

Character Rotation

2.28 The character generator automatically rotates characters to one of eight possible rotations. The rotations are at 45° intervals beginning at 0°.

Character Speed

2.29 The standard character generator produces 10,000 characters per second at minimum size. Typical speeds for common reductions are 5000 to 8000 characters per second. An optional high-speed page print system records at rates approaching 40,000 characters per second. The actual throughput speed is controlled by character size, mix of characters, fonts, style, tape blocking factor, multiple buffering, film pulldown, etc.

GRAY LEVEL RECORDING

2.30 Eight levels of gray are standard on the FR 80. A 64-level gray scale recording feature is optionally available.

HIGH-SPEED PAGE PRINT SYSTEM

2.31 This option permits character rates up to 40,000 characters per second and allows selection of CRT beam velocity under program control.

3. Applications Software

HOST COMPUTER SOFTWARE

3.1 III makes available to FR 80 users the symbolics and user manuals for several of the more common host computer software systems. Upon receipt of a 2400-foot magnetic tape, III will copy the symbolics on magnetic tape and furnish a set of user manuals free of charge.

3.2 These systems are the current production systems of the companies furnishing them for distribution and should be relatively error-free; however, neither the contributing company nor III can assume any liability for their use.

SC4020 Routines

3.3 Developed by North American Rockwell Corporation, these routines are written in FORTRAN with some 360 assembly language. The current version is operating under OS/MVT. Output is a tape formatted for the SC 4020. The III FR 80 reads this tape directly.

FRESCO

3.4 This is a host computer package particularly suited for use in an installation where the users are familiar with the SC 4020 syntax and do not want to re-educate a large group of open shop users. FRESCO (an acronym for FR 80 Extensions to SC 4020 Operations) was also developed by North American Rockwell and is an expansion of their SC 4020 routines package to take advantage of the additional features of the FR 80. Written in FORTRAN with some 360 assembly language, it is implemented under OS/MVT. The output of FRESCO is in the FR 80 data format. FRESCO is provided through the courtesy of North American Rockwell Corporation.

IGS (Integrated Graphics System)

3.5 Developed by the RAND Corporation, IGS was designed to provide a universal higher level language that would produce tapes for recording on any graphics recorder. Through the courtesy of the RAND Corporation, III is able to provide a version of IGS tailored to produce META. output for the SC 4060. This same package can be modified by the user to provide a more efficient META output with extended features for the FR 80.

3D Plots

3.6 Through the courtesy of Aerojet Nuclear Company, Aerojet-General Corporation, III may also distribute listings of routines for producing 3D plots. The routines are written in FORTRAN.

Other Host Computer Software

3.7 Additional host computer software packages of general interest will be distributed to FR 80 users if the contributor will furnish III with a magnetic tape with the symbolics and a master copy of the user's manual. III will also furnish technical assistance to FR 80 users who would like to convert their host computer systems to FR 80 data format output. Such conversion has resulted in significant reductions in host computer processing time, higher information density on the output magnetic tape and, in many cases, substantially increased recording speed.

STANDARD FR 80 SOFTWARE

3.8 III has applied the philosophy of maximum flexibility to FR 80 applications software. Each of the simulators has features often not available in the equipment being simulated. The following paragraphs detail the features available for each simulator. This is accomplished by first showing a sample of the parameter list for an actual program, followed by a brief description of each feature. It is not necessary for an open shop user to know how these are entered in the FR 80; these are operator functions and are covered in the FR 80 Operator' Manual.

Print Simulators

3.9 The FR 80 can simulate most line printers in common use. The simulators are designed to accept virtually any print format. This is important since no modification of host computer software is required. There are no artificial limitations on the number of characters in a line, or the number of lines in a page, or the number of pages in a frame.

Sample Commands and Parameters for Payroll Print Program

3.10

  TITLE 
  END JOB
  FORM=PAYROLL INDEX
  OVERALL FORM=NO
  ERROR FORM=NO
  IMAGES/FICHE=16,14 
  CAMERA=6 
  PULLDOWN=8 
  STRIP FICHE=NO 
  BY ROWS=NO 
  BY COLUMNS=YES 
  LOAD=PAYROLL 
  SPOT SIZE=0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7 
  INTENSITY=0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7 
  DELTA SIZE=0 
  VARIABLE BLOCKING=NO 
  FIXED BLOCKING=325 
  OTHER CONTROL CODES=NO 
  SCIENTIFIC=NO 
  COMMERCIAL=YES 
  WHERE CHANNELS ARE=1,1/2,1/3,1/4,1/5,1/6,1/7,1/8,1/9,1/10,1/11,1/12,1
  EQUIVALENCE CODE 
  ASA CONTROLS=NO 
  1401 CONTROLS=NO 
  360 CONTROLS=YES 
  POSITION OF CONTROL=l 
  SINGLE SPACE=YES 
  DOUBLE SPACE=NO 
  TRIPLE SPACE=NO 
  ↑ - UPRIGHT=YES 
  ← - ROTATED=NO 
  LINE SIZE=134 
  IGNORE - BEG,END,BLOCK=l,0,0 
  X - #,STEP,LEFT=1,7175,0 
  PAGE SIZE=64 
  Y - #,STEP,TOP=1,12646,14514 
  CHARACTERS - SIZE,SPACE,FEED=8,50,83

Description of Print Simulator Commands in Par. 3.10.

TITLE

END JOB

Specifies FR 80 fiche titling capability.

FORM=

One or more forms can be used.

OVERALL FORM=

Form recorded once per frame rather than once per page.

ERROR FORM=

Form flashes when a permanent data error occurs in print.

IMAGES/FICHE=

Specifies number of columns and rows per fiche.

CAMERA=

Specifies choice of camera.

PULLDOWN=

Number of camera advance increments for one frame.

STRIP FICHE=

Indicates strip fiche setting for any frame advance distance other than the standard for the camera.

BY ROWS=

BY COLUMNS=

Indicates sequence of pages within a single frame.

LOAD=

Name of program.

SPOT SIZE=

INTENSITY=

Ability to specify user's choice of spot size and intensity without having to create a new data tape.

DELTA SIZE=

Ability to increase or decrease all character sizes by the same factor.

VARIABLE BLOCKING=

FIXED BLOCKING=

Specifies size of record blocking on data tape.

OTHER CONTROL CODES=

Specifies non-standard print controls (see chap. 6).

SCIENTIFIC=

COMMERCIAL=

Choice of character sets.

NO CARRIAGE CONTROLS=

Specifies no use of carriage controls.

WHERE CHANNELS ARE=

Flexibility in specifying channel skips.

EQUIVALENCE CODE

Utility to have a character code represent another character.

ASA CONTROLS=

1401 CONTROLS=

360 CONTROLS=

Specifies standard carriage controls (see chap. 6).

POSITION OF CONTROL=

Specifies location of control character in the data record.

SINGLE SPACE=

DOUBLE SPACE=

TRIPLE SPACE=

Specifies line spacing over and above what is on the data tape.

↑ - UPRIGHT=

← - ROTATED=

Comic or cine mode.

