7 10 106 https://museum.eecs.yorku.ca/files/original/a6256751fb508721100fb9c9af3ce0bc.jpg 420875405d7764d0a11cea4ce8de4c26 hardware A computer (or a calculator), its components and peripherals (displays, printers, pointing devices, modems, external storage devices, etc). Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource MICOM 1001 Digital Word Processor Subject The topic of the resource hardware: digital word processor Description An account of the resource Historical context (by Z. Stachniak) In 1967, Stephen Dorsey founded Automatic Electronic Systems (AES) in Montreal to develop electronic devices for industrial remote-control applications. Over the six years, AES developed, among other products, its own minicomputers (the AES-80 and AES-80C) and the world’s first all-in-one programmable word processor — the AES-90. Until the mid-1980s, digital word processors remained the company's main line of business, sold around the world. In the 1960s, office document-writing equipment was still dominated by various types of typewriters, ranging from purely mechanical to electric models, including those with digital storage for recording typed text, such as the best-selling IBM MT/ST (Magnetic Tape/Selectric Typewriter), which recorded edited documents on magnetic tape. These devices lacked displays and offered only limited word-processing functionality. None of them could be upgraded to newer versions; they could only be replaced with more advanced models as they became available. It all changed in the early 1970s, when several companies introduced dedicated text-editing equipment with displays for on-screen document editing and external storage. In 1972, Linolex Systems introduced its Model A while Lexitron offered the Videotype 911. In the following year, AES released its AES-90 Word Processor, and Vydec began selling its Vydec Text Processor. Although all these systems provided on-screen editing and external storage, several unique features of the AES-90 set new trends in the design of cost-effective text editing equipment. The most important of these was the AES-90 architecture and its software upgradability. The AES-90 was a standalone system that featured a CRT display, a keyboard, and two 8-inch floppy disk drives connected to a central processor. However, unlike the “hard-wired” solutions used in other early on-screen text-editing systems, the AES-90 processor was built around a general-purpose minicomputer (the AES-90C) running dedicated text-editing software. This design allowed for software updates, bug fixes, and adaptation to changing requirements without the need to purchase a new processor and discard the outdated one. For this reason, the ACS-90 was promoted as a programmable word processor and “a giant step into a new era of cost-effective written communication.” Within a few years, the office equipment market was flooded with similar video-screen text-editing products from companies worldwide—the Toshiba JW-10 Japanese Language Word Processor, announced in 1978, is one notable example—revolutionizing office operations. Although orders for AES-90 processors were piling up, AES faced significant difficulties with cash flow and attracting investor interest. Ultimately, the company came under the control of Innocan Investments Ltd., a Canadian financial organization specializing in venture capital for new and expanding firms, particularly those in high-technology industries. The Canadian Development Corporation owned 40% of Innocan, while other shareholders included the Air Canada Pension Fund, the Bank of Nova Scotia, and several well-established investment groups. Difficult relationship with AES financial backers led Dorsey to leave the company in 1975. Soon after leaving AES, Dorsey founded Micom Data Systems in Montreal. The company went on to manufacture a successful line of digital word processors, beginning with the introduction of the Micom 2000 in 1976. In 1978, Philips Information Systems of Toronto, a subsidiary of the Dutch office automation giant Philips NV, acquired 80% of Micom’s ownership. As part of the Philips corporate group, Micom gained access to Philips' extensive global marketing and distribution network. By the end of the 1970s, Micom had become a market leader, ranking first in sales in Canada and second in Europe. Its equipment was installed in numerous major organizations, from Air Canada and Washington Gas to NASA (with over 50 MICOM 2000 systems deployed). Micom's workforce grew rapidly, expanding from just five employees in 1976 to more than 1,100 by 1980. In 1984, the company relocated to a new facility in Saint-Laurent, Quebec, and began manufacturing the Micom line of Philips PCs in addition to its word-processing hardware. That year, Philips Information Systems recorded sales of $62 million, up from $38 million in 1983. Of that $62 million, approximately $42 million came from the sales of Micom word processors. Although Micom was more successful than AES Data in the 1980s, its word processing business was phased out by the end of the decade due to the global transition in the office-equipment industry toward microcomputer-based multifunctional solutions. Micom 1001 Released in 1980,  Micom 1001 word processor  was designed and manufactured in Canada.  It had built-in plasma display (one line of 40 characters) and a single mini cassette drive for external storage.  The QWERTY-style keyboard included editing function keys and tape storage control keys. The processor could be connected to a printer. Technical specifications CPU:  Zilog Z80 microprocessor, 8-bit; with Mostek MK3882N timer-controller; ROM: 16 Kb x 8 in  4 2732 EPROMs; display:  built-in LCD module, one line of 40 characters, controleed by the HD43160A LCD chip containing character generator and display memory ; keyboard: QWERTY-style, 57 keys; 10 function and control keys; external storage: single mini cassette drive; porrts: printer port.  Software Firmware stored in ROM. Museum holdings <ul> <li>MICOM 1001 digital word processor, model number M1001, serial number 500627,</li> <li>Micom 2001, Reference Manual, Micom Data Systems Ltd, 1980,</li> <li>Micom/Philips promo literature.</li> </ul> Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Micom/Philips Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context H.41 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World, 1980s Contribution Form The set of elements containing metadata from the Contribution form. Online Submission Indicates whether or not this Item has been contributed from a front-end contribution form. No word processor https://museum.eecs.yorku.ca/files/original/4f30fa3bb3f147145fcccb9567211ac9.jpg c476c03e821393a0cbd8292b43599866 hardware A computer (or a calculator), its components and peripherals (displays, printers, pointing devices, modems, external storage devices, etc). Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource MICOM 2000 Digital Word Processor Subject The topic of the resource hardware: word processor Description An account of the resource Historical context (by Z. Stachniak) In 1967, Stephen Dorsey founded Automatic Electronic Systems (AES) in Montreal to develop electronic devices for industrial remote-control applications. Over the six years, AES developed, among other products, its own minicomputers (the AES-80 and AES-80C) and the world’s first all-in-one programmable word processor — the AES-90. Until the mid-1980s, digital word processors remained the company's main line of business, sold around the world. In the 1960s, office document-writing equipment was still dominated by various types of typewriters, ranging from purely mechanical to electric models, including those with digital storage for recording typed text, such as the best-selling IBM MT/ST (Magnetic Tape/Selectric Typewriter), which recorded edited documents on magnetic tape. These devices lacked displays and offered only limited word-processing functionality. None of them could be upgraded to newer versions; they could only be replaced with more advanced models as they became available. It all changed in the early 1970s, when several companies introduced dedicated text-editing equipment with displays for on-screen document editing and external storage. In 1972, Linolex Systems introduced its Model A while Lexitron offered the Videotype 911. In the following year, AES released its AES-90 Word Processor, and Vydec began selling its Vydec Text Processor. Although all these systems provided on-screen editing and external storage, several unique features of the AES-90 set new trends in the design of cost-effective text editing equipment. The most important of these was the AES-90 architecture and its software upgradability. The AES-90 was a standalone system that featured a CRT display, a keyboard, and two 8-inch floppy disk drives connected to a central processor. However, unlike the “hard-wired” solutions used in other early on-screen text-editing systems, the AES-90 processor was built around a general-purpose minicomputer (the AES-90C) running dedicated text-editing software. This design allowed for software updates, bug fixes, and adaptation to changing requirements without the need to purchase a new processor and discard the outdated one. For this reason, the ACS-90 was promoted as a programmable word processor and “a giant step into a new era of cost-effective written communication.” Within a few years, the office equipment market was flooded with similar video-screen text-editing products from companies worldwide—the Toshiba JW-10 Japanese