Chapter 6. System compatibility

Software compatibility

To maintain software compatibility, the interrupt polling mechanism that is used by IBM P products is retained. Software that interfaces with the reset port for the IBM Pers positive-edge interrupt sharing (hex oraddress06Fx, where02Fx is the interrupt level) does not creat interference.

Software interrupts

With the

advent

of

software interrupt sharing, software interrupt routines must daisy

routine must check the function value, and

if

it is

not in

the range of function calls

transfer

control

to

the next routine in the chain. Because

software

interrupts

are ini

address

0:0

before

daisy chaining,

check

for

this

case.

If

the

next routine

is

poin

the

function

call

is

out of range,

the appropriate

action

is

to

set

the carry

flag

an

error

condition.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Machine-sensitive programs

Programs

can select machine specific features, but they must

first identify the

machi

IBM

has

defined methods for uniquely

determining

the specific

machine type. The

machin

can

be

found through Interrupt 15H,

Return System

Configuration

Parameters function

(AH)=C0

24 Technical Information Manual

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IBM 6278, 6288, 6268 manual Software compatibility, Software interrupts, Machine-sensitive programs

6278, 6268, 6288 specifications

The IBM 6278, 6288, and 6268 are part of IBM's extensive lineup of mid-range computers, specifically tailored for business environments in the late 1980s and early 1990s. These systems were designed to handle substantial data processing tasks, facilitating efficient business operations with robust performance and reliability.

The IBM 6278 was notable for its high-performance capabilities, making it suitable for a variety of applications ranging from transaction processing to complex computations. One of the main features of the 6278 was its multiprocessing capability, which allowed it to run multiple tasks concurrently. This was achieved through a combination of advanced hardware and software that optimized performance and resource allocation.

Similarly, the IBM 6288 was recognized for its versatility and scalability. This system incorporated enhanced memory management and was capable of handling larger workloads than its predecessors. The 6288 was designed with user-friendly interfaces and supported various input/output devices, making it easier for organizations to integrate into existing IT infrastructures. Additionally, it provided improved connectivity options, essential for modern networking needs at the time.

The IBM 6268, on the other hand, offered a balance between cost and performance, appealing to smaller businesses or those with less intensive data processing requirements. Despite being less powerful than the 6278 and 6288, the 6268 still managed to include essential features such as reliable data storage, effective processing speed, and compatibility with IBM's extensive software ecosystem.

All three models utilized IBM's proprietary operating systems, which were well-known for their robustness and security features. They were built with technologies such as error detection and correction, ensuring the integrity of data processing tasks. The architecture of these systems also allowed for easy upgrades, enabling businesses to expand their capabilities without a complete overhaul of their IT infrastructure.

In summary, the IBM 6278, 6288, and 6268 represented a significant advancement in mid-range computing technology during their era. Their main features encompassed multiprocessing, scalability, and user-friendly interfaces, making them valuable assets for businesses seeking reliable and efficient computing solutions. These systems laid the groundwork for future innovations in business computing, and despite their age, they remain a significant part of IBM's legacy in the computing industry.