LINE SIZE=

Number of characters to a line.

IGNORE - BEG,END,BLOCK=

Ability to omit portions of the print line.

X-#,STEP,LEFT=

Y-#,STEP,TOP=

Capability for specifying n pages per frame and boundaries.

PAGE SIZE=

Number of lines to a page.

CHARACTERS - SIZE,SPARE,FEED=

Specifies character size, character spacing and line feed.

SC 4020 Simulator

3.12 The 4020 simulator allows the FR 80 to accept magnetic tapes formatted for the Stromberg DatagraphiX 4020.

3.13 Sample Commands and Parameters for Strip Chart Program

  FORM=0
  OVERALL FORM=0
  CAMERA=3
  BY ROWS= YES
  BY COLUMNS=NO
  LOAD=CHART
  SPOT SIZE=0,l,2,3,4,5,6,7 
  INTENSITY=0,l,2,3,4,5,6,7 
  DELTA SIZE=0 
  ↑ - UPRIGHT=YES 
  ← - ROTATED=NO 
  SET SIZE,PULLDOWN=11000,3 
  X - NUMBER UP=1 
  Y - NUMBER UP=1 
  ABUT - SIZE,PULLDOWN=l2085,3 
  HEAVY - INTENSITY,SPOT=7,0 
  LIGHT - INTENSITY,SPOT=6,0 
  VECTORS - INTENSITY,SPOT=7,0 
  AXES - INTENSITY,SPOT=7,0 
  CHARACTER SIZE=l5
 

3.14 Description of SC 4020 Simulator Commands in Par. 3.13.

FORM=

One form can be used.

OVERALL FORM=

Form recorded once per frame rather than once per page.

CAMERA=

Specifies choice of camera.

BY ROWS=

BY COLUMNS=

Indicates sequence of pages within a single frame.

LOAD=

Name of program.

SPOT SIZE=

INTENSITY=

Ability to specify user's choice of spot size and intensity without having to create a new data tape.

DELTA SIZE=

Ability to increase or decrease all character sizes by the same factor.

↑ - UPRIGHT=

← - ROTATED=

Comic or cine mode.

SET SIZE,PULLDOWN=

Permits scaling the recorded image to any size within the maximum image area without preparing a new data tape. Camera incremental pulldown is also specified.

X - NUMBER UP=

Y - NUMBER UP=

Specifies number of plots to a frame.

ABUT - SIZE,PULLDOWN=

Permits scaling the expanded (abutted) recorded image to match the camera pulldown specified.

HEAVY - INTENSITY,SPOT=

LIGHT - INTENSITY,SPOT=

VECTORS - INTENSITY,SPOT=

AXES - INTENSITY,SPOT=

Permits choice of spot sizes and intensities to allow more flexibility.

CHARACTER SIZE=

Informs you of the choice of character size for standard 4020 characters made by the program.

META Interpreter

3.15 The META interpreter accepts tape in the META format and in particular for the Stromberg DatagraphiX 4060.

3.16 Sample of Commands and Parameters for Stock Chart Program.

  
  FORM=NO 
  OVERALL FORM=NO 
  CAMERA=l 
  LOAD=STOCKS 
  SPOT SIZE=0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7 
  INTENSITY=0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7 
  ↑ - UPRIGHT=YES 
  ← - ROTATED=NO
  SET SIZE,PULLDOWN=8192,3 
  ABUT - SIZE,PULLDOWN=12000,3

3.17 Description of META Interpreter Commands in Par 3.16

FORM=

One form can be used.

OVERALL FORM=

Form recorded once per frame rather than once per page.

CAMERA=

Specifies choice of camera.

LOAD=

Name of program.

SPOT SIZE=

INTENSITY=

Ability to specify user's choice of spot size and intensity without having to create a new data tape.

DELTA SIZE=

Ability to increase or decrease all character sizes by the same factor.

↑ - UPRIGHT=

← - ROTATED=

Comic or cine mode.

SET SIZE,PULLDOWN=

Permits scaling the recorded image to any size within the maximum image area without preparing a new data tape. Camera incremental pulldown is also specified.

ABUT - SIZE,PULLDOWN=

Permits scaling the expanded (abutted) recorded image to match the camera pulldown specified.

Calcomp Simulator

3.18 Records tapes formatted for the 500, 600, and 700 CalComp plotters.

Sample of Commands and Parameters for Contour Map Program.

  CAMERA=l 
  PULLDOWN=6 
  LOAD=CONTOUR 
  ABUT - SIZE,PULLDOWN=16383,3 
  SCALE - C,F=2,1 
  INITIAL X,Y,=0,2000 
  LEFT=0 
  BOTTOM=1868 
  ← - ROTATED 
  ↑ - UPRIGHT 

3.20 Description of Calcomp Simulator Commands in Par. 3.19.

CAMERA=

Specifies choice of camera.

PULLDOWN=

Number of camera advance increments for one frame.

LOAD=

Name of program.

ABUT - SIZE,PULLDOWN=

Permits scaling the expanded (abutted) recorded image to match the camera pulldown specified.

SCALE - C,f=

Specifies scaling from Calcomp to RF 80 units.

Initial X,Y=

Specifies starting coordinates.

LEFT=

BOTTOM=

Specifies frame positioning.

↑ - UPRIGHT=

← - ROTATED=

Comic or cine mode.

SET SIZE,PULLDOWN=

FORMS COMPILER

3.21 The FR 80 has a forms recording capability. Instead of using a manufactured forms slide and flashing it onto film, the FR 80 stores forms in core for read-out and recording as required by the film recording program. Since the forms are recorded from the CRT, using the same digitally controlled deflection system, precise registration and scaling are assured. This method makes it possible to place a vertical line between two adjacent characters without touching the characters or losing print positions.

3.22 Multiple forms (up to six) can be randomly selected under program control. The number of forms available at a given time is a function of the memory capacity of the system and the type of program.

3.23 Because the forms are recorded using the character and vector generator, the same intensity and resolution as the data is assured. However, intensities and line widths of specific lines and/or characters can be varied if desired.

3.24 Software for compiling forms is supplied with an 8K FR 80. This software language is easily learned. For a description of the form design language and a sample form, see chapter 8.

3.25 Many FR 80 users would like to format their output magnetic tapes more efficiently. This often provides greater flexibility and substantially reduces host computer time. The FR 80 Standard Data Format is presented in chapter 9. For those users desiring to implement the format, III will provide technical advice.

4. FR 80 Output

CAMERAS

4.1 The FR 80 is equipped with a standard precision camera mount that fits a large selection of optional cameras, thus providing broad flexibility for film recording requirements (see table 2-1 for FR 80 camera options and film formats).

Model 8020 35mm Sprocketed Camera

4.2 (For Movies, Reproduction Masters, and Strip Charts.) This camera has a sprocketed, pin-registered movement and is ideal for producing computer animated movies as well as reproduction masters. The pin-registration also makes the camera useful for making accurate abutments for strip charting.

Model 8021 16mm Sprocketed Camera

4.3 (For Movies.) With its sprocketed, pin-registered movement, this camera is very good for computer animation. This is the camera's primary use, since its small image size gives it limited appeal for precision plotting or abutting.