Language Word Processor, announced in 1978, is one notable example—revolutionizing office operations. Although orders for AES-90 processors were piling up, AES faced significant difficulties with cash flow and attracting investor interest. Ultimately, the company came under the control of Innocan Investments Ltd., a Canadian financial organization specializing in venture capital for new and expanding firms, particularly those in high-technology industries. The Canadian Development Corporation owned 40% of Innocan, while other shareholders included the Air Canada Pension Fund, the Bank of Nova Scotia, and several well-established investment groups. Difficult relationship with AES financial backers led Dorsey to leave the company in 1975. Soon after leaving AES, Dorsey founded Micom Data Systems in Montreal. The company went on to manufacture a successful line of digital word processors, beginning with the introduction of the Micom 2000 in 1976. In 1978, Philips Information Systems of Toronto, a subsidiary of the Dutch office automation giant Philips NV, acquired 80% of Micom’s ownership. As part of the Philips corporate group, Micom gained access to Philips' extensive global marketing and distribution network. By the end of the 1970s, Micom had become a market leader, ranking first in sales in Canada and second in Europe. Its equipment was installed in numerous major organizations, from Air Canada and Washington Gas to NASA (with over 50 MICOM 2000 systems deployed). Micom's workforce grew rapidly, expanding from just five employees in 1976 to more than 1,100 by 1980. In 1984, the company relocated to a new facility in Saint-Laurent, Quebec, and began manufacturing the Micom line of Philips PCs in addition to its word-processing hardware. That year, Philips Information Systems recorded sales of $62 million, up from $38 million in 1983. Of that $62 million, approximately $42 million came from the sales of Micom word processors. Although Micom was more successful than AES Data in the 1980s, its word processing business was phased out by the end of the decade due to the global transition in the office-equipment industry toward microcomputer-based multifunctional solutions. Micom 2000 The Micom 2000 was introduced in 1976. It featured a main processor unit with a built-in display, a detachable keyboard, and an external 8-inch floppy drive. Although its design employed a microprocessor—the Intel 8080A—and the system offered networking and electronic mail capabilities, it was not a general-purpose computer, as it could not store or execute application programs. The Micom 2000 was followed by models 2001, 2002, 3000, 3000 MINI EDIT, MINI-EDIT, and SATELLITE. Word processing features <ul> <li>wordwrap,</li> <li>justification,</li> <li>adjustment,</li> <li>aligment,</li> <li>boilerplate,</li> <li>copying and cuting,</li> <li>deletion,</li> <li>footnoting,</li> <li>format letter merging,</li> <li>headers and footers,</li> <li>indents,</li> <li>centering,</li> <li>insertion,</li> <li>overstrike,</li> <li>page numbering,</li> <li>pagination,</li> <li>search and replace,</li> <li>spell checking and correction,</li> <li>table of contents and index generation.</li> </ul> Technical specifications <ul> <li>CPU: Intel 8080A,</li> <li>RAM: 64Kb,</li> <li>ROM: ?</li> <li>display: built-in CRT, 15", monochrome,</li> <li>keyboard: 51-key QWERTY-style,  19-key numeric and edit function keypad,</li> <li>extrenal storage: an 8 inch floppy disk drive.</li> </ul> Museum holdings <ul> <li>Micom 2000, model number C-2000, serial number 01510  with a keyboard and a diskette drive (serial number 203972),</li> <li>Assynchronous Communication, System Reference Manual, Micom, 1979 [the use of Micom as a remote computer terminal]</li> <li>Micom Software Manual, rev. 4.2, Micom Data Systems Ltd, 1977,</li> <li>Micom 2001, Reference Manual, Micom Data Systems Ltd, 1980,</li> <li>Micom/Philips promo literature,</li> <li>Program Diskette, ver. 4.2, Jan. 31, 1978,</li> <li>Program Diskette, ver. 4.2, March 6, 1978,</li> <li>Program Diskette, ver. 4.2, Sep. 18, 1979.</li> </ul> Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Micom Data Systems Ltd. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1976 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Hardware Type The nature or genre of the resource Hardware Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context H.35 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 1976-1980s Contribution Form The set of elements containing metadata from the Contribution form. Online Submission Indicates whether or not this Item has been contributed from a front-end contribution form. No word processor https://museum.eecs.yorku.ca/files/original/8ff8bbc2bd37fc29d4dddb04ab1aa961.JPG 4dc66a41865ef52c5ec7942364cb73b1 https://museum.eecs.yorku.ca/files/original/fcafe45aa17bc8ef31e4877f435b1f98.jpg 11b643b60ed0dd368377ff3db2bdfdbe https://museum.eecs.yorku.ca/files/original/7ec298fb5a63e3d738e9e0a16d0f45ff.png 77cf06486380317fb11d7bbbf7de6865 https://museum.eecs.yorku.ca/files/original/6558cf08f9f469a6f49ac50b29b24420.jpg c6d9c580290d47366a3a1092a390ee06 https://museum.eecs.yorku.ca/files/original/296b05f2fb3c0ded1a2c0a43fa78fa23.png dbc5d94df936d30a4f31b3acdb06e3b3 https://museum.eecs.yorku.ca/files/original/7eb8eb32479ef0ed93e841fe831d7c51.png 506088ef6e9c9493497f84c95a2a791a https://museum.eecs.yorku.ca/files/original/7eb608c054e99bc11751c1444eda1eab.jpg 01930553f240a044764d14cab8f7370a https://museum.eecs.yorku.ca/files/original/99248370bed223896e4eee54a31fc538.JPG dc4c109a29f50125cb416a36e917b23f https://museum.eecs.yorku.ca/files/original/a74be93d4e3c7637d5d5872284b7fb5b.jpg c1a74c9346fdf46f61e8245df2ff670b https://museum.eecs.yorku.ca/files/original/c7f7d4bed9b04525383affff12a85b0b.png 9f7d1e7d5389d1d21800b178cbce3f5e https://museum.eecs.yorku.ca/files/original/1e5fb8cf93c4a1aa4062804db962ae1f.png caa7166077aaca029f24c15198b10bba https://museum.eecs.yorku.ca/files/original/f196cf08f5c31b341faa7518fdafde96.png d34410a7914f2d7c500f2370a489ee7a https://museum.eecs.yorku.ca/files/original/5e3059a58995b8f335055c873e314adf.png 12f04f0f237bccd11c7931f2aeab0f0e https://museum.eecs.yorku.ca/files/original/63b777edaeaf0a159483c65b153b5612.jpg d007c9c7109227dd89b989fb04cff52b https://museum.eecs.yorku.ca/files/original/674f43f57a004e69d135388b2ec1127a.png d62627da1a8b797c96823826bc573587 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Micro Computer Machines: photographs and promotional brochures Subject The topic of the resource computer literature and photographs Description An account of the resource Photographs of former employees of Micro Computer Machines (MCM) and images of MCM promotional brochures used in the MCM exhibit and in the descriptions of MCM artifacts. From top to bottom, left to right: <ul> <li>The photograph taken during the announcement of the MCM/70 in Toronto on 25 September 1973 in Royal York Hotel (photographer unknown).</li> <li>Mers Kutt and Gordon Ramer  — the co-founders of MCM, 1973 (photographer unknown).</li> <li>Ted Edwards demonstrating the Executive at the Technical University of Denmark during the APL Congress in Denmark, August 1973 (© Politiken).</li> <li>MCM's hardware engineer José Laraya in front of an MCM/70 and one of its prototypes at York University, 2011 (photograph by Zbigniew Stachniak).</li> <li>Mers Kutt—a co-founder of MCM—speaks at York University in 2001 (photograph by Zbigniew Stachniak).</li> <li>André Arpin discussing the principles of his virtual memory at York University in 2008 (photograph by Zbigniew Stachniak).</li> <li>The Key-Cassette concept. Drawing by Mers Kutt, 1972.</li> <li>A prototype of the MCM/70 used during the  announcement of the MCM/70 in Toronto on 25 September 1973 in Royal York Hotel (photographer unknown). </li> <li>The MCM/70 assembly line at the MCM manufacturing facility in Kingston, Ontario, 1975(?) (photographer José Laraya). </li> <li>MCM company logo, 1973. </li> <li>An MCM/70 promotional brochure, 1974. </li> <li>The TEXT/700 word processor ad in MCM NEWS newsletter, 1976. </li> <li>Pension Actuarial Valuations and Plan Administration (PVAS) software promotional brochure, 1976. </li> <li>An MCM System 800 promotional brochure, 1976. </li> <li>An MCM Power promotional brochure, 1980. </li> </ul> Language A language of the resource English Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource brochures published by Micro Computer Machines; photographers as indicated in the descriptions Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Canada, 1972-2011 Contribution Form The set of elements containing metadata from the Contribution form. Online Submission Indicates whether or not this Item has been contributed from a front-end contribution form. No Adtech microcomputers https://museum.eecs.yorku.ca/files/original/afff82e26fe21e4a363a8c6c2b521fb2.jpg 9a350978b92b93ce88cbe1c53aab8ecf hardware A computer (or a calculator), its components and peripherals (displays, printers, pointing devices, modems, external storage devices, etc). Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource microWAT Microcomputer Subject The topic of the resource computer hardware: microcomputer Description An account of the resource Historical context: Early microprocessor-based computers (microcomputers) presented a cost-effective and low-maintenance alternative to high-performance minicomputers that dominated the computer scene of the 1970s. Their utilization was confined largely to applications that did not require the full processing power of the minis. Microcomputers also presented a unique opportunity to expand and enrich academic computing programs and environments. A 1979 study conducted at the University of Waterloo (UW) on possible use of microcomputers for academic applications concluded that "many of the jobs run on computers at Waterloo could be done using the computational capacity possessed by microcomputers." [1] However, "none of the inexpensive, mass-manufactured microcomputers had the appropriate hardware to operate our planned software, mainly because the memory was not large enough, and because there was insufficient flexibility, particularly with respect to input/output." [1] The study set in motion two microcomputer development projects at the Computer Systems Group (CSG) of UW -- the microWAT and the SuperPET. The microWAT was designed jointly by CSG and Jerry Krist of Northern Digital Ltd. of Waterloo. The computer was demonstrated in December 1980 and subsequently manufactured by Northern Digital. The microWAT was a small CPU unit that required a separate keyboard, display, and external storage to form a computer system. At UW, MicroWATs used Volker-Craig video display terminals and Commodore IEEE disk drives. Several microWATs were installed inside "dumb" display terminals converting them into versatile desktop computers that could operate with diskette drives, printers, plotters, and could be networked with other systems such as the IBM Series/1 minicomputers operating at UW. The computer was built around the Motorola 6809 microprocessor and all its hardware was deposited on several printed circuit boards including the CPU, I/O, ROM, and RAM boards. An additional small ROM card sealed from tampering (referred to as the "key" card or the "chocolate bar") was a software security device containing a key required to access software written at UW including micro BASIC, Pascal, FORTRAN, COBOL and APL. According to former Northern Digital employee Heinz Wolter "The most interesting thing in that whole system was that Wes Graham (of Watfor fortran compiler fame) had written a copyrighted poem (Haiku) that was an unencrypted key required to run the software." The microWATs were used, among other places, at UW for academic teaching and research. The introduction of the IBM PC in August 1981 and the subsequent rapid growth of IBM PC-compatible computer market put an end to the microWAT and SuperPET programs. microWAT technical specifications: <ul> <li>CPU -- Motorola 6809, 8-bit</li> <li>RAM -- three memory cards, 32Kb each</li> <li>ROM -- 60Kb</li> <li>ports -- two RS-232 compatible serial ports (implemented using MOS Technology 6551 Asynchronous Communications Interface Adapter),</li> <li>a single parallel port (implemented using the MOS Technology 6522 Versatile Interface Adapter)</li> </ul> microWAT software: <ul> <li>monitor</li> <li>micro BASIC, Pascal, FORTRAN, COBOL and APL languages</li> </ul> The museum has a microWAT computer with a CSG "key" card. References: [1] D.D. Cowan and J.W. Graham, Waterloo Microcomputer Systems for the 1980's, Proceedings of the ACM '82, pp. 13–17 (1982). [2] R.L. Hughson, Alternations in the oxygen deficit-oxygen debt relationship with beta-adrenergic receptor blockade in man", J. Physiol. 349, pp. 375-387 (1984). Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Developed by the University of Waterloo, Manufactured by Northern Digital Ltd. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1980-- Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context H.25 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Ontario, Canada, 1980-1983[?] Contribution Form The set of elements containing metadata from the Contribution form. Online Submission Indicates whether or not this Item has been contributed from a front-end contribution form. No microcomputer microWAT Northern Digital University of Waterloo https://museum.eecs.yorku.ca/files/original/038c5961ce60a57d1909f1854baf1660.jpeg 77365218aba564dbb486b9c379dba043 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Microsystems International Limited (MIL) Collection Description An account of the resource In October of 1968, with $48 million package from the Canadian Treasury Board, Northern Electric transformed its Advanced Devices Center into a new company called Microsystems International Ltd. (MIL). In March of 1969, MIL opened its doors with its headquarters in Montreal and the manufacturing facility in Ottawa. The company's focus was to be on new  semiconductor technologies and products. In a short period of time, MIL acquired state of the art integrated circuit technologies and the second source rights to a number of products. The company's memory products, such as MF1101, MF1103, MF1701, or MF1702, and the MF8008 microprocessor, placed the company among the semiconductor leaders on the international market. Between 1970 and 1972, MIL developed and manufactured Canada's first microprocessor -- the MF7114. It also produced three microcomputers:  the CPS/1 system designed around the MF7114 microprocessor as well as the MOD8 and the MOD80 computers. The MOD8 microcomputer, developed in 1974, was based on the MIL MF8008 8-bit microprocessor. This computer (as well as its refinement -- the MOD80) consisted of the MOD8-8 PCB backplane mounted in an aluminum case. The backplane contained the Eprom programmer and nine connectors for the CPU, memory, interface, and I/O cards. The MOD8 computer and its MONITOR8 software were aimed at the development of the MF8008-based applications. To MIL's surprise, it was the North American computer enthusiasts who made the MOD8 a popular 8008-based microcomputer kit in 1975-1976. MIL's MF8008 Applications Manual was one of the most widely read early documents on 8-bit microprocessors. The MOD8 influenced other early microcomputer designs for the hobbyists' market such as the Mike2 computer from Martin Research or a range of C-MOD computers from Celetron Corporation which were sold by MiniMicroMart of Syracuse, NY. The company closed its operations in June 1975. However, MIL's demise seeded the Canadian high-technology sector with scores of semiconductor, computer, and telecommunications start-ups founded by former MIL employees. Acquisition: The artifacts have been donated to YUCoM by several individuals including  David Drynan, John Freeman, John Hackman, Kelly Hamilton, William Kindree, Mark Silver, Zbigniew Stachniak, and Candi Trefero. HARDWARE <ul> <li>MOD8 microcomputer</li> <li>MOD80 microcomputer with a variety of additional home made boards and passive backplane</li> <li>MP-1 chip set (it includes the MF7114 microprocessor)</li> <li>MF8008 microprocessor</li> <li>various MIL integrated circuits including the MF7114 and MF8008 CPUs as well as the MF1702A Eproms.</li> <li>MOD8-8 backplane</li> <li>A set of replicated MOD8 printed circuit boards</li> </ul> MANUALS, GUIDES, APPLICATIONS NOTES <ul> <li>MC-1 Microcomputer Handbook (Preliminary), MIL (197?)</li> <li>MC-1 - the 'Nibbler' Microcomuter Instruction Guide, 1973(?)</li> <li>How to Use the CPS/1 Micro-Computer System, Bulletin 50001 (MIL, 1972)</li> <li>Techniques for the CPS/1, Microsystems International Ltd., preliminary edition, 1973(?)</li> <li>CPS/1 Application Guide, Microsystems International Ltd. , June 26, 1972</li> <li>Short Form Catalogue Catalogue, Bulletin 80001, Microsystems International Ltd., March 1971</li> <li>Selected Linear I.C. Catalogue, Bulletin 80004A, Microsystems International Ltd., 1974 edition</li> <li>MF8008 Central Processing Unit Applications Manual, Microsystems International Ltd., preliminary edition, 1974(?)</li> <li>MOS Memory Catalogue, Bulletin 80005, Microsystems International Ltd., 1974</li> <li>MOS LSI Memory, Bulletin 23006, Microsystems International Ltd., 1972(?)</li> <li>MOS LSI Memory Fully Decoded Static Random Access 1024 Bit Memory MF2102, Bulletin 23032, Microsystems International Ltd., 1972</li> <li>MF8008 Central Processor Applications Manual, Bulletin 80007, Microsystems International Ltd., 1974 edition</li> <li>Microprocessor Control of the Singer Telerex 30PMI Matrix Printer, MIL Applications Note, HRM 1468-00, November 16, 1973</li> <li>J. Freeman, MF 7114 Central Processing Unit Product Specification, Design Report P-F-7114, Issue 1, Microsystems International Ltd., October 1973</li> <li>J. Freeman, MF 7115, 64x4 RAM Product Specification, Design Report P-F-7115, Issue 1, Microsystems International Ltd., October 1973</li> <li>MOD8 Manual, Moducomp Inc., 1975(?)</li> <li>MOD8/Audio Cassette Interface Manual  (Moducomp?)</li> <li>MOD80 Supplement, Moducomp Inc., 1975(?)</li> <li>GNC 8: Modular Micro Computer User's Manual, Great Northern Computers Ltd., 1975</li> </ul> SOFTWARE and HARDWARE NOTES <ul> <li>L. Schweizer, MPS/1, Mini Processor System/First Try, Microsystems International Ltd. (1972?)</li> <li>CPS/1 Software Notes, draft copy, Microsystems International Ltd. (1973?)</li> <li>New Super Component: MOD8-9 (MIL?, 6pp)</li> <li>MOD 8-8, Backplane/PROM Programmer (MIL?, 16 pp)</li> <li>Notes on the MOD-80 version2, revision 1 and other 8080-related hardware/software by Tom Dale (c. 1977)</li> <li>B. Warren, 4006 Design Report, Intel, December 16, 1971</li> <li>J. Freeman, A Microprocessor Prototyping System for the 8080 (1974?)