A multiplexed computer-computer, computer-device data link.

Abstract

A data link is described which provides an access path between many computer based stations so that the facilities of a central large computing system can be used. It is operated as a party line with each sending-receiving station capable of communicating with any other station; subsequent data transfers can be in burst or unit byte modes. The hardware format is a 24 bit parallel data bus with a parity bit per eight bit byte, and five pairs of symmetrical asynchronous control lines used to govern data flow, status retrieval, etc. on the data bus. The link also allows remote peripheral devices to be attached to it and controlled by a particular computer.