Model 8022 16mm Unsprocketed Camera

4.4 (For Retrieval, Plotting, and Printing.) Before the introduction of the fiche camera, this was the basic camera for alphanumeric data storage and retrieval systems. To take maximum advantage of the FR 80's high resolution, some users also specify this camera for plotting as well as printing.

Model 8023 35mm Unsprocketed Camera

4.5 (For Aperture Cards and Offset Printing Plates.) This is an unsprocketed camera with a maximum image area for recording plot data. The format is adaptable for mounting in aperture cards. This camera is also used to record film for making offset printing plates.

Model 8024 16mm Unsprocketed Camera

4.6 (For Strip Fiche.) This is basically the same camera as the Model 8022 except that it has a larger image area. It is used to record double-page formats at 24x and is able to space frames at the 0.25mm increments common in fiche formats.

Model 8025 105mm Unsprocketed Camera

4.7 (For Microfiche.) The Model 8025 camera normally records in columns, but the row format can be used at a sacrifice in recording time and positioning accuracy. The camera has standard 24X and 42X format control disks. Other formats and reductions are accommodated through standard FR 80 software. The camera aperture permits the recording of a double-page (20mm) image at 24X. An optional adapter kit is available for converting the camera to 16mm; however, the use of 16mm film in this camera is subject to certain limitations, and the user may find that it is better to use a separate 16mm camera.

4.8 Fiche titling is accomplished with standard FR 80 software (see par. 4.14).

Model 8026 35mm Unsprocketed Camera

4.9 (For High-Resolution Aperture Cards and Offset Printing Plates.) A specially designed lens system and mounting make this the best camera for quality recording. Its popularity for engineering drawing aperture card systems is based on its ability to record "AHU" type film at standard speeds. The high resolution permits the recording of E-size drawings (34" x 44") at 30X, and the fifth generation reproduction is quite clear.

4.10 Another important application is in recording 35mm frames with one or more pages per frame on high-resolution film from which high-quality metal and paper plates are produced for normal offset printing requirements.

FILM FORMATS

Micofiche

4.11 The FR 80 is capable of generating microfiche in the standard formats shown in table 4-1. Specification sheets for several of these formats are shown later.

TABLE 4-1 FR 80 MICROFICHE FORMATS

4.12 At a reduction ratio of 42X, the system is capable of generating 192 frames (computer printout page) on each 4" x 6" microfiche, with sufficient room for titling across the top of the fiche. Pages are arranged in a 14 x 16 array using the top two rows of 32 pages as area for titling. At a reduction of 48X, 392 frames and titling (8-1/2" x 11" document) can be generated on each microfiche.

4.13 The microfiche camera on the FR 80 is currently capable of generating a pattern of sequential images in sequential columns. Selection of the specific format desired is under computer control.

Fiche Titling Format

4.14 For a detailed description of the FR 80 fiche titling format, see Chapter 6.

Microfiche Format A1

Microfiche Format A3

Microfiche Format A4

Microfiche Format A5

Roll Film

4.15 The diagrams before show the formats for l6mm, 35mm, and 105mm film produced by the FR 80.

TYPES OF OUTPUT

4.16 COM film is exposed by the CRT drawing a line. Any area not touched by light from the beam remains unexposed. Normal film processing produces an image with black lines on a clear background. This is called positive microfilm. Standard microfilm produced by photographing such items as typed pages or an engineering drawing has clear lines with a black background and is called negative microfilm.

4.17 Negative film is generally used for viewing and making enlarged paper prints or offset masters. Duplication on Diazo film produces the same negative image. The black background reduces problems of undesirable dust and dirt marks.

4.18 It is often desirable to make the COM output negative microfilm. This can be accomplished by reversal processing the film in a unit such as the Information International Model 5010 Film Processor. The image will then have clear lines on a black background.

4.19 A second method of obtaining negative appearing images is to duplicate the normal COM output (positive) with a vesicular film such as that made by Kalvar and Xidex. The copy will be negative.

4.20 When a duplicate is needed and the image polarity is to be the same as the original, reproducing should be made by using Diazo film.

4.21 Many viewer-printers are available for making hardcopy from microfilm. For high-volume single copies from roll film, a machine like the Xerox Copyflo is appropriate.

4.22 FR 80 output film can be run on various platemakers to produce paper or metal plates for various printing presses.

>Model 8020 35mm Sprocketed Camera

Model 8021 16mm Sprocketed Camera

Model 8022 16mm Unsprocketed Camera

Model 8023 35mm Unsprocketed Camera

Model 8024 16mm Unsprocketed Camera

Model 8024 16mm Unsprocketed Camera

Model 8026 35mm Unsprocketed Camera

5. Applications

5.1 Many applications can be performed on the FR 80. For purposes of explanation, they are divided into the following general categories: business, scientific, engineering, and publishing.

BUSINESS APPLICATIONS

Retrieval

5.2 Information retrieval has been the first large-scale COM business application. Mailing lists or account files are recorded on l6mm roll film from which a number of copies are made. Subsequent changes in address are verified against the recorded addresses so that rejects can be noted in later data processing cycles. Similarly, when a customer calls to question his ledger account, the history is available to the customer service representative. In a bank, for example, the current status of every account may be available to every branch.

5.3 A typical retrieval application is a batch-processed file that is updated daily, weekly, or on a cycle billing basis. If an up-to-the-minute status is required, online terminals are generally used. Thus, an airline will use a microfilm retrieval system for the semi-monthly updated airline guide, while right beside it is an on-line terminal for reservation status.

5.4 The advantages of COM are speed, compactness of data, and lower reproduction costs. For example, an FR 80 with the high-speed page composition option can record up to 15 times faster than a typical line printer. A single 4" x 6" microfiche can have 192 pages of computer printout at 42X reduction, plus a title block that can be read at arm's length. The reproduction cost for a microfiche is approximately 10 cents, and viewers are now available for less than $100.

Charts and Graphs

5.5 Business data output from a computer is usually in the form of an alphanumeric listing. Some companies have acquired graphics plotters (and a staff to program them) so that this data can be reduced to charts and graphs for rapid interpretation. But most companies still rely on a staff of people armed with chart pads and a photographic capability. Unfortunately, it may take several weeks before the computer data can be converted into chart presentations for use by management. For those who believe a picture is worth a thousand words, there is another way.

5.6 The FR 80 takes the raw data tape from the computer, with weekly sales information, for instance, and records all of the detailed information on microfiche. Using the same tape and running it again, the FR 80 next constructs and records a complete set of charts and graphs on roll film. These charts are then run off in 8-1/2" x 11" size on a hardcopy machine such as a Xerox Copyflo. The complete package, consisting of hardcopy charts and a backup data on microfiche, is available for management review only hours after the computer has finished updating the files.

5.7 Stock charts are a notable example of a business application where chart presentations are preferred to computer listings. Wherever management decisions or evaluations are made on the basis of data presentations, business executives should be able to review that data in an easy-to-read form that can be quickly produced, instead of being limited to voluminous computer printouts and delayed handmade charts. The FR 80 can also record business charts in color for direct viewing through 35mm slide projectors.

