A functional description of macromodules

TLDR

The paper proposes macromodular building blocks that enable electronically‑naive users to construct large, complex computers, with a focus on designing control structures. The architecture uses a frame of cells into which modules are plugged, with standardized cables forming explicit data and control pathways; data modules handle twelve‑bit words, memory modules store 4096 segments, and control signals travel along a network mirroring the process flow diagram. All system components are recoverable, allowing easy reconfiguration, and the design process enables direct transition from conception to realization.

Abstract

This paper describes a set of macromodular building blocks such as registers, adders, memories, control devices, etc., from which it is possible for the electronically-naive to construct arbitrarily large and complex computers that work. Machines are assembled by plugging the modules into cells of a special frame which provides for communication between adjacent cells. Explicit data pathways and control structures are then made by plugging in standardized cables. All pieces of a system are therefore recoverable and systems can be reconfigured easily. Data modules process twelve-bit word-segments; greater word lengths are obtained by interconnecting modules. Memory modules hold 4096 twelve-bit segments and can also be interconnected to form larger arrays. Particular attention is given to the problem of designing control structures. The control signals for a given process are routed along the cables of a control network whose topology is isomorphic to the flow diagram representing the process. The step from conception to realization can therefore be made directly.