Serial Port

One serial port is available to connect external devices to the QX-10. The port is a standard RS-232C port; however, it can be changed under software control, by selecting the serial port option from the SETUP program in either CP/M or Valdocs. Devices such as serial printers, single-line modems, additional monitors, and other computers can be connected to the available serial port.

Centronics®-compatible Parallel Port

The parallel port is a standard Centronics-compatible port where more external devices can be connected (such as parallel printers or plotters). While a serial port allows data through a single port cable one bit at a time (serially), in a parallel port data goes out through eight different wires simultaneously (in parallel). Parallel ports move an entire byte of data at a time, much faster than a serial port.

CMOS RAM Memory

Another special feature of the QX-10 is its CMOS RAM memory. The CMOS (for complementary metal oxide semiconductor) memory contains 2K (2048) bytes and uses very little power. The internal nickel-cadmium battery that powers the CMOS RAM automatically recharges when power is ON. This allows the CMOS RAM to retain the 2K of memory even when the computer is turned OFF or unplugged-a welcome feature. The CMOS RAM functions for several weeks with the power OFF.

Clock Calendar

Your QX-10 contains a clock calendar that also uses the CMOS technology. Instructions for setting the clock calendar are given in your Valdocs User’s Guide. Once you set the time and date, your QX-10 maintains both accurately.

22