SCIENTIFIC

5.8 There are many scientific uses for the FR 80. The following are a few that have already been implemented.

Gray-Level recording

5.9 The ability of the FR 80 to record as many as 64 levels of gray makes it very useful in presenting data pictorially.

1. A cloud cover photograph of the earth is a good example. Gray-level data telemetered from a weather satellite can immediately be recorded on the FR 80 and evaluated by weather scientists.
2. In the petroleum field, geologists are accustomed to viewing variable density seismic recordings. These can now be produced on the FR 80. Full-size blowbacks are inexpensive and have astonishing clarity.
3. Images enhanced by computer techniques such as Fourier transformations can be re-recorded directly on the FR 80 for evaluation.

Plotting

5.10 The FR 80's plotting capability, particularly with the Model 8026 high-resolution camera, makes it possible to record very complex plots in a single 35mm frame. The clarity of these FR 80 plots approaches that of the best pen-and-ink plotters, at a small fraction of the time and cost associated with the pen plotters.

5.11 Contour Maps. The petroleum industry, public utilities, highway departments, and geologically oriented organizations are typical of those who have use for contour maps. Of definite economic value is the FR 80's ability to produce, in less than a minute, the same maps that require an hour or more on a pen-and-ink plotter. Hardcopy 30X (or more) blowbacks of FR 80 plots approach the quality of original pen-and-ink plots.

5.12 Perhaps even more important are the host computer savings resulting from the FR 80's ability to record the more natural and compact raw vector and character data rather than having to convert it to the incremental point plot format. Savings on data tape approach 80% to 90%, while host computer time is cut by up to 40% to 50%.

Computer Animation

5.13 The FR 80 can be operated with either l6mm or 35mm sprocketed, pin-registered movie cameras.

5.14 Scientific Data. The representation of natural phenomena, such as particle movement in a nuclear environment, can be very graphic by recording and projecting it with each movie frame representing a time interval.

5.15 Structural Analysis. Computer animation has been very effective in viewing perspectives for architectural evaluation. Also, aircraft structural design has been aided by making animated movies to view the effects of the aircraft under stress. This is much better than looking through stacks of computer printouts several feet high.

5.16 Design Evaluation. By using the 19-element man in animated action, scientists have been able to evaluate human factors during the design phase of aircraft cockpits, etc. Also, simulations of various functions such as aircraft engine changes, and pilot visibility during landings, have prevented costly design errors.

5.17 Educational Films. Anyone who has seen the better training films used by the military services can appreciate how the most complex principles can be effectively presented. Calculus, statistics, physics, and even the new math can benefit from this type of visual presentation.

5.18 Commercials. More and more TV program lead-ins and commercials are the product of computer animation. The Norelco electric razor ad with the computer man was recorded on an FR 80.

ENGINEERING

5.19 The graphic capability of the FR 80 makes it particularly adaptable for use in engineering applications.

Engineering Data Plots

5.20 For years, COM recorders have been used to plot engineering data. In fact, this application was the rationale for the development of COM at the beginning of the 1960s. For some companies, this is still the basic application. The cost savings can be very large, particularly when one considers the cost of a delay in the development of a complex system such as an aircraft, ship, rocket or space vehicle.

Engineering Drawings

5.21 A sizeable percentage of the total cost of the development of a product is chargeable to documentation. Entire floors of buildings are filled with draftsmen producing and revising drawings. It wasn't until recently that the COM recording technology reached the point where it was feasible to COM-record engineering line drawings on 35mm film, with sufficient quality to eliminate the need for photographing an original full-sized drawing.

5.22 Standards groups are currently working on a COM engineering drawing specification that would provide an alternative to the current MIL specifications. A few companies are already producing line drawings in this fashion, using the FR 80.

5.23 Not all engineering drawings are line drawings. In some cases, a substantial percentage is strictly computer printout. One organization is using the FR 80 to record eight pages of computer printout with randomly occurring forms on a single 35mm frame. These frames are mounted in aperture cards for use in the company's aperture drawing system. Previously, this would have involved piecing together the eight pages and carefully overlaying the appropriate forms in preparation for photography by a planetary camera system. Moreover, the resulting frame would not have had the quality of the FR 80 frame, which is recorded in only 3 or 4 seconds.

5.24 IBM side-chain printer tapes and tapes formatted for pen-and-ink plotters, such as the CalComp 500, 600, and 700 series, can be recorded directly on the FR 80.

Printed Circuit Boards

5.25 Computers have been easily adapted to the design of printed circuit boards. The FR 80 can provide high-quality film output for the engineer to verify the accuracy of the design. This is not limited to the usual single-stroke appearance of the pen-and-ink plot; the various line widths, pads, and filled-in areas can be shown exactly the way the finished board would look. In fact, the FR 80 is capable of producing 35mm film of sufficient quality to be blown up for the final film master. III has made some of its own printed circuit boards in this manner.

Integrated Circuit Masks

5.26 Presently, integrated circuit masks are made on large, flat-bed plotters. By using an FR 80 coupled to a film transport, to provide the necessary increase in resolution and accuracy, a marked reduction in turnaround time and costs can be achieved.

Numerical Control Applications

5.27 The FR 80 presents a very convenient way of quickly and economically checking N/C tapes for errors before proceeding with metal-cutting operations.

PERT (CPM) Networks

5.28 The automation of PERT (CPM) network production by use of the FR 80 will produce substantial savings in time and cost over manual methods currently in use. There are several software systems available today, which, when used in conjunction with the FR 80, will completely eliminate the need for network drawing.

PUBLISHING

5.29 The FR 80 can offer substantial savings in printing applications common to most corporate organizations. Making plates directly from FR 80 output results in fewer pages and plates, thus reducing printing costs. Some of the more common applications are:

1. Price lists
2. Parts catalogs
3. Directories
4. Standard parts lists
5. Short-run computer printout

6. Carriage Controls

TABLE 6-1. ASA CARRIAGE CONTROLS.

TABLE 6-2. 360 CARRIAGE CONTROLS.

NOTE: Since 360 controls are a subset of III carriage controls, no III control code equivalence is given.

TABLE 6-3. 1401 CARRIAGE CONTROLS.

Bit definitions in III control code:

Bit Position             Meaning
in code
  0                   0 means space count; 1 means channel #

  1                   Count or
  2                   channel number or
  3                   form number
  4

  5                   0 means after, 1 means before
  6                   0 means print, 1 means don't
  7                   0 means select form, 1 means interpret bit

Adding 400₈ to an III control code will cause a single space after the line in addition to performing the indicated action.

TABLE 6-4. INFORMATION INTERNATIONAL CARRIAGE CONTROLS.

[Special FR 80 carriage control characters recognized]

NOTE: Page synchronize means interpret all digits in the line as a page number; this page number will be used to assign a position on the film frame to the page that follows. If there are no digits in the line the next film frame position will be assigned. (For applications having more than one page per frame.) The line will not be printed. A skip to channel #1 will be done. (If the next line requests a skip to channel #1, it will not skip to next page.)