</li> <li>J. Heckman, Interupts for CPS/1 (handwritten notes)</li> <li>J. Heckman, Tech Note - COMBUS (handwritten notes)</li> <li> The MOD 8 Data Package , by Robert Swartz (1975). It includes: <ul> <li>The MOD 8 Data Package cover page</li> <li>MOD 8-8 Backplane/PROM Programmer documentation</li> <li>Audio Cassette/MOD8 Interface</li> <li>Errors in MIL Application Manual, Bulletin 80007 - 1974 Edition</li> <li> Helpful Hints in Getting a Running System</li> <li>MOD 8 Parts List, 1/5/75</li> <li>Additional Notes on MOD 8MIL.htm</li> </ul> </li> <li>The MOD 80 CPU board schematic diagram and board layout; designed by Robert Swartz (1975), layout by Nano Systems, manufactured by Space Circuits</li> <li>The MOD8 software and notes by Brother Thomas McGahee (1975/76): <ul> <li>Notes on Using the MIL-MOD 8 System, 6 pages</li> <li>Minimal Monitor for Scientific Calculator, 12 pages</li> <li>How it Works: Parallel I/O for MOD-8, 14 pages</li> <li>Monitor-8P Parallel I/O, 8 pages</li> <li>Scientific Calculator Software, 36 pages</li> <li>Proposed C-MOD8-2P, (February 1976), 7 pages</li> </ul> </li> <li> Datapak: LED Display, MiniMicroMart, 1976 (discusses LED display board for MOD80, C-MOD 80)</li> </ul> SCHEMATIC DIAGRAMS <ul> <li>CPS1-1, February 6, 1973</li> <li>MOD-4 CPU board, Microsystems International Ltd., June 25, 1974</li> <li>MOD-4 Exoander board, Microsystems International Ltd., June 21, 1974</li> <li>MOD-4 debug board, Microsystems International Ltd., June 21, 1974</li> </ul> SOFTWARE <ul> <li>MONITOR 8 (on eight Intel 1702 Eproms)</li> <li>MONITOR 8 (2K x 8, 8316 ROM) from MiniMicroMart (not in the YUCoM's collection)</li> <li>MONITOR 80 (3 2708 Eproms) from MiniMicroMart (not in the YUCoM's collection)</li> </ul> CORPORATE DOCUMENTS <ul> <li>Microsystems International Ltd. share certificate, February 23, 1970</li> <li>Minutes of CPS/1 Meeting, May 18, 1972</li> </ul> MOD8/80 related articles in MiniMicroMart publications <ul> <li>MOD8 discussed in MiniMicroMart Newsletter, vol. 1, no. 1, pp. 2-3</li> <li>Monitor-8 Software including Audio Cassette Interface, MiniMicroMart Technical Bulettin B101-4/75</li> <li>MOD8, C-MOD8/80 discussed in Special issue C A 75</li> <li>MONITOR 8 and Tape Cassette Interface for MOD8 discussed in MiniMicroMart Newsletter, special issue C101A-5/75</li> <li>C-MOD 8 Boards, C-MOD 80 Boards: Modular 8 Bit Microprocessor, MiniMicroMart Product Bulletin-A103-9/75</li> <li>RM 6800 -- C-MOD 6800 Mini System, MiniMicroMart Product Bulletin (preliminary), November 1975</li> <li>C-MOD System>, Product Bulletin, Sep. 1976 </li> <li>Monitor 80, 80A, and RM 8080 discussed in Product Bulletin, Nov. 1976 </li> <li>C-MOD 80 system discussed in Product Bulletin, July, 1977 </li> </ul> MOD8/80 related articles in Toronto Association of Computer Enthusiasts (TRACE) Newsletter <ul> <li>TRACE group purchase of MOD8 and MOD80 PCBs as well as MOD 80 based TV typewriter and color graphics terminal; a note by B. Kindree, TRACE Newsletter nr. 3, May 1976.</li> <li>MOD8/80 user group; a note by J. Szilock, TRACE Newsletter nr. 4, June 1976.</li> <li>B. Kindree, MOD 8 and MOD 80 Bus Display Board. TRACE Newsletter nr. 5, July 1976.</li> <li>B. Kindree, The MOD 8 and MOD 80 Microcomputers: a short summary. TRACE Newsletter nr. 5, July 1976.</li> <li>A note on MOD80 CPU board by B. Kindree. TRACE Newsletter nr. 7, August 1976.</li> <li>MOD 80 Tips, TRACE Newsletter nr. 8, October 1976.</li> <li>B. Kindree, From the Editor's Desk. A note on the status of TRACE MOD8/80 User's Group. TRACE Newsletter nr. 13, March 1977.</li> </ul> OTHER RELATED DOCUMENTS  <ul> <li>T.A. Dale, Monitor 68 Users Guid, University of Waterloo, 1977</li> <li>Phoenix-8 promotional brochure, HRB (Goderich, ON), 197?</li> </ul> Subject The topic of the resource <img src="http://museum1.eecs.yorku.ca/www_decorations/mil_logo.png" alt="MCM_logo" width="30%" height="30%" border="0" /> This collection documents corporate history of Microsystems International Ltd. (MIL). Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Zbigniew Stachniak hardware A computer (or a calculator), its components and peripherals (displays, printers, pointing devices, modems, external storage devices, etc). Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource MIL MF7114 microprocessor Description An account of the resource Historical context (by Z. Stachniak) The MF7114 was an early 4-bit single-chip microprocessor designed and built by Microsystems International Ltd. (MIL) of Montreal between 1970 and 1972. It was the first microprocessor designed and manufactured in Canada. The MF7114 has its roots in the development of Intel's first single-chip central processing unit (CPU) -- the 4004. Before it was given the `MF7114' designation, the chip's general architecture was called the Intel 4005 and the purpose of its development was to backup the 4004's project, to fabricate a simpler general-purpose microprocessor in case of the 4004's fiasco. When in early 1971 the design work on the 4004 chip resulted in silicon wafers with a sufficient number of fully-functional CPUs on them to permit the chips' fabrication at the target cost, Intel abandoned the 4005 project. MIL on the other hand, continued the 4005's development and, by mid 1972, had its own 4-bit microprocessor -- the MF7114. MIL marketed the MF7114 as a CPU for stored program controllers.  In 1973, the company designed an MF7114-based  controller board to demonstrate the use of the chip to control the Singer Telerex 30  PMI Matrix Printer. The company also used the MF7114 to design a 4-bit microcomputer -- the CPS-1 (also referred to as the CPS/1, MPS/1, and MC-1). The computer was offered in two  versions. The first one was a single-board version. The board included the MF7114 CPU, clock, 4Kb of memory, and 16 I/O ports including a TTY interface. The second version was a  modularly designed hardware that included a chassis with backplane bus for system's expansions, a CPU and memory board, a power supply, a programmer's console, and the PROM connector to the PROM programmer. Designed in 1973, the CPS-1 was the first microprocessor powered computer built in Canada. <h4>The MF7114 Specifications</h4> <ul> <li>data bus - 4 bit, bi-directional</li> <li>address bus - 12 bit</li> <li>communications bus: (COMBUS) 21 bit, included 16 lines of data and address buses plus 5 control lines</li> <li>clock speed: 0.9 microseconds per cycle</li> <li>on-chip registers: accumulator (AC, 4 bit), program counter (PC, 12 bit), data pointer (DP, 12 bit), overflow register (OF, 1 bit)</li> <li>virtual (working) registers: eight 4-bit and eight 12 bit registers</li> <li>number of instructions: 58, executed in three to five cycles</li> <li>supporting chips: the MF1601 ROM and MF7115 RAM</li> <li>packaging: 24-pin DIP</li> </ul> <h4>Museum Holdings</h4> A promotional paperweight with a 7114 chip set consisting of an MF 7114 CPU, an MF1601 ROM, and an MF7115 RAM. References <ul> <li> MF8008 Central Processor Applications Manual, MIL, Bulletin 80007, 1974.</li> <li>Stachniak, Z. The MIL MF7114 Microprocessor. IEEE Annals of the History of Computing,October-December 2010 (vol. 32 no. 4) pp. 48-59.</li> <li>MIL CPS-1 Emulator: Design Notes and Programmer's Guide, Version 2.2, York University Computer Museum, 2021.</li> </ul> Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Microsystems International Ltd. (MIL) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1971-1975 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource John Freeman, John Hackman, Kelly Hamilton, and Zbigniew Stachniak Subject The topic of the resource hardware: integrated circuits Contribution Form The set of elements containing metadata from the Contribution form. Online Submission Indicates whether or not this Item has been contributed from a front-end contribution form. No 7114 microprocessor https://museum.eecs.yorku.ca/files/original/2ea1396f3ddecbbfe5da0c2ec66deaa8.jpg 33d5ab81ee90b4390129c774fbeccd0e https://museum.eecs.yorku.ca/files/original/8756862c54424dd77f962a86e0ddc289.png 613e13c56553411e549b7813ba091d68 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Microsystems International Limited (MIL) Collection Description An account of the resource In October of 1968, with $48 million package from the Canadian Treasury Board, Northern Electric transformed its Advanced Devices Center into a new company called Microsystems International Ltd. (MIL). In March of 1969, MIL opened its doors with its headquarters in Montreal and the manufacturing facility in Ottawa. The company's focus was to be on new  semiconductor technologies and products. In a short period of time, MIL acquired state of the art integrated circuit technologies and the second source rights to a number of products. The company's memory products, such as MF1101, MF1103, MF1701, or MF1702, and the MF8008 microprocessor, placed the company among the semiconductor leaders on the international market. Between 1970 and 1972, MIL developed and manufactured Canada's first microprocessor -- the MF7114. It also produced three microcomputers:  the CPS/1 system designed around the MF7114 microprocessor as well as the MOD8 and the MOD80 computers. The MOD8 microcomputer, developed in 1974, was based on the MIL MF8008 8-bit microprocessor. This computer (as well as its refinement -- the MOD80) consisted of the MOD8-8 PCB backplane mounted in an aluminum case. The backplane contained the Eprom programmer and nine connectors for the CPU, memory, interface, and I/O cards. The MOD8 computer and its MONITOR8 software were aimed at the development of the MF8008-based applications. To MIL's surprise, it was the North American computer enthusiasts who made the MOD8 a popular 8008-based microcomputer kit in 1975-1976. MIL's MF8008 Applications Manual was one of the most widely read early documents on 8-bit microprocessors. The MOD8 influenced other early microcomputer designs for the hobbyists' market such as the Mike2 computer from Martin Research or a range of C-MOD computers from Celetron Corporation which were sold by MiniMicroMart of Syracuse, NY. The company closed its operations in June 1975. However, MIL's demise seeded the Canadian high-technology sector with scores of semiconductor, computer, and telecommunications start-ups founded by former MIL employees. Acquisition: The artifacts have been donated to YUCoM by several individuals including  David Drynan, John Freeman, John Hackman, Kelly Hamilton, William Kindree, Mark Silver, Zbigniew Stachniak, and Candi Trefero. HARDWARE <ul> <li>MOD8 microcomputer</li> <li>MOD80 microcomputer with a variety of additional home made boards and passive backplane</li> <li>MP-1 chip set (it includes the MF7114 microprocessor)</li> <li>MF8008 microprocessor</li> <li>various MIL integrated circuits including the MF7114 and MF8008 CPUs as well as the MF1702A Eproms.