The I/O Port Architecture for Computer Modules,

摘要

In an earlier paper a new set of digital modules,called Computer Modules,or simply CM's,is described. In that paper it was stated that the correct design of the CM I/O structure is critical to their success,and moreover,the I/O structure of a CM is what distinguishes it from contemporary minicomputers. This report describes a preliminary design of the I/O structure for computer modules. The functions of the I/O ports are discussed and it is observed that they must allow sharing of memory and passing of control among interconnected CM's. CM's use a variation of the segmented address space scheme to implement the functions of the I/O port. A complete description of the I/O port is included,as well as a number of examples of inter-CM communications that illustrate the various ways the I/O ports can be used. (Author)