6.1 The fiche title may occupy any number of fiche image rows across the top of the fiche (two rows are used in fig. 6-1) .

6.2 An integral number of title character positions (horizontally and vertically) may be assigned to each fiche image in the title rows. In fig. 6-1, the words "FICHE TITLE" have 4-character positions per image horizontally, and 2-line positions vertically.

6.3 The character size used for the title is determined by the number of characters specified horizontally per image.

6.4 Up to 128 (assembly parameter in print processor) characters may be displayed in the title (not including spaces). Up to 16 different messages may be put into the title area.

6.5 The input for the titling may be from the operator's Teletype or from records on the print tape.. In either case, the format is the same. On the print tape, a comma in the carriage control position causes characters from the printing positions to be interpreted as titling information.

6.6 To enter a title from the Teletype, the operator types TITLE/titling information).

6.7 Titling information is in the following format:

6.8 The first character will be:

• T: Beginning of title (this title to supersede previous title).
• C: Continuation of title information.
• (blank): (from tape only) Step to next fiche with same title. All subsequent characters will be ignored.

6.9 The second character will be ignored unless the first character was a T, in which case it will be a digit telling how many fiche image rows will be used for title area.

6.10 Subsequent characters are in a free format, specifying titling parameters for the following titling message. (Blanks are ignored.) Each parameter specification consists of a letter followed by one or two numbers (separated by commas). The letter designates which parameter(s) will be set; the number designates the value to be assigned. A dollar sign indicates that parameter assignments continue in next record. Parameter input will be terminated by a slash (/), which initiates input of text for this title message.

6.11 Parameters:

Cn

Number of characters to be placed horizontally in fiche image area

Ln

Number of text line positions into which a fiche image area will be divided

Hm,n

Horizontal position for first character of message

• m=column number
• n = character position within column (left character = 1)

Vm,n

Vertical position for first character of message

• m = row number
• n = line position within rows (top line = 1)

6.12 Text for message may be any character in the printing set. The dollar sign is used as an escape code and the following character is a control code. Control characters are:

$

Put $ into title message.

L

Line return; return to initial character position of this message one line position lower.

C

Text continues in next record, beginning with the third character.

M

End of message, parameters assignments for next message follow.

T

End of title.

A digit

The digit (n) represents the number of characters to be used as a fiche number. The following n characters will be used for the initial fiche #, and its value will be incremented by one on each subsequent fiche.

6.13 Examples:

1. The following title information example will produce the title shown in figure 6-1:

T2 C4 H1,1 L2 V1,1 /FICHE TITLE$M$
C C6 H1,1 L2V2,1/October 12,1970$M$
C C8H4,1 L4 V1,3 /Recorded$L$L   on$C
C $L$L FR 80$M$ 
C C3 H5,2 L2 V1,1 /No.$3  l$T

2. To output two lines of 60 characters in the top fiche image row with 5 characters across each fiche image:

Tl C5 L2 H1,1 V1,1/ (60 characters) $C
C1 $L (60 characters) $T

Figure 6-1. Fiche Titling Example

7. Character Codes

Figure 7-1. Character Codes

Figure 7-2. Character Codes

Figure 7-3. Character Codes

Figure 7-4. Character Codes

Figure 7-5. Character Codes

8. Form Design Language

FORM DESIGN SYNTAX

8.1 The parameters preceding the following commands are to be interpreted as follows:

h

Number of horizontal units being used

i

Number of horizontal user units

j

Number of vertical user units

m,n

Numbers

v

Number of vertical units being used

x

Number of FR 80 scope points in the X (horizontal) axis

y

Number of FR 80 scope points in the Y (vertical) axis

8.2 Many of the parameters are enclosed in brackets. This is to indicate that those parameters are not required. The number in parentheses after the command characters indicates the number (if any) of 18-bit words of storage required for the command.

FORM DESIGN SYNTAX COMMANDS

[i] A (1)

Draw horizontal vector and change current position

[m][,n] B ( )

Set intensity and spot size; both range from 0 to 7 (default is 7,0).

NOTE Setting either the intensity or the spot size alone will require one word. Setting both requires two.

j C (1)

Set character size.

NOTE A single argument to this command will be interpreted as a number of units. If two arguments are supplied, they will be used to specify a fraction of user units, the first number being the numerator, the second the denominator.

[i] [,j] D (0)

Set deltas.

i E {1}

Set character spacing. (See preceding NOTE.)

j F (1)

Set character line feed. (See preceding NOTE.)

[m] [.n] G (1)

Display page or frame number. m is the number of digit positions being allowed. n is defined as follows:

• 8 = frame number; leading digits blanks
• 12 = frame number; leading digits printing zeros
• 16 = page number; leading digits blanks
• 20 = page number; leading digits printing zeros

This command should be preceded by the C and E commands, used as they are for unjustified text. The default parameters for this command are 4, 16. The page and frame output is determined by the status of the CURRENT PAGE and FRAME commands of the PRINT program.

[i] H (1)

Draw horizontal vector without changing current position.

[i] I (1)

Move in X axis without drawing

[j] J (1)

Move in Y axis without drawing.

i,j L (2)

Draw vector without changing current position.

i,j M (2)

Draw vector and change current position to end point.

[n] N ()

With new parameter. name non-permanent picture definition that follows. With no parameter. end definition. With old parameter, execute picture definition. The execution of a picture definition leaves the current position unchanged.

NOTE Naming a picture definition requires three words plus the word requirements of the commands within the definition. Recalling a definition requires two.

[n] O

Dumps the binary form currently in core onto magnetic tape. The film will advance n pull downs when the tape is read. If no parameter is typed. the film will advance one frame.

x,y P (2)

Move to new position.

[m] [,n] Q (1)

Plot a point. With no parameters. the intensity and spot size set in the B command will be used. If parameters are supplied. they will affect the plotting of this point only.

[n] R ()

Repeat (with no parameter. end repeat).

NOTE A repeat usually requires two words plus the word requirements of the commands within the repeat. The exception is a repeat larger than 225, which requires an additional word.

x,y S (0)

Define space and line feed values.

T

Read Syntax from paper tape.

[j] U (1)

Draw vertical vector and change current position to end point.

[j] V (1)

Draw vertical vector without changing current position.

n W (0)

Establish border around text within a box (default is 8).

h,x X (0)

Scale horizontal units to scope points.

v,y Y (0)

Scale vertical units to scope points.

m,n Z (0)

Smallest fraction of space and line feed values to be used as a unit.

[j] [,n] !A (3)

Draw clockwise arc with center at current position and number of degrees specified by !L. j is the radius expressed in vertical units. n is the starting position in 1.5° increments clockwise from vertical (default is vertical).

n !C (0)

Set Text Mode: n = 0, UNJUSTIFIED; n=2, CENTERED; n= LEFT-JUSTIFIED; n=3, RIGHT-JUSTIFIED.

[m][,n] !G (0)

Assigns the number of green (m) and blue (n) hits to be used for subsequent data. This command must be followed by an H command.

[m][,n] !H (2)

Assigns the number of clear (m) and red (n) hits to be used for subsequent data.