</li> <li>MOD8-8 backplane</li> <li>A set of replicated MOD8 printed circuit boards</li> </ul> MANUALS, GUIDES, APPLICATIONS NOTES <ul> <li>MC-1 Microcomputer Handbook (Preliminary), MIL (197?)</li> <li>MC-1 - the 'Nibbler' Microcomuter Instruction Guide, 1973(?)</li> <li>How to Use the CPS/1 Micro-Computer System, Bulletin 50001 (MIL, 1972)</li> <li>Techniques for the CPS/1, Microsystems International Ltd., preliminary edition, 1973(?)</li> <li>CPS/1 Application Guide, Microsystems International Ltd. , June 26, 1972</li> <li>Short Form Catalogue Catalogue, Bulletin 80001, Microsystems International Ltd., March 1971</li> <li>Selected Linear I.C. Catalogue, Bulletin 80004A, Microsystems International Ltd., 1974 edition</li> <li>MF8008 Central Processing Unit Applications Manual, Microsystems International Ltd., preliminary edition, 1974(?)</li> <li>MOS Memory Catalogue, Bulletin 80005, Microsystems International Ltd., 1974</li> <li>MOS LSI Memory, Bulletin 23006, Microsystems International Ltd., 1972(?)</li> <li>MOS LSI Memory Fully Decoded Static Random Access 1024 Bit Memory MF2102, Bulletin 23032, Microsystems International Ltd., 1972</li> <li>MF8008 Central Processor Applications Manual, Bulletin 80007, Microsystems International Ltd., 1974 edition</li> <li>Microprocessor Control of the Singer Telerex 30PMI Matrix Printer, MIL Applications Note, HRM 1468-00, November 16, 1973</li> <li>J. Freeman, MF 7114 Central Processing Unit Product Specification, Design Report P-F-7114, Issue 1, Microsystems International Ltd., October 1973</li> <li>J. Freeman, MF 7115, 64x4 RAM Product Specification, Design Report P-F-7115, Issue 1, Microsystems International Ltd., October 1973</li> <li>MOD8 Manual, Moducomp Inc., 1975(?)</li> <li>MOD8/Audio Cassette Interface Manual  (Moducomp?)</li> <li>MOD80 Supplement, Moducomp Inc., 1975(?)</li> <li>GNC 8: Modular Micro Computer User's Manual, Great Northern Computers Ltd., 1975</li> </ul> SOFTWARE and HARDWARE NOTES <ul> <li>L. Schweizer, MPS/1, Mini Processor System/First Try, Microsystems International Ltd. (1972?)</li> <li>CPS/1 Software Notes, draft copy, Microsystems International Ltd. (1973?)</li> <li>New Super Component: MOD8-9 (MIL?, 6pp)</li> <li>MOD 8-8, Backplane/PROM Programmer (MIL?, 16 pp)</li> <li>Notes on the MOD-80 version2, revision 1 and other 8080-related hardware/software by Tom Dale (c. 1977)</li> <li>B. Warren, 4006 Design Report, Intel, December 16, 1971</li> <li>J. Freeman, A Microprocessor Prototyping System for the 8080 (1974?)</li> <li>J. Heckman, Interupts for CPS/1 (handwritten notes)</li> <li>J. Heckman, Tech Note - COMBUS (handwritten notes)</li> <li> The MOD 8 Data Package , by Robert Swartz (1975). It includes: <ul> <li>The MOD 8 Data Package cover page</li> <li>MOD 8-8 Backplane/PROM Programmer documentation</li> <li>Audio Cassette/MOD8 Interface</li> <li>Errors in MIL Application Manual, Bulletin 80007 - 1974 Edition</li> <li> Helpful Hints in Getting a Running System</li> <li>MOD 8 Parts List, 1/5/75</li> <li>Additional Notes on MOD 8MIL.htm</li> </ul> </li> <li>The MOD 80 CPU board schematic diagram and board layout; designed by Robert Swartz (1975), layout by Nano Systems, manufactured by Space Circuits</li> <li>The MOD8 software and notes by Brother Thomas McGahee (1975/76): <ul> <li>Notes on Using the MIL-MOD 8 System, 6 pages</li> <li>Minimal Monitor for Scientific Calculator, 12 pages</li> <li>How it Works: Parallel I/O for MOD-8, 14 pages</li> <li>Monitor-8P Parallel I/O, 8 pages</li> <li>Scientific Calculator Software, 36 pages</li> <li>Proposed C-MOD8-2P, (February 1976), 7 pages</li> </ul> </li> <li> Datapak: LED Display, MiniMicroMart, 1976 (discusses LED display board for MOD80, C-MOD 80)</li> </ul> SCHEMATIC DIAGRAMS <ul> <li>CPS1-1, February 6, 1973</li> <li>MOD-4 CPU board, Microsystems International Ltd., June 25, 1974</li> <li>MOD-4 Exoander board, Microsystems International Ltd., June 21, 1974</li> <li>MOD-4 debug board, Microsystems International Ltd., June 21, 1974</li> </ul> SOFTWARE <ul> <li>MONITOR 8 (on eight Intel 1702 Eproms)</li> <li>MONITOR 8 (2K x 8, 8316 ROM) from MiniMicroMart (not in the YUCoM's collection)</li> <li>MONITOR 80 (3 2708 Eproms) from MiniMicroMart (not in the YUCoM's collection)</li> </ul> CORPORATE DOCUMENTS <ul> <li>Microsystems International Ltd. share certificate, February 23, 1970</li> <li>Minutes of CPS/1 Meeting, May 18, 1972</li> </ul> MOD8/80 related articles in MiniMicroMart publications <ul> <li>MOD8 discussed in MiniMicroMart Newsletter, vol. 1, no. 1, pp. 2-3</li> <li>Monitor-8 Software including Audio Cassette Interface, MiniMicroMart Technical Bulettin B101-4/75</li> <li>MOD8, C-MOD8/80 discussed in Special issue C A 75</li> <li>MONITOR 8 and Tape Cassette Interface for MOD8 discussed in MiniMicroMart Newsletter, special issue C101A-5/75</li> <li>C-MOD 8 Boards, C-MOD 80 Boards: Modular 8 Bit Microprocessor, MiniMicroMart Product Bulletin-A103-9/75</li> <li>RM 6800 -- C-MOD 6800 Mini System, MiniMicroMart Product Bulletin (preliminary), November 1975</li> <li>C-MOD System>, Product Bulletin, Sep. 1976 </li> <li>Monitor 80, 80A, and RM 8080 discussed in Product Bulletin, Nov. 1976 </li> <li>C-MOD 80 system discussed in Product Bulletin, July, 1977 </li> </ul> MOD8/80 related articles in Toronto Association of Computer Enthusiasts (TRACE) Newsletter <ul> <li>TRACE group purchase of MOD8 and MOD80 PCBs as well as MOD 80 based TV typewriter and color graphics terminal; a note by B. Kindree, TRACE Newsletter nr. 3, May 1976.</li> <li>MOD8/80 user group; a note by J. Szilock, TRACE Newsletter nr. 4, June 1976.</li> <li>B. Kindree, MOD 8 and MOD 80 Bus Display Board. TRACE Newsletter nr. 5, July 1976.</li> <li>B. Kindree, The MOD 8 and MOD 80 Microcomputers: a short summary. TRACE Newsletter nr. 5, July 1976.</li> <li>A note on MOD80 CPU board by B. Kindree. TRACE Newsletter nr. 7, August 1976.</li> <li>MOD 80 Tips, TRACE Newsletter nr. 8, October 1976.</li> <li>B. Kindree, From the Editor's Desk. A note on the status of TRACE MOD8/80 User's Group. TRACE Newsletter nr. 13, March 1977.</li> </ul> OTHER RELATED DOCUMENTS  <ul> <li>T.A. Dale, Monitor 68 Users Guid, University of Waterloo, 1977</li> <li>Phoenix-8 promotional brochure, HRB (Goderich, ON), 197?</li> </ul> Subject The topic of the resource <img src="http://museum1.eecs.yorku.ca/www_decorations/mil_logo.png" alt="MCM_logo" width="30%" height="30%" border="0" /> This collection documents corporate history of Microsystems International Ltd. (MIL). Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Zbigniew Stachniak hardware A computer (or a calculator), its components and peripherals (displays, printers, pointing devices, modems, external storage devices, etc). Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource MOD 8 Microcomputer Subject The topic of the resource hardware: microcomputer Description An account of the resource Historical Context (by Z. Stachniak) In October of 1968, with $48 million package from the Canadian Treasury Board, Northern Electric transformed its Advanced Devices Center into a new company called Microsystems International Ltd. (MIL). In March of 1969, MIL opened its doors with its headquarters in Montreal and the manufacturing facility in Ottawa. The company's focus was to be on new semiconductor technologies and products. In a short period of time, MIL acquired state of the art integrated circuit technologies and the second source rights to a number of products. The company's memory products, such as MF1101, MF1103, MF1701, or MF1702, and the MF8008 microprocessor, placed the company among the semiconductor leaders on the international market. Between 1970 and 1972, MIL developed and manufactured Canada's first microprocessor -- the MF7114. It also produced three microcomputers: the CPS/1 system designed around the MF7114 microprocessor as well as the MOD8 and the MOD80 microcomputers. The MOD8, developed in 1974, was based on the MIL MF8008 8-bit microprocessor. This computer (as well as its refinement -- the MOD80) consisted of the MOD8-8 PCB backplane mounted on top of an aluminum case, and several cards inserted into the backplane's connectors. These cards provided the CPU, memory, interface, and I/O functions. The backplane also contained built-in EPROM programmer. The MIL MOD80 microcomputer had the same architecture as the MOD8 with the exception of the CPU module. While the MOD8 employed the MF8008 microprocessor, the MOD80 was built around the MIL MF8080 CPU (a clone of the