Abstract: A peripheral-controller for a card reader is designated as a Card Reader-Data Link Processor and is used for controlling and reading data from a card reader for later transmittal to a main host computer. The peripheral controller is made of a slide-in Common Front End card (CFE) and a Peripheral Dependent Board (PDB) card. A PROM control store in the Common Front End provides micro-code operators for the Peripheral Dependent Board circuitry to execute. A memory buffer in the CFE receives and stores both raw data from the card reader and also translated data processed by circuitry in the PDB which can provide selected data formats as ordered by the main host system.

Abstract: An input/output subsystem for controlling data transfer between a peripheral device, such as a card reader-peripheral unit and a main host computer. The subsystem includes: a base module which supports one or more peripheral-controllers (card reader-data link processors) which receive and process data from card readers and store them in a buffer memory for later transmittal to the host system; a Distribution control circuit which selectively connects and disconnects a data link processor to the host system; a maintenance card means for testing and checking the functioning of the data link processors.

Abstract: In a peripheral controller for a card reader in an I/O subsystem, there is provided a buffer memory for storing, in separate dedicated portions, raw data from the card reader and translated data processed by a translator circuit means. Multiplexer means provide for the receipt and storage in memory of raw card data and/or receipt and storage of translated data which has been processed into selected formats for later transmittal to a main host system. A shift register translator, operating under commands from said host system, operates to take raw card data from said buffer-memory, and to format it into a desired word structure for re-storage in said buffer memory. The multiplexer means and a data register can then select the formatted data for transmittal to the main host system.