NOTE In the G and H commands zero may be used as a parameter to mean no hits. If all four parameters are set to zero, one hit of the clear filter (which is the default) will occur.

n !L (0)

Arc length; n is number of 1.5° segments to be drawn (default is 240 segments, a complete circle).

!N

Similar to N, except for permanent picture definitions. See !N.

!'

Execute permanent picture definition. See ! N.

[n] !R (1)

Rotated characters: n = 0 upright, n=1 rotate 45° anticlockwise, n=2 90° OR NO PARAMETER, n=3, 135°, N=4, 180°, N=5, 225°, n=6, 270°, N=7, 315°

!U (1)

Upright characters

[j][,j] !V (n)

Selects solid, dotted, or dashed lines (default is solid). This command selects a mode for all subsequent vectors until another !V command is encountered.

n = 1, SOLID, no parameter

n = 2, DOTTED, one parameter. (The parameter refers to the space between dots along the axis with the larger vector component.)

n = 3, DASHED, two parameters. (The two parameters refer to the distance on and off along the axis with the larger vector component.)

[i][,j] " ()

Enter or exit Character Mode.

NOTE Text Mode set "UNJUSTIFIED": Entering character mode requires one word. Each pair of characters within requires an additional word. (If the total number of characters in the text is odd, the odd character requires one word.) A carriage return, to be added to the line it follows, is equal to one character. The requirement for exiting character mode is equal to one character.

Text Mode Set "LEFT-JUSTIFIED", " CENTERED", or "RIGHT-JUSTIFIED": Entering character mode requires two words. Each line within requires two additional words plus one word for each pair of characters. (If the total number of characters in the text is odd, the odd character requires one word.) A carriage return, to be added to the line it follows, is equal to one character. The requirement for exiting character mode is equal to one character.

"UNJUSTIFIED"

The arguments are illegal. The first character will be displayed with its lower left corner at the current position. Subsequent characters will be at positions determined by the rotation, spacing, and line feed values. The current position will be unchanged.

"LEFT-JUSTIFIED, CENTERED, or RIGHT-JUSTIFIED"

The current position should be at the lower left corner of the imaginary box used to justify the text. The arguments describe the size of the "box." The current position will be unchanged.

The following commands establish parameters to be used by the PRINT program in conjunction with a form:

[m][,n] \B (0)

Specify step size in X and Y axes.

j \C (0)

Set character size.

NOTE A single argument to this command will be interpreted as a number of units. If two arguments are supplied, they will be used to specify a fraction of user units, the first number being the numerator, the second the denominator.

n \D (0)

Set spacing mode. n=1, SINGLE SPACE n=2, DOUBLE SPACE n=3, TRIPLE SPACE

n \F (0)

Selects character set in BCD print programs. n=0, COMMERCIAL; n=1, SCIENTIFIC

[m][,n] \I (0)

Specify left edge in X axis and top in Y axis.

n \L (0)

Set LINE SIZE.

[i][.j] \O (0)

Set offset from top left of form.

n \P (0)

Set PAGE SIZE.

i,j \S (0)

Specify overall size of form.

[m][,n] \U (0)

Specify number of images in X and Y axes.

n \V (0)

n = 1 for VARIABLE BLOCKING.

\←(0)

ROTATED image (Cine Mode).

SAMPLE FORM

8.3 The following form design language was used to create the "Monthly Inventory Statement" form shown below.

  /SCALING 
  100,167S 
  1,4Z 
  1,2D

  /PARAMETERS TO BE USED BY THE PRINT PROGRAM
  134\L 
  64\P 
  132,63*2\S 
  0,-1\0

  /PARAMETERS TO BE TYPED TO THE FORMS PROGRAM 
  /PUL/3 
  /360/

  /PARAMETERS TO BE TYPED TO THE PRINT PROGRAM 
  /CAM/2

  /MEDIUM LINES 
  1N 
  5,2B 
  ,4D 
  132A -63U -132A 63U 
  -3J 
  132H 
  3J 
  26I -63V
  46I -63V
  24I -63V
  12I -63V
  12I -63V
  N 
  lN
  /THIN LINES 
  2N 
  3,0B 
  -13J 
  5R 132H -10J R 
  N 
  2N

  /DASHED LINES (THIN)
  3N 
  ,1D 
  3,1 !V 
  ,4D 
  -8J 
  6R 132H -10J R
  N 
  3N

  /BOLD TEXT 
  4N 
  6,3B 
  2!C 
  132,3"MONTHLY INVENTORY STATEMENT"
  N
  4N

  /LIGHT TEXT 
  5N 
  3,0B 
  0!C 3,5C lE 
  ,2D 
  J 
  "DATE" 
  122I 
  "PAGE" 
  -122I -3*2-1J 
  ,4D 
  2!C 
  26,3"PART NUMBER" 26I 
  46"DESCRIPTION" 46I 
  24"VENDOR" 24I 
  12"QUANTITY 
  IN 
  STOCK" 12I 
  "QUANTITY 
  ON 
  ORDER" 12I 
  "QUANTITY 
  BACK 
  ORDERED" -12-12-24-46-26-2I -60J
  l!C 2!R 
  2,63"FORM NO. 1037" 
  N 
  5N

Form Designed

9. FR 80 Standard Data Format

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

9.1 The FR 80 standard data format is a binary language used to communicate instructions to the FR 80 Microfilm Recorder for production of general graphics output.

9.2 Considerations in the specification of this language are

1. Minimal ambiguity in description of attributes
2. Compactness
3. Flexibility
4. Utilization of all FR 80 capabilities
5. Well-defined recovery from errors
6. Provision for high-speed searching for start of job, frame advance, or checkpoint commands

9.3 The FR 80 has the following characteristics:

1. 16,384 × 16,384 addressable points
2. 8 selectable beam intensity levels
3. 8 selectable beam spot sizes
4. 64 selectable character sizes
5. 8 selectable character rotations
6. Optional color selection
7. Font specification under program control
8. Incremental pulldown on unsprocketed roll camera

9.4 Various cameras available have apertures which restrict the use able area of the raster. The apertures are centered on the addressable area. See Table 2.1 for the number of addressable points provided by the different aperture sizes in the available cameras.

9.5 Data may be recorded in comic mode or cine mode. In comic mode, X coordinates refer to positions along the film, and Y coordinates refer to positions across the film. Frames follow each other in a succession from left to right along the film. See figure below.

9.6 In cine mode, X coordinates refer to positions across the film, and Y coordinates refer to positions along the film; frames follow each other in a succession from top to bottom down the film. See figure below.

Camera Mode

TAPE FORMAT

9.7 The basic unit of information supplied to the l8-bit word whose bits are numbered 0-17 from right. On 7-track tape drives, this is three 6-bit characters in odd parity mode.

Characters

9.8 Data from 9-track drives is in the following form: the six low-order bits from each byte are used as data, the high-order two bits are ignored.

9.9 Tape records may be blocked in any size to a maximum of 512 l8-bit words.

9.10 Encountering a file mark on the tape will cause a pause, with the message END OF FILE typed to the operator with accounting information.