Intel 8080). The MOD8 computer and its MONITOR8 software were aimed at the development of the MF8008-based applications. To MIL's surprise, it was the North American computer enthusiasts who made the MOD8 a popular 8008-based microcomputer kit in the second half of the 1970s. MIL's MF8008 Applications Manual was one of the most widely read early documents on 8-bit microprocessors. The MOD8 influenced other early microcomputer designs for the hobbyists' market such as the Mike2 computer from Martin Research or a range of C-MOD computers from Celetron Corporation which were sold by MiniMicroMart of Syracuse, NY. The company closed its operations in June 1975. However, MIL's demise seeded the Canadian high-technology sector with scores of semiconductor, computer, and telecommunications start-ups founded by former MIL employees. The MOD8 and MOD80 microcomputers continued to be sold by companies such as Great Northern Computers Ltd., Moducomp Inc., and HRB (Goderich, ON). Museum holdings For the MOD8 and MOD80 museum holdings, consult the MIL collection. References <ul> <li>Stachniak, Z. The MIL MF7114 Microprocessor. IEEE Annals of the History of Computing, October-December 2010 (vol. 32 no. 4) pp. 48-59. </li> <li>D. Lungu and Z. Stachniak. Following TRACE: The Computer Hobby Movement in Canada. <a href="https://www.erudit.org/en/journals/scientia/2011-v34-n1-scientia1826890/1006926ar.pdf">Scientia Canadensis,</a> vol. 34, no. 1 (2011), pp. 1--23.</li> </ul> Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Microsystems International Ltd. (MIL) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1974 Relation A related resource MIL collection Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context H.37 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 1974-1977 in North America Contribution Form The set of elements containing metadata from the Contribution form. Online Submission Indicates whether or not this Item has been contributed from a front-end contribution form. No microcomputer Microsystems International Ltd. MIL https://museum.eecs.yorku.ca/files/original/8dacd22e5adf510b3b51fdc13fbda8a6.JPG 4901f74afb74300216691918a7e69f29 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Multiflex Video Display Terminal Kit Subject The topic of the resource computer hardware: video display terminal Description An account of the resource Historical Context: Multiflex Technology Inc. was one of the companies of the Exceltronix group controlled by Eugen Hutka. In 1979, Hutka founded Exceltronix with its retail office at 319 College Street in Toronto. In the early 1980s, Multiflex was developing complete computer systems based on the Zilog Z80, Motorola 68000, and Intel 8086 processors together with a variety of peripheral and expansion cards. The company also manufactured stand-alone intelligent terminals, video display kits, as well as a range of other electronic products including peripheral and expansion cards for the Apple ][ computer. In 1984, Multiflex designed its first in the line of BEST computers compatible with the IBM PC and AT desktops, making Exceltronix one of the largest Canadian manufacturers of microcomputers of the 1980s. Multiflex Video Display Terminal Kit -- technical description (from the Exceltronix Catalogue Supplement, Spring 1983): The video display terminal is "originally designed as a low cost access unit for our [Exceltronix] soon to be operational computerized mail-ordering and bulletin board system." The terminal "is controlled by a Z80A microprocessor and a 6845 CRT controller chip. The keyboard is fully ASCII encoded and the character generator contains the full 128-character set as well as a 128-character alternate set both of which are in 5x7 dot matrix format. The screen display is 80 characters by 24 lines if the unit is hooked to an external monitor or 64 by 24 if run through an RF modulator to a TV. There are 3 software selectable attributes (dim, reverse video, and alternate character set) which can be chosen one at a time for the whole screen... Also included are 2 RS232 ports: one for a modem and one so that a printer can be attached to the terminal... The MULTIFLEX Video Display Terminal has provisions for an on board modem freeing a serial port." The Multiflex Video Display Terminal Kit was offered in 1982 and sold by Exceltronix. The museum has a complete Multiflex Video Display Terminal Kit as well a Multiflex Video Display board (without a built-in keyboard) and a keyboard in a separate enclosure. For more information on the Multiflex Video Display Terminal Kit visit this <a href="https://github.com/rcl9/MultiFlex-Z80-H19-Terminal-Emulation-ROMs">GitHub link.</a> Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Multiflex Technology Inc. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1982-- Type The nature or genre of the resource computer hardware Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context MULTIFLEX03 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Canada, 1980s https://museum.eecs.yorku.ca/files/original/52a8c7d340dccbfb458b2daadc6fbb46.jpg f4cc414c041f97851aa26ceb98853939 hardware A computer (or a calculator), its components and peripherals (displays, printers, pointing devices, modems, external storage devices, etc). Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Multiflex Z80 Computer Kit Subject The topic of the resource computer hardware: microcomputer Description An account of the resource Historical Context: Multiflex Z80 Computer Kit was a Canadian-made, low-cost computer designed around the Z80 microprocessor by Multiflex Technology Inc. and sold by Exceltronix Components and Computing of Toronto. Its early version, offered in 1980 or earlier, was advertised as a prototyping computer kit for computer hobbyists. In 1983, modified and packaged together with display, keyboard, and disk drives, it was sold as the Multiflex Super System. According to Exceltronix, Multiflex computers were sold across Canada to companies, educational institutions, and computer hobbyists. In its basic configuration, the Multiflex Z80 Computer KIt  consisted of two boards: the mother board and the CPU board. The motherboard featured four sockets  one of which was designated for interfacing with the CPU board. The remaining three sockets were used for expanding the system with a range of expansion cards offered by Multiflex as well as by various manufacturers world-wide. The motherboard also featured a 16-key hexadecimal keypad, 14 monitor function keys, 2 user definable keys, a hexadecimal display, and an EPROM programmer for storing programs and data in EPROM chips. The CPU board was a single-board computer which was inserted into one of the expansion sockets on the motherboard.  The computer was designed to operate under Multiflex monitor (Z.MON, residing in EPROM), and later, under a dialect of CP/M operating system co-developed by National Multiplex/Pegasus and Exceltronix. The monitor software allowed full support for programming the computer in the Z80 assembly language as well as for using all the features available through the motherboard (e.g. programming EPROMs). Under the CP/M operating system, the Multiflex Z80 computer could execute a variety of popular applications software from word processors to data bases and spreadsheets. Multiflex Z80 Computer Kit -- hardware specifications: <ul> <li>bus architecture: IEEE S-100</li> <li>CPU: Z80A, 8-bit, (2-6MHz)</li> <li>RAM: up to 64KB</li> <li>ROM: 4 ROM sockets for BIOS, monitor software, etc</li> <li>disk drives: not included but supported whit an optional Multiflex disk drive controller card</li> <li>expansion sockets: 4 -- one taken by the CPU board and the remaining three were typically designated for a video card, and disk drive controller</li> <li>keypad: 16-key hexadecimal</li> <li>function keys: 14 monitor function keys plus 2 user definable keys</li> <li>display: hexadecimal display on the motherboard</li> <li>external display: not included but supported with an optional display or high-resolution card</li> <li>EPROM programmer: resident on the motherboard, could program a range of EPROMs</li> <li>ports: RS-232 serial port and 24-line parallel port</li> <li>keyboard: not included</li> <li>power supply: not included</li> </ul> Software: <ul> <li>Z.MON monitor program (in EPROM)</li> <li>CP/M operating system</li> <li>a range of applications software written to operate under CP/M including BASIC programming language, WordStar (word processor from MicroPro International,), and SuperCalc (spread sheet from Sorcim)</li> </ul> The museum has a Multiflex Z80 Computer KIt with a manual published in 1980. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Multiflex Technology Inc. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1980 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Canada, 1980s https://museum.eecs.yorku.ca/files/original/729accd4102fc86eff421c987dde8070.png 6fe6af6af8db4cd3569a313dfa2d290b Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource NABU 1100 Computer System Subject The topic of the resource hardware: computer system Description An account of the resource Historical context The NABU 1100 system was manufactured by NABU Manufacturing Corp. in the early 1980s. The system consisted of the the NABU 1100 computer (designed by Toronto-based Andicom -- one of the companies amalgamated into NABU) and the NABU 4404 display terminal (designed and manufctured by Volcer-Craig Ltd. -- another Canadian company merged into NABU). Apart from being sold to Canadian customers through the Ottawa-based Computer Innovations retail stores (which become part of NABU as well), the system was internally used as software development platform for the NABU Network -- a novel cable TV-based delivery method for software and information using world's first cable-ready computers. The NABU 1100 computer hardwer was hosted in a large cabinet with casters on it for manoeuverability. A drawer at the bottom of the cabinet was provided to store software and manuals. The NABU 4404 display terminal was a stand-alone, ASCII, serial asynchronous computer peripheral that could be connected to any computer equipped with an RSC232C interface. NABU recommended other display terminals to be used with the NABU 1100 computer as well, such as the NABU 404, 3100, and 4416 terminals. NABU 1100 technical specifications <ul> <li>Bus: S-100</li> <li>CPU: Zilog Z80A CPU at 4 MHz</li> <li>RAM: 62 Kbytes</li> <li>ROM: 2 Knytes</li> <li>card slots for: CPU board (ACP-1101) floppy disk controller board (AFC-1100), I/O board (AIO-1100), and memory board (ADM-1000), and additional 4 user supplied boards</li> <li>external storage: two buil-in 8" Shugart diskette drives (SA850), double sided, capacity = 1600 Kbytes (unformated)</li> <li>ports: two RS-232C serial I/O, and parallel I/O</li> </ul> NABU 4404 Terminal specifications <ul> <li>CPU: Zilog Z80A</li> <li>display: 12" anti-glare, 24 lines, 80 characters per line, normal or revers video</li> <li>keyboard: detachable, QWERTY, upper/lower case characters</li> <li>8 switches to control the screen display</li> <li>ports: EIA RS232C communications interface</li> <li>data rates: from 110 up to 19200 baud</li> <li>options: serial and parallel interfaces, numeric key-pad and function keys, APL character set, ccoloured anti-glare display screen (amber or green)</li> </ul> NABU 1100 software and documentation <ul> <li>CP/M operating system,</li> <li>NABU 1100 User's Manual, Manufacturing Corp., 1981December 1981,</li> <li>The NABU 1100 System: A Technical Guide, Nabu Manufacturing Corp., 1981,</li> <li>VOLKER-CRAIG User's Manual, VC4404 The CHAT Video Display Terminal, Volker-Craig/NABU, Rev. 3, March 1982,</li> <li>VC4404 Video Display Terminal, Service Manual, Volker-Craig, 198?</li> <li>SA850/851 Bi-Compliant Double Sided Diskette Storage Drive Service Manual, Shugart,</li> <li>NABU 3100 Users Manual, NABU Commercial Terminals Ltd., 198?</li> <li>NABU 3100 Service Manual (preliminary), NABU Commercial Terminals Ltd. August 3, 1983.</li> </ul> The museum has a NABU 1100  computer with the above mentioned software and documentation as well as NABU 4404 and 404 terminals. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource NABU Manufacturing Corp. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context H.16 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available donated by D.J. Knigh Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Canada, 1980-1986 https://museum.eecs.yorku.ca/files/original/a25d141ee58a8fb0d13b7a081eee5bac.jpeg 4bada6c11630b197334cd145e71282cc Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource NABU Network Collection Description An account of the resource The NABU Network was designed and implemented by an Ottawa-based company NABU Manufacturing between 1981 and 1983. The underlying idea behind the network was to link home personal computers to cable television networks that would supply a continuous, high speed stream of computer programs and information to homes. NABU Manufacturing identified cable television as uniquely ideal technology to deliver digital information services to homes and educational institutions because of cable's high bandwidth and wide coverage in North America. On October 15, 1983, NABU Network was launched on Ottawa Cablevision -- an 85,000-subscriber company where much of NABU's testing was performed. Soon thereafter, the network made its US debut in Alexandria, VA, on Tribune Cable -- a 5,000 subscriber service. A year later the network was available on Ottawa's Skyline Cablevision and in Sowa, Japan, via a collaboration between NABU and ASCII Corp. NABU Network subscribers could rent or buy a NABU Personal Computer and dedicated network adaptor, and use an ordinary television set as a display monitor. Once connected to the network, a user could choose from various application programs and services in categories including entertainment, information and guides, education, and professional programs. Dedicated NABU magazines, newsletters, programming guides, and user groups provided subscribers with supplementary information and support. The NABU Network's public launch in 1983 marked the creation of the first commercial computer network to provide high-speed access to information and services directly to homes of personal computer users. Financial difficulties lead NABU Network Corp. (formerly NABU Manufacturing) to close down its operations in 1986. Acquisition: The objects in the collection have been donated by D. Adkinson, J. Amanatides, R. Banks, J. De Carlo, F. Cuillerier, M. Kenzie, B. McNally, D. Sawyer, T. Shepard, A.G.M. Smith, Zbigniew Stachniak, and R.J. Tremblay. HARDWARE <ul> <li>NABU Personal Computer, 4K ROM</li> <li>NABU Personal Computer, 8K ROM</li> <li>NABU Adaptor</li> <li>NABU 1100 workstation</li> <li>NABU 1600 desktop computer with external disk drives</li> <li>Various S-100 boards for the NABU 1100 computer made by Andicom Corp.</li> <li>Joysticks for the NABU Personal Computer</li> <li>External disk drive station for the NABU Personal Computer</li> <li>NABU 4404 terminal</li> <li>NABU 3100 terminal</li> <li>NABU 3116 terminal</li> <li>NABU 1200 motherboard</li> </ul> SOFTWARE <ul> <li>NABU CP/M Plus operating system and utility software for the NABU Personal Computer, NABU Network & Digital Research</li> <li>CP/M operating system for the NABU 1600 computer</li> <li>CP/M operating system for the NABU 1100 workstation</li> <li> Heli Tank computer game, NABU 1983 (ASCII Corp. version)</li> <li>NABU Network cycle for CABSERVE development system (1982--1986)</li> <li>Software development tools for CABSERVE development system (1982--1986)</li> <li>NABU Network DOS (historical software reconstruction), YUCoM 2008</li> <li>NABU Network main menu (1983 version, historical software reconstruction), YUCoM 2008</li> <li>XENIX 1.1 NABU 1600 Release Note, 1983</li> <li>NABU 1600 On-Board Monitor, Part FS-1200-XXX, Rev. 1, November 1982</li> <li>Qnix on the Fulcrum Technologies 1600, August 1984</li> </ul> MANUALS, GUIDES, TECHNICAL DOCUMENTS <ul> <li>NABU Personal Computer User's Guide, first edition, November 1982, NABU Manufacturing</li> <li>NABU Personal Computer User's Guide, Second edition, September 1983, NABU Manufacturing</li> <li>NABU Basic User's Reference Manual, first edition, September 1984, NABU Network Corp.</li> <li>NABU Network Guide, first edition, November 1982, NABU Manufacturing Corp.</li> <li>CP/M Plus (Operating System) User's Guide, version 3, Digital Research, 1983</li> <li>CP/M Plus (Operating System) Programmer's Guide, version 3, Digital Research, 1983</li> <li> CP/M Plus (Operating System) System Guide, version 3, Digital Research, 1983</li> <li>Programmer's Utilities Guide For the CP/M Family of Operating Systems , Digital Research, 198?</li> <li>Symbolic Instruction Debugger Productivity Tool Reference Manual for the CP/M-80 Family of Operating Systems , Digital Research, 1981</li> <li>NABU Logo Learner's Guide, Interim Version, NABU Network, 1983</li> <li>NABU PC Disk Drive User's Guide, Interim Version, NABU Network, May 1984</li> <li>The NABU Network: Technical Specifications, NABU Manufacturing, 198?</li> <li>NABU Personal Computer Application Programmer's Manual, NABU Manufacturing report 50-90020490, June 8, 1984</li> <li>The NABU Network Product Training Kit, NABU Manufacturing, October 10, 1983</li> <li>NABU 3100 Users Manual, Nabu Manufacturing, 1982(?)</li> <li>NABU 1600 User's Operating Guide, Nabu Manufacturing, 1982</li> <li>NABU 1600 MS-DOS User's Guide, Nabu Manufacturing, 1982</li> <li>NABU 1600 Word Processing Reference Guide, Preliminary Draft, NABU Manufacturing, 1983</li> <li>NABU 1600 XENIX Command Guide, Preliminary Draft, NABU Manufacturing, 1983</li> <li>NABU 1600 User's Operating Guide, Preliminary Draft, NABU Manufacturing, 1983</li> <li>NABU 1600 XENIX Pre-Release Technical Supplement, Preliminary Draft, NABU Manufacturing, 1983</li> <li>NABU 1600 Engineering Specification, NABU Manufacturing Corp., 1983</li> <li>NABU 1600 Specification Control Drawing, NABU Manufacturing Corp., 1983</li> <li>NABU 1600 Product Bulletin, NABU Manufacturing Corp.: January 18,  October 02, February 9, February 11, and October 18, 1983</li> <li>Floppy Diskk Drive, NABU Part 10050017-00, NABU Manufacturing Corp., 198?</li> <li>MS-DOS Quick Regference Card, NABU Manufacturing Corp., 198?</li> </ul> CORPORATE DOCUMENTS <ul> <li>D. Sawyer. Report on the Conference on the Electronic Mall (New York, December 9--10, 1981), December 15, 1981</li> <li>D. Sawyer. Report on the Western Cable Show (Anaheim, December 14, 1981), December 14, 1981</li> <li>D. Sawyer. HOME NABU: A Proposal for the Initial Product Line. August 1981</li> <li>D. Sawyer. NABU: Proposed Product Planning Process. August 1981</li> <li>D. Sawyer. HOME NABU: Four Perspectives on the Home NABU. 1st draft, August 1981</li> <li>NABU Manufacturing Corporation. Wood Gundy Ltd. prospectus for a public offering of securities, October 26, 1981</li> <li>NABU Manufacturing Corp. Financial Statements, 1982</li> <li>D. Sawyer. Report on the Winter Consumer Electronics Show (Las Vegas, January 7--10, 1982), January 15, 1982.