Imsai 8080 - Introduction

IMSAI 8080 System
Introduction
INTRODUCTION
The documentation for the IMSAI 8080 Microcomputer System
consists of several books. This volume, the IMSAI 8080
Microcomputer System User Manual, contains a detailed
description of the features and configuration of the com
puter as a complete system. It also describes the printed
circuit boards that form the system building blocks. The
chapter format begins with a functional description of the
system or board, including brief notes about all the fea
tures. The actual operation of the system or board is then
described in a theory of operations section. The physical
and electronic arrangement of the system or board are next
shown with a photograph and a schematic. . Assembly of the
board from a kit is described by assembly drawings or
photos, a complete parts list, and assembly instructions
in each chapter. Finally, the information that tells the
user how to use the design features of the board to imple
ment various functional options is contained in a user
guide section for each board.
Operation of the computer as a system is documented in the
IMSAI 8080 Microcomputer System User Manual in the chapter
General Assembly and Test Instructions and also in the chapter
on the CP-A (Front Panel Control Board). The software supplied
with the basic unit, consisting of a resident monitor,
assembler and text editor is described in the last chapter
of the IMSAI 8080 Microcomputer System User Manual. This
chapter includes both a description of the software and
a complete object listing.
Supporting documentation is provided by a copy of the Intel
8080 Microcomputer System Users Manual, supplied in every
system kit to give IMSAI users the primary source of
detailed information about the function and instruction set
of the logic implemented by the intergrated circuit chip
set used in the IMSAI 8080. A handy reference card, the
Intel 8080 Assembly Language Reference Card, is supplied to
summarize much useful information from this manual.
To assist users in gaining a full perspective on the design
and use of microprocessor-based computer systems, IMSAI
includes a basic text, An Introduction to Microcomputers.
IMSAI is currently working intensively on both additional
hardware (more peripheral systems, the Shared Memory Facility,
etc.) and system software. Full documentation of these addi
tions will be made available to IMSAI owners as it is produced;
the charge will be a nominal fee to cover the cost of repro
duction .
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