A minicomputer-compatible microcomputer system: The DEC LSI-11

In spite of many shortcomings in regard to performance and hardware/software support, microcomputers have come to enjoy widespread application. Many microcomputer users, however, would still prefer to have minicomputer performance and ease of use coupled with microcomputer cost and size. In this context, the introduction of a minicomputer-compatible microcomputer system is a significant event. Such a system, the DEC LSI-11, is described in this paper from the perspective of both the computer designer and the user. The LSI-11 architecture, organization, and implementation are discussed, together with a survey of special features made possible by the processor's microprogrammed nature. A simple interfacing example is presented, and questions of software support are considered.