</li> <li>Portfolio of early documents describing the NABU Network sent by P.A. Wilson and E.R. Goodwin to S. Paterson, June 9, 1982</li> <li>NABU Introduces Personal Computer, news release, Nabu Manufacturing, May 1982</li> <li>Acquisition of Volker-Craig by NABU Manufacturing Corp., a letter from A. Werenko, VP Sales, Volker-Craig, to distributors, OEM's, and House Accounts, January 29, 1982</li> <li>Volker-Craig Limited Announces Acquisition by NABU Manufacturing Corporation, news release, Volker Craig, January 7, 1982</li> <li>A.M. Chitnis. Broadcast data transmission methods (NABTS, DIDON, etc.). Memorandum, June 8, 1982</li> <li>D. Sawyer. Trip Report on the Winter Consumer Electronics Show (Las Vegas, 1983), January 14, 1983</li> <li>A.M. Chitnis and W.D.M. Sawyer. Cable Computing Comes of Age. Presentation notes for the BNR Old-Boys Club (date unknown, possibly 1983)</li> <li>Consumer/Education Division. Market and Business Analysis, Release 1.0. NABU Manufacturing, August 31, 1983</li> <li>Neil Telling. Products and Services for CATV Products, memorandum (date unknown)</li> <li>NABU and Rogers Launch the NABU Network in Vancouver, news release, NABU Manufacturing, August 18, 1983</li> <li>Rogers Cable TV-Vancouver launches the NABU Network broadcast software service this fall in Vancouver, news release, August 18, 1983</li> <li>NABU Network Corporation Common Shares certificate, February 15, 1984</li> <li>Engineering Change Order, NABU Manufacturing Corp., 198?</li> </ul> PROMOTIONAL MATERIAL <ul> <li>MicroCable Plus: Right for the Times, promotional brochure, Nabu Manufacturing, 1982</li> <li> Introducing MicroCable Plus, promotional brochure, Nabu Manufacturing, 1982</li> <li>Order Entry/Billing, General Ledger, Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable, Sales Analysis, software promotional brochure, Nabu Manufacturing, 198?</li> <li>The NABU Network... a business so right for cable, promotional brochure, Nabu Manufacturing, 198?</li> <li>NABU Manufacturing Corporation, corporate brochure, 1982</li> <li>The NABU 1600: The Beginning of a New Era of Computers, promotional brochure, NABU Manufacturing, 198?</li> <li>The NABU 3116 Video Display Terminal, promotional brochure, NABU Manufacturing, 198?</li> <li>The NABU 3055 Letter Quality Printer, promotional brochure, NABU Manufacturing, 198?</li> <li>The NABU 3201 Correspondence Quality Printer, promotional brochure, NABU Manufacturing, 198?</li> <li>The NABU Network: A technological breakthrough. Our technology. Your breakthrough, promotional brochure, NABU Manufacturing, 198?</li> <li>Tune in to a continuing adventure in computer programming, promotional brochure, NABU Manufacturing, 198?</li> <li>The NABU Network, promotional brochure, NABU Manufacturing, 1982</li> </ul> NEWS LETTERS, NETWORK GUIDES, and OTHER PUBLICATIONS <ul> <li>The Hard Copy, vol. 1, no. 1, 2, 4, 1986 (monthly newsletter)</li> <li>The Changing Times, March 1985 (bi-monthly newsletter)</li> <li>The Education Channel, Computers, Children & Education, the education channel guide, NABU Network, 198?</li> <li>The NABU Network Content Guide (monthly guide), August 15--September 15, 1984</li> <li>P. O'Connor, NABU: the brains network; in Canadian Bu$iness, March 1982</li> <li>C. Nesbitt, Nabu Manufacturing Corporation, McLeod Young Weir, January 31, 1984</li> <li>Nabu Network price list, August 18, 1983</li> </ul> OTHER DOCUMENTS <ul> <li>NABU's Writer Tutorial, original screen print, 198?</li> <li>NABU CALC application program information pages, original screen print, 198?</li> <li>Fancy Font application program information pages, original screen print, 198?</li> <li>< Music Maker application program information pages, original screen print, 198?</li> <li>Kiddy Park game information pages, original screen print, 198?</li> <li>Fancy Font NABU Network subscription receipts, 1985-1986</li> <li>The NABU Network is changing for you, letter to customers, Richard Haas, NABU Network, August 9, 1985</li> <li>A letter to NABU subscribes, Ottawa CableVision Ltd., October, 1983</li> <li>A letter to NABU subscribes, Ottawa CableVision Ltd., March 16, 1984</li> <li>A letter to a customer regarding purchasing of the NABU CP/M Plus operating system, May 22, 1984.</li> <li>Share the NABU Experience, a note to customers, 198?</li> <li>The NABU Network CCTA Satellite Demonstration, one page handout prepared for the 26th Annual Convention and CABLEXPO, Calgary Alberta, May 16--19, 1983.</li> <li>Correspondence between Terry Shepard and the NABU Network, September-October, 1985</li> <li>Cable Options... We've only just begun. 26th Annual Convention and CABLEXPO, Calgary Alberta, May 16--19, 1983</li> <li>A.M. Chitnis and W.D.M. Sawyer. Cable Computing Comes of Age. In Cable Options... We've only just begun. 26th Annual Convention and CABLEXPO, Calgary Alberta, May 16--19, 1983, pp. 13--19</li> <li>A binder documenting the use of a NABU 1600 system by D.J. Adkinson.</li> </ul> PHOTOGRAPHS and VIDEOS <ul> <li>NABU Personal Computer, a photograph, 1983, CJOK CTV video, 1984</li> <li>Leo Binkowski September 29/84, CJOK CTV video, 1984</li> </ul> Subject The topic of the resource <img src="http://museum1.eecs.yorku.ca/www_decorations/nabu_logo.jpg" alt="MCM_logo" width="20%" height="20%" border="0" /> The collection documents the development and installation of the NABU Network created by Nabu Manufacturing. Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Zbigniew Stachniak hardware A computer (or a calculator), its components and peripherals (displays, printers, pointing devices, modems, external storage devices, etc). Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource NABU 1600 Desktop Computer Subject The topic of the resource hardware: desktop computer Description An account of the resource Historical Context NABU Manufacturing (incorporated in June 1981 in Ottawa) was created through the amalgamation of three companies: Bruce Instruments Ltd. (manufacturer of cable TV converters based in Almonte), MFC Microsystems International Inc. (a distributor of computer hardware and software for small business systems), and Computer Innovations Ltd. (which operated computer retail stores across Canada). Soon after, the company acquired Andicom Technical Products Ltd. (a manufacturer of small business computers based in Toronto), Consolidated Computer Inc. (a manufacturer and distributor of key-edit systems), Mobius Software Ltd. (an Ottawa-based software consulting company), and Volker-Craig (a Kitchener-based manufacturer of video-display terminals). NABU's business plan was to capture a sizable share of the microcomputer market by offering the world's first cable-ready computers and by implementing a novel system for electronic delivery of software and information to home computer users -- the NABU Network. The company announced its network during the 1982 National Cable & Telecommunications Association conference in Las Vegas. In May 1983, the company transmitted its programming via satellite from Ottawa to terminals installed at the 26th Annual Convention of the Canadian Cable Television Association in Calgary. The NABU Network was officially launched on 15 October 1983 on Ottawa Cablevision, an 85,000-subscriber company where much of NABU's testing was performed. Soon thereafter, the network made its US debut in Alexandria, Virginia, on Tribune Cable, a 5,000 subscriber service. The launch marked the creation of the first commercial computer network to provide high-speed access to information, software, and digital entertainment directly to homes of personal computer users. While NABU's focus was on cable TV-based delivery of software and data, the company also designed and sold desktop and workstation computers. One of such computers was the NABU 1600 designed by NABU's Andicom brunch. It was a 16-bit multi-user, multi-tasking desktop business computer supporting up to three user terminals. It was released by NABU Manufacturing in 1982. The system consisted of the CPU unit, the mass storage unit, and up to four terminals (e.g. the NABU 4404 terminals). The NABU 1600 technical specifications: <ul> <li>CPU: Intel 8086 at 4.916 MHz,</li> <li> floating-point co-processor: Intel 8087,</li> <li>RAM: 256 Kbytes expandable to 512 Kbytes,</li> <li>ROM: 8 Kbytes,</li> <li>mass storage unit: two diskette or hard drives in a separate unit,</li> <li>hard drive: Seagate ST412, 10 Mbytes (formatted) with Western Digital WD 1001 disk controller,</li> <li>diskette drive: Tandon TM 100-4,</li> <li>diskettes: 5.25 inch, double-sided, double-density, 800 Kbytes,</li> <li>communications: synchronous, aynchronous, 4 RS 323C ports.</li> </ul> Software: <ul> <li>operating systems: MS-DOS, Xenix, and CP/M-86,</li> <li>programming languages: C, FORTRAN, BASIC, Pasal, COBOL,</li> <li>applications: DOC text editor, Q-Mail (mail software), Q-Spell (spell checker), electronic spreadsheet, accounting, database management.</li> </ul> Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource NABU Manufacturing Corp., NABU Network Corp. Type The nature or genre of the resource Hardware Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context H.28 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 1981-1986 Contribution Form The set of elements containing metadata from the Contribution form. Online Submission Indicates whether or not this Item has been contributed from a front-end contribution form. No microcomputer NABU NABU 1600