The following is the text of an IBM Data Processing
Division press release headlined “IBM Announces
Disk Storage For System/7” and distributed on
July 14, 1971.
A major expansion of the data storage capacity of the
IBM System/7 as well as a custom-designed console were
announced today by International Business Machines Corporation.
System/7, introduced last fall, is a rugged and highly
reliable computer that can measure, test, analyze and
control industrial and laboratory events as they are
happening. The sensor-based system, which rents for
as little as $352 a month, is IBM’s lowest-cost
computer.
A new disk module,
which can store a user’s programs and data, significantly
enhances the storage capacity and flexibility of System/7,
extending the range of applications it can perform.
For example, a user of a stand-alone System/7 can compare
test results against information stored on the disk.
When System/7 operates with a “host” computer,
such as an IBM System/370 or System/360, the disk can
be used to store large volumes of data for transmission
to the larger computer.
The disk storage module is housed within the System/7
and contains either one fixed disk, or a fixed disk
and a removable disk cartridge on a single drive. Storage
capacity is either 1.23 million or 2.46 million 16-bit
words. Average access time is either 126 or 269 milliseconds.
Data transfer rate is 99,500 words a second.
The custom console, available on special order, permits
users to display the status of a process, convey instructions
to the computer or make inquiries. It consists of a
control unit and several input/output devices, which
may include a user-provided television monitor (black
and white or color) and any of the following:
- A special function keyboard with 24 oversize keys,
to simplify priority communication with System/7.
These keys can be labeled to identify functions such
as “Initiate Experiment,” “Log and
Display Status,” “Emergency Shutdown”
and “Calibrate.”
- A typewriter keyboard for data entry. Data can
be automatically displayed on the video monitor for
verification.
- A serial printer, which can be used to obtain permanent
copies of displayed messages.
IBM also announced that the newest element of its 2790
data communication system, the 2798 guidance display,
can now be used in 2790 configurations attached to System/7.
The display unit provides interactive communication
between operators at work stations in a manufacturing
plant or maintenance shop and the computer.
In addition, IBM announced that several System/7s may
now share the same 5028 operator station, thereby reducing
the cost of multisystem installations. Previously, a
5028 was required with each System/7.
Prices and Delivery
Monthly rental prices for the IBM 5022 disk storage
module range from $300 to $455, depending on speed and
capacity. Purchase prices range from $13,245 to $16,225.
First customer shipments of System/7 with disk storage
module will be scheduled for May 1972.
First customer shipments of System/7 itself begin this
September, two months ahead of the schedule previously
announced.
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