A Microprocessor Monitored Fibre Optic Data Link

Abstract

This paper describes a system intended to be used for data communication between a main-frame computer and some terminals, such as Teletypes, using fibre-optic cables as communicating link instead of conventional cables. The different channels used for terminals are to be multiplexed on to the fibre optic cable pair using a microprocessor.

Although a main-frame computer itself can monitor such a communication with peripherals, the computer time spent for such a job turns out to be prohibitive. A microprocessor monitored communication link as described here not only saves a lot of computer time but also takes care of input request prioritizing, synchronization etc. because of its high software dependence and obvious flexibility for expansion and modification. An added feature of the system described here is that the link between the main-frame computer and the peripherals are all fibre-optic cables which makes the system highly immune to noise.

Indexing Terms:

• Programmable Front-End Processor for Communication