COMMAND FORMAT

9.11 Commands may be one-word, two-word, or variable length. One-word commands specify movement on either the X or Y axes. Two-word commands provide for movement in both axes simultaneously. Variable length commands perform other control functions and text display. To determine which type of command is being examined, the high-order bits are interpreted in the following way:

Bit 0

ON means draw a vector to specified point.

Bit 1

ON means coordinate is relative to current point. OFF means coordinate is an absolute position.

Bit 2

ON means update position to specified point. OFF means leave current position unchanged.

Bit 3

ON means coordinate is a Y value. OFF means coordinate is an X value.

9.12 If bit 0 and bit 2 are both off, this is the first word of a variable length command. Otherwise it is a coordinate command.

COORDINATE COMMANDS

9.13 Bits 4-17 contain the coordinate value. To determine if this is a one-word or two-word command, the following word is examined. If bits 0, 1, and 2 are off and bit 3 is on, this word is the second word of a two-word command and the 14 low-order bits represent the Y coordinate value.

9.14 To describe coordinate commands, we will refer to CX, the current X coordinate; CY, the current Y coordinate; SX, the X coordinate value specified by the command; and SY, the Y coordinate value specified by the command.

9.15 For one-word commands, if bit 3 (the Y bit) is on, bits 4-17 contain SY, and SX is zero for relative commands (bit 1 on), or SX=CX for absolute commands. Similarly, if bit 3 is off, bits 4-17 contain SX, and SY is zero for relative commands, or SY=CY for absolute commands. For two-word commands, SX is in bits 4-17 of word 1 and SY is in bits 4-17 of word 2.

9.16 Treating bits 0-2 as a 3-bit op code, the commands are:

* All additions are performed modulo 16384, so negative numbers are represented in 2' s complement form.

VARIABLE LENGTH COMMANDS - CHECKPOINT DELIMITERS

9.17 Variable length commands with bits 0-3 off are treated as checkpoint delimiters which may be searched for, independent of context.

Checkpoint Delimiters

9.18 All checkpoint delimiters cause exit from TEXT MODE if recording characters at regular speed. Checkpoint delimiters will not cause an exit from high speed TEXT MODE (see command 04).

9.19 No Operation see diagram below.

9.20 Frame Advance

No Operation, Frame Advance and End Job

For the microfiche camera: 1 means step to the next fiche and ignore the rest of the bits in this command. o means advance n pages.

Advance film n frames, increment frame counter. One frame is a number of pulldowns appropriate to the camera and may be set by the operator.

9.21 End Job see diagram above. n = pause level. See pause level description in control interrupt command (par. 9.41). If n = 17₈ end of last job on tape assumed.

9.22 Start Job

Start Job

Types job ID if supplied, resets indicated parameters, strip chart mode, vector family mode, and establishes the following defaults: spot size = 0, intensity = 7, solid vector mode, upright characters, single hit with clear filter.

9.23 The first word of all other variable length commands has the following format:

Instruction Format

The following commands are currently defined:

9.24 OCT 00 DEC 00 Incremental Film Advance

Incremental Film Advance

The data contains the number of camera pu11downs to be executed (0-511). The frame counter will not be incremented, and will not be treated as a frame delimiter. This command should not be used for microfiche.

9.25 OCT 01 DEC 01 Repeat Following Command Sequence

Repeat Command Sequence

If 2 ≤ n ≤ 511 n is the repeat count. If n = 1 the repeat count is in the following word in the format indicated. If n = 0 terminate command sequence. Repeats may be nested to a depth of 8.

9.26 OCT 02 DEC 02 Picture

Picture

t = 0

define following command sequence as picture n

t = 1

end definition of picture (p = 1, n = 77₈) so that end definition 1S 202377₈.

t = 2

draw picture n

t = 3

delete definition for picture n

p = 1

permanent picture

p = 0

non-permanent picture (definition usually lasts only through current job).

Definitions may not be nested, but requests to draw a picture may be included within a picture definition. While in process of drawing a picture, the request to draw pictures may be done to a depth of 8. After completing the drawing of a picture, the coordinates (CX and CY) will be reset to the point where they were before the picture was drawn.

9.27 OCT 03 DEC 03 Enter Justified-Type Mode

Enter Justified-Type Mode

The character size and spacing specified will apply to the current command only, and will not change the values used by subsequent type mode commands. The X and Y displacement values are added to CX and CY to specify the position of the lower left corner of the envelope for the first character of the following text. After completion of this command, CX and CY are unchanged.

Subsequent words contain text as described under Text Format (see par. 9.29) in Type Mode description (op code 04).

When a new line code (217₈) is encountered in the text, the following two words contain data as words 3 and 4 above, again followed by text. (If the new line code is in Field 1, Field 2 will be ignored.) An end of message code in the text terminates this command.

9.28 OCT 04 DEC 04 Enter Type Mode (Non-justified)

Enter Type Mode (Non-justified)

The first character will be displayed with its lower left corner at the current point. Subsequent characters will be at positions determined by the rotation, spacing, and line feed values. The current position will be unchanged by this command.

bit 9 = 1

means output characters with proportional spacing.

bit 9 = 0

means output characters with mono spacing.

bit 11 = 1

means output text at high speed (if high-speed page print option is available).

bit 11 = 0

means output text at regular speed.

9.29 Text Format - Text for display on the FR 80 will be packed two characters per 18-bit word. They will be in Half-word Format:

Half-word Format

If the high-order bit of one of these 9-bit fields is on, the remaining eight bits are a printing character; if the bit is off, the remaining eight bits are a control character. Text will be terminated by an end of message character (203₈). Text used in conjunction with the following commands must be packed in the half-word format: START JOB, JUSTIFIED TYPE MODE, CONTROL INTERRUPT, FICHE TITLE.

Notes

1) For proportionally spaced text the number entered with the Set Character Spacing (Code 11₈) command is the inter-character spacing (the distance from the right of one character to the left of the next).

2) Checkpoint delimiters will not cause an exit from high-speed type mode.

3) If proportional spacing or multiple hits are specified, text recording is at regular speed only.

9.30 OCT 05 DEC 05 Set Intensity

Set Intensity, Set Spot Size, Set Character Size, Set Character Rotation

Bits 15-17 (12-17 if the gray level option is installed) of the data contain the intensity to be used when the color filter specified by bits 9-11 is in place. When specifying the 6-bit intensity for the gray-level option, the order of the 2 octal digits must be reversed. For example, to specify intensity 57₈ enter the number 75₈. The filter specification for bits 9, 10, and 11 is as follows:

f=0002 clear;
f=0012 (unspecified);
f=0102 red;
f=0112 magenta;
f=1002 green;
f=1012 yellow;
f=1102 blue; 
f=1112 cyan.

9.31 OCT 06 Dec 06 Set Spot Size

Bits 15-17 of the data contain the spot size to be used when the filter specified by bits 9-11 is in place. (See command 05 for filter specification.) Changing spot size requires about 50 msec.

9.32 OCT 07 DEC 07 Set Character Size^*

Bits 12-17 contain the FR 80 hardware character size to be used in subsequent 04 commands.

