An Analysis of Microcomputer Technology for Application to Real-Time Trainers

摘要

Conceptual approaches to introducing advanced microcomputer technology in real-time trainers were investigated. Four types of computer system architectural approaches were examined and eliminated for various reasons. Eight available microcomputer/microprocessor modular families were also analyzed for trainer application. A conventional general purpose system was synthesized and used as a baseline for comparison. A unique functionally modular multiple microcomputer architecture is described that will satisfy the processing, computation and control requirements of modern high performance trainers. A life cycle cost model is described and the life cycle cost of the conventional GP approach is compared with the life cycle cost of the multiple microcomputer approach. Technologies required to achieve the unique architecture are summarized and a hardware-firmware (microcode)-software system control algorithm is described in conceptual terms.