# 1985 in Review

Large systems and powerful desktop computers and workstations were among a stream of innovative information-handling products that strengthened IBM's product line in 1985.

Advanced technologies extended the speed and capacity of mid-range systems and storage devices, while automated manufacturing techniques produced high-quality, price-competitive displays, printers and typewriters. New products designed to meet the specialized needs of the scientific and engineering communities also were announced during the year.

The IBM Token-Ring Network and other telecommunications products made it easier for customers to tie together an array of information products.

IBM continued to invest considerable resources in research and development efforts under way at its research centers and laboratories to ensure a continuing flow of products. The company expanded its commitment to community programs as well, strengthening partnerships in such areas as education and job training.

## Large computer systems

Introduction of two new high-end processors and enhancements to the IBM 308X computer series extended the power and price/performance options available to customers with large and rapidly growing information processing requirements.

The IBM 3090 model 200 processor, announced in February, contains two central processors and up to 64 million characters of central storage. The system can execute instructions almost twice as fast as a comparable IBM 308i processor in commercial applications and about three times faster in scientific and engineering applications. The model 400 processor, with four central processors and up to 128 million characters of central storage, can process information almost twice as fast as the model 200.

Both 3090 models can be equipped with an expanded storage that allows automatic transfer of data to and from central storage at speeds significantly faster than those available with conventional input/output devices.

A vector processing facility for the new high-end computers was also introduced in 1985. The enhancement enables the processors to run many engineering and scientific programs up to three times faster than a 3090 processor without the feature.

The 3090 also features a unique serviceability facility that continually monitors the system's functions. Should a problem develop, the facility informs the user, then with the user's authorization, automatically reports the detected problem to an IBM support center.

Improvements to two of the operating systems for large computers extended their function across a range of business, scientific and engineering applications. Enhancements included: a system assist that gives customers improved performance when using multiple operating systems; a software facility that increases the availability of certain data base and data communications programs; and a multitasking facility that enables customers to run scientific and engineering applications more efficiently. Also introduced was a fiber optic channel-extender link that enables computer peripherals to be installed further from the central computer.

In August, the first 3090 model 200 was shipped to a customer, nearly three months ahead of schedule. Planned first shipment of the model 400 processor was advanced to the fourth quarter of 1986.

## Storage devices

Two new models in the IBM 3380 family of disk storage devices featured disk technology and recording head improvements. The extended capability models offer users of large computers nearly a 15 percent performance improvement when compared with earlier models. The larger unit has twice the maximum storage capacity of previous models.

Up to four of the extended capacity models can be tied together, enabling a data processing operation to double its storage capacity without requiring additional floor space, power or air conditioning.

Also announced were expanded cache memories for the IBM 3880 models 21 and 23 storage control units. Cache storage is an intermediate storage area that speeds the flow of data between storage devices and the computer.

## Mid-range systems

IBM extended the computing options available to customers with medium-size information processing requirements, introducing desktop versions of its System/36 and Series/1 computers. Numerous enhancements to other mid-range systems also were announced.