Computer Systems
 |
1000 - 21MX Selection: |
| 21MX E-Series | |
| Product Number: 2109A | |
| Introduced: 1976 | |
| Price: $5850 | |
| 2113A | Catalogue Reference: 1977, page 536 |
Description:
The E-Series computers had the same basic architecture as the M-Series machines. The primary difference was in processing speed. The E-Series incorporated a technology "Variable Microcycle Timing" (VMT) which allowed the computer to allocate its fastest data paths (175 nanoseconds) to the most commonly used operations. This technology gave the E-Series about twice the processing power of the M-Series. The E-Series computers also offered optional high-speed memory cycle times of 350 nanoseconds, compared with 650 nanoseconds on M-Series memory.
E-Series computers came in two configurations. The 2109A (priced at $5850) was 8 3/4 inches high and offered nine expansion slots in the mainframe. The 2113A (priced at $6850) was 12 1/4 inches high and offered fourteen expansion slots with the mainframe.
The part numbers in this series changed later in 1976 to 2109B and 2113B. This changed reflected a revised power supply design which also moved the on/off switch from the rear of the computer to behind the key-accessed front panel. After the introduction of the F-Series, the part numbers changed a final time to 2109E and 2113E.
The Washington State-based company Strobe makes new classic HP-1000 (21-MX and A-Series) hardware as well as DEC-compatible hardware.
http://www.strobedata.com/home/home.html