# IBM Annual Report 1978

## Multiplying Processing Power

Enhancements of large IBM computers give users added processing power.

A multiprocessing version of IBM's most powerful computer—combining two IBM 3033 processors—offers up to 1.8 times the internal operating speed of one of those processors.

Two new models of the IBM 3033 provide 12 and 16 million characters of main memory for high-speed processing—double the capacities available previously.

In addition, new attached processor versions of both the IBM 3033 and IBM 3031 processors offer up to 80% improved performance over single processors.

## Terminals for Many Needs

New and improved terminals broaden the versatility of IBM computers.

Two new point-of-sale systems that operate as electronic cash registers in retail stores were announced by IBM in January, 1979.

Both systems speed sales transactions, provide a wide range of reports and can be linked to computers. The IBM 3680 programmable store system is designed for the experienced data processing user with many small stores. The IBM 5260 retail system is for the user with fewer stores or for the first-time data processing user.

The new IBM 3630 plant communication system is a family of rugged terminals able to operate in most industrial environments. The system gathers up-to-the-minute data on work in progress and distributes that information wherever it is needed in an organization.

## New IBM Electrocardiograph

The new IBM 5880 electrocardiograph system is a low-cost diagnostic device that can help physicians quickly detect many of the abnormalities associated with heart disease. Containing a small computer, the system can be wheeled to a patient's bedside. Within minutes, it can record and interpret an electrocardiogram (ECG)—a graph of the electrical impulses that cause the heart to beat. The system's report, when reviewed by the physician, can help in diagnostic decisions. The IBM 5880 can be used in hospitals, outpatient clinics and businesses for occupational medicine.

Previously introduced IBM biomedical systems include blood cell processors, which prepare blood for transfusion, and blood cell separators used in blood component therapy for diseases such as leukemia.

## New diskette storage unit for IBM computers

Features two magazines holding 10 diskettes each, permitting automatic handling of a total of 24 million characters of information.