Taxonomy of DEC consoles: Difference between revisions

From Computer History Wiki
Jump to navigationJump to search
Larsbrinkhoff (talk | contribs)
ODT style: Also known as calculator style.
Larsbrinkhoff (talk | contribs)
PDP-8 style: PDP-11/05?
Line 24: Line 24:
* [[PDP-9]]
* [[PDP-9]]
* [[PDP-11/20]], ...
* [[PDP-11/20]], ...
* [[PDP-11/05]], although it has a somewhat distinct style.


==PDP-8/I style==
==PDP-8/I style==

Revision as of 11:02, 8 September 2023

This is a loose classification of the visual design languages of various DEC console panels.

PDP-1 style

Characteristics: angled sides, a horizontal bend in the lower part.

PDP-5 style

Characteristics: flat metal panel, toggle switches, some conical.

PDP-8 style

Characteristics: flat dark panel, paddle switches.

PDP-8/I style

Characteristics: flat panel, "washing machine" switches.

PDP-10 style

Characteristics: angled case, "washing machine" switches.

KI10 style

Characteristics: push buttons, the epitome of DEC blinkenlights.

PDP-11/45 style

Characteristics: flat dark panel, not sure what to call these switches.

ODT style

Characteristics: an affront to real computers. Also known as "calculator" style.

Replaced by a mini

Characteristics: the console is a minicomputer.

Dishonourable mentions

Characteristics: there is no console, just very few indicator lights.