Abstract: A variable configuration accounting machine having a central processor unit (CPU) of an LSI (Large Scale Integration) microprocessor type and a plurality of peripheral units selectively connectable to the CPU which gives a selected configuration to the machine. The CPU is connected to a pair of memories. The first memory stores instructions and data, and the second memory stores microprograms. The capacity of both memories is variable according to the number and type of the peripheral units connected to the CPU for a given configuration of the machine. In the second memory is permanently stored an initialization microprogram that, when activated by the operator, automatically causes the identification by the CPU of the number and type of peripheral units connected to the CPU.

Abstract: A multiple control unit for selectively connecting a plurality of peripheral units to a central processor comprising a register for storing the interruptions coming from the peripherals; a disabling circuit for disabling the cell storing the interruption executed by the central processor in response to an end-of processing signal generated from the CPU.

Abstract: In a digital electronic computer which comprises a memory including a first and a second register, the first register is receptive of a number to be converted from fixed to floating point notation and the second register is receptive of a significant zero digit with an associated decimal point. Shifting means including a register is operable to shift the contents of either register and aligning means is operable to cause shifting of the second register until the decimal point stored therein is aligned with the decimal point in the first register. Indicating means indicates whether the number stored in the first register is greater or less than one and the shifting means next begins shifting the contents of one or the other of the registers when the number is indicated greater or less than one respectively.

Abstract: A device for reading from and writing on, magnetic cards for use in a desk-top computer having a cover with an introduction slot and an exit slot for the cards. The device comprises two parallel guides between the introduction and exit slots for defining the path to be traversed by the cards, two support plates for the guides disposed perpendicular thereto for guiding the lateral edges of the cards and a belt cooperating with pressure rollers to entrain the card as it passes through the guides. The device also includes a microswitch and a shoe which has two projections contacting the non-magnetizable face of the card, the shoe being hinged on a lever actuating the microswitch when the card has passed below the projections.

Abstract: An information recording system comprises a peripheral control unit for recording bits of a character one at a time coincident with the middle of a record time interval. The peripheral control unit is responsive to a central unit which cyclically transmits microinstructions to the peripheral control unit coincidentally with transfer of bits to said record device from a register storing the bits of a character to be recorded.