9.33 OCT 10 DEC 08 Set Character Rotation

The data is a rotation number to be used in subsequent text display commands. A rotation value of zero corresponds to upright characters. Successive values are rotated 45° counterclockwise.

* Not ordinarily useful; see octal 24 command.

9.34 OCT 11 DEC 09 Set Character Spacing

Set Character Spacing, Set Text Line Spacing

The data is a spacing number (from the left of one character to the left of the next for monospaced text; from the right of one character to the left of the next for proportionally spaced text) to be used in subsequent 04 commands.

9.35 OCT 12 DEC 10 Set Text Line Spacing

The data is a center line spacing number (from the bottom of one line to the bottom of the next line) to be used in subsequent 04 commands.

9.36 OCT 13 DEC 11 Output Page # or Frame # to Film

Output Page or Frame Number

The page or frame number will be output at the current position as though a 04 command had been encountered.

9.37 OCT 14 DEC 12 Select Color (or Multiple Exposure)

Select Colour

(The count word may be omitted if the counts are all zero and another count word follows.)

If x is zero another count word follows containing cyan, yellow and magenta count.

This word is permitted only if a subtractive filter system is installed.

The counts represent the number of times the film will be exposed with the indicated filter in place. (If a subtractive filter system is installed, the red, green, and blue filters will be simulated by inserting two filters simultaneously in the light path.) If the specified count for all filters is zero, a count of one for the clear filter is assumed. Any film advance is equivalent to selecting the clear filter with the number of hits previously specified for it (or one if zero).

If the color select command calls for more than one color per frame, the select command acts as a repeat and must comply with repeat nesting rules.

When a given filter is in place, the intensity and spot size appropriate that filter, as specified by the 05 and 06 commands, will be in effect.

9.38 OCT 15 DEC 13 Plot Current Point

Plot Current Point

If the set size or intensity bit is on, the spot size and/or intensity may be set for intensification of this point only. The spot size and intensity for subsequent commands will remain as specified by the 05 and 06 commands.

9.39 OCT 16 DEC 14 Select Vector Mode

Select Vector Mode

Bits 16 and 17 contain a code for vector drawing mode interpreted in the following way:

Bit 16 = 0, Bit 17 = 0

Normal solid vectors (no words follow)

Bit 16 = 0, Bit 17 = 1

Dashed vectors; two words follow containing the approximate number of points the beam will be on, and the approximate number of points the beam will be off per dashing cycle. The lengths will be along the axis which has the larger vector component.

Bit 16 = 1, Bit 17 = 0

Dotted lines; one word follows containing the spacing between dots along the axis that has the larger vector component.

9.40 OCT 17 DEC 15 Draw Arc

Draw Arc

For the purpose of drawing arcs and circles, a circle is divided into 240 1.5° sectors. The arc length is specified by the number of sectors to be drawn clockwise from the starting angle. The starting angle is specified by the number of sectors clockwise from vertical.

The center of the arc will be the current point. Drawing an arc will not change the current point.

9.41 OCT 20 DEC 16 Control Interrupt

Control Interrupt

Bits 9-13 will cause the function indicated to be performed if on.

Bits 14-17 will be a pause control level. All bits on (17₈) will be an unconditional pause. All bits off will never pause. Intermediate levels will cause a pause if their value exceeds a parameter entered by the FR 80 operator. When the pause occurs, the pause control level will be typed on the Teletype.

The text for an operator message will be in the same format as specified for the 04 command.

9.42 OCT 21 DEC 17 Verify Camera and Select Cine or Comic Mode

Verify Camera and Select Mode

If the specified camera is not in place, the machine will pause after indicating to the operator that another camera is required.

9.43 OCRT 22 DEC 18 Draw Vector Family

Draw Vector Family

This command conditions the FR 80 to interpolate the specified number of lines between the next two vectors produced by commands with bit 0 on. (Those commands may be either one- or two-word type.) Both specified vectors will also be drawn. At the completion of the drawing of these vectors, the current point will be restored to the position it was when the Draw Vector Family command was encountered. If the number of interpolated lines is zero, then a second word follows specifying the actual number of interpolated lines (see above).

9.44 OCT 23 DEC 19 Set X and Y Offsets

Set X and Y Offsets

The specified X and Y offsets will be added to all subsequent coordinates.

9.45 OCT 24 DEC 20 Select Character Height

Set Character Height

The largest character size not greater than HEIGHT will be selected. If HEIGHT = 0, a character size appropriate to the specified spacing for monospaced text will be selected.

9.46 OCT 25 DEC 21 Define Character Set

Define Character Set

n = number of character equivalences to follow. (A checkpoint delimiter may also be used to terminate this command.) A character equivalence is a word in the format following (where the III code equivalent is a printing character).

9.47 OCT 26 DEC 22 Assign Character Definition to Code

Assign Character Definition to Code

Following this are words containing character descriptions in the following 6-bit codes:

9.48 OCT 27 DEC 23 Not defined

9.49 OCT 30 DEC 24 Fiche Title

Fiche Title

A fiche title specification follows this command packed in the half-word format (see command 04). The end of message control character (203₈) terminates the specification. Details of the fiche title specification are described in 6.1 onwards. This command causes the title on the current fiche to be completed and causes subsequent data to be recorded on a new. fiche. The fiche title specification stays in effect until changed.

9.50 ERROR MESSAGES

The FR 80 Data Format Displayer program can type any of the following error messages on the Teletype:

To continue processing after an error, the operator can use the SCAN command to continue with the next checkpoint delimiter, the next frame, or the next job.

9.51 SUMMARY OF FR 80 DATA FORMAT

0000                Escape checkpoint delimiter
    000             No op
    001             End job
    010             --- not defined 
    011             --- not defined 
    100             Start job 
    101             --- not defined 
    110             --- not defined 
    111             Frame advance
0001                Y coordinate (second word) 
0010                X move absolute 
0011                Y move absolute 
0100                Escape (see below) 
0101                Escape (see below) 
0110                X move relative 
0111                Y move relative 
1000                X vector not moving 
1001                Y vector not moving 
1010                X vector absolute move 
1011                Y vector absolute move 
1100                X vector relative not move 
1101                Y vector relative not move 
1110                X vector relative move 
1111                Y vector relative move
Escape codes (octal)
00                  Incremental film advance 
01                  Repeat 
02                  Picture name 
03                  Enter justified type 
04                  Enter non-justified type 
05                  Set intensity 
06                  Set spot size 
07                  Set character size 
10                  Set character rotation 
11                  Set character spacing 
12                  Text line spacing 
13                  Page # or frame # (accounting to film) 
14                  Select color mode 
15                  Plot current point 
16                  Select vector mode 
17                  Draw arc 
20                  Control interrupt 
21                  Verify camera and select rotation 
22                  Draw vector family 
23                  Set X and Y offsets 
24                  Select character height 
25                  Define character set 
26                  Assign character definition to code 
27                  --- not defined 
30                  Fiche title 
31                  Optical merge 
32                  Font selection 
33                  Justify