UNIX Time-Sharing System: A Support Environment for MAC-8 Systems

A Support Environment for MAC-8 Systems By H. D. ROVEGNO (Manuscript received January 27, 1978) An integrated software system based on the UNIX* system has been developed for support of the Bell Laboratories 8-bit microprocessor, MAC-8. This paper discusses the UNIX influence on the MAC-8 project, the MAC-8 architecture, the software development and hardware prototyping system, and MAC-8 designer education. I. INTRODUCTION Today's microprocessors perform functions similar to the equipment racks of yesterday. Microprocessor devices are causing a dramatic shift in the economics of computer-controlled systems: product costs and schedules are influenced more by the system architecture and support environment than by the cost or speed of the microprocessor itself. In recognition of this phenomenon, Bell Laboratories has recently introduced a complete set of development support tools based on the UNIX system for its 8-bit microprocessor, MAC-8. 1 ' 2 This paper presents an overview of the MAC-8 architecture and development system. 3 Development of a microprocessor-based application consists of two activities: (/') (/'/) Design, construction, and test of the application's hardware. Design, construction, and test of the application's software.