Abstract: A data display communication system wherein data generated locally by a keyboard or generated remotely and communicated by modems is displayed on a display device. Data displayed on the screen can be edited or reformatted prior to storage, print-out, or transmission to a remote location. Data communicated between storage and the central processing unit is handled in blocks that make up one full line of characters on the display device. All edit and format functions are performed on the basis of these blocks of data. Timing for the display device controls the operation of the system. The communication system utilizes a microprocessor operating in conjunction with specific hardware logic to handle display oriented operations.